http://retro-otr.com Podcasting to share family friendly entertainment through old time radio, and more. Tue, 21 May 2013 23:23:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Podcasting to share family friendly entertainment through old time radio, and more. Keith Heltsley clean Keith Heltsley keith@heltsley.net keith@heltsley.net (Keith Heltsley) Podcasting to share family friendly entertainment through old time radio, and more. Clean, Entertainment, Old time Radio, Classic Radio, Vintage Radio, Family Friendly, Comedy, Drama, Audio Drama, Westerns http://retro-otr.com/wp-content/plugins/powerpress/rss_default.jpg http://retro-otr.com TV-G Illinois Daily http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-fred-allen-asks-jack-to-appear-on-his-program-460519/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-fred-allen-asks-jack-to-appear-on-his-program-460519/#comments Sun, 19 May 2013 23:25:47 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=20013 http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-fred-allen-asks-jack-to-appear-on-his-program-460519/feed/ 0 1946,Adlibs,Dennis_Day,Fred_Allen,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,New_York,Phil_Harris,Rochester In New York, Jack and Don give a few words of praise for the city. Mary has a few words to share about her family from New Jersey. Dennis jokes about a pet monkey. Phil enters to tease Jack about the quality of dates he picked up. Dennis sings, In New York, Jack and Don give a few words of praise for the city. Mary has a few words to share about her family from New Jersey. Dennis jokes about a pet monkey. Phil enters to tease Jack about the quality of dates he picked up. Dennis sings, We'll Gather Lilacs in the Spring Again. A telegram arrives from Fred Allen to invite Jack to his show next week. Jack tries to tell how he made the arrangement with Fred, but Mary goes into flashback mode to tell the true story. In his hotel room, Rochester helps Jack get ready for his bath. With Jack out of the picture, Fred enters to talk with Rochester. Facing off, the two comedians swap jabs at each other. The premise being Fred asking Jack to appear on his show. The ad libs fly through the loosely scripted dialog. Kitzel pops in to break things up with his hot dog stand. After a quick negotiation for Jack's wage, the deal is made to do the show for Fred. Keith Heltsley clean 29:13 http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-quiz-kids-contest-460512/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-quiz-kids-contest-460512/#comments Sun, 12 May 2013 23:23:17 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19987 http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-quiz-kids-contest-460512/feed/ 0 1946,Chicago,Competitions,Dennis_Day,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Mothers_Day,Phil_Harris,Quiz_Kids,Rochester,Travelling On the way to new York, the cast stop off in Chicago to do a show. Jack jokes with Don about the recent contest about Hating Jack Benny that ended just a couple months ago. With being so close to his hometown, On the way to new York, the cast stop off in Chicago to do a show. Jack jokes with Don about the recent contest about Hating Jack Benny that ended just a couple months ago. With being so close to his hometown, Mary enters to tease Jack about his friends and family from Waukegan. Phil enters to talk about the brown out in Chicago, and the drinking habits of the band. Dennis enters to add to the topic of the brown out. The quiz kids enter to chalenge Jack and the cast to a battle of wits, but first, Dennis sings, Sweet Mother of Mine. Before the contest begins, Rochester phones in with trouble with hotel accomodations. Jack is the quizmaster, and the cast face off with the kids. Each gives their credentials, and the area of their strong suit. With questions stacked so the kids get the hard ones, the cast still have a hard time with the easy question. The kids prove they can be both smart and funny, while the cast prove they can be funny and... well let's just stick with funny. Keith Heltsley clean 28:38 http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-leaving-for-chicago-on-the-train-460505/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-leaving-for-chicago-on-the-train-460505/#comments Sun, 05 May 2013 23:22:08 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19926 http://retro-otr.com/2013/05/jack-benny-leaving-for-chicago-on-the-train-460505/feed/ 0 1946,Books,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Mr_Kitzel,Packing,Rochester,Train_Station In preparing to travel to Chicago, Rochester helps Jack get packed up. Medication, clothes, and reading maerial. Elsewhere, we find Mary with her new maid, packing and making arrangements for the milkman and other such services. In preparing to travel to Chicago, Rochester helps Jack get packed up. Medication, clothes, and reading maerial. Elsewhere, we find Mary with her new maid, packing and making arrangements for the milkman and other such services. Mary is packing the same book as Jack, but what are the names of the three children in that story? At Phil's house, he gets a litle help from his daughter. Phil has the same reading material, and that running gag about those kid names takes yet another turn. We find Dennis talking with his mom about the trip, and that same book again. They also talk about Jack's contract with Dennis, before he sings. His song is snipped though. At Don's house, he says his goodbyes to his wife, and jokes about that same book, sort of. The audio skips a bit, but we land back with jack and Rochester as he heads to the vault for a little spending cash. At the train station the cast all converge, and Mel Blanc calls out the departures, while Frank Nelson works the conssession counter, and Kitzel has his ever present hot dog stand. The Colemans make a quick appearance to say a goodbye to jack. Note: Phil has his trunk full of bottles. A gag that imitated real life. One of Jack's writers is reported to be a heavy drinker... OK, more than one of Jack's writers were reported to be heavy drinkers. But one in particular is known to load his trunk up with booze, while carrying his clothes on his body. He just didn't want to be caught short of his usual supply. Also the girl who played Phil's daughter in the spots on Jack's show would also play one of his girls on his own show. Keith Heltsley clean 22:44 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-the-kid-from-brooklyn-460428/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-the-kid-from-brooklyn-460428/#comments Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:25:45 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19776 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-the-kid-from-brooklyn-460428/feed/ 0 1946,Brooklyn,Collaboration,Critics,Danny_Kaye,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Films,Ghosts,Jack_Benny,Jealous,Mary_Livingston Don takes us back to the evening before, when Mary, Phil, and Dennis rave over the Danny Kaye movie they just saw, The Kid from Brooklyn. The compliments have Jack in a dark mood. Jack pokes fun at Danny's rapid fire, scat style singing style. Don takes us back to the evening before, when Mary, Phil, and Dennis rave over the Danny Kaye movie they just saw, The Kid from Brooklyn. The compliments have Jack in a dark mood. Jack pokes fun at Danny's rapid fire, scat style singing style. The gang split up, but Dennis walks with the brooding Jack, whose critique of Danny Kaye's films make Jack seem more than a little jealous over the new comedian's performance. Can Jack leap over a fire plug as easily as Dennis? Dennis goes his own way, just in time for Danny Kaye to show up on the sidewalk. Suddenly Jack spouts out the wonders of the movie. Danny isn't buying the false praise. The two soon become so engrossed in teaming up for a film, they overlook a crime in progress. Right on the sidewalk, Dann Kaye breaks out into song with his hit, Concerto for Tongue and orchestra. Later, Jack finds himself locked out of his house, and he tells Rochester about how he liked the movie. Rochester tucks himself in for the night, but Jack goes to the library to unwind. A phonograph record presents Don Wilson, the Sportsmen, and the commercial. With a theme in the film earlier involving ghosts, Jack reads a ghost tory. The normally timid person around spooky things, Rochester, tries to give Jack a scare. The spooky tale finds Danny Kaye, as disembodied voices haunting Jack. Is it for real, or is Jack going to remain in a state of denial. Danny Kaye's ghost tries his best to convince him. Keith Heltsley clean 25:27 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-violin-practice-interrupts-ronald-coleman-460414/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-violin-practice-interrupts-ronald-coleman-460414/#comments Sun, 14 Apr 2013 23:05:17 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19702 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-violin-practice-interrupts-ronald-coleman-460414/feed/ 0 1946,Bonita_Coleman,Borrowing,Dennis_Day,Domestic_Disturbances,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Professor_LaBlanc,Rochester,Ronald_Coleman,Violin_Lessons Don starts out by having us drop in at Jack's house, where Professor LaBlanc gives Jack a violin lesson. With the lesson over, there's only the matter of paying his teacher. Along the way Jack is side tracked when the cast all enter the front door. Don starts out by having us drop in at Jack's house, where Professor LaBlanc gives Jack a violin lesson. With the lesson over, there's only the matter of paying his teacher. Along the way Jack is side tracked when the cast all enter the front door. What's up with Professor LaBlanc's pants? Or maybe down with them would be the better question. The cast all get ready for some fun in the sun, lunch, and lounging beside Jack's pool. Has he forgotten about the longsuffering Professor Lablanc? Dennis sings, Just You Wait and See. The gang all decide to go to the beach, but there's still the matter of paying for those violin lessons. After some foot dragging, and a chat with Rochester about the condition of the kitchen supplies, Jack has once again become distracted. Rochester heads next oor to borrow some butter, and we eavesdrop on Ronald and Bonita Coleman. Ronald gripes at Jack's habit of borrowing odd things from him. As Ronald practices a few dramatic lines, the noise of Jack practicing wafts through the air, causing Ronald to wonder if the cat needs to be let out? Or does it want in? The racket is enough to drive Ronald nuts, but ironically, Jack phones to complain to the Colemans about the noise from their aledged marital problems, disturbing his violin practice. The running gags don't stop as the matter of paying Mel Blanc arises again. The neighbors do a little dirt digging, and hand it over to gossip columnist Louella Parsons. Note: Phil comments that his jokes ought to win him a Summer show. He would do some guest shows for the Fitch Bandwagon over the Summer that would eventually lead to a regular series for him. Rochester teases Mel Blanc about having to wait for being paid since noon. He claims to be waiting since 1937, the year he joined the show. Keith Heltsley clean 28:36 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-weekend-at-the-acme-plaza-460407/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-weekend-at-the-acme-plaza-460407/#comments Sun, 07 Apr 2013 23:05:05 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19687 http://retro-otr.com/2013/04/jack-benny-weekend-at-the-acme-plaza-460407/feed/ 0 1946,Advise,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Movies,Phil_Harris,Romance,Spoofs,Telephone_Operators,Van_Johnson Guest is Van Johnson. Confusion opens the show when Don introduces Van Johnson as star of the show, and Mary hasn't showed up yet. Jack tries to phone Mary, but the telephone operators take the opportunity to gossip about the night's guest. Guest is Van Johnson. Confusion opens the show when Don introduces Van Johnson as star of the show, and Mary hasn't showed up yet. Jack tries to phone Mary, but the telephone operators take the opportunity to gossip about the night's guest. Mary seems to have gone missing so she could pick up Van, which makes Jack a litle upset. Elsewhere, we join Mary and Van as she takes the scenic route back to the studio. Eventually the giddy Mary makes it back and Van meets the guys. What is it about Van Johnson that makes the girls go wild over him? Dennis sings, I Can't Begin to Tell You. In honor of the guest star, Jack spoofs Van Johnson's big hit film. The Acme Plaza is a place where mystery meets romance. Mary runs the telephone switchboard, Phil is the house detective, and Dennis is a wealthy railroad tycoon. Mary is the object of the affections of Van Johnson, but has a hard time playing hard to get. Not to be left out, Jack plays Van Jackson, glamour man who soon finds himself giving romance lessons to Van. Poor Van Johnson, why don't girls like him? To put his new found charms to work, and sweep Mary off her feet, he breaks out into song with, Tell You What I'm Gonna Do. Mary joins in as a duet. Does that mean he won her over? Jack closes with a pitch for supporting the Boys Club. Keith Heltsley clean 26:46 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-a-sad-soldier-is-discharged-460331/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-a-sad-soldier-is-discharged-460331/#comments Sun, 31 Mar 2013 18:38:24 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19453 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-a-sad-soldier-is-discharged-460331/feed/ 0 1946,Dennis_Day,Discharged,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Military,Phil_Harris,Soldiers,Tributes,World_War2 At March Field, and as March ends, Jack pokes fun at the military with the use of animal jokes. Mary shifts gears with jokes about dating soldiers. The base trains pilots on the P38, and the jokes about it brings Phil out to make fun of military acrony... At March Field, and as March ends, Jack pokes fun at the military with the use of animal jokes. Mary shifts gears with jokes about dating soldiers. The base trains pilots on the P38, and the jokes about it brings Phil out to make fun of military acronyms. Jack is bothered by a soldier on the front row who hasn't laughed at any jokes yet. It's Mel Blanc, and he's upset at being discharged soon. Rochester phones in to tell about his delay in getting to the base. Phil has his band number snipped. The sad soldier is forced to leave, but not until he's heard the commercial. Dennis Day enters to tell Jack what his mother thinks of the show. A girl claiming to be Phil's daughter phones in to remind him about Alice's birthday. Rochester is lost again, and that sad soldier gets in a few more words. Dennis sings a song dedicated to a war hero named Roger Young. A salute to the things our young men have fought and died for during the war. I think it gets snipped a little bit. Keith Heltsley clean 20:48 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-i-stand-condemned-460324/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-i-stand-condemned-460324/#comments Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:13:20 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19447 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-i-stand-condemned-460324/feed/ 0 1946,Books,Counterfeiters,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Peter_Lorrie,Phil_Harris,Polly,Rehearsals,Rochester The whole gang is gathered for a rehearsal in Jack's library. Dennis is taken aback at the formal proceedings in the meeting that seem to have developed during his absence in the Navy. Is the formality of the rehearsal too much for the rest of the cast? The whole gang is gathered for a rehearsal in Jack's library. Dennis is taken aback at the formal proceedings in the meeting that seem to have developed during his absence in the Navy. Is the formality of the rehearsal too much for the rest of the cast? Rochester brings in the snacks, but that cash register bell keeps interrupting the rehearsal, and directions from Jack. Muffed lines get bigger laughs than the scripted ones, especially when Jack rolls with the flow to recover from them. Polly gives Jack a hard time as the sponsor message is presented. Dennis sings, What It Means to Me. When Rochester helps Jack get ready for bed, he decides to relax with a book from his library, if only he could settle on a title. Jack picks, I Stand Condemned, a story of the fickle finger of fate. Jack is in jail, where Frank Nelson is the warden. As he faces the electric chair, Jack goes into flashback mode to tell his story. Peter Lorrie makes an appearance and tries to steal Jack's cigarette lighter. Instead, Jack sells his clothes for huge amounts of cash. What's that all about? We look in at Jack's house where Mary, and his two boys get ready for school. Why is Peter Lorrie living with them? The stranger causes Jack to become wealthy, but he loses his wife and