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This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio, our "Saturday Matinee" celebrates the holiday season with a lineup of festive episodes. We kick off with the "Our Miss Brooks" episode titled “Exchanging Christmas Gifts,” where the ever-entertaining Miss Brooks, played by Eve Arden, navigates the complexities of gift exchanges among colleagues. The cast also features Gale Gordon as the blustery Principal Osgood Conklin, and Richard Crenna as the endearing student Walter Denton. Following that, we lighten the mood with a "New Year's Skit" by Bob Hope. In this episode, Bob Hope delivers his trademark quick-witted humor in a series of comic sketches and monologues that reflect on the passing year and the one to come, featuring guest appearances by his regular ensemble including Les Brown and his Band of Renown. The festivities continue with an episode from "The Great Gildersleeve" titled "New Year's Costume Ball." Harold Peary stars as the lovable Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, wrestling with the hilarious mishaps of organizing a costume ball to ring in the new year. The episode also features Walter Tetley as his nephew Leroy and Lillian Randolph as their housekeeper, Birdie. The laughter carries on with the "Jack Benny Show," where Jack Benny and his cast, including Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, and Rochester, engage in a whimsical adventure in "A New Year's Fantasy." This episode takes listeners on a humorous journey through time with Benny's vaudevillian antics. The grand finale features the legendary Count Basie Orchestra in CBS's "The Anniversary Dancing Party" New Year's special. Broadcast originally on December 31, 1967, this special brings the vibrant sounds of Count Basie and his orchestra to life, filling the airwaves with energetic jazz that's perfect for welcoming the new year. Together, these episodes create a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and music, encapsulating the spirit and excitement of the holiday season just before New Year's Eve.
This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee", we're kicking off with a delightful spookfest from the "Ozzie and Harriet" radio show in the episode title "Haunted House", which first aired on October 31st, 1948. In this episode, Ozzie and Harriet Nelson investigate a supposedly haunted house, navigating a series of comedic scares and misunderstandings. The cast features Ozzie Nelson as Ozzie, Harriet Nelson as Harriet, along with their real-life sons David and Ricky Nelson playing themselves. Supporting roles include Lurene Tuttle, John Brown, and Janet Waldo, adding to the ghostly hijinks. Next, we travel back to October 24th, 1939, for the "Fibber McGee and Molly" episode "Gildersleeve's Halloween Party". The storyline revolves around Fibber McGee and Molly planning a Halloween party that unexpectedly involves their neighbour Gildersleeve in peculiar and humorous situations. Jim Jordan stars as Fibber McGee and Marian Jordan plays Molly, with Harold Peary making a memorable appearance as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve. The episode is peppered with laughs and light-hearted pranks, reflecting the show's hallmark blend of humour and warmth. Concluding the trio of shows is "The Jack Benny Show" with the episode "Halloween Celebration", originally broadcast on November 2nd, 1941. This episode captures Jack Benny and his gang in the midst of Halloween celebrations, featuring a mix of costume gaps, trick-or-treating, and Jack's notoriously stingy antics. The ensemble includes Jack Benny as himself, Mary Livingstone as his girlfriend, Phil Harris as the bandleader, Dennis Day as the young singer, and Rochester played by Eddie Anderson, all contributing to the festive chaos. Together, these episodes offer a nostalgic glimpse into Halloween celebrations of the past, filled with laughter, community spirit, and a touch of the eerie, perfectly encapsulating the golden age of radio entertainment.
This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," we kick off with an episode of "The Great Gildersleeve" titled "Golf Tournament," which first aired on September 6, 1942. In this comedic tale, the lovable Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve finds himself tangled in a humorous series of events when he decides to enter a local golf tournament, despite his dubious golfing skills. The episode features Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, along with a supporting cast that includes Lillian Randolph as Birdie, Walter Tetley as Leroy, and Earle Ross as Judge Hooker, all bringing life to this entertaining escapade. Following that, we delve into "The Mel Blanc Show" with the episode "Show at the Market" from June 17, 1947. In this episode, Mel Blanc's character gets into a series of slapstick misadventures at a local supermarket where he works, creating chaos while trying to impress his girlfriend's father. The show stars Mel Blanc in multiple roles, showcasing his incredible vocal talents, with supporting performances from Mary Jane Croft, Joe Kearns, and Hans Conried, who contribute to the lively atmosphere of the show. To cap off our matinee, we present a special live performance by Billie Holiday from April 24, 1946, at the Embassy Theater in Los Angeles, California. In this memorable event, the legendary jazz singer delivers an enchanting set of her classic hits, captivating the audience with her soulful voice and emotional depth. Accompanied by a talented ensemble of musicians, this performance stands as a testament to Holiday's profound impact on the world of jazz and music at large. Tune in this Saturday for a journey back in time with these classic radio shows and a legendary musical performance on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee."
Best known to radio fans as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve's on again/off again fiancee, Shirley Mitchell had a long career on the air and the big and small screens. We'll hear her meet a man and his knife in "Blind Date" (originally aired on CBS on November 18, 1954). Plus, she's Leila Ransom opposite Harold Peary in The Great Gildersleeve (originally aired on NBC on September 26, 1943).
