The Jack Benny Show
Author: Art Godfrey
The golden age of radio paved the way for the growth and development of many celebrated actors and actresses in the 1940's. In fact, the glittering icons of this era owe much of their success to the classic media form of old time radio.
Most notable among the entertainers who graced the airwaves at the time was the famous actor, Benjamin Kubelsky better known as "Jack Benny." A native of Weaukegan, Illinois, he began his journey into the colorful world of show business as small-time comedian in vaudeville. His inborn talent and knack for comic relief quickly propelled his professional career to greater heights.
A guest appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show opened the way for his professional development on the air. Benny soon began hosting several programs and was sponsored by big companies like General Foods and Canada Dry Ginger Ale. One of the more controversial products associated with his image was American Tobacco's "Luck Strike," which was a far-cry from his more wholesome endorsements of "Jell-o" and "Grape-nuts."
However, it is widely known that Jack's rise to fame really began when he breathed life into the character of arrogant and egocentric TV star ‘Jack Benny.' His program "The Jack Benny Show" would begin with Benny playing the violin-- and his lack of talent would signal the start of a crazy and hilarious half an hour show. Each episode was crafted by Benny's talented pool of writers and he made sure to acknowledge their efforts and give them the credit that was due.
Surprisingly enough, the serial would not only prove to be commercially viable, but it would also become one of the few old radio shows that would be adapted into a television series. The smooth transition in between both media platforms was remarkable in itself. What further fueled the program's popularity though was really Jack Benny himself, as he would successfully create a character whose flaws and human failings only served to amplify the ironic twists and dry humor the show was known for.
On his way to stardom, he met and married the beautiful Sadye (Sadie) Marks, who played one of the pillars in "The Jack Benny Show." Their on-screen chemistry prompted Benny and his team to create a bigger role for her. While Markes first appearance on the set was as Mary Livingstone, the self-proclaimed number one "fan" of ‘Jack Benny.' She would later adopt it as her professional name and continue on as Benny's charming and quick-witted assistant.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/humor-articles/the-jack-benny-show-5033340.html
About the Authoris an avid fan of Old Time Radio featuring recordings from the golden age of radio including comedy, music, mystery, and detective shows.
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