George Fenneman was an American actor who is best known for his role as the announcer and sidekick on the game show You Bet Your Life, alongside Groucho Marx, as well as his work on Dragnet.
Personal and Family Life
George Fenneman was born on November 10, 1919, in Peking, China. He graduated from San Francisco Polytechnic High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Drama from San Francisco State College in 1942. Fenneman lived a life dedicated to both his career in entertainment and philanthropy, including a notable donation of a full-sized school bus to the McKinley Home for Boys in California.
Career Highlights
Fenneman’s most famous role was as the announcer and straight man for Groucho Marx on the iconic game show You Bet Your Life, which aired from the 1950s until 1961. He also contributed his voice to various projects, including narrating for The Naked Monster and The Simpsons. His appearances on television were characterized by his smooth voice and timing, which made him a beloved figure in American television.
Death and Legacy
George Fenneman passed away on May 29, 1997, in Los Angeles, California, due to emphysema. He left behind a rich legacy in television, evidenced by his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded for his significant contributions to the medium. His work continues to be remembered by fans of classic television.
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| The Naked Monster | Narrator (voice) | 2005 |
| The Simpsons | Narrator (voice) | 1993 |
| Talk About Pictures | Host | 1978–1982 |
| Happy Days | George Fenneman | 1978 |
| Big Jake | Narrator (voice, uncredited) | 1971 |
| Once You Kiss a Stranger… | Announcer | 1969 |
| Dragnet 1967 | Main Title Announcer (voice, uncredited) | 1967–1969 |
| That Girl | Bernie Stern used-car salesman on TV (uncredited) | 1969 |
| Gomer Pyle: USMC | David Farnum | 1968 |
| The Name of the Game | 1st Newscaster | 1968 |
| The Man from U.N.C.L.E. | Newscaster | 1968 |
| How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying | TV Announcer | 1967 |
| Please Don’t Eat the Daisies | TV Interviewer | 1966 |
| Batman | Newsman (as George Fennaman) | 1966 |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | Ad Pitchman (Lipton Tea pitchman) | 1965 |