WITH ALL OF the specialized rerun cable stations around today, such as ME/TV, Heroes & Icons and TV Land, we are being exposed to an elaborate array of good, old fashioned and dyed in the wool laugh-makers. Among those is, arguably the very best in THE JACK BENNY PROGRAM.
WHILE THE SHOW was ostensibly a half hour of the comedy/variety type, it was in actuality a Sitcom about a guy (Jack) who does such a show. As far as real, in theatre audiences, THE JACK BENNY PROGRAM did just a few every season; with the bulk being made up of half hours of situational stories. Most of these revolved around fictional occurrences that were happening to various regular members of the show.
WE JUST RECENTLY viewed this episode which guest-starred Raymond Burr; who was riding the crest of success in his marquis role of PERRY MASON. Although well known for his skills as a dramatic actor, little could we have guessed that he had the flair for the farce. His taking instruction from Jack in comedy were both surprising as well as very, very funny.
AND THAT, FRIEND Schultz, is what it's all about!