Stand-up Comedy:
* Early Career: Crystal started doing stand-up in the early 1970s, quickly gaining a reputation for his sharp wit, observational humor, and improvisational skills.
* Saturday Night Live: He joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" in 1976, becoming a fan favorite for his memorable characters like Fernando, the flamboyant, effeminate talk show host.
* Stand-up Specials: Crystal’s stand-up specials, like "Billy Crystal: In America" (1980) and "Billy Crystal: Don't Get Carried Away" (1985), showcased his talent and helped him build a wider audience.
Film and Television:
* Breakthrough Roles: His role as a struggling comedian in "The Princess Bride" (1987) and his performance in "When Harry Met Sally..." (1989) cemented his status as a leading comedic actor.
* Variety of Roles: Crystal continued to explore various roles in films like "City Slickers" (1991), "Analyze This" (1999), and "Monsters, Inc." (2001).
* Television Hosting: He hosted the Academy Awards nine times, earning critical acclaim for his insightful and witty commentary.
Other Contributing Factors:
* Charm and Likeability: Crystal’s natural charisma and ability to connect with audiences contributed to his success.
* Timeliness: His humor often reflected contemporary issues and trends, making it relatable and appealing.
* Versatility: He proved himself adept at stand-up, film, television, and even Broadway, demonstrating his range and talent.
Overall, Billy Crystal's fame can be attributed to his exceptional stand-up comedy skills, his ability to connect with audiences, his memorable film and television roles, and his consistent success in various entertainment mediums.