I never understood why Gleason decided to grow and keep the mustache he wore through the second half of his career. To me it was completely contrary to the personality of Kramden, and it really made him look kind of cheesy.

Jackie Gleason was MUCH more than just Ralph Kramden, one of the many characters he had played. I think that's the statement that he was making.

Here are 3 stories about that one of a kind mustache.

Loved when they poked fun at it during the reunion specials.

http://selvedgeyard.com/2010/01/12/bring-back-the-stache-men-mustaches-marvels-and-missteps/

http://almostnerdy.com/cool-stuff/best-moustaches-time/

http://voices.yahoo.com/top-20-moustaches-popular-culture-4294413.html?cat=49