Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 25:42 — 11.8MB)
The day Jack Benny died was a blow to the world, not just the world of comedy. In this AFRS production, memories of his life are shared through the commentary of the DJ, show clips, and interviews with Jack himself. Beginning with the birth of Benny Kubelsky, to the early days in vaudeville, Jack’s milestones in life are remembered.
His radio career, running gags, on air personality, and more are reviewed. Clips share favorite moments with Rochester, Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, Dennis Day, and Don Wilson. Moments made famous by Mel Blanc, and visits to Jack’s vault are included.
In interview, Jack tells about his feud with Fred Allen, how he got his theme song. Just what does Love in Bloom have to do with a comedian, or with Jack personally? Does he really play the violin as poorly as his jokes imply? If he had it all to do over again, would he choose music over comedy?