kids in the process. Jack realizes the secret, and kills his strange visitor at being duped into a counterfeit scam. Just what are his three sons names anyway? It depends on the gag. Keith Heltsley clean 28:36 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-dennis-returns-from-the-navy-460317/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-dennis-returns-from-the-navy-460317/#comments Sun, 17 Mar 2013 18:49:53 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19441 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-dennis-returns-from-the-navy-460317/feed/ 0 1946,Dennis_Day,Fred_Allen_Spoof,Homecomings,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Return,Rochester What could be a better day for the Irish tenor, Dennis Day, to return to the show than St Patrick's day? Mary and Phil each enter with their Irish jokes. With being in the Navy for the past 2 years, has Dennis changed much? The telephone operators, What could be a better day for the Irish tenor, Dennis Day, to return to the show than St Patrick's day? Mary and Phil each enter with their Irish jokes. With being in the Navy for the past 2 years, has Dennis changed much? The telephone operators, Mabel and Gertrude gossip over the recent contest about, "Why I Hate Jack Benny." Is Jack really the sneaky type on a date, and what does that mean anyway? Since Dennis can't be reached, Phil plays a number, Who's Sorry Now. Dennis makes his big appearance, and shares a little about his time in the South Pacific. He tells how he was classified as an Ensign, the Navy's equivilent of a 2nd Lieutenant. Dennis sings, Danny Boy. To demonstrate to Dennis what the state of radio has been in the past 2 years, Jack puts on a spoof of Fred Allen. Mary spoofs Portland Hoffa as, Cleveland. On Allen's Alley, Senator Harris tells how he's a man of the West and hates all things East. Will he answer the question, "Who is the better comedian, Benny or Allen?" Titus Day puts on the rustic airs to tell about his reading list, and henhouse production. Mr Kitzel tells about his hot dog business. Who is his favorite radio comedian? Rochester Openshore shares a poetic word. The fun ends up.as Phil plays the show out Keith Heltsley clean 23:53 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-murder-at-lone-palm-460303/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-murder-at-lone-palm-460303/#comments Tue, 05 Mar 2013 19:19:17 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19423 http://retro-otr.com/2013/03/jack-benny-murder-at-lone-palm-460303/feed/ 0 1946,Don_Wilson,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Murder_Spoofs,Palm_Springs,Real_Estate,Rochester,Westerns Jack reads the gossip column, and gets a kick out of the celebrity gossip. Except for the stuff written about him. Rochester joins in Jack's pondering buying real estate in Palm Springs. Will Jack actually be up for purchasing such expensive property? Jack reads the gossip column, and gets a kick out of the celebrity gossip. Except for the stuff written about him. Rochester joins in Jack's pondering buying real estate in Palm Springs. Will Jack actually be up for purchasing such expensive property? Frank Nelson is the real estate agent who is ready to give it a try. What kind of features might Jack be able to get for his money? The band playhs, The Sweetest Music this Side of the Yukon. But it gets partly garbled and snipped. In the studio, Jack tells the cast about his plan to buy property. Mary teases him about his golf game. After nore teasing about Palm Springs real estate, Jack introduces the play and assigns parts to the cast. It's to be a murder mystery, and Jack's swearing in ceremony for his deputies becomes the commercial. Larry Stevens has his song snipped. The play kicks off, Murder at the Lone Palms. The hard boiled spoof goes into high gear with puns galore. Inspector O'Benny is hot on the trail of a murderer, interupted by his real estate agent at inconvenient times. The clues all seem to point to Mary LaRue, but is there a secret hiding in the closet? Frank the real estate agent falss prey to Jacks frustrating resistence and goes mad. Will O'Benny get his killer? Will Jack Benny get that house for the price he wants? Stay tuned and learn the truth. Keith Heltsley clean 20:41 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-rochester-lost-briefly-at-sea-460217/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-rochester-lost-briefly-at-sea-460217/#comments Sun, 17 Feb 2013 19:25:38 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19296 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-rochester-lost-briefly-at-sea-460217/feed/ 0 1946,Birthdays,Celebration,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Lost_At_Sea,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Rescues,Rochester,Worry Jack tells Don about his birthday bash he had earlier in the week. Of course, Mary enters to fill in the more embarrassing details. Phil is late so Mary reads his lines and corny jokes. Frank Nelson poses as a radio announcer to set up a running gag fo... Jack tells Don about his birthday bash he had earlier in the week. Of course, Mary enters to fill in the more embarrassing details. Phil is late so Mary reads his lines and corny jokes. Frank Nelson poses as a radio announcer to set up a running gag for the rest of the show. Larry Stevens sings, Let it Snow. Phil finally makes it and delivers his lines, but with an adlib or two of his own. Phil claims his writer he hired is an indian who also writes commercials, as Don demonstrates. At the invokation of Fred Allen by Phil, Jack goes on a spree to tease his comic rival. Phil plays, Sweetheart. The cast mention Rochester being lost at sea, and go into flashback. Professor LaBlanc gives Jack a violin lesson when the news comes in about the missing Rochester. Note: Jack Benny's humor is mostly crazy, made up stuff. Sometimes though it's topical, and relies on current events, news, and pop culture of the day. In the description of Rochester being lost at sea, it was no joke. Eddie Anderson really did go out fishing, and for 2 days wasn't heard from. Similar to Jack's portrayal at not learning of the event until after the fact, it actually did happen that way. He didn't know about it until the news flashes began to hit the airwaves. When Jack learned of it, he had his writers toss aside the script they were working on to write in the second half of this episode. Of course, for the show, Eddie Anderson peppered his real ordeal with jokes as he told of his adventure, but the relief the cast felt at having him back was definitely 100% real. Keith Heltsley clean 28:44 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/lux-radio-theater-brewsters-millions-370215/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/lux-radio-theater-brewsters-millions-370215/#comments Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:24:52 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=6499 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/lux-radio-theater-brewsters-millions-370215/feed/ 0 1937,Brewsters_Millions,Comedy,Inheritance,Investments,Jack_Benny,Lux_Radio_Theater,Mary_Livingston,Secrets,Spending,Splurging Features Jack Benny and Mary Livingston. After the opening commercials and introductions, the story begins in the offices of Jack Brewster. His nephew is a man in a desperate financial situation. The lawyer handling the case tries to get to Jack, Features Jack Benny and Mary Livingston. After the opening commercials and introductions, the story begins in the offices of Jack Brewster. His nephew is a man in a desperate financial situation. The lawyer handling the case tries to get to Jack, the nephew, to tell the terms of the will, but Jack is evasive. He thinks the lawyer is just out to collect on bills. Jack brags to Mary about his financial dreams. A couple of acquaintences are introduced into the story that will come to play later, a woman with a story to publish, and a friend with an invention to produce. The lawyer finally catches up with Jack. In secret, the terms of the inheritance are read, and a challenge set forth. There is a million dollars that must be spent in one year. Jack must not have any money, no cash in his pockets, and only the suit on his back at the end of a year. He also can't tell anybody why he's spending the money. Why is he spending the money? To inherit the full 6 million remaining from another estate. If the terms are broke, he won't inherit a thing. Jack announces his million dollar inheritance, and sets out to pay off old debts, and invest in all sorts of the worst business deals he can find. Most folks think he's just a big spender, but Mary thinks he has lost his mind as he squanders the nest egg that they could be getting married on. Will she understand and be tollerant of him for a whole year? Will Jack find that spending a million dollars isn't as easy as it looks? The failing stock, the lousy stage productions, the terrible book, and other ideas seem good ways to lose a lot of money, but when they all begin to turn around, the cash just won't stop coming in. The more he spends, the more the weired investments pay off. The year is finally over, but there's still too much cash. In a final splurge, and with the help of a hurricane, Jack manages to lose the last bit of funds, and his girlfriend. He meets with the lawyers, but will a last minute investment arrive to stop him from inheriting the big bucks? Will he finally be able to tell his girlfriend, and win her back? Note: During an interlude in the show a real life couple come out to tell what it's like to win a large sum of cash for real. To put the perspective of the money won in 1937 dollars, and the money in the show, into today's dollars, you could easily multiply it by 10 or 12 to get in the ballpark. Keith Heltsley clean 58:40 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-from-palm-springs-california-460210/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-from-palm-springs-california-460210/#comments Sun, 10 Feb 2013 19:20:06 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19252 http://retro-otr.com/2013/02/jack-benny-from-palm-springs-california-460210/feed/ 0 1946,Eddie_Cantor,Hot_Dogs,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Palm_Springs,Phil_Harris,Relaxation,Renting,Tanned Don jokes about the climate of the Garden Spot of the desert, and how Jack managed to catch a cold. Coming back to tease Don about sightseeing on a donkey, Jack turns to Mary and her tanned complexion. Mary teases Jack about hiws Western style cowboy g... Don jokes about the climate of the Garden Spot of the desert, and how Jack managed to catch a cold. Coming back to tease Don about sightseeing on a donkey, Jack turns to Mary and her tanned complexion. Mary teases Jack about hiws Western style cowboy garb. Phil enters with jokes on drinking, and his band. Phil plays a hit tune of the time, Doctor Lawyer or Indian Chief. Jack has trouble describing what a philabuster is. Oh wait I mispelled that: philabuster, c-a-t, philabuster. (Just listen in, and that one will make more sense.) Rochester phones in with bad news about Jack's car. He had an encounter with a train. Larry Stevens sings, Aren't You Glad You're You. Jack asks the gang over to the house he's renting for his stay in Palm Springs. In flashback mode, Mary tells how Jack came to rent Eddie Cantor's house. After meeting Mr Kitzel the hot dog salesman, and getting it for a special price, Mary wants food that's more substantial. In the restaurant, Frank Nelson is the waiter, and recently discharged veteran. Jack spots Eddie Cantor, and wants to rent Eddie's house for nothing. Can he do it? The two old time vaudevillians joke about age, being cheap, food, and more. Note: Both Jack and Eddie make the same joke, that they wish they look as good as the other when they are his age. In real life, they're the same age, although Eddi is a couple weeks older. Keith Heltsley clean 28:44 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-contest-winners-460127/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-contest-winners-460127/#comments Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:27:33 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=19103 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-contest-winners-460127/feed/ 0 1946,Anxiety,Contests,Give_Aways,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Money,Phil_Harris,PPrizes,Rochester,Worry Don rolls back the clock to the night before, and we visit Jack as he is to give away the money for the winners of the contest. Rochester sends jack off to bed to worry about the monehy. Begin dream sequence, and voices trouble Jack's dreams. Don rolls back the clock to the night before, and we visit Jack as he is to give away the money for the winners of the contest. Rochester sends jack off to bed to worry about the monehy. Begin dream sequence, and voices trouble Jack's dreams. Mostly Mel Blanc portraying the voice of Jack's concerns. Back in the studio Larry Stevens sings, Symphony. Phil and Mary tease Jack about the give away. A flubbed line doesn't get much of a laugh, but Jack's adlib comeback does. The telephone operators get in on the fun when Jack tries to contact his publicity agent. Phil's daughter phones in to tell about her entry in the contest. The girl and Phil sing a song, Onsie Twosie. Steve Bradley arrives, he's Jack's publicity agent, but will he tell who the winner is yet? Get ready though, by remote, Fred Allen himself steps in to announce the winners. Keith Heltsley clean 28:31 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-state-fair-rehearsal-460113/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-state-fair-rehearsal-460113/#comments Sun, 13 Jan 2013 19:34:55 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18952 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-state-fair-rehearsal-460113/feed/ 0 1946,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Movies,Oscars,Phil_Harris,Spoofs,State_Fairs Rochester, Jack, and Mary drive downtown and talk about the films playing. Might Jack win an Oscar for his work in A Horn Blows at Midnight? Mary talks about Jack's recent appearance on a radio show that dramatized his life. Rochester, Jack, and Mary drive downtown and talk about the films playing. Might Jack win an Oscar for his work in A Horn Blows at Midnight? Mary talks about Jack's recent appearance on a radio show that dramatized his life. As Jack and Mary walk through the studio, they meet Charlie McCarthy and Edgar Bergen. Actjually an impersonator who does their voices. Phil and the band play a tune. What was it? I don't know, let's ask the band. The play is a spoof of the big film, State Fair. Larry sings, It Might as Well Be Spring. Jack and his pal Zeke, actually Phil, see the sights at the fair. Crazy events with the prize hog, and moonshine ensue. Keith Heltsley clean 28:23 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-she-done-him-right-mae-west-skit-330301/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-she-done-him-right-mae-west-skit-330301/#comments Sun, 13 Jan 2013 14:06:33 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18975 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-she-done-him-right-mae-west-skit-330301/feed/ 0 1933,Alaska,Celebrities,Don_Wilson,Gold_Rush,Jack_Benny,Mae_West,Mary_Livingston,Spoofs,World_Neews Write down the reason you like the new 1933 Chevrolet 6 and you could win a free car. OK, you'll also need a time machine to visit March 1933 to participate. - World News traveller, Jack delivers a few top news items to include: beards, Gandi, Write down the reason you like the new 1933 Chevrolet 6 and you could win a free car. OK, you'll also need a time machine to visit March 1933 to participate. World News traveller, Jack delivers a few top news items to include: beards, Gandi, sideways jabs at prohibition, Garbo, the weather, Groundhogs Day, and even more,. Frank Black plays a hot number. Mary joins in with some fan mail. James Melton teases Jack about his violin playing then sings, Mavis. A spoof of the Mae West film, She Done Him Right is put on with a slightly different name. First Frank Black plays and Mary sings, the Grass Is Getting Greener All the Time. The play takes place in the gold rush times in 1890's Alaska. Mary is Diamond Lou, the tough salloon owner who knows how to handle a man. Jack is the smoothe talking lover who wants to sweep hehr off her feet. Keith Heltsley clean 29:23 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-rose-bowl-game-460106/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-rose-bowl-game-460106/#comments Sun, 06 Jan 2013 19:36:38 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18938 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-rose-bowl-game-460106/feed/ 0 1946,Betting,Contests,Don_Wilson,Football,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,New_Years,Phil_Harris,Rochester,Rosebowl As Jack brags about his wild party life, mary tells the truth about his escapades. Even Larry Stevens sheds