Jack Benny

Comedian

February 14, 1894 to December 26, 1975

Age 39

Cause of Demise - Pancreatic Cancer

My wife, who is only 37, didn't get why I said that I was going to stay 39, just like Jack Benny. I'm not even sure that my wife knew who Jack Benny was, but my mother-in-law understood, so maybe only people over 40 get the joke..

Jack Benny portrayed himself as a stingy, vain, frustrated violinist, all of which were far from the truth. In reality, he was a generous, talented man, who evolved to match the different entertainment forms throughout his career. Jack was a success in vaudeville, movies, radio and television, keeping himself in the public eye for over 50 years.

Born in Weaukegan, Illinois as Benjamin Kubelsky, Jack started off as an orchestra pit violinist in 1909 at 15. Jack came out of the pit as Ben K. Benny, and worked with several partners until the death of his mother and the outbreak of World War I. After World War I, in which Jack joined the Navy but spent his time with the traveling Navy show, Maritime Frolics, Jack did a solo act with with his violin, again as Ben Benny. Another name change occurred when fellow vaudeville violinist Ben Bernie wrote a letter of protest. Benjamin Kubelsky became Jack Benny.

Jack transitioned successfully to movies in 1928, but is probably best known for his radio and television shows. Beginning with a guest spot on Ed Sullivan in 1932, the "Jack Benny" character evolved into something opposite of Jack Benny. His show, beginning in 1932, involved "Jack Benny" preparing to do his show. Over time, a cast of characters surrounded him, including his wife Sadie Marks as Mary Livingston, and Eddie Anderson as Rochester. Other regulars included Phil Harris (the voice of Baloo the Bear in the original Jungle Book), Dennis Day (I found Dennis Day's marinade recipe in a 1950's barbecue cookbook. I didn't know who he was, but my parents did. If you want it, e-mail me. It's very good.), and Don Wilson.

In 1950, Jack transitioned to television, but still kept his radio show, and for the next five years, audiences could listen to Jack on the radio from 7 to 7:30, and then watch him from 7:30 to 8. Finally, in 1955, Jack moved to television for good. For the next 10 years viewers could watch Jack get ready for his television show. Finally, in 1965, Jack's show was cancelled. Though still 39, as he had been for the previous 32 years, the network decided that Jack was not attracting younger viewers.

Not ready for retirement, Jack continued to work, touring the country to sell out crowds. Jack also performed several benefits, particularly interested in helping music programs throughout the country.

Jack died in 1974, at 39. He was survived by his wife of over 40 years and a daughter.

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