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The George Jessel Show

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The George Jessel Show is a 30-minute television variety program that was broadcast on ABC from September 13, 1953, until April 11, 1954.[1]

After having worked as one of several rotating hosts of Four Star Revue on NBC television in 1952-1953, comedian George Jessel gained his own program in 1954. The show used a celebrity roast format, with Jessel drawing on his self-proclaimed "Toastmaster General of the United States" status to give provide a humorous treatment of each week's guest.[2] Guests of honor included Sophie Tucker and Mitzi Gaynor.[3]

Although the program was purported to be live and extemporaneous, it was actually scripted and rehearsed. Writers provided material to supplement Jessel's remarks.[2]

The show's sponsors included Ekco Products Company, B.B. Pen Company, and Gemex Watch Band Company.[4]

References

  1. ^ McNeil, Alex (1996). Total Television (4th ed.). New York, New York: Penguin Books USA, Inc. p. 322. ISBN 0-14-02-4916-8.
  2. ^ a b Hyatt, Wesley (2003). Short-Lived Television Series, 1948–1978: Thirty Years of More Than 1,000 Flops. McFarland. pp. 50–51. ISBN 9781476605159. Retrieved 4 January 2018.
  3. ^ "The George Jessel Show". TV Guide. Archived from the original on 5 January 2018. Retrieved 5 January 2018.
  4. ^ "Ekco Products Buys 4 ABC TV Stanzas". Billboard. September 26, 1953. p. 3. Retrieved 5 January 2018.