This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio kicks off with "The Great Gildersleeve," featuring the episode "Leroy Runs Away" from February 1st, 1942. In this episode, young Leroy, feeling misunderstood at home, decides to run away. His guardian, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, along with Leroy's sister Marjorie and their housekeeper Birdie, embark on a humorous and heartwarming search to bring him back. The cast includes Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, Walter Tetley as Leroy, Lurene Tuttle as Marjorie, and Lillian Randolph as Birdie. Following this, we have "The Martin and Lewis Show" with the episode "Money Problems" originally broadcast on November 14th, 1949. Here, the comedic duo Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis face hilarious financial troubles that lead them through a series of misadventures trying to raise money. Dean Martin smooths things over with his singing while Jerry Lewis' antics add to the chaos. The main cast features Dean Martin as himself and Jerry Lewis also as himself, bringing their iconic blend of music and comedy to the airwaves. Lastly, the "Lux Radio Theatre" presents "The Awful Truth," a comedic tale about misunderstandings and reconciliation originally aired on March 10th, 1941. Starring Bob Hope, Ralph Bellamy, and Constance Bennett, this episode follows a married couple on the verge of divorce who gradually rediscover their love for each other through a series of comical situations and mishaps. Bob Hope shines as the charming lead, with Ralph Bellamy and Constance Bennett delivering strong performances that capture the romantic and humorous spirit of the story. Join us for a trip back in time with these classic radio shows, each filled with its own unique blend of humor, drama, and timeless entertainment.
This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," we begin with "The Aldrich Family" in the episode titled “Grab Bag at Springer's Hardware,” originally broadcast on November 18, 1948. In this humorous escapade, young Henry Aldrich finds himself entangled in a mix-up during a promotional event at Springer's Hardware Store, leading to a series of comic misunderstandings. The episode features Ezra Stone as the mischievous Henry Aldrich, supported by Jackie Kelk as his best friend Homer Brown, House Jameson as his father Sam Aldrich, and Katharine Raht as his mother Alice Aldrich. Following that, we will enjoy "The Great Gildersleeve" with the episode “Auto Mechanics,” which first aired on February 8, 1942. The episode takes a comedic turn when Gildersleeve decides to save money by learning auto mechanics, leading to unexpected chaos and car troubles. This delightful mix-up stars Harold Peary as the bumbling Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, along with Walter Tetley as his nephew Leroy and Lurene Tuttle as Marjorie. We'll conclude with "The Jack Benny Show" and the episode "Listening to the World Series on Radio," which was first heard on October 10, 1948. In this episode, Jack Benny struggles hilariously to listen to the World Series amidst constant interruptions. The episode is a comedic highlight with Jack Benny himself, Mary Livingstone, Eddie 'Rochester' Anderson, Phil Harris, and Dennis Day bringing laughter and light-hearted moments to the audience. These episodes promise to bring laughter and a touch of nostalgia to our listeners, encapsulating the charm and wit of classic radio entertainment.
This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio kicks off with "The Great Gildersleeve" in the episode titled "The Cake," which first aired on September 7, 1941. In this humorous episode, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, played by Harold Peary, faces a culinary challenge when he attempts to bake a cake, leading to a series of comedic misadventures. Joining Peary in the cast are Lurene Tuttle as Marjorie, Walter Tetley as Leroy, and Lillian Randolph as Birdie. Following this, "The Jack Benny Show" presents "The Egg and I" from its May 23, 1948 broadcast. The episode features Jack Benny in his typical miserly character, navigating the quirks of rural life after deciding to become a chicken farmer, inspired by the popular novel "The Egg and I." The episode features Mary Livingstone, Eddie Anderson as Rochester, Phil Harris, and Dennis Day, all contributing to the hilarity with their unique charms. Finally, the evening rounds off with "Lux Radio Theatre" and the episode "Front Page Woman" starring Paulette Goddard, which originally aired on January 16, 1939. In this adaptation of the film, Goddard's character battles the challenges of being a female reporter seeking to prove herself in a male-dominated world. Alongside her, the cast includes Jeffrey Lynn as her competitive and romantic interest, with Cecil B. DeMille hosting the show, adding a touch of Hollywood grandeur to the radio stage. Each episode encapsulates the charm and wit of its era, bringing both laughter and a slice of history to the airwaves.
Join us this Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio for another exciting "Saturday Matinee" packed with three classic radio shows. We start with "The Phil Harris-Alice Faye Show" and the episode called “Keeping Regular Office Hours." Airing back on September 25, 1949, this funny episode shows Phil Harris trying to stick to a regular work schedule after his sponsor tells him he must, leading to lots of laughs. You'll hear Phil Harris playing himself, Alice Faye as his wife, along with other characters like Frankie Remley, Julius, and Willie played by Elliott Lewis, Walter Tetley, and Robert North respectively. Next, we switch to "The Great Gildersleeve" for the episode titled "Fortune Teller," which first aired on March 1, 1942. In this episode, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, who's usually skeptical, visits a fortune teller and gets surprised when her predictions start coming true, causing all sorts of funny mix-ups. The episode features Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, with Lillian Randolph, Walter Tetley, and Louise Erickson playing the roles of Birdie, Leroy, and Marjorie. We wrap up with "Lux Radio Theatre" and the episode "Goodbye My Fancy" from January 14, 1952. This episode tells the story of Agatha Reed, played by Barbara Stanwyck, a congresswoman who goes back to her old college to get an honorary degree and ends up dealing with past love and current challenges. Robert Young plays her old flame, Professor James Merrill. Make sure to tune in for a mix of laughter, mystery, and drama as we bring these timeless stories back to life. It's a great way to spend your Saturday afternoon enjoying the unique charm and wit of these classic shows.
When we were last with Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve in episode 149 of Breaking Walls he was gearing up for his local mayoral campaign, while simultaneously struggling to break away from his ex-fiancé Leila Ransom, voiced by the just-heart Shirley Mitchell. On Easter Sunday, Gildy's mayoral campaign for Summerfield officially began, and he went to church. This episode took to the air at 6:30PM eastern time over WEAF in New York. Its rating was 17.9. Nearly fourteen million people tuned in while having Easter Sunday dinner.
