Description:

Emil Sitka The Three Stooges
Los Angeles, CA, ca. 1975-1977
"Fourth Stooge" Emil Sitka Correspondence Archive, Interesting Stooges Content
Archive

A five piece collection of correspondence from actor Emil Sitka, most known for his many appearances in short films by The Three Stooges. Ranging in date from 1975 to 1977, the lot consists of (2) ALS, (2) ANS ,and (1) signed photograph. Signed throughout as "Emil Sitka" and addressed to one John Ewaniuk, a lifelong Stooges fan and known correspondent of both Larry and Moe. Exhibits varying degrees of handling wear, including light bumping and creasing; areas of general age toning throughout. Otherwise, very good.

The lot includes, in chronological order:

1.) ALS on holiday card with original mailing envelope, postmarked from Los Angeles, CA, December 18, 1975. Reading in part: "Better late than never- eh? Last August you mentioned writing a book about the Stooges, and I do hope you're succeeding. Tell me how you are doing. If you are close to completing it… I would be glad to assist with that portion of 'character-actor of all four sets of Stooges from 1946 to the end.' But now, John, it's your truth to write- no?" 7.5" x 3.75".

2.) ALS on postcard dated March 30, 1976, reading in part: "By now your Stooge article in Feb. Liberty Magazine should be out and I was hoping for a copy of your writing. I never had my own series and I wasn't part of Joe DeRita's 'revived' Stooges act. I almost became one of the Stooges…" 5.5" x 3.25".

3.) 4" x 6" black and white photograph signed "Emil Sitka/ To my pal John", depicting a still image of Sitka at middle surrounded by Stooges Shemp, Larry, and Moe. Accompanied by its original mailing envelope, postmarked from Los Angeles, CA, April 14, 1976. Together with a photocopied article inscribed by Sitka and signed "Emil".

4.) ANS on holiday card with original mailing envelope postmarked from Van Nuys, CA, December 24, 1976. Written on a colorful greeting card depicting a trio of bells adorned with holly, Sitka sends happy holiday wishes. 4" x 4.5".

5.) ANS on holiday card with original mailing envelope postmarked from Los Angeles, CA, December 21, 1977. Written on a green greeting card depicting a small mouse seated below a festive wreath, Sitka remembers "the people who mean so much all year". 3.5" x 5.5".

Emil Sitka (1914-1998) was an American actor best known for his affiliation with The Three Stooges, as he is one of only two actors to work with all six cast members (including Joe Besser and Joe DeRita) from 1947 to 1965. Throughout nearly 40 shorts, Sitka played the role of the comedic foil, with the majority of his work filmed during Shemp's run in the trio. Indeed, he is often referred to as the unofficial "last Stooge", as he was intended to be Larry's replacement following his debilitating stroke in 1970.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 4" x 6" (largest)
  • Medium: Archive

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