Audio Antiques - Jackie Gleason: Multi-Media Superstar

The K-Rob Collection

Jackie Gleason was an American comedian, actor, and musician, who was Born in Brooklyn New York in 1916 under difficult circumstances. His only sibling died at age 14, his father abandoned the family, and Gleason dropped out of school to earn money. Then his mother died leaving him broke and homeless. Gleason spent the next decade trying to break into show business as a night club comedian. He eventually began appearing on Broadway and network radio shows. In 1949, Gleason became the star of the Life of Riley, and early TV sitcom. It only lasted a year before Gleason got his big break. In 1950 he was named host of the Cavalcade of Stars on the DuMont TV Network. The show became hit, with Gleason then lured to CBS where he created the character of Ralph Kramden on the classic sitcom "The Honeymooners." Gleason would remain a major TV and movie star for the rest of his life. He also had a music career with several record setting albums. Gleason never forgot the hard times of his youth, and was praised for helping struggling African-American entertainers make it into the business, including legendary comedian Timmie Rogers. The two became life long friends. You will hear Jackie Gleason's early radio appearances on the Double Feature radio show in 1944, and Hollywood Open House in 1948, but also showcasing his music career on Here's to Veterans in 1955.

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