some light on Jack being the life of the party. Larry sings, It's a Grand Night for Singing. - Phil enters to tell about his New Years resolut... As Jack brags about his wild party life, mary tells the truth about his escapades. Even Larry Stevens sheds some light on Jack being the life of the party. Larry sings, It's a Grand Night for Singing. Phil enters to tell about his New Years resolution, and having a good time at parties. If you can remember it, you didn't have fun. The conversation turns to the results of the "I Hate Jack Benny" contest. The winner will be announced in an upcoming episode. Rochester phones in with news about the new English butler, and trouble with a fire. Phil and the band plays, Let It Snow. Phil keeps wanting to bet Jack on the Rose Bowl game, but in flashback we learn the trouble Jack had there with his girlfriend Gladys Zabisco. Mr Kitzel sells Jack a hotdog, and tosses in the jokes for free. Everybody seems to know Gladys. She must be a popular waitress at the diner. It makes Jack jealous though. Keith Heltsley clean 28:22 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-the-count-of-monte-jello-350106/ http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-the-count-of-monte-jello-350106/#comments Sun, 06 Jan 2013 15:30:35 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18935 http://retro-otr.com/2013/01/jack-benny-the-count-of-monte-jello-350106/feed/ 0 1935,Count_of_Monte_Cristo,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Jails,Mary_Livingston,New_Years,Parties,Plays,Prisoners,Spoofs Don and Jack tell stories about their wild New Years Eve partying. Mary and Frank Parker both tell a little about their day as well. Who is the guy who wants to sell a bull dog? Don Bestor starts to play, but the number is snipped. - Don and Jack tell stories about their wild New Years Eve partying. Mary and Frank Parker both tell a little about their day as well. Who is the guy who wants to sell a bull dog? Don Bestor starts to play, but the number is snipped. Jack introduces the play, a spoof the classic story of the French Revolution, the Count of Monte Jello. The parts are assigned, Frank Parker has his number snipped, and the play begins. As Edward Dantes, Jack is arrested after being sweet on Mary. He's certain his stay won't be for long, but soon learns otherwise. Will Mary wait for him? Jack gets settled in and meets his fellow inmates. Various wierd and creepy characters. And Schlepperman too. Will Jack ever escape and find his hidden treasure? Keith Heltsley clean 22:41 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-end-of-the-contest-451230/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-end-of-the-contest-451230/#comments Sun, 30 Dec 2012 18:04:29 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18679 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-end-of-the-contest-451230/feed/ 0 1945,Contests,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mail,Mary_Livingston,New_Year,Phil_Harris,Publicity,Rochester The contest ended on December 24th, bt it will still take a couple of weeks to sort through the overwhelming results. Join Jack and Mary at home as they review some of the entries. Polly the Parrot and Rochester do their part to read mail, The contest ended on December 24th, bt it will still take a couple of weeks to sort through the overwhelming results. Join Jack and Mary at home as they review some of the entries. Polly the Parrot and Rochester do their part to read mail, and take part in running gags. Phil arrives and goes over some of the mail. Complaints arise over some of the Christmas gifts from last week. Will Jack ever teach Polly to say Happy New Year? Why is Don singing? Larry Stevens sings a tune. Steve Bradley, Jack's publicity man, arrives to talk about the prizes that will be awarded. Jack has to visit the vault to make a withdrawal. Despite parting with his cash, Jack gets an early visit from the little boy new year with a bright outlook on the optimistic year. Keith Heltsley clean 31:03 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-the-english-butler-451223/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-the-english-butler-451223/#comments Sun, 23 Dec 2012 19:43:31 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=13138 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-the-english-butler-451223/feed/ 0 1945,Bonita_Coleman,Christmas,Contests,Don_Wilson,English_Butler,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Parties,Phil_Harris At Jack's house, Rochester and Mary help with getting his Christmas party ready. The cast are finalizing the "Why I Hate Jack Benny" contest, and have a few fan letters to read. Jack corrects the eating habits of Don and Phil, At Jack's house, Rochester and Mary help with getting his Christmas party ready. The cast are finalizing the "Why I Hate Jack Benny" contest, and have a few fan letters to read. Jack corrects the eating habits of Don and Phil, then the scene shifts to the Coleman's house. Ronald and Bonita Coleman complain about the latest antics of their neighbor. Phil plays some transitional music, then we find Jack in the middle of a violin lesson. Jack has a specially hired English butler to help with the festivities. Will the Coleman's be impressed by the effort Jack has tossed into his party? The jokes and small talk are broken only for Larry Stevens, who sings a closing medley of Christmas Carols. Keith Heltsley clean 28:53 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-last-moment-christmas-shopping-471221/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-last-moment-christmas-shopping-471221/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2012 19:25:47 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18651 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-last-moment-christmas-shopping-471221/feed/ 0 1947,Christmas,Dennis_Day,Department_Stores,Elliot_Lewis,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Mr_Kitzel,Phil_Harris,Racetrack_Tout,Rochester Jack talks to Rochester as they ride downtown for some Christmas shopping. What was Christmas like when Jack was a boy? Mary joins Jack in the store. Jack goes to the credit department to apply for a card. Elsewhere, Dennis is shopping for his parents. Jack talks to Rochester as they ride downtown for some Christmas shopping. What was Christmas like when Jack was a boy? Mary joins Jack in the store. Jack goes to the credit department to apply for a card. Elsewhere, Dennis is shopping for his parents. Phil sweet talks a Southern belle as he picks up a special gift for Alice. Phil and the band play a peppy tune. Jack and Mary encounter the race track tout, and Mr Kitzel as they shop for flowers and gifts. The Sportsmen pose as wind up toys to sing the sponsor's message. Elliot Lewis is the loud salesman at the perfume counter. Mel Blanc is the crazed salesman who goes off the deep end after remembering his ordeal last year when Jack tried to buy shoe laces. To close the show, Dennis sings a Christmas medley that includes: O Little Town of Bethlehem, Keith Heltsley clean 29:10 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jack-is-invited-to-the-colmans-for-dinner-451209/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jack-is-invited-to-the-colmans-for-dinner-451209/#comments Sun, 09 Dec 2012 19:52:04 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18597 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jack-is-invited-to-the-colmans-for-dinner-451209/feed/ 0 1945,Competition,Contests,Don_Wilson,Invitations,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Pranks,Rochester,Ronald_Coleman The entries of the I Hate Jack Benny Because... contest have been pouring in. Join Jack and Mary as they read a few of the entries. Jokes about Jack's famous movie flop, A Horn Blows at Midnight creep in as Jack breaks the news about being invited to t... The entries of the I Hate Jack Benny Because... contest have been pouring in. Join Jack and Mary as they read a few of the entries. Jokes about Jack's famous movie flop, A Horn Blows at Midnight creep in as Jack breaks the news about being invited to the Coleman's for dinner. Rochester shares a few secrets about Jack's clothes. Larry Stevens sings, Lillie Belle. In the Ronald Coleman household, we learn how he feels about his neighbor. We also learn the dinner invitation was a mistake, but Ronald is too kindhearted to turn Jack away. Enjoy the fun as Jack shows off his socially inept side. Don closes with a reminder of how to enter the contest, and that Fred Allen will be the judge. Note: Phil has some fun with a letter from Senator Claghorn, a character from the Fred Allen show. Keith Heltsley clean 29:29 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jacks-christmas-party-andy-devine-431226/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jacks-christmas-party-andy-devine-431226/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 19:16:41 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=5605 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-jacks-christmas-party-andy-devine-431226/feed/ 0 1943,Butterfly_McQueen,Christmas,Christmas_Party,Gladys_Zabisco,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Rochester Jack Benny - Jacks Christmas Party, Andy Devine. 431226 - It's Christmas night, and Rochester gets the house ready for the big party. As he cleans, and sings, he is caught smoking one of Jacks cigars. - Jack Benny - Jacks Christmas Party, Andy Devine. 431226 It's Christmas night, and Rochester gets the house ready for the big party. As he cleans, and sings, he is caught smoking one of Jacks cigars. Mary and Dennis arrive and Jack gives the mistletoe a work out. Phil and the band make their appearance. Even Jack's writers show up. Phil gets the party going by playng, Ain't Misbehaving. Mary's maid, Butterfly McQueen gets dinner ready, but Mary and Jack go to the kitchen to offer some advice for serving dinner. Jacks wacky border, Mr Billingsley, gets in on the Christmas cheer. Dennis sings a medley including: Noel. Away in a Manger. O Come All Ye Faithful. Andy Devine shows up to round out the show. He hasn't been seen since last Christmas, and comes bearing a gift. Phil and Mary want to sing a song, but Jack wants to play violinn. The audience ruins a good joke by applauding. The whole cast join in on a sponser flavored version of Jingle Bells, although Jack manages to butcher a song on his violin as well. Minirva Pious phones in as Jack's mysterious girlfriend, Gladys Zabisco. She has to work, but makes a date for another night. When the cast disappear to give a burial to Jack's violin, Rochester has his chance to enjoy more of Jack's cigars. Keith Heltsley clean 28:28 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-steve-bradley-explains-the-contest-451202/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-steve-bradley-explains-the-contest-451202/#comments Sun, 02 Dec 2012 19:19:02 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18521 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-steve-bradley-explains-the-contest-451202/feed/ 0 1945,Contests,Give_Aways,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Publicity,Rochester,Zombie Mary and Don tells Jack about zombies. Frank Nelson is a reporter who wants to get the scoop on the contest that was mentioned last week. Will Jack actually give away $10k? Is his stingy behavior just a gag for the show? Mary and Don tells Jack about zombies. Frank Nelson is a reporter who wants to get the scoop on the contest that was mentioned last week. Will Jack actually give away $10k? Is his stingy behavior just a gag for the show? Phil enters to keep the discussion of the contest going, but nobody seems to know much about it. Still, the jokes on money and stinginess abound. Phil gets a phone call from home and we learn a few secrets about his homelife. Cute. Phil plays, Just Beyond the Rainbow. Everybody is chomping at the bit to learn more about the contest, even the telephone operators. The gossiping gals share secrets about Jack's lovelife. Rochester checks in with troubles about the milkman. The publicity agent, Steve Bradley shows up, and the contest is revealed. It's the I Hate Jack Benny Because... contest. What? Doesn't everybody like Jack? According to the agent there could be as many as 1000 million people who don't listen, and thus don't like Jack. Do you think people can get it all in with 25 words or less? If Jack has his way, the people could send in their entries on dollar bills. It's a real contest, so stay tuned. Prizes will be given in the form of Victory Bonds. , and Fred Allen will be the judge. Note: In the episode Jack claims that his rivalry with Fred Allen goes back to their vaudeville days. It actually began less than 10 years earlier. The girl who phones Phil is actually an actress, and though she isn't named, she is supposed to be little Alice. Jack and Mary get flustered, and flub lines in Dons commercial. Keith Heltsley clean 28:37 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-rose-of-the-rio-grande-341202/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-rose-of-the-rio-grande-341202/#comments Sun, 02 Dec 2012 15:12:09 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18519 http://retro-otr.com/2012/12/jack-benny-rose-of-the-rio-grande-341202/feed/ 0 1934,Don_Bester,Don_Wilson,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Jugglers,Mary_Livingston,Movies,Spoofs Jack jokes with Don about being a self made man, and about the movies. Mary keeps the movie theme going with a few puns and jokes about the popular film, the Barrets of Wimpole Street. What movie jokes will Frank Parker come up with? Jack jokes with Don about being a self made man, and about the movies. Mary keeps the movie theme going with a few puns and jokes about the popular film, the Barrets of Wimpole Street. What movie jokes will Frank Parker come up with? Even Don Bester has a word to say on the matter. Feeling the show is in a rut, Jack calls out for a tallent agency to send over a novelty act. Don Besters number is snipped. The well educated Don Bester tries to correct Jack's diction with the proper use of English. The acts from the tallent agent begin to arrive, and a juggler gives Jack a hard time. What does a juggler do on the radio? Isn't his act a little too visual for the listening adience? Frank Parker has his song snipped. Don's number is snipped as well. The play begins, the Rose of the Rio Grande. With heavy sponsor overtones, Jack and his crew present a drama set South of the border. Check out the cast doing bad Spanish accents, poor puns, and running gags involving the tallent agent acts, and more. Is it any good? Who cares, just as long as it's funny. Schlepperman makes an appearance, but will Jack get Rose married off? Note: The juggler makes a crack that his name is WC Jones, in reference to WC Fields. Before turning to comedy, WC Fields was a long time juggler. Keith Heltsley clean 21:25 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-from-birmingham-hospital-in-van-nuys-ca-451118/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-from-birmingham-hospital-in-van-nuys-ca-451118/#comments Sun, 18 Nov 2012 18:07:31 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18138 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-from-birmingham-hospital-in-van-nuys-ca-451118/feed/ 0 1945,Bodyguards,Doctors,Frank_Nelson,Hospitals,Jack_Benny,Joe_Louis,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Phil_Harris,Rochester Playing to the military crouwd at the Birmingham hospital, Jack, Don, and Mary tailor their jokes tolife on the post. Jokes about doctors, and medicine are a theme. Phil enters with his characteristic loud entrance, Playing to the military crouwd at the Birmingham hospital, Jack, Don, and Mary tailor their jokes tolife on the post. Jokes about doctors, and medicine are a theme. Phil enters with his characteristic loud entrance, and jokes about his nightlife with the band. Larry Stevens reads a fan letter... sort of. Larry's song is snipped, and the military related jokes fade into a recap of Jack's recent ordeal with his burglar. Rochester phones in to report that Jack's robber had come back. He shares how brave he wasn't in the face of danger. Before Phil can get wound up for a band number, Joe Louis is back to show off his comedy muscles. Joe also gives a boxing lesson to Phil and Jack. After Phil's snipped number, Mary goes into flashback mode to tell about Jack's hospital stay recently. Frank Nelson is his doctor, and gives Jack an exam especially designed for a comedy sketch. A baby tosses in some strange twists to the medical results. Keith Heltsley clean 22:08 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-mrs-wiggs-of-the-onion-patch-341118/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-mrs-wiggs-of-the-onion-patch-341118/#comments Sun, 18 Nov 2012 14:30:03 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18062 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-mrs-wiggs-of-the-onion-patch-341118/feed/ 0 