Life of Riley – The Household Drudge. 480910

A black and white photograph of William Bendix as Chester Riley, a man in a suit and tie, standing at a microphone with headphones on. He is smiling and appears to be in the midst of speaking or recording. In the background, there is a sign that reads "Life of Riley," the name of the radio program he starred in. The overall effect is one of nostalgia and vintage Americana.
William Bendix is Chester Riley on Radio Life of Riley. William Bendix and a young boy, presumably playing the character of his son, sitting at a kitchen table. Bendix is in character as Chester A. Riley from the radio show 'The Life of Riley.' They are surrounded by various kitchen items such as a toaster and coffee pot, and there is a look of amusement on Bendix's face as he seems to be telling a story.

The scene, Riley’s weekly poker game. Conversation turns to the topic of how to handle a woman. Back home, in the reality of the domestic world where Peg deals with a blocked kitchen sink. Riley tries his best to keep Peg happy while he takes it easy, and watches her labor over the housework, or at least that’s how he sees it. I think he’s about to learn a big lesson.

Riley makes a realization on his own, and sets out to make up for the past 18 years of having Peg do housework. He wants to giver a rest and take over the cooking, cleaning,washing, and bear Peg’s children. Hey, that’s what he said.

How long will this last? It doesn’t take long for word to get around, and soon all the wives rope their hubbies into chores. All the ladies love him, but what about his poker buddies? Maybe not so much.

Digger O’Dell is on hand with some words of advice, and graveyard puns. What should Riley do? Do right by his wife, or do right by his buddies? He has good intentions, and a plan that… almost works.