Hal Peary was born Harrold José de Faria to Portuguese parents on July 25th, 1908. He was fourteen when, in January of 1923, he made his radio debut on KZM in Oakland. By the late 1920s he was working for NBC in San Francisco. Migrating to Chicago in 1937, he soon became one of radio's insiders, gaining a reputation as a top utility man. In 1937 he joined the cast of Fibber McGee and Molly playing every kind of bit part imaginable. In the late 1930s, Peary approached McGee's head writer Don Quinn with an idea for a recurring role. He wanted to play a pompous windbag who himself ran the biggest bluff in Wistful Vista. He thought it would be the perfect foil for McGee. Quinn was the kind of man who innately understood how to write for radio. For Quinn it was simply a matter of creating Throckmorton Gildersleeve, moving him to 83 Wistful Vista, and letting the fur fly. Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve's first appearance was on September 26th, 1939. Quinn knew the value of sarcasm in comedy. It was also later revealed that Gildersleeve's middle name was “Philharmonic.” By 1941 the character proved so popular that it was decided to spin Gildersleeve off into its own show. An audition was recorded on May 16th. Peary's last regular appearance on Fibber McGee and Molly was on June 24th in a memorable scene. McGee and Molly are headed to Hollywood for the summer. Oddly enough by the time they got back, it was Gildersleeve who'd permanently departed from Wistful Vista. Tragically, Gildersleeve's sister and brother-in-law were killed in a car accident and he needed to go to Summerfield to oversee their estate and raise his orphaned niece and nephew, Marjorie and Leroy Forrester. He left on August 8th, 1941, creating with him a new American concept: the sitcom spinoff. The show premiered at 2:30PM Pacific Time over KFI in Los Angeles, and at 6:30PM Eastern Time over WEAF in New York. Kraft would sponsor the series. They signed on for thirty-nine weeks over twenty-eight NBC Red Network stations. Gildersleeve's first head writer was Leonard Levinson. The character's long-running feud with Judge Hooker began right from this first train ride. Music was done by William Randolph's orchestra. Cecil Underwood produced the show and Jim Bannon announced. Radio legend Frank Nelson, then on twenty-nine, provided multiple supporting parts in this episode. Walter Tetley played Leroy and Lurene Tuttle played Marjorie.
This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio will kick off with "The Great Gildersleeve,” where the episode "Selling the Drugstore" from February 22nd, 1942, takes us on a humorous journey with Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character spun off from "Fibber McGee and Molly." In this episode, Gildersleeve contemplates selling the drugstore he's come to own, leading to a series of comedic events and moral dilemmas. The cast features Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, Walter Tetley as Leroy, Lillian Randolph as Birdie, Earle Ross as Judge Hooker, and Richard LeGrand as Mr. Peavey, among others, contributing to the show's unique blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Following that, we'll enjoy "The Burns and Allen Show" in the episode "Jack Benny in the Beauty Shop," originally broadcasted on November 2nd, 1943. This episode showcases the unmatched chemistry of George Burns and Gracie Allen in a hilarious mix-up involving Jack Benny at a beauty shop, leading to a flurry of misunderstandings and witty banter. The episode stars George Burns and Gracie Allen themselves, with Jack Benny playing his own notoriously stingy persona, alongside regulars like Bill Goodwin, the announcer, and musicians like Meredith Willson. To round out our matinee, "The Railroad Hour" presents the musical episode “Orange Blossoms” from February 11th, 1952. This production is a delightful adaptation of the operetta by Victor Herbert, telling a romantic and slightly comedic tale set against the backdrop of the French Riviera. The episode stars Gordon MacRae, bringing his vocal talents to the fore as the lead, with support from Lucille Norman, adding charm and depth to the musical numbers and narrative. Each show from our lineup offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of radio, from the comedic antics of beloved characters in "The Great Gildersleeve" and "The Burns and Allen Show" to the melodious romance of "The Railroad Hour." Together, they create a Saturday matinee that promises laughter, music, and a touch of nostalgia.
**Vintage Classic Radio - Saturday Matinee** Join us this Saturday for a nostalgic trip down memory lane with "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio, featuring three captivating radio shows from the golden age of radio. **The Great Gildersleeve - "Gildy Goes on a Diet" (Originally Broadcasted on January 4th, 1942)** In this side-splitting episode of "The Great Gildersleeve," Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, everyone's favorite character, embarks on a comical quest to shed some pounds. As you can imagine, his dieting escapades lead to uproarious misadventures, keeping you in stitches throughout. The talented cast includes Harold Peary as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, Walter Tetley as Leroy, Lurene Tuttle as Marjorie, Shirley Mitchell as Leila Ransom, Earle Ross as Judge Hooker, Richard LeGrand as Peavey, Arthur Q. Bryan as Floyd Munson, and Paula Winslowe as Birdie. **Lux Radio Theatre - "Casanova Brown" (Originally Broadcasted on December 11th, 1944)** Step into the world of romantic comedy with "Lux Radio Theatre" as Hollywood's finest talent breathes life into the enchanting story of Casanova Brown. This heartwarming tale is filled with laughter and love, ensuring an unforgettable listening experience. The stellar cast features Gary Cooper as Casanova Brown, Ingrid Bergman as Madge Ferris, George Barbier as Mr. Ferris, Una Merkel as Isabel Drury, Fay Holden as Mrs. Ferris, and Jackie Moran as Casanova Brown Jr. **The Railroad Hour - "A Connecticut Yankee" (Originally Broadcasted on November 27th, 1950)** Concluding our Saturday Matinee is a musical treat from "The Railroad Hour." Join us for a captivating adaptation of Mark Twain's "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court." This magical journey features charming tunes and enchanting adventures you won't want to miss. The talented ensemble cast includes Gordon MacRae as Hank Morgan, Dorothy Warenskjold as Alisande, Francis X. Bushman as King Arthur, Jerome Cowan as Sir Lancelot, Barton Yarborough as Sir Sagramore, Edwin Max as Sir Dinadan, and Martha Wentworth as The Queen. Don't miss this unique opportunity to relive the magic of classic radio entertainment. Tune in this Saturday to Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee" for a dose of nostalgia and timeless storytelling.
