Started in radio at the age of 9. He directed his first show at the age of 13 when the director became very ill 2 hours before the live broadcast. Before being taken to the hospital, the director said, "Let Hal direct it.".
Prolific television director and executive producer of popular comedy shows in the 1960's, 70's and 80's.
Hal and Pat Meikle married in 1944 while in college. They have two daughters, Bethami and Pamela. They later divorced.
In 1971, Hal married Marta Lucille Salcido. In 1973, their son James was born.
During World War II, he served as junior lieutenant with the U.S. Naval Reserve in the Pacific Theatre of Operations.
He was a great lover of music, especially jazz and classical, and played the piano.
Hal had been a chain-smoker of cigarettes (up to 4 packs a day), until one night he had a horrible nightmare about his brother Paul (who had previously died of lung cancer). He woke up in a cold sweat and never picked-up another cigarette again.
Attended the University of Michigan, graduating in 1946.