Product ID: TGGCO
Control Number: 7497892
The Great Gildersleeve 550 Episodes
The Great Gildersleeve is a classic American radio sitcom that became one of the most popular and enduring programs of the golden age of radio. Premiering on NBC in 1941, the show ran for an impressive 11 years, captivating listeners with its blend of comedy, warmth, and the lovable antics of its central character. Set in the fictional town of Summerfield, the series focused on the life and times of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a bumbling but good-hearted water commissioner who found himself navigating the everyday challenges of family life, work, and community involvement.
At its core, The Great Gildersleeve was a character-driven comedy, revolving around the humorous situations Gildersleeve found himself in as he juggled his career, his role as the guardian of his young niece and nephew, and his romantic misadventures. The show was notable for its mix of slapstick humor and genuine heart, which endeared it to audiences for over a decade.
The Stars
Harold Peary’s portrayal of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve was the defining feature of the show. With his deep voice and impeccable comedic timing, Peary brought the character to life with a perfect blend of bluster, charm, and vulnerability. Gildersleeve was a larger-than-life character whose good intentions often led him into humorous predicaments. Peary’s performance became iconic, and his portrayal of Gildersleeve earned him widespread recognition as one of radio’s most beloved comedic figures.
The show also featured a strong supporting cast, including Bea Benaderet as Gildersleeve's housekeeper, Birdie, who was often the voice of reason in the chaos of Gildersleeve's life. Other notable cast members included Walter Tetley as Gildersleeve’s nephew, Leroy, and Louise Troy as his niece, Marjorie. The interactions between Gildersleeve and his family members were a central part of the show’s humor, as they often had to manage the fallout from his well-meaning but misguided actions.
Key Dates
• The Great Gildersleeve premiered on August 31, 1941, on NBC.
• The show ran for 11 seasons on radio, with its final broadcast on September 27, 1957.
• It also had a brief run in the movies, with several film adaptations made during and after its radio tenure, further expanding the character’s reach beyond the airwaves.
Other Information
The show’s unique premise and character-driven humor made The Great Gildersleeve stand out from other sitcoms of its time. Gildersleeve’s position as the water commissioner gave the show a distinctive setting, and his involvement in town affairs often led to comic situations that reflected the values and quirks of small-town life. The show’s writing was sharp, and the interaction between the characters was rich with warmth and humor, which allowed for both slapstick comedy and moments of genuine emotional connection.
One of the most enduring aspects of the series was Gildersleeve's role as a surrogate father to his niece and nephew, adding a family dynamic that made the show more than just a traditional comedy. His efforts to balance his professional responsibilities with his family life were a recurring theme, often leading to moments of personal growth and heartfelt humor.
The Great Gildersleeve also became notable for its many spinoffs and adaptations, including a popular television series that aired briefly in the 1950s and a series of made-for-TV movies in the 1960s. The character of Gildersleeve remained a beloved figure in popular culture, and the show is often remembered for its contribution to the development of the radio sitcom format.
The series’ success was largely due to the likability of its central character, the memorable performances of the supporting cast, and its ability to mix humor with heart. The Great Gildersleeve remains one of the most iconic and cherished sitcoms in the history of old-time radio, and its impact continues to be felt in the legacy of its beloved characters.
This collection comes preloaded on a USB stick, allowing you to easily transfer all episodes to the device of your choice. Enjoy seamless playback a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern convenience.
Suggested Retail Price: $32.49
Mice Price: $24.99
Length: 32.5
Width: 550
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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