Jack Benny – Mr. Benny Goes To Washington. ep365, 400310

Jack Benny and Carmichael 1939.

For a change, as is his usual custom, Jack introduces Don in honor of his 17 years in broadcasting. Fat jokes pepper the sentiments. Phil Harris and Mary Livingstone enter to honor Don, and Mary reads a poem for the occasion. The ever-compliant Dennis Day enters and sings, Some Day You’ll Find Your Bluebird.

The play is introduced, based on the hit film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Before it begins, Jack is scoffed over not winning an Academy Award. Parts are assigned, and a phone call from Rochester adds to the delays. Carmichael the polar bear has been acting up, and Rochester has trouble figuring his income tax. Phil Harris plays, Something or Other.

Frank Nelson helps to describe the scene as the local Waukegan boy does good, and sets out for Washington. Will Mr. Benny find answers in the senate? Don’s speech is a motivational pitch for the sponsor. With Dennis as president, bills pass through the senate floor, but will anything new be passed? Or is all that gavel pounding just Dennis cracking nuts? Will senator Benny have his shining moment to deliver his speech?