Jack Benny
Recorded September 03rd, 1970 - 16 min
Mr. Benny was in the Chicago area for a series of concert appearances at the Mill Run Playhouse in suburban Niles, Illinois when we met to talk about his radio career. We were backstage following his short rehearsal with the band and just a few hours before his opening night performance. He was born February 14, 1894 and was 76 at the time of our visit. He died December 26, 1974 at the age of … 39.
Jack Benny was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1989.
Jack Benny Show - 2/13/49 - Tomorrow is Jack's Birthday
Did you enjoy the interview? Listen to the Jack Benny Program from February 13th, 1949.
September 19, 2011 at 10:12 am
Thanks so much for the opportunity to listen to your interviews through your new website. I recorded this one from the THOSE WERE THE DAYS radio broadcast back in 1970, and I also have the SPEAKING OF RADIO book signed by you. But I love to hear the actual voices of the people you are interviewing and this is such a wonderful way to have access to all the different interviews you have done throughout the years. Thanks so much Chuck!
Carol
June 18, 2012 at 9:04 am
I am 88 years old – far beyond 39 – and I still think of Jack Benny fondly for the character he continually portrayed. Something about his walk, something about his mode of expression delighted me. There has never been a comedian since he died that has given me such delight.
October 29, 2012 at 6:47 pm
Nicest, kindest, wittiest man on earth. He treated ever one in the best possible way. There have been comedians as witty as Jack Benny, however ”’none”’ will ever be wittier.
January 30, 2013 at 2:01 pm
This was a great listen (only wish it was longer)! It’s easy to hear the talent and intelligence of the man in addition to his great sense of humor. He mentioned getting ready to perform in Portland – I’ve been there a few times and now have to fantasize about what it would have been like. Thanks!
October 26, 2016 at 5:01 pm
Thanks for posting. I love Jack Benny. Wish it was longer.
September 4, 2017 at 12:59 pm
Comedy…. Thy name is Jack. I don’t believe there will ever be another person that would have as much impact on comedy as Benjamin Kubelsky a.k.a. Jack Benny.
August 21, 2018 at 3:49 pm
I’m 83 and remember these programs well. Great entertainment lasts forever! Wish we could bring these kinds of programs back instead of what we have today.
August 27, 2024 at 7:05 pm
These are all terrific interviews. We nod off to sleep hearing the Christmas Shopping radio shows where the store clerk encounters Jack.