"The Great Gildersleeve" stands as one of the earliest spin-off programs in broadcast history. Born from the radio situation comedy "Fibber McGee and Molly," the series revolves around the character Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve. Premiering on NBC on August 31, 1941, the show shifts the title character from the familiar Wistful Vista of the McGees to Summerfield. Here, Gildersleeve takes on the role of overseeing his late sister and brother-in-law's estate, raising his orphaned niece and nephew, Marjorie and Leroy Forrester. The household is complete with the presence of their cook, Birdie. Though Gildersleeve had made occasional references to his silent wife in some Fibber episodes, in his own series, he proudly embraces the status of a confirmed bachelor. Initially managing a girdle manufacturing company ("If you want the best of corsets, of course, it's Gildersleeve"), he later transitions to the role of Summerfield's water commissioner, adding further layers of humor and charm to the show's dynamic. This episode was originally broadcast December 31st, 1944 on NBC Radio.
Welcome to another holiday edition of "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio, where we're stepping back in time to relive the golden age of radio with some of the most iconic Christmas broadcasts in history. Our journey begins with the delightful "Our Miss Brooks" in "The Magic Christmas Tree," originally aired on December 25th, 1949. In this heartwarming episode, the beloved schoolteacher Miss Brooks, played by Eve Arden, finds herself in a whimsical adventure involving a magic Christmas tree that brings unexpected joy and laughter to her and her students. The cast includes Gale Gordon as the irascible Principal Osgood Conklin, Richard Crenna as student Walter Denton, and Jane Morgan as Mrs. Davis, Miss Brooks' endearing landlady. Next, we turn the dial to NBC's "The Jell-O Show starring Jack Benny" for the episode "An Old Fashioned Christmas," which first graced the airwaves on December 20th, 1936. Jack Benny, with his legendary wit, leads an episode filled with humor and nostalgia, depicting a simpler, old-fashioned Christmas celebration. Mary Livingstone, Dennis Day, and Rochester (played by Eddie Anderson) join Benny, adding their own charm and comedy to this festive episode. Midway through our matinee, we're treated to a musical interlude with "A Crosby Christmas," featuring Bing Crosby and his family. This medley of Christmas songs showcases Crosby's timeless voice and his family's harmonious accompaniment, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere. Our festive journey continues with "The Great Gildersleeve" in the episode "Leroy Wants a Motor Scooter," first broadcasted on December 18th, 1946. In this humorous and heartwarming tale, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, portrayed by Harold Peary, navigates the challenges of holiday shopping when his nephew Leroy yearns for a motor scooter. The episode also stars Walter Tetley as Leroy, and Lillian Randolph as Birdie, the family's housekeeper. CBS's "Birds Eye Open House" presents a holiday special "I'll Be Home For Christmas," originally aired on October 21st, 1943. Starring the legendary Dinah Shore, this episode is a poignant reminder of the era's wartime Christmas, blending humor with heartfelt moments, capturing the essence of longing and hope during the festive season. Our penultimate feature is from NBC's "The Hall of Fame" show, with "The Christmas Stocking with Walt Disney and Friends," dating back to December 23rd, 1934. This special presentation features Walt Disney himself, alongside his famous cartoon characters, in a magical Christmas narrative that intertwines animation and radio, a true treat for listeners of all ages. We conclude our "Saturday Matinee" with a return to "A Crosby Christmas," wrapping up our holiday celebration with more enchanting Christmas music from Bing Crosby and his family, leaving our listeners with the warm, joyful spirit of the season. Join us for this nostalgic trip down memory lane, reliving the magic of Christmas through the voices and stories that defined an era on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee."
Welcome, vintage radio enthusiasts, to a heartwarming edition of "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio, celebrating the magic of Christmas through timeless broadcasts. To kick off the holiday season, first up we transport you back to Christmas Day, 1946, with "The Great Gildersleeve" in the episode "Christmas Caroling at Home." Join the lovable Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve as he brings holiday cheer to your living room, originally aired on NBC, boasting a stellar cast featuring Harold Peary, Walter Tetley, and Lillian Randolph. After the delightful radio play, let's take a musical interlude with the crooning of the one and only Frank Sinatra. We present "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," a festive gem performed with Alex Stordahl and his Orchestra, broadcasted in 1948. Following Sinatra, we'll sway to the enchanting melodies of Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra in the whimsical "March of the Toys" from 1944. Now, journey back to the golden age of radio with "The Jello-O Show starring Jack Benny" in the timeless episode "Christmas Shopping," originally aired on December 17th, 1939. Jack Benny's comedic genius shines bright as he navigates the chaotic world of holiday shopping. The all-star cast includes Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, and Kenny Baker. Diving into more musical magic, we present the harmonious blend of Danny Kaye and the Andrews Sisters, serenading us with "All I Want for Christmas" in 1951. Following this, let the smooth voice of Bing Crosby, accompanied by John Scott Trotter and his Orchestra, transport you to a winter wonderland with the classic "Let It Snow" from 1943. Returning to the radio drama realm, we invite you to join the festive escapade of "Our Miss Brooks" in the episode "Department Store Contest," originally broadcasted on December 18th, 1949. Starring Eve Arden as the witty and lovable Miss Brooks, this episode promises laughter and holiday spirit. As we near the end of our Saturday Matinee, let's wrap up this festive journey with the Glen Miller AAF Band's "Christmas Program" from December 18th, 1943. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of this legendary band, concluding our holiday special on a musical high note. Thank you for joining us on this nostalgic trip down memory lane. Stay tuned for more vintage classics and timeless treasures every Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio. Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with laughter, love, and the magic of yesteryear.
