Jack Benny

Jack Benny, born as Benjamin Kubelsky, was a cherished American entertainer. He rose from beginnings on the vaudeville circuit, as a modestly successful violinist, to become a titan of America's entertainment industry in the 20th Century. He was adored for comedic career in radio, film, and television. Benny was celebrated for his comic timing, capable of inciting laughter with a mere pause or with a single expression, such as his renowned exasperated 'Well!'. His reradio and television programmes, popular from 1932 to his death in 1974, were instrumental in shaping the sitcom genre. Benny often portrayed himself as a stingy character who played his violin poorly and always claimed to be 39 years old. Benny's real-life journey started in Chicago where he was born on February 14, 1894 as Benjamin Kubelsky. His parents were Jewish immigrants from Lithuania and Poland. Benny began taking violin lessons as a six-year-old, and was soon dubbed a child prodigy. Although never academically inclined, by his teenage years, he was performing in dance bands and his high school orchestra. Benny's ultimate dream--to make his mark in show business--began to take form in 1911 when he began playing the violin in vaudeville theaters. His persistence and talent ultimately landed him successful shows, awards and recognition for his contribution to comedy. Even after his retirement from television, Benny continued to shine as a standup comedian until his passing on December 26, 1974.