1934,Babies,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Melodrama,Movies,Spoof The audio is a bit scratchy in spots, it skips in spots, and the musical numbers have been snipped. Other than that, it sounds pretty good. Don teases Jack about his acting ability. The conversation turns to comparing baby pictures. The audio is a bit scratchy in spots, it skips in spots, and the musical numbers have been snipped. Other than that, it sounds pretty good. Don teases Jack about his acting ability. The conversation turns to comparing baby pictures. After the snipped number, Jack introduces the play. It's based on a popular movie of the day, Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch. The play begins after another snipped number. Mary plays a mom with a bunch of kids. She had been abandoned, and tries to tell the kids about their deadbeat dad. In this spoof of a melodrama, running gags try to pop up, the mortgage is due, and the family is about to be tossed out. Things are looking bad, the recording skips, the casc almost stay in character. Finally, the day is saved by Mr. Schlepperman. To wrap up, Jack talks to an actress, comedian, and impersonator named Mitsy Green. Amazingly, her song, If I had a Million Dollars, didn't get snipped. It makes me wonder about the purpose behind having Mitsy Green on the show. In just over a month, Frank Black would leave the program, and Kenny Baker would take over on the program. I'm not sure if other singers made appearances at this time. Maybe it was Jack's way of making the transition, and auditioning new tallent. PS: Check out a Retro Original with Bonus tracks with the following link: Jack Benny 341118 Mrs Wiggs Of The Onion Patch (retro245) Keith Heltsley clean 17:41 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-joe-louis-acts-as-jacks-bodyguard-451111/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-joe-louis-acts-as-jacks-bodyguard-451111/#comments Sun, 11 Nov 2012 18:56:01 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18132 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-joe-louis-acts-as-jacks-bodyguard-451111/feed/ 0 1945,Bodyguards,Don_Wilson,Favors,Jack_Benny,Joe_Louis,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Protection Jack is sick in bed after being robbed of money from his vault. To comfort him, Mary reads a passage of a book to Jack. Rochester and other cast members provide comic interuptions. Inspector Flanagan, Mel Blanc, is back on the case of the robber. Jack is sick in bed after being robbed of money from his vault. To comfort him, Mary reads a passage of a book to Jack. Rochester and other cast members provide comic interuptions. Inspector Flanagan, Mel Blanc, is back on the case of the robber. There have been threats. Will Jack need a bodyguard? Rochester is friends with Joe Louis, and does a favor for Jack to get him to be his bodyguard. Larry Stevens sings, It's Been a Long Long Time. Jack and Mary talk about her folks, and housekeeping roles of men and women. True to his word, and to get back into Jack's good graces, Rochester talks Joe Louis into the bodyguard job. Phil plays some travelling music, then comes in to invite Jack to a costume party. Joe Louis meets Jack to work out the details of the bodyguard job. It doesn't take long before Joe's services are called for. How will it work out? Note: Jack gets a phone call from Phil's daughter. She's not named, but it would likely be little Alice, since his second daughter wouldn't quite be old enough to talk on the phone. It was also likely a child actress, since Phil's girls didn't show much interest in being entertainers. Keith Heltsley clean 29:01 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-charlie-chan-in-radio-city-341111/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-charlie-chan-in-radio-city-341111/#comments Sun, 11 Nov 2012 14:09:20 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18060 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-charlie-chan-in-radio-city-341111/feed/ 0 1934,Charlie_Chan,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Reporters,Schlepperman,Shakespeare,World_News Going back to a feature of the series in early episodes, the roving reporter, Jack,, brings news from around the globe. Items include sports news from Japan, New York, and includes Babe Ruth, and election news. Going back to a feature of the series in early episodes, the roving reporter, Jack,, brings news from around the globe. Items include sports news from Japan, New York, and includes Babe Ruth, and election news. Football news reports on team scores that transitions into Hollywood gossip. Don Bestors number is snipped. In failing to get the Marx Brothers to appear, Jack reads a telegram from Harpo to decline the invitation. Instead, Jack interviews Macbeth. Pray tell, what will the Shakespearean character have to say? Frank Parker's song is snipped. The murder mystery tonight is to be, charlie Chan in Radio City. When Don Wilson is shot, Mary gets Charlie Chan on the phone. In his best pigeon English, Jack interviews the cast to try to figure who the killer is. What clues will the detective find? At least a host of running gags featuring his Shakespearean guest and more... Ya hear me? hey, there's that recurring line again. If you haven't figured it out, it's from an episode from a few weeks ago. Schlepperman is on the scene to add his craziness to the mix. Keith Heltsley clean 23:48 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-jack-is-sick-after-being-robbed-of-10000-dollars-451104/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-jack-is-sick-after-being-robbed-of-10000-dollars-451104/#comments Sun, 04 Nov 2012 18:49:25 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18065 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-jack-is-sick-after-being-robbed-of-10000-dollars-451104/feed/ 0 1945,Blowouts,Don_Wilson,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Phil_Harris,Publicity_Agents,Publicity_Stunts,Robbery On a morning drive to the studio, Rochester changes a flat tire. Making a stop in a drugstore, Jack encounters an autograph seeking kid. Phil Harris joions him, along with Cass Daily. Larry Stevens sings, It Isn't Even Spring. - On a morning drive to the studio, Rochester changes a flat tire. Making a stop in a drugstore, Jack encounters an autograph seeking kid. Phil Harris joions him, along with Cass Daily. Larry Stevens sings, It Isn't Even Spring. After a couple quick jokes at the band's expense, Jack takes a treat to Mary. Amid the jokes on love, Jack gets in a jab towards his favorite comic rival, Fred Allen. Phil plays some travelling music, and Jack continues to get ready for the show. The telephone operators, Mabel and Gertrude swing into action to gossip about Jack. More travelling music from Phil finds us visiting jack in his dressing room, and a prade of characters that include Frank Nelson as his barber, Mel Blanc as the inspector who has been investigating the robbery of last week. Jack's publicity agent is on hand to claim the robbery was also just a publicity stunt, then begins to lay out plans for a big contest. A contest that will cost Jack $10k in prizes. What kind of a contest could that be? Stay tuned to learn all the details in upcoming eppisodes. Larry Stevens closes by singing, Until the End of Time. Note: the tires on Jacks car are said to be Generals. The early sponsor of the show once claimed it's tires were free from blowouts. I suppose the wartime use of rubber caused folks to run them much more thin than the manufacturer recommended. For those who might not remember, Mel Blanc was the robber from last week. Now he's the inspector? Good character acting, oris Jack just a trusting soul? Keith Heltsley clean 29:30 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-through-romantic-hawaii-341104/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-through-romantic-hawaii-341104/#comments Sun, 04 Nov 2012 14:59:44 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18058 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-through-romantic-hawaii-341104/feed/ 0 1934,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Frank_Parker,Hawaii,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Opera,Schlepperman,Travelog In trying to tell a joke about a travelling salesman, a farmer, and a farmer's daughter, Jack gets preempted as each point of his story are picked apart by each of the cast. Don's number gets snipped. The cast talk about Jack's acting ability in his ... In trying to tell a joke about a travelling salesman, a farmer, and a farmer's daughter, Jack gets preempted as each point of his story are picked apart by each of the cast. Don's number gets snipped. The cast talk about Jack's acting ability in his latest film. In keeping with the theme of recent shows, Jack features another fake guest entertainer, Jack interviews a lady singer. Will the opera soprano ever get around to singing, or just crack jokes with Jack? Frank Parker has his song snipped. In honor of the first radio station broadcasting Jack's show in Hawaii, he dedicates a travelog documentary about the islands. With some appropriate mood music, Jack narrates as we arrive on ship in port. The word picture continues in comic fashion as only Jack's crazy puns can present it to us. Enjoy the sights, sounds, food, and attractions, all as described by Jack... Ya hear me? Oops, that was the catch phrase from olast week. Don't worry we haven't seen the last of that running gag yet. Schlepperman pops into the scene to burst Jack's bubble, and reveal secret about the trip. Keith Heltsley clean 22:33 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-bennys-of-wimpole-street-341028/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-bennys-of-wimpole-street-341028/#comments Thu, 01 Nov 2012 13:47:44 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18056 http://retro-otr.com/2012/11/jack-benny-bennys-of-wimpole-street-341028/feed/ 0 1934,Banks,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Economy,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Money,Plays,Savings,Spoofs Jack has a special greeting from his cast, and all his pals. Listen in to learn what Jack's idea to stimulate banks and the economy is. Mary joins in on the topic of how safe money is in banks. Find out what Don Bester has put away for a rainy day. Jack has a special greeting from his cast, and all his pals. Listen in to learn what Jack's idea to stimulate banks and the economy is. Mary joins in on the topic of how safe money is in banks. Find out what Don Bester has put away for a rainy day. Don's song is snipped. Featuring another guest, actually an actress, Jack interviews a lady golf pro, and the jokes on golfing flow. Frank Parker is to sing, but it's snipped. The play is a spoof of a well known play, the Barretts of Wimpole Street. Jack is a grumpy old father, and mary is his forever ailing daughter. Set in 1845 London, the old man tries to keep his daughter in the house and not have a life. Will Mary ever get her poetic lover? Not if mean old Jack has his way... Ya hear me? Keith Heltsley clean 20:59 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-goes-trick-or-treating-481031/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-goes-trick-or-treating-481031/#comments Wed, 31 Oct 2012 18:05:15 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=4514 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-goes-trick-or-treating-481031/feed/ 0 1948,Beavers,D,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Halloween,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Pranks,Trick_Or_Treat The boys of the Beaver club compare notes on what they got from trick or treating. As the kids keep comparing notes, they tell secrets about Jack. When the gang arrives at Mary's house, Jack parts company, and goes in for a visit. The boys of the Beaver club compare notes on what they got from trick or treating. As the kids keep comparing notes, they tell secrets about Jack. When the gang arrives at Mary's house, Jack parts company, and goes in for a visit. Mary and Jack talk about the article that appeared about him in a recent magazine issue. Hooking back up with the Beavers, Jack's recurring echo makes a comeback. (The echo, which only he can hear, has been plaguing Jack since the beginning of the season.) Jack eavesdrops at Dennis Day's house to listen to a conversation between him and his mom. Dennis sings, Honey Wait for Me. Jack tries to impress the kids, and scare a pedestrian, who turns out to be Mr Kitzel. He talks to Jack about his wife, going to the movies, and his small apartment. Next stop, Phil Harris, where the Beavers pull a prank on his trash cans. Phil invites them in, and shows off his old photo albums. The Beavers go to Dons for a treat. As the kids wait outside, Jack goes in to hear the Sportsmen sing a scary Halloween tune. Jack parts company at the end of the evening, and the show. Then on the way home, Jack has an idea for one last treat. Hey, it's worth a shot. Note: Early in the show Jack mentions getting Strongheart for trick or treating. Strongheart was his sponsor for his television show. Keith Heltsley clean 28:52 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jacks-halloween-party-381030/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jacks-halloween-party-381030/#comments Tue, 30 Oct 2012 14:59:02 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=12156 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jacks-halloween-party-381030/feed/ 0 1938,Don_Wilson,Halloween,Jack_Benny,Kenny_Baker,Mary_Livingston,Parties,Phil_Harris,Preparations In Jack's Beverly Hills home, he gets ready for his big Halloween party. Rochester, and Mary helps him out, as they tease him about his party supplies Kenny tells about some pranks he is pulling to celebrate the holiday. Kenny sings, Heaven Again. In Jack's Beverly Hills home, he gets ready for his big Halloween party. Rochester, and Mary helps him out, as they tease him about his party supplies Kenny tells about some pranks he is pulling to celebrate the holiday. Kenny sings, Heaven Again. The party preparations continue, and more guests arrive. Note: Unless I have my dates mixed up, at the same time this episode was airing, on another network Orson Wells was scaring the nation with his famous episode of the Mercury Theater. The show was, War of the Worlds. So, if you're listening to Jack instead, don't worry, there aren't any aliens. Just keep laughing. Keith Heltsley clean 27:57 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-store-part-2-341021/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-store-part-2-341021/#comments Mon, 29 Oct 2012 21:19:31 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=18050 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-store-part-2-341021/feed/ 0 1934,Customer_Service,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Fatigue,Food,Frank_Parker,Grocery,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Movies,Sleepy Audio is staticky with a few record skips. Jack seems sleepy and worn out as he tells Don Wilson about his latest movie that is being made. Mary enters, and is just as tired. Frank Parker and even Don Bester are tired, but for different reasons. Audio is staticky with a few record skips. Jack seems sleepy and worn out as he tells Don Wilson about his latest movie that is being made. Mary enters, and is just as tired. Frank Parker and even Don Bester are tired, but for different reasons. Mary has a poem to read, O Fall Is Here. Don's song is snipped. Jack announces a guest, a violin player, which is just an actor who is a springboard to get in some musical jokes. What nifty tricks might he perform? Frank Parker has his song snipped. Reprising the drama from last week, Jack and Mary become owners of a rustic grocery store. Join in for more bad examples of customer service technique, but plenty of set ups for old yolks... er, make that old jokes. Running gags related to the violin bit earlier, and pop culture of the times are mingled with bunches of food jokes. Note: A few references to the current pop culture include the line, "Want to buy a duck?" A catch phrase made popular by another comedian of the day. Also a little Marx Brothers humor is tossed in when Mary and Jack talk to an Italian customer. Radio Star magazine presents an award for distinguished service at the end of the show. The first such award going to a comedian. Keith Heltsley clean 23:08 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-gets-held-up-451028/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-gets-held-up-451028/#comments Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:14:22 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17731 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-gets-held-up-451028/feed/ 0 1945,Betting,Generous,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Publicity,Robbers,Rochester,Vault In the previous episode or two, Jack had been working with a publicity agent. Join in to review the stunts tha Jak has become part of to boost