Welcome to Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee" Thanksgiving Special, a delightful journey back to the golden age of radio with a lineup of heartwarming holiday episodes sure to evoke nostalgia and the spirit of Thanksgiving. Our special begins with "The Great Gildersleeve," featuring the beloved episode "Thanksgiving with Mikey," which first filled homes with laughter on November 21st, 1951. In this episode, the ever-bumbling but endearing Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve attempts to create the perfect Thanksgiving for little Mikey, but as usual, things don't go as planned. The episode stars Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, with Walter Tetley as his nephew Leroy, and Lillian Randolph as their housekeeper Birdie. Next, we tune into the classic antics of "The Abbott and Costello Show" in the episode "Thanksgiving Dinner Party," originally aired on November 25th, 1943. Bud Abbott and Lou Costello bring their signature blend of wit and slapstick to the airwaves, as Costello attempts to host a Thanksgiving dinner for his friends, resulting in a comedy of errors that has stood the test of time. Our third feature is the melodious "The Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney Show," in their "Thanksgiving" episode from November 23rd, 1963. Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney's smooth vocals and charming banter make for a relaxing Thanksgiving tribute, filled with classic songs and holiday cheer, creating a perfect backdrop for your Thanksgiving celebration. Finally, we cap off our Thanksgiving Special with "The Mel Blanc Show," diving into the "Thanksgiving Party" episode from November 26th, 1946. Known as "The Man of a Thousand Voices,", including that of Bugs Bunny, Mel Blanc brings his vocal virtuosity to the fore in a tale of Thanksgiving mishaps and humor. The episode features Mel Blanc in his usual multitude of characters, supported by Mary Jane Croft, Joe Kearns, and Hans Conried, as they navigate the trials of hosting a Thanksgiving party. Join us for these timeless tales of Thanksgiving from an era when radio was the heart of the American home. Whether you're preparing the turkey or setting the table, let these classic shows from "The Great Gildersleeve," "The Abbott and Costello Show," "The Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney Show," and "The Mel Blanc Show" fill your home with the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
A Father's Day Special: Sunday Night Playhouse Vintage Classic Radio proudly presents a heartwarming Father's Day Special of our beloved "Sunday Night Playhouse". Tune in as we honour fathers with a selection of classic radio plays that echo the laughter, trials, and triumphs of fatherhood. The Great Gildersleeve: "Father's Day Chair" (June 21st, 1942) Harold Peary as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve Lillian Randolph as Birdie Lee Coggins Walter Tetley as Leroy Forester Earle Ross as Judge Horace Hooker In this hilarious episode, Gildersleeve grapples with the ups and downs of fatherhood after receiving an unexpected Father's Day gift. 2. Father Knows Best: "Father's Day Picnic" (June 19th, 1948) Robert Young as Jim Anderson Jean Vander Pyl as Margaret Anderson Rhoda Williams as Betty Anderson Ted Donaldson as Bud Anderson Norma Jean Nilsson as Kathy Anderson Join the Anderson family as they venture out for a Father's Day picnic. The day is filled with fun, family bonding, and a few surprises that only the Andersons could deliver. 3. Life of Riley: "Father's Day Bathrobes" (June 19th, 1948) William Bendix as Chester A. Riley Paula Winslowe as Peg Riley Scotty Beckett as Junior Riley Sharon Douglas as Babs Riley John Brown as Digby "Digger" O'Dell Riley's family decides to surprise him with a Father's Day gift, but as always, things take an unexpected turn leading to laughter and a heartwarming realization. 4. Abbott and Costello Show: "Father's Day Gift" (June 14th, 1945) Bud Abbott as Bud Abbott Lou Costello as Lou Costello John Brown as the Salesman On this Father's Day episode, Abbott and Costello's banter takes on a new twist as they navigate through a series of comedic misadventures while selecting a Father's Day gift. Celebrate Father's Day with these timeless tales of humor, love, and family dynamics, that are as endearing today as they were in the golden era of radio. Tune in for an unforgettable trip down memory lane with Vintage Classic Radio!
