George Jessel was an American actor best known for his work in vaudeville, as well as his appearances in films like “Valley of the Dolls” and “Four Jills in a Jeep.” He was also a successful producer and songwriter, earning a reputation as a talented entertainer.
Personal and Family Life
George Jessel was born on April 3, 1898, in New York City. Throughout his life, he was married multiple times, including his unions with actresses such as Norma Talmadge and Lois Andrews. He had one child from his marriage to Andrews. His diverse career included successful stages in vaudeville, film, and television, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Career Highlights
Jessel gained fame in vaudeville, where he often performed alongside other notable entertainers, getting an early start at the age of 11 as Al Jolson’s partner. He became known as “The Toastmaster General” because of his frequent hosting at various events. His signature songs included “My Mother’s Eyes” and “Sonny Boy,” making significant contributions to American music.
Death and Legacy
George Jessel passed away on May 24, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, due to a heart attack. His extensive career left a lasting impact on American entertainment, and his unique style still resonates with audiences today. Jessel is fondly remembered as a trailblazer in vaudeville and an accomplished actor.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Valley of the Dolls | 1967-12-27 | MC Grammy Awards |
| Lucky Boy | 1929-02-02 | |
| George Jessel and His Russian Art Choir | 1931-02-20 | |
| Can Heironymus Merkin Ever Forget Mercy Humppe and Find True Happiness? | 1969-03-19 | The Presence |
| Happy Days | 1929-09-16 | Minstrel Show Performer |
| Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage | 1983-02-25 | Self (archive footage) (uncredited) |
| It Might Be Worse | 1931-01-03 | George |
| The Other Side of the Wind | 2018-11-02 | George Jessel |
| Love, Live & Laugh | 1929-11-02 | Luigi |
| Juke Box Rhythm | 1959-08-01 | George Jessel |
| Four Jills in a Jeep | 1944-03-17 | Master of Ceremonies |
| Stage Door Canteen | 1943-06-24 | George Jessel |
| Wonders of Puerto Rico | 1958-12-10 | Narrator |
| Rambling ‘Round Radio Row #9 | 1934-05-19 | George Jessel |
| Beau James | 1957-06-07 | George Jessel |
| The Mad, Mad, Mad Comedians | 1970-04-07 | Self (voice) |
| Reds | 1981-12-25 | Himself – Witness |
| Frank Capra’s American Dream | 1997-01-01 | Self (archive footage) |
| Sid & Judy | 2019-06-26 | Self (archive footage) |
| The Busy Body | 1967-03-12 | Mr. Fessel |
| Won Ton Ton: The Dog Who Saved Hollywood | 1976-07-26 | Awards Announcer |
| The Phynx | 1970-03-06 | George Jessel |
| Yesterday and Today | 1953-12-02 | Narrator (voice) |
| Wonders of Chicago | 1958-04-03 | Narrator |
| Politics | 1930-11-14 | |
| Diary of a Young Comic | 1979-02-03 | Himself |
| Wonders of New Orleans | 1957-01-01 | Commentator |
| Private Izzy Murphy | 1926-10-30 | I. Patrick Murphy |
| Sailor Izzy Murphy | 1927-10-08 | Izzy Murphy |
| Ginsberg the Great | 1927-11-26 | Johnny Ginsberg |