his ratings. Did he actually bet $85k on a horse race to tear down his miserly image? In the previous episode or two, Jack had been working with a publicity agent. Join in to review the stunts tha Jak has become part of to boost his ratings. Did he actually bet $85k on a horse race to tear down his miserly image? Radio news reports blast the hype about Jack that his agent has built up for him. Rochester leaks a few private tidbits to reporter, Mel Blanc. What actually happened at the track? Later at the studio, all the hype and news rumors have gotten around. His legend, and reports of his winnings are exagerated. Mary and Phil do their best to butter up the aledgely generous Jack. The cast is all present, including on and the telephone operators. Gertrude and Mabel gossip about Jack's love life. Larry Stevens talks about his honeymoon then sings, Out of Nowhere. Taking Jack to yet another publicity stunt, Rochester drops off Jack while he puts the car away. Waiting for him inside the house is burglar, Mel Blanc who demands Jack's ficticious winnings. Will Jack be forced to hand over the contents of his vault? Will the robber force his way past the dungeon like gates, and Ed, the Security Guard? Keith Heltsley clean 28:58 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-listens-to-the-world-series-on-the-radio-451007/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-listens-to-the-world-series-on-the-radio-451007/#comments Sun, 07 Oct 2012 19:53:33 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17725 http://retro-otr.com/2012/10/jack-benny-jack-listens-to-the-world-series-on-the-radio-451007/feed/ 0 1945,Ballgames,Changes,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Newspapers,Phil_Harris,Press_Agents,Publicity,Reporters,Sponsors Flashback to witness Jack on the phone. He's having a fall out with his sponsor. This is a serious problem, but is Mr Jones taking Jack seriously?The spponsor seems distracted by a baseball game taking place on the radio. The telephone operators, Flashback to witness Jack on the phone. He's having a fall out with his sponsor. This is a serious problem, but is Mr Jones taking Jack seriously?The spponsor seems distracted by a baseball game taking place on the radio. The telephone operators, Mabel and Gertrude, take center stage to comment on the futility that Jack is facing with his sponsor. Will Jack be losing his job? Larry Stevens sings, but his number is snipped. Mary and Phil give Jack a hard time over Jack's decision to use a publicity agent to boost his popularity. Rochester gets in his own jabs at Jacks expense. The fast talking publicity man shows up with a busy itenary for Jack. It so busy that it makes yu wonder whether Jack will ever get his play started. Phil plays, but the number is cut short. In honor of National Newspaper Week, Scoop Benny takes us for an inside look at a busy news room. Enjoy the colorful characters that make for good news paper stories. Gangsters, hot tips, murder, and a mystery to solve before the cops do. Rochester acts as a witness, and Phil assists Jack's investigation as the sultry Mary tries out a scene that plays up her sex appeal. Keith Heltsley clean 21:47 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-rosebowl-480104/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-rosebowl-480104/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 18:03:26 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17625 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-rosebowl-480104/feed/ 0 1948,Dating,Don_Wilson,Football,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,New_Years,Phil_Harris,Rochester,Scalpers As a new year begins, Jack and his cast flashback to their trip to the Rosebowl game. Going against his stingy character, Jack surprises everyone when he springs for the tickets to the game. Before going, Mary jokes about her recent illness, As a new year begins, Jack and his cast flashback to their trip to the Rosebowl game. Going against his stingy character, Jack surprises everyone when he springs for the tickets to the game. Before going, Mary jokes about her recent illness, and the doctor that Jack referred her to visit. A joke that runs through the rest of the episode. With this being the cold and flu season, the Sportsmen are out with illness, but never fear, they are replaced by their wives just for today. As the big date to attend the game goes down, enjoy a glimpse of Jack on a date with Mary, scalpers, and fun with other cast members. There's even a trip in the Maxwell with Rochester to add a few laughs. What would a new years show be without a fedw drinking jokes with Phil Harris? Mr Kitzel sells a few hotdogs, before the bigf moment to enter the stadium arrives as the show comes to a final punch line. Keith Heltsley clean 29:42 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-341014/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-341014/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 13:36:56 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17535 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-jack-benny-grocery-341014/feed/ 0 1934,Customers,Don_Wilson,Firsts,Food,Grocery,Jack_Benny,Jello,Mary_Livingston,Stores Audio is poor, but is worth giving a listen. It's the first show for Jello, and Jack's first use of his well known opening, "Jello everybody". Don and Jack get in several jokes with the new sponsor as the theme. Mary gets in an age old joke, Audio is poor, but is worth giving a listen. It's the first show for Jello, and Jack's first use of his well known opening, "Jello everybody". Don and Jack get in several jokes with the new sponsor as the theme. Mary gets in an age old joke, but when Jack tries it out on the cast, it goes over like a lead balloon, but somehow his failing is still funny. Don Bester's number is snipped. Jack plows on with a fictitious trio, the Three Chicken Sisters, who do better at joking around than at singing. Their song gets snipped anyway. Frank Parker sings, but the number is snipped. A whole lot of snipping going on with this episode. The featured attraction, inspired by the new sponsor is a play that takes place at a grocery store. Although full of humor, Jack and Mary could use a few lessons in customer service, but if they were any good at it, it wouldn't be nearly as funny. Lots of jokes about food, and family relationships. Keith Heltsley clean 19:46 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-school-days-part-3-340921/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-school-days-part-3-340921/#comments Sun, 23 Sep 2012 13:19:52 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17533 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-school-days-part-3-340921/feed/ 0 1934,Don_Wilson,Impersonations,Jack_Benny,Lessons,Mary_Livingston,s,School,Students,Teachers After a rough start with the audio, Jack enters to talk with Don about going to a boxing match, and talk about milestone fights through the previous few decades. What does Mary, Frank, or Don know about boxing? Don begins to play, After a rough start with the audio, Jack enters to talk with Don about going to a boxing match, and talk about milestone fights through the previous few decades. What does Mary, Frank, or Don know about boxing? Don begins to play, but his number is snipped. Get ready for a return to those good old fashioned school days. The cast do their part to play at being unruly students for teacher, Jack. To fill out the class, a voice impressionist joins the fun to portray famous celebrities, and show what they might have been like as kids. How well do you think you could do with the lessons and quiz that Jack gives his students? Plenty of jokes about school, kids, and getting crazy answers to some basic questions that teachers like to ask. Keith Heltsley clean 20:01 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-benny-340831/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-benny-340831/#comments Sun, 16 Sep 2012 13:06:25 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17531 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-benny-340831/feed/ 0 1934,Biography,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Dreams,Frank_Parker,Growing_Up,History,Home_Life,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston Audio is fair. Jack jokes about Don's generosity, character traits, and size. Mary enters to pitch in on the topic of dreams. After getting in his own joke about dreams, Don Bester plays, and the entire number makes it into the show. Audio is fair. Jack jokes about Don's generosity, character traits, and size. Mary enters to pitch in on the topic of dreams. After getting in his own joke about dreams, Don Bester plays, and the entire number makes it into the show. Frank Parker sings, and his song also makes it in as well. Responding to fan mail, and based on last week's spoof of House of Rothchild, Jack gives a fictional glimpse of what it was like growing up in his childhood house in Waukegan. Listen in to witness the birth of Jack, and about his happy childhood. Listen as he learns to play the violin. How did Jack get his start at being a Master of Ceremonies? Why didn't he follow in his father's career path? Join in and witness Jack's whirlwind vaudeville career, and his brief interuption when the war broke out. What ever happened to Jack? Did he wind up as a tramp? Will his dad be happy with his radio career? Note: A history that's definitely loosely based on the truth. Some truth about Jack is that did learn to play the violin at an early age. He did have a long vaudeville career that was interupted by his service in World War 1. He did switch from the violin, to comedy, to being an Emcee, but not exactly as portrayed. Of course, Mary's role in his real life was not as his sister, and she wasn't born for the early scenes of Jack as a boy. Very creative comedy though, and one of my favorites of this early period. Keith Heltsley clean 30:47 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-rawchild-340824/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-rawchild-340824/#comments Sun, 09 Sep 2012 14:22:59 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17405 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-house-of-rawchild-340824/feed/ 0 1934,Atlantic_City,Don_Wilson,Fathers,Films,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Movies,New_York,Pride,Sons Audio condition is fair to poor. Don introduces that master golfer and violinist, who tells about being back in New York. Listen and learn about his trip to Atlantic City and Coney Island. Even Mary gets in a few laughs on the topic. Audio condition is fair to poor. Don introduces that master golfer and violinist, who tells about being back in New York. Listen and learn about his trip to Atlantic City and Coney Island. Even Mary gets in a few laughs on the topic. Frank Parker gets in on the fun before singing, but the songs are all snipped out. The play is introduced, and Don Bester's number is also cut out. The play is a spoof of the popular film of the day, House of Rothchilds, but is slightly renamed. Providing musical interludes through the play, Don Bester atually gets a full number in, Farewell to Arms. Jack is an overbearing tycoon who has trouble with his sons doing justice to represent the family name. Will his sons strike out in the world and make good? A very good spoof if you can get past the poor audio. I may have a better copy of this show, stay uned, and I'll Keith Heltsley clean 23:11 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-who-killed-mr-stooge-part-5-340720/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-who-killed-mr-stooge-part-5-340720/#comments Mon, 03 Sep 2012 04:09:55 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17403 http://retro-otr.com/2012/09/jack-benny-who-killed-mr-stooge-part-5-340720/feed/ 0 1934,Detectives,Hollywood,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Mysteries,Spoofs After the opening note of dischord from the orchestra, a typical feature in these early shows, Jak turns to joking about current events. Bing Crosby, Ghandi, and Hollywood celebrities are all victims of the humor. Jimmy Greer and his band plays, After the opening note of dischord from the orchestra, a typical feature in these early shows, Jak turns to joking about current events. Bing Crosby, Ghandi, and Hollywood celebrities are all victims of the humor. Jimmy Greer and his band plays, My Middle Name is Love. The show has apparently moved to Hollywood temporarily, and this is the last performance before going bak to New York. A murder serial has been the theme, and tonight finds us with another installment of it. Other shows in the mystery are lost to history, but I'm sure that as usual for Jack, it doesn't matter since each stand on their own. Jimmy Pinkerton sings, A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody. The audio gets a little hard to hear, but in general is fair. There are plenty of puns, and word plays that are typical mystery spoofs for Jack and his cast, often leading to a punch line to pitch the sponsor. Will Sergeant O'Hare get his killer? Not before the ban plays a musical interlude or two. Keith Heltsley clean 27:53 http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-from-terminal-island-440206/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-from-terminal-island-440206/#comments Sun, 10 Jun 2012 16:41:04 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=17034 http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-from-terminal-island-440206/feed/ 0 1944,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Military,Navy,Phil_Harris,Recruiting,Rochester,Training,World_War2 Mary talks with Jack about being at the Navy base as they drive to their destination. Remember that Jack's Maxwell had previously been donated to the war effort. The car that Rochester drives isn't talked about, but it's a converted yellow cab. Mary talks with Jack about being at the Navy base as they drive to their destination. Remember that Jack's Maxwell had previously been donated to the war effort. The car that Rochester drives isn't talked about, but it's a converted yellow cab. Topics that are joked about include the local attractions of the base. Particularly about a fish cannery, a draw bridge, and about the area being a testing ground for P38's. The pesky planes buzz low with expert comic timing through the show. Mel Blanc is the gate guard, but he lets Jack on the base anyway. Tuning in the radio, Jack listens to Don and Phil teasing each other, and Dennis sings, My Ideal. Now on stage, Dennis tells Jack that he wants to change his name to Hassenpfeffer. Why? Don't ask, it's one of those crazy things that Dennis says. Jack tells how he was a sailor in the previous war. Mary and Phil sing, Talk Me Into It Baby. Flashback to the first world war, and we find Jack in the recruiters office. Mel Blanc helps out in reliving those moments when the 16 year old Jack joined up. Frank Nelson and Dennis Day also pitch in as we follow Jack through his induction physical. Keith Heltsley clean 29:10 http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-bringing-in-the-new-year-330101/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-bringing-in-the-new-year-330101/#comments Sun, 03 Jun 2012 14:34:22 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=16898 http://retro-otr.com/2012/06/jack-benny-bringing-in-the-new-year-330101/feed/ 1 1933,Andrea_Marsh,Holiday,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,New_Year,Resolutions,Ted_Weems The audio is a little scratchy, but not bad for one of Jack's early shows. The audio also takes a couple false starts before taking hold. It's the New Year and the cast celebrate. Ted Weems is the orchestra leader who plays the show in, The audio is a little scratchy, but not bad for one of Jack's early shows. The audio also takes a couple false starts before taking hold. It's the New Year and the cast celebrate. Ted Weems is the orchestra leader who plays the show in, as Jack sets the tone for the show. Father time helps with the theme. Jack reviews his Christmas holiday gifts, then he and the cast announce their resolutions for the new year. As Andrea Marsh, the vocalist, tries to do her number the audio skips a little, but it's not snipped. Jack shares some topical humor based on current events, sports, and happenings. Anrea is back to sing, Remember Me. After a short word from Jack, which the audio breaks up on, Ted Weems plays a tune. Wow, now that's a switch for these early shows. Usually it's the music that's cut, and the comedy rolls on. Also in these earliest of existing shows, Jack was still proving himself on radio, and the music was a much bigger feature in the program. Keith Heltsley clean 16:47 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-jack-is-going-to-san-francisco-450513/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-jack-is-going-to-san-francisco-450513/#comments Sun, 13 May 2012 18:49:56 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=16608 