Vintage Classic Radio presents "Saturday Matinee". Tune in every Saturday for a mix of comedy, music or romance from the golden age of radio that will keep you entertained. Our lineup this Saturday includes: 1. "His Girl Friday" - Screen Guild Theater (Broadcast Date: March 30th 1941) Step into the fast-paced world of newspaper reporting with "His Girl Friday." Adapted from the hit 1940 film, this comedy-drama revolves around the life of Hildy Johnson, a talented and determined newspaper reporter. When her ex-husband and editor, Walter Burns, learns that Hildy is planning to leave the newspaper business and marry another man, he sets out on a mission to win her back. Prepare for witty banter, romantic entanglements, and a thrilling race against time as Hildy finds herself caught up in a high-stakes story that could change her life. Full Cast: Hildy Johnson: Rosalind Russell Walter Burns: Cary Grant Bruce Baldwin: Ralph Bellamy Mrs. Baldwin: Abigail Adams Sheriff Hartwell: Clarence Kolb Murphy: John Qualen Bensinger: Edwin Max Duffy: Charles Seel Peggy Grant: Janet Waldo Williams: Paul Dubov McCue: Tyler McVey Reporter #1: Norman Field Reporter #2: Frank Nelson 2. "Fishing Trip to Lake Hackmatack" - The Great Gildersleeve (Broadcast Date: August 30th, 1942) Join the lovable and comical Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve on a memorable fishing trip to Lake Hackmatack. Gildersleeve, a bachelor and water commissioner, takes his nephew Leroy and housekeeper Marjorie along for a weekend getaway. However, things don't go exactly as planned when Gildersleeve's attempts at fishing are met with hilarious misadventures and unexpected challenges. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the humorous escapades that unfold in this delightful episode of The Great Gildersleeve Full Cast: Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve: Harold Peary Leroy: Walter Tetley Marjorie: Lurene Tuttle Birdie: Lillian Randolph Judge Hooker: Earle Ross Floyd Munson: Arthur Q. Bryan Peavey: Richard LeGrand Mrs. Munson: Bea Benaderet Charlie Anderson: Bill Goodwin Announcer: Ken Carpenter 3. "The Radio Ham" - Hancock's Half Hour (Broadcast Date: June 9th, 1961) Prepare for laughter and chaos as Tony Hancock, the iconic British comedian, takes center stage in "The Radio Ham." In this hilarious episode, Hancock becomes obsessed with amateur radio and dreams of making contact with someone from a distant land. However, his attempts are constantly thwarted by interference, technical difficulties, and his own comedic mishaps. With his loyal sidekick, Sid James, by his side, Hancock's ambitious pursuit of communication leads to uproarious situations that will leave you in stitches. Full Cast: Tony Hancock: Tony Hancock Sid James: Sid James Bill: Bill Kerr Hattie Jacques: Hattie Jacques Kenneth Williams: Kenneth Williams Announcer: John Snagge
This week, it's a tribute to the classic American institution of four guys standing around and singing while getting a shave... Join us, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, and Fibber McGee & Molly as we serenade Sweet Adeline... or Nellie Gray, or whoever it is you fancy.You can find Jake's book here - https://www.amazon.com/Case-Oak-Haven-Jacob-Westbrook/dp/B0BV455MJ7/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1677335765&refinements=p_27%3AJacob+G.+Westbrook&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Jacob+G.+Westbrookhttps://archive.org/download/230506-barbershop-quartets/230506%20Barbershop%20Quartets.mp3
The Library of Sound Volume 32 is back with a special little story from The Great Gildersleeve himself. As he tells the story of Jack and the Beanstalk as heard from one of the rare Gildersleeve story albums from 1945. This was actually Capitol record's first-ever such release for children. Since we recently presented the Cinderella story told by Gildy I thought since we're in the mood, here's another one for you. We'll be presenting new stories in the future but for now let's listen to Jack and the Beanstalk. Call for the kids to gather round or just settle down yourself for a short but sweet little story told by our very own Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve. Enjoy this rare record.
Real life husband and wife comedy duo - Jim and Marion Jordan, better known as "Fibber McGee and Molly"... for more 24 years they lived at 79 Wistful Vista... the home address of radio's most famous married couple - lovable windbag Fibber McGee and his ever-loving and ever-patient wife, Molly. They were ex-vaudevillians who adapted to radio. They had beloved character friends like Mayor LaTrivia, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, Doc Gamble, the Old Timer, Teeny, Beulah, and Wallace Wimple who made up a great cast of characters. In this December 1940 episode Fibber needs some stamps to mail some Christmas Packages, but so doesn't everyone else in town. He needs to find a way to circumvent the long line at the Post Office... Announcer is Harlow Wilcox and the sponsor is Johnson's Wax.
Enjoy two free comedy episodes of Fibber McGee & Molly w/ Jim and Marian Jordan A) 2/17/48 Book Nook B) 6/1/48 Fibber's Tune Fibber McGee & Molly had a long and successful run on radio (1935-1959). The program showcased terrific comic and musical talent. Headlined by its co-creators and stars, Jim and Marian Jordan, they were a real-life husband and wife team that had been working in radio since the 1920s. Living in the fictional Midwestern town of Wistful Vista, Fibber was an American teller of tall tales and lovable braggart, usually to the exasperation of his long-suffering wife, Molly. Life in Wistful Vista followed a well-developed formula, but was always fresh. Fibber's weekly schemes would be interrupted, inspired by, and often played upon the people of Wistful Vista. Regular characters included Mayor LaTrivia, Doc Gamble, Mrs. Uppington, Wallace Wimple, Alice Darling, Beulah, Myrt, the Old Timer and Fibber's next-door neighbor, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve (the Gildersleeve character would be spun-off into its own successful radio series, The Great Gildersleeve). Fibber McGee & Molly began as a comic reflection of Depression Era America, but as time went on and the shadows of war came over the nation, the show again caught the mood of the country. WWII was fought on the home front at Wistful Vista as surely as anywhere else in America, but here they had the benefit of Fibber's somewhat addled perspective. In the peak of the show's success in the 1940s, it was adapted for the silver screen in a series of feature films. An attempt to bring the series to TV in 1959 with a different cast and new writers was both a critical and commercial failure proving that success in one medium is no guarantee of success in another.
The Great Gildersleeve - Gildy Involved With Two Girls Again From-1954 Stars-Willard Waterman, Walter Tetley, Lillian Randolph, Mary Shipp, Gladys Holland & Dick LeGrand, Originally the character, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve was a practical joker neighbor in old time radio series Fibber McGee & Molly. So successful it became a spinoff series on NBC. Actors-Harold Peary in the 40s & Willard Waterman in the 50s portrayed Gildersleeve, an uncle who took on a father type roll of his niece and nephew.
