The Life of Jack Benny - VIDEO (Originally Aired November 28, 1954)
Jack Benny (February 14, 1894 – December 26, 1974), born Benjamin Kubelsky was an American comedian, vaudevillian, and actor for radio, television, and film. Widely recognized as one of the leading American entertainers of the 20th century, Benny played the role of someone comically "tight" with his money, insisting on remaining 39 years old despite his actual age, and often playing the violin badly. Benny was known for his comic timing and his ability to get laughs with either a pregnant pause or a single expression, such as his signature exasperated "Well!" His radio and television programs, tremendously popular in the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s were a foundational influence on the situation comedy. Dean Martin, on the celebrity roast for Johnny Carson in November 1973, introduced Benny as "the Satchel Paige of the world of comedy." Benny left show business briefly in 1917 to join the Navy during World War I, and he often entertained the troops with his violin playing. One evening, his violin performance was booed by the troops, so with prompting from fellow sailor and actor Pat O'Brien, he ad-libbed his way out of the jam and left them laughing. He got more comedy spots in the revues and was a big hit, and earned himself a reputation as a comedian as well as a musician.
THIS EPISODE:
January 1, 1961 The sketch featuring Jack writing and casting his life story was originally performed on the episode "The Life of Jack Benny which originally aired 11/28/1954. Jack has written his fascinating life story, all typed by Rochester, and goes about the task of auditioning actors to play the parts. He casts a gorgeous young woman to play his first love, with his real first girlfriend playing the role of his mother. The tough part is finding just the right youth to play him as a child. He passes on one young man, instead hiring the pushy, demanding boy who's acting as the kid's agent. Writers Sam Perrin ,George Balzer, Hal Goldman, Al Gordon. Director James V. Kern . Music ((Music Scored and Conducted)) Mahlon Merrick Producer James V. Kern.
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