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-jack-is-going-to-san-francisco-450513/feed/ 0 1945,Don_Wilson,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Mothers_Day,Phil_Harris,Rochester,Train_Station,War_is_Over The war in Europe has just ended last Tuesday (May 8), and the spirits run high as Jack and Don comment on VE Day. Though Jack tries to brag about his own military accomplishments, Mary bursts his bubble. Larry Stevens plays along with Jack's bragging, The war in Europe has just ended last Tuesday (May 8), and the spirits run high as Jack and Don comment on VE Day. Though Jack tries to brag about his own military accomplishments, Mary bursts his bubble. Larry Stevens plays along with Jack's bragging, then he sings, There's a Happy Land Somewhere. Phil enters, and jokes about various bans and shortages being lifted. It's Mother's Day, and Mary gets a phone call from her mom. Jack leaves to get packed for his trip to San Fransisco, and Phil plays some travelling music. At home, Rochester helps with the packing. Jack takes a trip to his vault for some mad money for his travelling needs. Now it's off to the train station to meet up with the rest of the gang. Frank Nelson is the information booth clerk. And of course, Mel Blanc as the train announcer. PS: The show was either running long, and the last sketch was shortened to fit. Or the show was running long, and the last sketch was tossed at the last minute to fill the time. Not much to it. Keith Heltsley clean 30:04 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-how-jack-found-don-450506-i/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-how-jack-found-don-450506-i/#comments Sun, 06 May 2012 17:31:05 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=16544 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-how-jack-found-don-450506-i/feed/ 0 1945,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Pools,Reporters,Rochester,Swimming We travel to Jack's house, where we find Rochester and Jack in the back yard at pool side. Mary joins the fun, and complains about being charged to swim. Larry Stevens sings, More of You. Phil enters, but turns down the job as life guard. We travel to Jack's house, where we find Rochester and Jack in the back yard at pool side. Mary joins the fun, and complains about being charged to swim. Larry Stevens sings, More of You. Phil enters, but turns down the job as life guard. Instead he announces a celebrity night at the club where he has been playing. Phil plays some transitioning music, Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby. Joe Kearns the newspaper reporter is back. This time he wants the story of how Jack and Don met. Flashback time. Jack claims to have been sponsored by a corset company, and with Mary and Phil he goes to talk with the sponsor. None of which is close to true, but makes for funny jokes. In interviewing announcers, Mel Blanc tries out a few voices including Porky Pig, Daffy Duck, and his hiccupping voice. What was it about Don that caught Jack's attention over other announcers? Listen and learn. It may not be true, but it'll at least be entertaining. Larry is back for another song, Over and Over Again. Keith Heltsley clean 27:43 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-the-hills-of-kentucky-340504/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-the-hills-of-kentucky-340504/#comments Fri, 04 May 2012 14:47:28 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=16503 http://retro-otr.com/2012/05/jack-benny-the-hills-of-kentucky-340504/feed/ 0 1934,Don_Bestor,Don_Wilson,Feuds,Frank_Black,Hillbillies,Horses,Jack_Benny,Kentucky_Derby,Mary_Livingston,Races Today we find Jack not happy with his introduction. After giving Don Wilson and Don Bestor a chewing out over it, Mary enters. Jack talks to her about music. Frank Parker joins the fun then when Don Bestor plays, the number is snipped. Today we find Jack not happy with his introduction. After giving Don Wilson and Don Bestor a chewing out over it, Mary enters. Jack talks to her about music. Frank Parker joins the fun then when Don Bestor plays, the number is snipped. The topic switches to the Kentucky Derby, and horse races. Frank Parker sings, Cocktails for Two, but the number gets snipped. Jack reads a few telegrams of testimonials about the show. Don Bestor plays a tune that actually makes it in it's entirety, A Hillbilly Medley. The sketch finds Jack and the gang in the mountains of Kentucky. What scandal has the clans feuding? Enjoy the antics of the Mountain Williams. As Pappy Jack tries to keep his clan together, they manage to get picked off, one by one. PS: In his early days, especially when Jack was still in New York, his show drifted from day to day, and might also be on for more than one show per week. Keith Heltsley clean 20:44 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-first-performance-of-professor-lablanc-450429/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-first-performance-of-professor-lablanc-450429/#comments Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:49:54 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=16231 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-first-performance-of-professor-lablanc-450429/feed/ 1 1945,Diary,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Performance,Professor_LaBlanc,Radio,Rochester,Violin We find Jack in his library, looking for some good reading. When he discovers Rochester's diary. We are treated to some insights to gambling habits, and a good natured glimpse of asking Jack for a pay raise. Larry Stevens sings, Sleigh Ride in July. We find Jack in his library, looking for some good reading. When he discovers Rochester's diary. We are treated to some insights to gambling habits, and a good natured glimpse of asking Jack for a pay raise. Larry Stevens sings, Sleigh Ride in July. Mel Blanc arrives and makes the first ever appearance of Jack's longsuffering violin teacher. Jokes about music, violins, and frustrations that everythingthat Jack plays sounds alike. Phil Harris joins in with the fun, then plays a brief musical interlude. Jack's lessons continue, and Don slips in a word for the sponsor. Taking a break from Mary, Phil, and the gang, Jack takes a walk with his violin. Where's he going? What's he doing? Does it involve his violin in some way? The cast all speculate on these questions, then turn on the radio. Confusing messages about rationing are aired, as are wierd commercials, and radio announcer Frank Nelson let's Jack play his instrument on the air. In closing Jack shares an encouraging word over the end of the war in Europe, and the continued fighting in the Pacific. Not to mention his personal thought of his violin performance. Keith Heltsley clean 28:19 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-bridge-game-340413/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-bridge-game-340413/#comments Sun, 15 Apr 2012 14:14:37 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15982 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-bridge-game-340413/feed/ 0 1934,Bridge,Cards,Chevrolet,Don_Bestor,Educated,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Offended,Socializing Audio is poor, muffled, with record noise, and scratches. Starts with the show already in progress. As jack has a word with Frank, Mary enters and is concerned over money that she found. She also tells about some relatives in Ohio. Audio is poor, muffled, with record noise, and scratches. Starts with the show already in progress. As jack has a word with Frank, Mary enters and is concerned over money that she found. She also tells about some relatives in Ohio. It's time for a musical number from Don Bester, but he has his song snipped out. Jack jokes about famous safari hunter of the day, Frank Buck. To introduce the new cast to the audience, we learn that Don Bester is Jack's new bandleader, and that he was also well educated. Running gags today and in other shows have him being distinguished, and not bending to Jack's sometimes low form of dry wit. After a few of Don's use of big words, Jack pretends to be offended as he dictates a scathing, but humorous letter to Mary. Frank Parker is to sing, but has his song snipped. To make amends, Don Bester has Jack and Mary over to his home for dinner. Walter Tetley makes a guest appearance at Don's son. Taking an interlude from the festivity at Don's, Jack has the radio turned on to hear the orchestra. Do I need to say it? The song is snipped. Anyhow, back at Don's the gang all play a hand of Bridge, and the jokes about cards kick in. Even if yu don't know much about playing bridge, the humor is generic enough for anybody to enjoy. Note: For those who don't recognize the name Walter Tetley, he is the perpetual 12 year old who reigned supreme through the days of radio, and on into the TV era of the early 1960's. At this point in his radio career, he is probably just a little over 12 years old, but his distinctive and youthful voice would be his meal ticket for countless child roles, and feature him for years as Leroy Forrester from the Great Gildersleeves show. Then as Julius Debrusio on the Phil Harris show. In the cartoon program of Bullwinkle and Rockie, he would be Sherman the pet boy of Peabody the talking dog. Is this kid some sort of vampire? Nope, just a medical ailment that kept his voice young sounding. Keith Heltsley clean 18:43 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-from-torney-hospital-in-palm-springs-450408/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-from-torney-hospital-in-palm-springs-450408/#comments Sun, 08 Apr 2012 17:55:44 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15812 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-from-torney-hospital-in-palm-springs-450408/feed/ 0 1945,Butlers,Dreams,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Palm_Springs,Phil_Harris,Rochester,William_Powel,World_War2 Jack is teased about being the Peanut King, anfd vending machines that he owns. Mary enters to be teased about her fashion sense. Phil Harris enters to lay out the corny jokes about his being late. Mel Blanc even gets a word in when he complains about ... Jack is teased about being the Peanut King, anfd vending machines that he owns. Mary enters to be teased about her fashion sense. Phil Harris enters to lay out the corny jokes about his being late. Mel Blanc even gets a word in when he complains about losing money in Jacks vending machine. Phil plays, Everytime I Fall in Love, but Jack has to cut him off after only a few bars. Jokes turn to acting, and Jack's new movie, the Horn Blows at Midnight. Jack gets sensitive and storms out, which is the cue for Phil to go into another song, Saturday is the Loneliest Night of the week. At Jack's house, Rochester has to deal with the disgruntled Jack. Can Rochester soften up his boss enough to ask for the night off? Tuning into the radio, Jack discovers the cast hav turn the show into a quiz show. Although Larry Stevens takes time to sing, This Heart of Mine. Followed by, Goodnight Sweet Dreams Sweetheart. Jack is still pouting over the lack of loyalty from his cast. Maybe a nap will help? He dreams that he has a high class butler, wiliam Powell. will Jack's life be any better off? It takes Rochester waking him to rescue Jack from his crazy dream. Keith Heltsley clean 29:04 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-frank-parkers-music-store-340408/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-frank-parkers-music-store-340408/#comments Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:54:18 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15810 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-frank-parkers-music-store-340408/feed/ 0 1934,Customer_Service,Don_Bester,Don_Wilson,Firsts,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Music_Store,New_Cast Audio is rough, with record noise, and skips near the beginning. After Don's opening commercial for General Tire, he introduces Don Bester, who introduces Jack. This being the first in the series with the new sponsor, and the new cast, Audio is rough, with record noise, and skips near the beginning. After Don's opening commercial for General Tire, he introduces Don Bester, who introduces Jack. This being the first in the series with the new sponsor, and the new cast, Jack lays down some ground rules, and meets the new members. Band leader Don Bester, who plays, but where Jack would usually announce the song, the recording skips. Still the dippy girlfriend, Mary enters to joke about Don Bester. She suggests that they run out to see Frank Parker in his new music store. Don plays, and after a brief skip, the tune is pretty much all there, April Showers. with the travelling music over, we visit Frank. Jack and Mary show off their customer service skills to help out. Jokes about popular song titles of the day abound. wwith helpers like Jack and Mary, Franks worries are over, he'll be out of business in no time. After a brief skip, Frank Parker sings, Orchids in the Moonlight. As the parade of customers pass through, the audio skips some more. A final song from Frank is clipped before Don wilson closes with a final commercial. PS: The audio is far from the best, and probably the more serious fans of OTR will appreciate the show, but it's worth listening to the end. I really enjoy the clowning around in the music store. Early in the show, Jack tries to borrow money from his cast. In the previous rendition of the show for Canada Dry, the cast would try to borrow from each other. This could be a precursor to jack's notorious stinginess. Before he took on that character trait, the jokes about stinginess were spread around, or the stereotypical reference to a Scotsman was used. Hey, maybe that's why Jack made himself the butt of cheap jokes, to avoid a stereotype. What do you think? Leave me a comment and let me know. You'll just need to be registered, and logged in first. Keith Heltsley clean 26:04 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-how-jack-found-phil-450401/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-how-jack-found-phil-450401/#comments Sun, 01 Apr 2012 17:13:56 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15635 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-how-jack-found-phil-450401/feed/ 0 1945,Easter,First,Frank_Nelson,Introductions,Jack_Benny,Joe_Kearns,Kids,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Meetings,Navy Audio is a touch on the fast side. Rochester and Mary talk about Jack being appointed as an Admiral. we find Jack in the bathtub with his fleet, and talks Navy tactics with Rochester. Later, he goes to pick up his gal, Gladys Zabisco, Audio is a touch on the fast side. Rochester and Mary talk about Jack being appointed as an Admiral. we find Jack in the bathtub with his fleet, and talks Navy tactics with Rochester. Later, he goes to pick up his gal, Gladys Zabisco, and meets a couple of neighborhood kids who swap quick age related jokes. Humming an Easter tune, Jack segways into a song by Larry Stevens, Someone was Always In My Dreams. On the street Jack beets newspaper reporter, Joe Kearns, and tells how he first met Phil Haris. Flashback mode begins, and Jack is having dinner at Mary's. They decide to go on the town, and head to the nightclub where Phil is playing. Frank Nelson is the wisecracking waiter. what kind of impression will Phil make? Undertaker jokes blend with Phils brassy humor, and Jack likes what he sees. Phil sings a chorus of his signature song, That's what I Like About the South. Can Jack impress Phil enough to be hired onto his show? It's cheesy, it's campy, but Oh so fun. PS: Though the recent show about finding Mary was based on a kernel of truth, I'm not so sure this one is. Keith Heltsley clean 27:57 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-skit-eternal-triangle-340401/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-skit-eternal-triangle-340401/#comments Sun, 01 Apr 2012 14:06:35 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15633 http://retro-otr.com/2012/04/jack-benny-skit-eternal-triangle-340401/feed/ 0 1934,April_Fools,Don_Wilson,Easter,Fashion,Frank_Black,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Love_Triangles,Mary_Livingston,Pranks,Styles Audio is a little weak, but good. Jack is introduced as a big hearted gentleman, and talks about ladies fashions. Mary enters to show off her new Easter clothes. The two Franks arrive then Mary shares an Easter poem. The joke is that as she reads, Audio is a little weak, but good. Jack is introduced as a big hearted gentleman, and talks about ladies fashions. Mary enters to show off her new Easter clothes. The two Franks arrive then Mary shares an Easter poem. The joke is that as she reads, music overwhelms her and once the song is done, she's still reading. Although the music is snipped out. Jack tries to get Mary to help with a prank phone call. Hey, besides being Easter, it's also April Fools Day. Jack introduces the play involving a woman and her hard to get along with husband. Frank Parker's song is