Join host, Carl Amari, for a radio re-broadcast of The Great Gildersleeve. Featuring narration from the legendary Harold "Hal" Peary.Serving as a radio situation comedy from 1941 to 1958, did you know that The Great Gildersleeve was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs? The series was built around the character of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, who was a regular character from the hit radio situation comedy series, Fibber McGee and Molly. With Hal Peary taking on the role of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve after the transition from its parent show, the series saw eventual success, and had even spawned four feature films during the height of its popularity.Originally airing 8/29/1945, come one and come all, as we gather around the radio for this week's episode of "Vacation at Grass Lake," with Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve!Enjoying The Film Detective?You can watch this episode here.Or connect with us here:FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTubeWant even more? Subscribe to our Newsletter here. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Willard Waterman had been portraying Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve since the fall of 1950 when Harold Peary left the program. In the spring of 1954 The Great Gildersleeve was airing Wednesdays at 8:30PM eastern time over NBC. Kraft had sponsored the program since its debut in 1941. The show's 5.8 rating was good enough for fourteenth overall, and NBC's fourth-highest program. It easily beat out CBS' 21st Precinct, airing opposite at the same time. On April 14th, Gildersleeve hosted a “Dinner Party for Bronco's Boss.” Parley Baer played Mr. Hammond. In the fall, Gildersleeve shifted formats, becoming a weeknight fifteen-minute serial, before returning to a half-hour in the fall of 1955. The last Great Gildersleeve radio episode would air on March 21st, 1957. For more info on the show's transition from Peary to Waterman, tune into Breaking Walls episode 120.
Enjoy two free comedy episodes of The Great Gildersleeve A) 4/25/43 Raising Rabbits w/ Hal Peary B) 8/29/43 Vacation at Grass Lake w/ Hal Peary Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve was a popular character appearing regularly on The Fibber McGee & Molly Show. On August 31, 1941, the character landed his own situation comedy show, The Great Gildersleeve, becoming radio's first spin-off. Gildy moved from the town of Wistful Vista to Summerfield, where he raised his orphaned niece and nephew, Marjorie (originally played by Lurene Tuttle and followed by Louise Erickson and Mary Lee Robb) and Leroy (Walter Tetley). The household also included a cook named Birdie (Lillian Randolph). The Great Gildersleeve was the first show to be centered on a single parent balancing raising children, work, and a social life, accomplished with taste and genuine wit, often at the expense of Gildersleeve's slightly understated pomposity. Radio veteran, Hal Peary originated the role of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve but left the series at the height of its popularity in 1950 giving way to Peary-sound-a-like and well-known character actor, Willard Waterman. Waterman continued in the radio role until 1957 and also played Gildersleeve in a TV version syndicated in 1955.
Audio Introduction to track gives background on the series and introduces the actors who play the roles. Willard Waterman (Photo) plays Throckmorton P. Gildersleever, Water Commissioner... Bronco is played by Richard Crenna. This series was on radio for 16 years... and that is BIG in any form of mass media... audiences loved this show. This track will be living in Comedy Playlist on this Soundcloud. podcast.
The Audition episode from The Great Gildersleeve, which was a spin-off from Fibber McGee and Molly. This was recorded May 16, 1941. Harold Peary played the lead role (Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve), his birth name was: José Pereira de Faria on July 25, 1908 in San Leandro, California; he died: March 30, 1985 (at age 76) in Torrance, California after a heart attack. website: https://otr.duane.media/ (https://otr.duane.media) | email: info@otr.duane.media | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duane.otr/ (@duane.otr) | Twitter: https://twitter.com/duane_otr (@duane_otr)
Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve is as jolly as can be as he and the kids make some final preparations for Christmas. As Leroy and Gildy head out to get the tree,…
Click here to Contact, Support, shop, follow and join our community.Click here for Business Inquiries:The Great Gildersleeve- Christmas Gift for Mcgee - Episode #59The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity.On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40).Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mystery-theater-old-time-radio-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Hate ads? No problem! Access the Ad-Free episodes and Bonus Content Here PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/fringemystery Contact, Support, shop, follow and join our community through this link: https://linktr.ee/mysterytheater Business Inquires: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater The Great Gildersleeve- Christmas Gift for Mcgee - Episode #59 The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/support
Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve needs to finish up his Christmas shopping, but needs to save money. As he tries to figure where to cut corners, Birdie gets the wrong idea and…
This is a snippet from Breaking Walls Episode 120: Radio and The Harvest (1936 - 1954) ____________________ Hal Peary spent the 1940s starring on radio and in films as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve. Gildersleeve began as a character on Fibber McGee and Molly. Peary joined the cast in 1937, first playing every kind of bit part imaginable. In the late 1930s, he approached Don Quinn with an idea for a recurring role. He wanted to play a pompous windbag who himself ran the biggest bluff in Wistful Vista. He thought it the perfect foil for McGee. Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve's first appearance was on September 26th, 1939. The Great Gildersleeve became radio's first major spinoff series, debuting on NBC on August 31st, 1941. In Summerfield, he was guardian to niece and nephew, Marjorie and Leroy Forrester. Marjorie was studious and curious and seldom gave Gildy trouble. Leroy, age 12, was the wiseguy. The household also had a voice for common sense, Birdie Lee Coggins, introduced in September. By the autumn of 1943 Peary had become a film star. The radio show's rating peaked with a 16.3 in 1944. It was notable because the program served as a Sunday lead-in to The Jack Benny Program. A 16.3 was the highest rating ever for a program airing at 6:30PM. Peary played the character through the rest of the decade, but in 1949 and 1950, Jack Benny, Amos N' Andy, Red Skelton, Bing Crosby, and Burns and Allen all jumped to CBS. Peary jumped with them. There were two problems, he didn't own the Gildersleeve character, and Kraft foods wasn't interested in making the jump.
