Jack Benny – NBC Tribute To Jack Benny’s Tenth Anniversary. ep411, 410511

After the hour long special, Jack Benny and his cast respond to the honors of the gala event.

Don Wilson introduces Jack Benny. The two joke about his taste in style and fashion, and the wardrobe Jack had to wear in his latest film, Charlie’s Aunt. Mary Livingstone and Dennis Day arrive to get in on the secrets of the wardrobe, and tell how Jack has been a mother to them. Phil arrives, and the topics turns to the NBC salute, and the latest teasing from Fred Allen. After an interruption from Rochester, to tell about the broken down Maxwell, Phil plays Amapola.

Joined by Ken Carpenter, Don introduces a drama that wasn’t able to be included in the NBC tribute. Details present Jack’s birth, 47 years earlier, and glimpses at his boyhood. His poor grades, early violin playing, his introduction to vaudeville at the Barriston theater. Mentions of early friends and acts on the stage are mentioned and we see what his early act was like.

A set back comes with his mother’s death and spending time in the Navy. Soon, Jack is in the big time, playing the Palace. Dropping the violin, and sticking to comedy helps. Then one day, he finds his life long partner in the May Company hosiery department. Sadye Marx becomes Mrs Benny, then Mary Livingstone as her stage name.

Jack gets his big break on Ed Sullivan’s show. His first words on the air are shared, then his own show takes him from Canada Dry to Jello. Finally, his current cast members are spotlighted. Some of his current running gags are featured, and his feud with Fred Allen.

To wrap up, Jack gets in a word of thanks and appreciation.