snipped, and the skit based on a recent film is begun. Mary tries to get rid of her husband Lionel, but ends up with Clark Benny romancing her. Note: The show closing has the cast saying goodbyes to each other. This program ends the Chevrolet sponsorship, and Jack will return with a new sponsor, and new cast members. Also, there's a joke that may go over some people's heads relating to the French maid. She talks with a German accent and is said to also work for Fank Pearl. Frank Pearl was a well known vaudeville comic and early radio star who did his act with a thick German dialect. Keith Heltsley clean 18:21 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-murder-mystery-450325/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-murder-mystery-450325/#comments Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:42:16 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15554 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-murder-mystery-450325/feed/ 0 1945,Alan_Ladd,Best_Dressed,Captain_OBenny,Don_Wilson,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Mel_Blanc,Military,Mystery Entertaining for Army troops, Jack and Don layer on the military related jokes, and those related to military customs. Phil Harrisshows his humorous side as he talks about his new nightclub. Mary arrives and shares a letter from her mom, Entertaining for Army troops, Jack and Don layer on the military related jokes, and those related to military customs. Phil Harrisshows his humorous side as he talks about his new nightclub. Mary arrives and shares a letter from her mom, and word on the beautiful Spring weather. Through it we learn that Mary has been voted the best dressed woman in Hollywood. Larry Stevens sings, but the number gets cut. Jack gets his dander up when he thinks Fred Allen is in the Hallway, but when it's Alan Ladd, will Jack be so tough? After a little audio glitch where Phil's tune is snipped, Jack gets ready for one of his murder mysteries. Captain O'Benny deals out the parts, and right after Rochester phones in to tell about a car accident, the play begins. The Woman in the Window, or... It's a Good Thing the Venetian was Blind. Alan Ladd pitches in as the hard case who Capt. O'Benny has to hunt down amid a flurry of zany jokes from the voice tallents of Frank Nelson and Mel Blanc. Keith Heltsley clean 23:00 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-how-jack-found-mary-450318/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-how-jack-found-mary-450318/#comments Sun, 18 Mar 2012 17:20:29 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15461 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-how-jack-found-mary-450318/feed/ 0 1945,Bea_Benederet,Biographical,Don_Wilson,Firsts,Frank_Nelson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Meetings,Mel_Blanc,Phil_Harris Don Wilson takes us to Jack's house, where Rochester gets a breakfast ready for his boss. Phil Harris drops in and when the radio is tuned in, Frank Nelson, Mel Blanc, and Bea Benaderet lend their voice tallents to the show. Don Wilson takes us to Jack's house, where Rochester gets a breakfast ready for his boss. Phil Harris drops in and when the radio is tuned in, Frank Nelson, Mel Blanc, and Bea Benaderet lend their voice tallents to the show. Not satisfied with the programming, Phil spins the dial for a crazy mash up of Frank's soothing commercial, Mel's wild one, and a sweet tune from Bea Benederet. Larry Stevens sings a tune. Don Wilson pops in, but Rochester has important word. In a recent episode a sculptor promised to make Jack's likeness, and Rochester gives some disturbing news about the progress. Phil plays a few bars of some transitioning music, It Had to be You. As Jack takes a stroll, he meets a reporter who wants to know how Jack met Mary. Get ready for a flashback sequence to 1932, and Jack strolling on an autumn day, humming and commenting on popular people and events of the day. The scene shifts to Mary talking to Mabel about Jack's goofy old fashioned clothes. Jack lays on the pick up lines, but the sassy Mary dishes it right back. PS: Though the scene of Jack meeting Mary may be made up, it does have a few grains of truth. They did meet where Mary worked at the May Company, but the conversation today is designed for maximum comedy impact, and not necessarily what happened. And the meeting took place a few years earlier than the 1932 date mentioned. Keith Heltsley clean 30:02 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318-2/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318-2/#comments Sun, 18 Mar 2012 14:13:59 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15459 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318-2/feed/ 0 1934,Arizona,Cattle,Cowboys,Frank_Black,Frank_Parker,Hospitals,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Rustlers,Westerns Audio isn't the best, kind of mushy and weak. The show starts in progress with Jack and Mary talking. Frank Black is to play, but his song is snipped. Jack seems to have amnesia as he wakes up in a sanitarium. Audio isn't the best, kind of mushy and weak. The show starts in progress with Jack and Mary talking. Frank Black is to play, but his song is snipped. Jack seems to have amnesia as he wakes up in a sanitarium. Jack lets on that he really doesn't have anything wrong with him and Frank Black plays, Nasty Man. It makes it a way into it, but it gets snipped short. The cast talk about what makes them crazy. Anything from nuts to Clark Gable. Hey, I wonder who could be wild for Clark? Frank Parker has his song snipped, then Jack responds to a fan letter. The play is to be a cowboy skit from out in Arizona. Frank Black plays some travelling music that's cut and the play begins. It may be a precursor to the later Buck Benny series, but in this one Jack is just a roving cowboy who jokes and sings his way from cattle herd to the bunkhouse. As Coyote Jack cuts loose in town, Mary joins him to ride out after rustlers. Note: According to George Burns, Jack Benny would sometimes want to get away from it all for peace and quiet. He would check himself into a hospital for a few days. He didn't have anything wrong, he would just go for relaxation. Keith Heltsley clean 19:23 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318/#comments Sun, 18 Mar 2012 14:13:59 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15459 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-arizona-western-340318/feed/ 0 1934,Arizona,Bunkhouse,Cattle,Cowboys,Frank_Black,Frank_Parker,Hospitals,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Rustlers,Westerns Audio isn't the best, kind of mushy and weak. The show starts in progress with Jack and Mary talking. Frank Black is to play, but his song is snipped. Jack seems to have amnesia as he wakes up in a sanitarium. Audio isn't the best, kind of mushy and weak. The show starts in progress with Jack and Mary talking. Frank Black is to play, but his song is snipped. Jack seems to have amnesia as he wakes up in a sanitarium. Jack lets on that he really doesn't have anything wrong with him and Frank Black plays, Nasty Man. It makes it a way into it, but it gets snipped short. The cast talk about what makes them crazy. Anything from nuts to Clark Gable. Hey, I wonder who could be wild for Clark? Frank Parker has his song snipped, then Jack responds to a fan letter. The play is to be a cowboy skit from out in Arizona. Frank Black plays some travelling music that's cut and the play begins. It may be a precursor to the later Buck Benny series, but in this one Jack is just a roving cowboy who jokes and sings his way from cattle herd to the bunkhouse. As Coyote Jack cuts loose in town, Mary joins him to ride out after rustlers. Note: According to George Burns, Jack Benny would sometimes want to get away from it all for peace and quiet. He would check himself into a hospital for a few days. He didn't have anything wrong, he would just go for relaxation. Keith Heltsley clean 19:23 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-haunted-house-340311/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-haunted-house-340311/#comments Sun, 11 Mar 2012 18:18:56 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15275 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-haunted-house-340311/feed/ 0 1934,Bravery,Fashions,Frank_Black,Frank_Parker,Gangsters,Ghosts,Haunted_House,Jack_Benny,John_Dillenger,Mary_Livingston,Styles Audio is weak, and has noise that can't be cleaned. The show starts already in progress. Jack talks with bandleader, Frank Black, and tenor, Frank Parker about his eccentric nature. The guys bicker over clothes and men's fashion. Audio is weak, and has noise that can't be cleaned. The show starts already in progress. Jack talks with bandleader, Frank Black, and tenor, Frank Parker about his eccentric nature. The guys bicker over clothes and men's fashion. Mary gets in on a few of the jokes, then Frank Black starts to play, but it gets snipped. Jack reads from a fan letter from John Dillinger. Frank Parker starts to sing, but the number is also snipped. There has been a little feuding going on between Frank Black and Jack, and today they pick another way to prove their manhood. Faced with a challenge of spending the night in a haunted house, both men are unwilling. As Jack sets out to go first, Frank plays a little travelling music. There's plenty of spooky music and sound affects to go along with Jack's jokes as he deals with ghosts and other wierd happenings. Though the audio can be a little hard to hear at times, a cute story and situation. Schlepperman even makes an appearance. Note: The early 1930's seemed to be a breeding ground for outrageous gangsters. For instance, John Dillenger's name is still familiar to us today, but his rein of terror only lasted about a year. Keith Heltsley clean 18:26 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-from-hollywood-the-train-station-450304/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-from-hollywood-the-train-station-450304/#comments Sun, 04 Mar 2012 23:12:22 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15118 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-from-hollywood-the-train-station-450304/feed/ 0 1945,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Phil_Harris,Rochester,Tours,Train_Station,World_War2 Getting ready to travel by train, Jack and Rochester joke around about packing. Jack seems to be plagued by a stalker who is following him from St Joseph. Mary arrives to lend her teasing, and has a letter from her mom. Larry Stevens sings, Getting ready to travel by train, Jack and Rochester joke around about packing. Jack seems to be plagued by a stalker who is following him from St Joseph. Mary arrives to lend her teasing, and has a letter from her mom. Larry Stevens sings, Goodnight Sweet Dreams. Phil Harris arrives and Jack teases him about his guitarist, Frank Remley. When Jack gets a bill for their hotel, he goes over the expenses. To get enough ready cash, Jack heads to his vault. Phil plays some travelling music, and it's off to catch a train. With the Maxwell previously called into military service in a scrap drive, Jack and Mary drive to the train station in her car. It must be hers since Jack's replacement wheels is a transformed taxi, ant the jokes about cab fare are absent. Mel Blanc announces the train departures. Frank Nelson is a traveller who gets Jack confused with someone else, and an information desk clerk. PS: As Jack switched sponsors from Grape Nuts to Lucky Strike, and in these later war years, he developed recurring gags that would later be famous. The train station scenes date back to the late 1930's, but would become more polished as years go on. Today's episode may not be a prime example, but we get a look at some of the evolution of characters. Keith Heltsley clean 28:24 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-duel-in-the-graveyard-340304/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-duel-in-the-graveyard-340304/#comments Sun, 04 Mar 2012 22:11:57 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=15116 http://retro-otr.com/2012/03/jack-benny-skit-duel-in-the-graveyard-340304/feed/ 0 1934,Bravery,Challenges,Duels,Florida,Frank_Black,Frank_Parker,Graveyards,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Vacations Audio quality is weak, and starts with the show already in progress. Jack is talking about riding horses with his cast, Frank Parker, and Frank Black. Jack's stingy side comes out. Frank Black begins to play, but it gets snipped. Audio quality is weak, and starts with the show already in progress. Jack is talking about riding horses with his cast, Frank Parker, and Frank Black. Jack's stingy side comes out. Frank Black begins to play, but it gets snipped. Mary enters after being on vacation for a few weeks. She tells about her trip to Florida. Though it can be hard to hear, it's worth listening to her jokes about her trip. Frank Parker is supposed to sing, but it gets clipped out. Jack reads a fan letter, and tells of the great courage it takes to be the Master of Ceremonies on the show. Another song is clipped. Jack has had his courage challenged, and he now shows up in a graveyard to prove his bravery. Frank Parker has challenged Jack to a duel. Mary offers her strategy for winning the match. What kind of target shooter is Jack? He takes a few practice shots to show off. How will this duel end? Who will win? Will they actually go through with it? Though the audio leaves some to be desired, the graveyard scene has some classic gags. Maybe old by today's standards, but new for the time. Hey, at least now you'll know where they came from. Keith Heltsley clean 17:13 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-fitzsimmons-hospital-denver-450225/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-fitzsimmons-hospital-denver-450225/#comments Sun, 26 Feb 2012 22:11:31 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14960 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-fitzsimmons-hospital-denver-450225/feed/ 0 1945,Colorado,Denver,Don_Wilson,Hospital,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Phil_Harris,Rehearsal,Violin The show starts with a bit of a flip flop. Jack opens, and introduces Don wilson as the star of the show. what's the story behind that? Did Jack lose a bet? It's actually in tribute to playing the show in Don's home town. The show starts with a bit of a flip flop. Jack opens, and introduces Don wilson as the star of the show. what's the story behind that? Did Jack lose a bet? It's actually in tribute to playing the show in Don's home town. Don gets teased about his childhood, when Mary enters to change the topic about her fashion statement. Hey, a skirt made of parachute fabric. If only they made pants like that I'll bet they would really sell well. Maybe one of these days... Mary reads a quick poem before Jack talks about the great receptions they've recieved through their cross country tour of military bases. Frank Nelson claims to be a sculptor who wants to make a statue of Jack. Larry Stevens sings, Let Me Love You Tonight. The sculpting jokes keep up as Phil enters. As is typical for doing remote shows, the topical scenes, nightlife, and other points of interest are the objects of jokes. Phil plays, Every Time I Fall In Love. Mary gets a flashback sequence started, and we find Rochester in the hotel room with a few domestic troubles to deal with. Jack is still sleeping, but gets up and ready for a rehearsal. Jack tries out a popular song of the day, Accentuate the Positive. Rochester actually gets the chance to sing in the episode to show Jack how it goes. Rochester's scratchy singing style, Jack's scratchy violin playing. Somehow it works out pretty well. Keith Heltsley clean 29:08 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/#comments Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:17:23 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14865 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/feed/ 0 1945,Cowtowns,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Jane_Wyman,Larry_Stevens,Locals,Mary_Livingston,Military,Phil_Harris,St_Joseph,Tours In flashback, Don takes us back to a scene where Rochester sings as he cleans Jack's home. Then Jack takes the stage to speak to the gathered troops where they love him in St Joe. As is typical of entertaining World War 2 troops, In flashback, Don takes us back to a scene where Rochester sings as he cleans Jack's home. Then Jack takes the stage to speak to the gathered troops where they love him in St Joe. As is typical of entertaining World War 2 troops, there's plenty of local and topical humor, particularly the cattle transporting industry. Mary and Larry enter , Larry sings, I Love You Sweetheart of My Dreams. Jack's fun in the cow town is dampened a little when mention of Fred Allen gives him a chance to take jabs at his old rival. Phil bursts on the scene, and is complemented on his appearance on the Fitch Bandwagon. . Jokes turn to another local historic figure, Jesse James. The