The Library of Sound Volume 32 is back with a special little story from The Great Gildersleeve himself. As he tells the story of Jack and the Beanstalk as heard from one of the rare Gildersleeve story albums from 1945. This was actually Capitol record's first-ever such release for children. Call for the kids to gather round or just settle down yourself for a short but sweet little story told by our very own Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve. Enjoy this rare record.
Hate ads? No problem! Access the Ad-Free episodes and Bonus Content Here PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/fringemysteryContact, Support, shop, follow and join our community through this link: https://linktr.ee/mysterytheaterBusiness Inquires: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheaterEpisode #43 Comedy - The Great Gildersleeve "Arrives In Summerfield"The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity.Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mystery-theater-old-time-radio-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Hate ads? No problem! Access the Ad-Free episodes and Bonus Content Here PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/fringemystery Contact, Support, shop, follow and join our community through this link: https://linktr.ee/mysterytheater Business Inquires: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater Episode #43 Comedy - The Great Gildersleeve "Arrives In Summerfield" The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/support
Hate ads? No problem! Access the Ad-Free episodes and Bonus Content Here PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/fringemysteryContact, Support, shop, follow and join our community through this link: https://linktr.ee/mysterytheaterBusiness Inquires: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheaterWelcome to the Old Time Radio Carnival of Screams Weird and Scary Stories Podcast. We will present some of the very best old-time radio programs in horror, suspense, comedy, and sci-fi genres.Episode # 40 The Great Gildersleeve - Audition Show -ComedyThe Great Gildersleeve is a radio situation comedy broadcast from August 31, 1941, to March 21, 1957. Initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, it was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. The series was built around the character Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a regular element of the radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly. The character was introduced in the October 3, 1939 episode (number 216) of that series. The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest popularity in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spinoff and later in four feature films released at the height of the show's popularity.Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mysterytheater/supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mystery-theater-old-time-radio-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Hate ads? No problem! Access the Ad-Free episodes and Bonus Content Here: https://www.patreon.com/ufofringe Contact, Support, shop, follow and join our community through this link: https://linktr.ee/fringenews Business Inquires: https://anchor.fm/carnivalofscreams Welcome to the Old Time Radio Carnival of Screams Weird and Scary Stories Podcast. We will present some of the very best old-time radio programs in horror, suspense, comedy, and sci-fi genres. Episode # 40 The Great Gildersleeve - Audition Show -Comedy The Great Gildersleeve is a radio situation comedy broadcast from August 31, 1941, to March 21, 1957. Initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, it was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. The series was built around the character Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a regular element of the radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly. The character was introduced in the October 3, 1939 episode (number 216) of that series. The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest popularity in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spinoff and later in four feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/carnivalofscreams/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carnivalofscreams/support
If you are a member of "The Jolly Boys Club" and there is a meeting scheduled, you had better show up! President Gildersleeve does not tolerate excuses for not coming to the meetings, unless of course he has an excuse... Willard Waterman (photo) stars as Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, Water Commissioner and President of the Jolly Boys Club!" Intro had background on the series and some of the lead cast members. This track will be living in the "Comedy" Playlist on this podcast.
On April 28th, 1971, Chuck Schaden interviewed radio legend and the original Great Gildersleeve, Hal Peary (full interview here - http://www.speakingofradio.com/interviews/peary-harold-actor/) about his life and career. During the course of the chat, Hal Peary spoke about starting the character of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve and the character's relationship with Fibber McGee.
This is a snippet from Breaking Walls Episode 96: Halloween On The Air (1943 - 1953) ___________ On August 31st, 1941, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve stepped off a train in the town of Summerfield, bringing with a now common concept in American entertainment: The series spinoff. Gildersleeve began as a character on Fibber McGee and Molly. The man behind its voice was Harold Peary. Peary joined the cast in 1937, first playing every kind of bit part imaginable. Peary was born Harold José Pereira de Faria to Portugese parents on July 25th, 1908. In January of 1923, at the age of fourteen, Harold had his first radio appearance at KZM in Oakland. By the late 1920s he was working for NBC in San Francisco. Migrating to Chicago in 1937, he soon became one of radio’s insiders, gaining a reputation as a top utility man. In the late 1930s, Peary approached McGee’s head writer Don Quinn with an idea for a recurring role. He wanted to play a pompous windbag who himself ran the biggest bluff in Wistful Vista. He thought it the perfect foil for McGee. Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve’s first appearance was on September 26th, 1939.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
Musical Credit for Hillbilly Soul Sista Promo Hillbilly Swing by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5705-hillbilly-swing License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods - looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread - sponsored a new series with Peary's Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.
"The Great Gildersleeve" - May 16, 1941. Gildersleeve leaves Wistful Vista to go to Summerfield, and winds up staying. Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, affectionately known as TP or Gildy, is owner of Gildersleeve Girdle Works and onetime neighbor of Fibber McGee and bearer of an inimitable laugh! In this first episode of “The Great Gildersleeve," we see the departure of TP from his home town Wistful Vista to Summerfield. On the train journey, TP enters into a disagreement with a man over a lower berth--and it later turns out that the man in question is Judge Horace Hooker. Here begins a wonderfully comic relationship of feuds and arguments! This episode would be repeated three months later following this one-off audition episode for Johnsons Wax but for Kraft Foods, the permanent sponsor.