Jackie Gleason’s First Television Appearance


Jackie Gleason’s First Television Appearance

Most of us that remember ‘The Life Of Riley’ think of William Bendix as the star, but actually, Jackie Gleason played “Riley” from October 4, 1949 to March 28, 1950. This video is the first episode of the show which ended first runs in March of ’50. Bendix had played “Riley” on the radio show and in the 1949 film but his RKO contract kept him from the role till 1953.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywYMJfyC6LU&list=PLB009D73A5B870D96

Life of Riley – Jackie Gleason – Tonsils – 1949 – Public Domain

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