From Jewish matron to saloon singer, Madeline Kahn's spirited portrayals of daffy and lusty characters won her Oscar nominations, a Tony Award and the admiration of fellow actors.
''She is one of the most talented people that ever lived,'' Mel Brooks once said. ''I mean, either in stand-up comedy, or acting, or whatever you want, you can't beat Madeline Kahn.''
Ms. Kahn died of ovarian cancer at a hospital in Manhattan on Friday. She was 57.
The actress-comedian, who...
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