Fred Allen was an American actor who is best known for his work in radio and television, particularly on “The Fred Allen Show,” “Judge for Yourself,” and “What’s My Line?” He was born John Florence Sullivan on May 31, 1894, in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Personal and Family Life
Fred Allen was married to Portland Hoffa from May 4, 1927, until his death on March 17, 1956. He had a passion for the clarinet, which became a part of his comedic persona. Allen was known for his witty letters and had a collection of them published posthumously in a book called “Fred Allen’s Letters” in 1966.
Career Highlights
Fred Allen started his career with Broadway shows and became a prominent figure in radio, creating famous shows like “Linit Bath Club Revue” and “Texaco Star Theater.” He had a long-running friendship and rivalry with fellow comedian Jack Benny, which entertained audiences throughout their careers. Allen also made appearances in various films and was a regular on television programs in the 1950s.
Death and Legacy
Fred Allen passed away from a heart attack on March 17, 1956, in New York City. He left behind a legacy as one of the pioneers of radio and television comedy, influencing many comedians who followed. After his death, his autobiography “Much Ado About Me” was published, which captured his experiences in show business.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| We’re Not Married! | 1952-07-11 | Steve Gladwyn |
| Thanks a Million | 1935-11-13 | Ned Lyman |
| It’s in the Bag! | 1945-04-21 | Fred Floogle |
| Love Thy Neighbor | 1940-12-27 | Fred Allen |
| The Installment Collector | 1929-04-19 | Newspaper Editor |
| Sally, Irene and Mary | 1938-03-04 | Gabby Green |
| O. Henry’s Full House | 1952-08-07 | Sam “Slick” Brown (segment “The Ransom of Red Chief”) |
| Fred Allen’s Prize Playlets | 1929-11-25 | |
| Buck Benny Rides Again | 1940-05-31 | Fred Allen (voice) |
| The Great Radio Comedians | 1971-05-11 | Self (Archive footage) |
| Is Everybody Listening? | 1947-09-05 | Fred Allen – Fred Allen Radio Program |
| The Still Alarm | 1930-06-30 | First Fireman |
| Behind Your Radio Dial | 1949-01-09 | |
| The Colgate Comedy Hour | 1950-09-10 | Self |
| Your Show of Shows | 1950-02-25 | |
| Judge for Yourself | 1953-08-18 | Himself |
| The Jack Benny Program | 1950-10-28 | Fred Allen |
| What’s My Line? | 1950-02-02 | Self – Panelist |
| What’s My Line? | 1950-02-02 | Self – Mystery Guest |