mayor of St Joseph makes an appearance, and bestows Jack with an honorary title. Jane Wyman, a native to the town, helps with the show and sets Jack straight on the prefered name of the city. Jack and Jane discuss love scenes and leading men. Rochester phones in with some trouble over Jack's dry cleaning. Phil plays the show out to some closing words from Jack to buy more war bonds. Note: During the war era, there was still a lot of racism towards black people. Hotels and public facilities were highly segregated. There's a famous incident that happened in the stay in St Joseph, MO. The hotel was pleased to welcome Jack and his crew, all except Eddie Anderson. He was told he would have to stay elsewhere. It made Jack mad, and he refused to stay at the hotel if his entire cast couldn't stay there. Not wanting to lose his business, an instant change to the hotel's segregation policy was made, and Rochester could stay as well. They may love Jack in St Joe, but there may still have been some bigots there who were a little less friendly. Phil is mentioned as appearing on the Fitch Bandwagon, a variety musical show. In just a couple years, and after the war, he and wife Alice would make appearances to do a sit com style show or two that would lead to their own series. They would at first be sponsored by Fitch shampoo, then later by Rexall, and then by Victor Records. Keith Heltsley clean 29:18 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/#comments Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:17:23 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14865 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-st-joseph-missouri-450218/feed/ 0 1945,Cowtowns,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Jane_Wyman,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Phil_Harris,St_Joseph,Tours,World_War2 In flashback, Don takes us back to a scene where Rochester sings as he cleans Jack's home. Then Jack takes the stage to speak to the gathered troops where they love him in St Joe. As is typical of entertaining World War 2 troops, In flashback, Don takes us back to a scene where Rochester sings as he cleans Jack's home. Then Jack takes the stage to speak to the gathered troops where they love him in St Joe. As is typical of entertaining World War 2 troops, there's plenty of local and topical humor, particularly the cattle transporting industry. Mary and Larry enter , Larry sings, I Love You Sweetheart of My Dreams. Jack's fun in the cow town is dampened a little when mention of Fred Allen gives him a chance to take jabs at his old rival. Phil bursts on the scene, and is complemented on his appearance on the Fitch Bandwagon. . Jokes turn to another local historic figure, Jesse James. The mayor of St Joseph makes an appearance, and bestows Jack with an honorary title. Jane Wyman, a native to the town, helps with the show and sets Jack straight on the prefered name of the city. Jack and Jane discuss love scenes and leading men. Rochester phones in with some trouble over Jack's dry cleaning. Phil plays the show out to some closing words from Jack to buy more war bonds. Note: During the war era, there was still a lot of racism towards black people. Hotels and public facilities were highly segregated. There's a famous incident that happened in the stay in St Joseph, MO. The hotel was pleased to welcome Jack and his crew, all except Eddie Anderson. He was told he would have to stay elsewhere. It made Jack mad, and he refused to stay at the hotel if his entire cast couldn't stay there. Not wanting to lose his business, an instant change to the hotel's segregation policy was made, and Rochester could stay as well. They may love Jack in St Joe, but there may still have been some bigots there who were a little less friendly. Phil is mentioned as appearing on the Fitch Bandwagon, a variety musical show. In just a couple years, and after the war, he and wife Alice would make appearances to do a sit com style show or two that would lead to their own series. They would at first be sponsored by Fitch shampoo, then later by Rexall, and then by Victor Records. Keith Heltsley clean 29:18 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-little-women-340211/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-little-women-340211/#comments Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:02:09 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14812 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-little-women-340211/feed/ 0 1934,Chevrolet,Current_Events,Frank_Parker,Jack_Benny,Little_Women,Mary_Livingston,Poems,Spoofs,Travelling,Vacations Audio is poor, but worth a listen to hear a few moments of Jac's early career on radio. I tweaked the audio to cut out some of the noise, but it's still staticky. Mary opens with a poem that carried over from the previous, non-existent episode, Audio is poor, but worth a listen to hear a few moments of Jac's early career on radio. I tweaked the audio to cut out some of the noise, but it's still staticky. Mary opens with a poem that carried over from the previous, non-existent episode, one about Winter. Jack brings us news of the week from the Global Traveller. Items come from current events from France, New York, and more, and include Hollywood celebrities, strikes, Groundhogs Day, and others. Frank Parker plays, but his song is snipped from the recording. The cast talk about where they might take a vacation to escape the wintery weather. Jack mentions travelling to Chicago. He doesn't say, but it could be to celebrate his upcoming birthday with family there. The play is Jack's version of Little Women, called Miniature Women. Frank has another musical number snipped, then the feature begins. The spoof kicks off with Jack joking on the side to the audience. Adding a little irreverence to the period piece. The audio gets particularly staticky towards the end of the puns and topical jokes. You'll know it's over when the jokes take on a sponsor flavor. Note: Jack mentions the story from Louisa May Alcot was 50 years old at this time. Long enough to be a well loved classic. Think of what stories, TV shows, or movies that are roughly 50 years in our past. That's the same perspective Jack's audience had with this story. Despite the poor audio, this is one of my favorites. Maybe not in my top ten, but deserving an honorable mention. Keith Heltsley clean 20:43 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-what-if-jack-benny-was-never-born-470202-retro380/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-what-if-jack-benny-was-never-born-470202-retro380/#comments Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:40:46 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14823 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-what-if-jack-benny-was-never-born-470202-retro380/feed/ 0 1947,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Frank_Capra,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Movies,Phil_Harris,Rochester,Sportsmen,Wonderful_Life In Jack's home, Don visits Rochester and we learn about Jack taking Mary out to the movies. They have jjust seen It's a Wonderful Life, but Jack finds it hard to believe that an angel could make it so a person was never born. In Jack's home, Don visits Rochester and we learn about Jack taking Mary out to the movies. They have jjust seen It's a Wonderful Life, but Jack finds it hard to believe that an angel could make it so a person was never born. What would life be like for the cast if Jack were never born? At home, Jack finds a stranger in his house. It's Victor Moore, the angel from the film Jack just went to see. The angel is on a mission and Jack learns that he has no butler, but that's only the beginning. He learns that Mary still works for the May Company, Dennis Day works for Fred Allen, and a voice impersonater standing in for Fred is pleased to meet Jack because there has never been a feud between them. Don and the Sportsmen run a tobacco plantation. (Hey, they had to work in the sponsor in here somewhere). Phil Harris still works in his nightclub. Isn't there anybody who can help Jack prove that he was really born? In the end, Jack gets his life back, and for better or worse, the cast are restored to their place in life with him. Bonus Track: Jack Benny. 1937. Jack complains about Fred Allen and defends his violin playing. Keith Heltsley clean 33:55 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-toronto-canada-430214/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-toronto-canada-430214/#comments Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:45:09 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14803 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-from-toronto-canada-430214/feed/ 0 1943,Birthday,Canada,Dennis_Day,Don_Wilson,Films,Jack_Benny,Mary_Livingston,Military,Movies For the first time in Jack's broadcast history, he does his show from outside the United States. He jokes about a tunnel where he has a sign set up to charge admission. Wait for it, there's more running gags to come about it. For the first time in Jack's broadcast history, he does his show from outside the United States. He jokes about a tunnel where he has a sign set up to charge admission. Wait for it, there's more running gags to come about it. He salutes the Canadian troops in the audience, and gets a little tribute in return. Mary and Don talk about the sights in the towns they've visited. Dennis Day puts in his observation about the monetary exchange rate, then he sings. So Nice to Come Home To. The cast get around to joking about it being Jack's birthday. Can they pin Jack down on his age? Since Phil can't make it, Alan MacKiver is the guest bandleader. Jack's recent movies get a plug, his recently made Washington Slept Here, and his upcoming one, The Meanest Man in the World. The band plays, Canadian Capers. Mary dedicates a poem to the Canadian troops. Jack tries to introduce his play for the night but keeps being interupted. Rochester reports the latest happenings from Jack's tunnel. The play never quite makes an appearance, but I don't think it was supposed to. Keith Heltsley clean 28:40 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-jacks-birthday-370214/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-jacks-birthday-370214/#comments Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:57:32 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14800 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-jacks-birthday-370214/feed/ 0 1937,Birthdays,Don_Wilson,Feud,Jack_Benny,Kenny_Baker,Mary_Livingston,Phil_Harris,Violins Don and the gang all open with Birthday wishes for jack. They try to get Jack to confess his real age. Mary even has a special poem for him. Phil plays, Riding High. In previous episodes, Jack has begun his rivalry with Fred Allen, Don and the gang all open with Birthday wishes for jack. They try to get Jack to confess his real age. Mary even has a special poem for him. Phil plays, Riding High. In previous episodes, Jack has begun his rivalry with Fred Allen, and he was to respond to the challenge to play the Bee. His violin had been abducted, and today is still missing, but a substitute almost shows up. While waiting for word on the missing violin, Andy Devine shows up with birthday greetings, and a gift. Kenny sings, Carry Me Back to the Lone Prairie. Telegrams trickle in from various sources including Fred Allen, and Jack's dad. Ben Birney, the Old Maestro, pops in for a visit, and bearing gifts. The Old Maestro talks with the cast, and Phil claims to be the Young Maestro. Phil plays, Goona Goo. The topic turns to the whole gang taking pot shots at Fred Allen, and the remarks he made on his latest show. Jack presents a spoof look at the highlights of Fred Allen's life. It's short, but funny. Will Jack be any closer to playing the Bee? Note: Today is Jack's birthday. He manages to avoid telling his age, though his running joke in later years will be that he is 39, he is 43 today. Ben Birney was a popular band leader of the day, and in his own way instrumental in giving Jack his stage name. When Jack was in Vaudeville, he went by various names, but settled on Ben K Bennie for a time. The Old Maestro thought it sounded too much like his own name, and the two are said to look something alike, and he was going to sue Jack if he didn't pick another stage name. So Ben K Benny became Jack, and the rest is history. Keith Heltsley clean 28:41 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-birthday-from-glenview-nab-illinois-450211/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-birthday-from-glenview-nab-illinois-450211/#comments Sun, 12 Feb 2012 17:11:00 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14704 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/jack-benny-birthday-from-glenview-nab-illinois-450211/feed/ 0 1945,Aging,Aircraft_Carriers,Birthdays,Don_Wilson,Jack_Benny,Larry_Stevens,Mary_Livingston,Military,Navy,Phil_Harris,Rochester Jack is celebrating his birthday as he makes the rounds on his circuit of military bases. Don teases Jack about his toupee, and tries to get Jack to admit his age. Even Mary can't squeeze out his real age, which though he claims 36, Jack is celebrating his birthday as he makes the rounds on his circuit of military bases. Don teases Jack about his toupee, and tries to get Jack to admit his age. Even Mary can't squeeze out his real age, which though he claims 36, he's actually 51 this year. Larry Stevens gets in a few jabs at Jack's expense before singing, but his song gets snipped. The birthday jokes continue when Phil presents a gift from him and all the band. What's the racy message included inside? Listen and learn. Jack talks about all his old childhood friends who'll be at his party. Rochester phones with travelling plans to their next gig in St Joeseph, Missouri next week. Phil plays some travelling music, Hollywood Canteen. Jack announces the play: Boy Was I Seasick, or You Can't Take It With You. Jack plays the part of a Naval Captain on the open sea when his sealed orders are opened. Jokes about aircraft carriers and general Navy life are the theme. Trivia: In real life, Jack was in the Navy in the past World War, Dennis was currently serving in the Navy, and Phil enlisted with his entire band in the Merchant Marine for the duration of the war. Keith Heltsley clean 21:42 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/buck-benny-montage-part-2-retro379/ http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/buck-benny-montage-part-2-retro379/#comments Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:14:01 +0000 Keith http://retro-otr.com/?p=14770 http://retro-otr.com/2012/02/buck-benny-montage-part-2-retro379/feed/ 0 1936,1937,Andy_Devine,Bandits,Buck_Benny,Cactus_Face,Cattle_Rustlers,Cowboys,Don_Wilson,Feuds,Jack_Benny,Kenny_Baker The Jack Benny month celebration continues with another montage of his famous western series of sketches, Buck Benny. The first segment is from December 13, 1936, and finds Buck Benny and his old cow hands keeping the peace. The Jack Benny month celebration continues with another montage of his famous western series of sketches, Buck Benny. The first segment is from December 13, 1936, and finds Buck Benny and his old cow hands keeping the peace. Andy Devine joiins the fun as a sheriff who is Bucks friendly rival. Old Gravel Throat pitches in and helps Buck corner Cactus Face in a theater. But will the slippery bandit be caught? You don't have to wait until next week, just stay tuned to the next segment. Our next segment comes from December 27, 1936, and Buck partakes in New Years celebrations with his old cowhands. There's some references to Buck's Christmas celebration, and his gifts (and re-gifting) of mufflers. Mary and Phil sing a festive song, Sing Baby Sing. Don plugs the sponsor, of course, but the real fun comes when Andy joins the musical fun to ring in the New Year. But what about the dreaded cattle rustler, Cactus Face Elmer? Buck will have to ride into next week to continue the saga. On January 3, 1937 we find Buck Benny and his horse layed up in the hospital after a fall in their pursuit of Cactus Face. Jokes about doctors, and medical misadventures are mixed into the western saga. But when Cactus Face crosses paths, Buck springs into action. As an intermission, we get a tiny look at the beginning of the famous Benny Allen feud. Before the final clip, we look at another bit from the episode from January 10, 1937. It involves a soft spoken, ficticious character named Buckingham Benny who complains about the use of his name on the show. It plays a -part in running gags through the Buck Benny adventure. Buck and his gal Daisy are joined by her pappy when sheriff Andy Devine reports a sighting of Cactus Face. It's off to a haunted hotel in another try at bringing backthe rustler. Don't worry, Cactus Face is safe for now, but it only means more Buck Benny adventures in the future. Bonus Tracks: None today, just an assortment of classic Jack Benny shorts, and a few comments mixed in from Keith. Keith Heltsley clean 52:09