Did you know that the late, great comedian Jack Benny was born on February 14th? Fitting, as Jack was one big romantic, incredibly devoted to his wife Mary and a completely sweet guy. He was also one of the funniest, most gifted and most normal funnymen that show business has ever produced, remarkably lacking in the obsessive character traits that bedevil some comics. Charming, adorable, silly, prone to fits of uncontrollable laughter -- his comedian pals like George Burns and Danny Kaye often said he was the best audience anyone could have -- Jack Benny was a treasure.
In honor of the 117th anniversary of Jack's birth (he was born in 1894, and died in 1974 at the age of 80), let's present a cute excerpt from The Jack Benny Program with guest star Marilyn Monroe. Marilyn was at the height of her fame, a shimmering beauty and also an adept comedienne, perfectly in tune with Jack (his character at least) at his most smitten.
Happy Birthday, Jack Benny! Happy Valentine's Day, Everybody!
I did not know that Benny as born on Valentine's Day, but somehow it seems appropriate. He was born here in Chicago, but grew up in the suburb Waukegan, where there is now a middle school named after him.
ReplyDeleteI sure know about the Waukegan connection -- he mentioned it often on his shows. What a proud son of Illinois he was!
ReplyDeleteHe was such a sweetheart, too, from all reports. I just love him!
What an adorable and delightful tribute to a classic comedian. And how totally interesting to hear he was from Waukegan. My Dad and Mom lived there after they were first married, and JB was one of his all time favorite funny guys!
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