Product ID: TLORCO
Control Number: 7497894
The Life Of Riley 260 Episodes
The Life of Riley is a classic American radio sitcom that captured the humor and heart of everyday working-class life. Debuting on the Blue Network (later NBC) in 1944, the show quickly became a fan favorite, known for its lovable main character, clever writing, and relatable family-centered comedy. Set in Los Angeles, The Life of Riley followed the misadventures of Chester A. Riley, a well-meaning but often bumbling aircraft worker, whose good intentions frequently led to hilarious misunderstandings and mishaps.
The series was celebrated for its portrayal of an average American family facing everyday problems with humor and resilience. It combined broad physical comedy with sharp one-liners and tender family moments, making it one of the most enduring and influential sitcoms of its era.
The Stars
William Bendix's portrayal of Chester A. Riley was the heart and soul of the show. Bendix brought Riley to life with his distinctive Brooklyn accent, lovable personality, and catchphrases like “What a revoltin' development this is!” His performance perfectly captured the character's combination of simple-mindedness and deep-hearted sincerity, making Riley one of the most recognizable figures in classic radio comedy.
Supporting Bendix was a talented cast, including Paula Winslowe as Riley’s patient and understanding wife, Peg, and John Brown as Digby “Digger” O'Dell, the cheerful undertaker whose morbid humor became one of the show's highlights. The Riley children, Junior and Babs, also featured prominently, often adding to the family’s comic misadventures.
Key Dates
• The Life of Riley premiered on January 16, 1944, on the Blue Network.
• The radio series ran until June 29, 1951, enjoying a successful seven-year run.
• A television version starring Jackie Gleason aired briefly in 1949–1950, but it was the later series (1953–1958) with William Bendix reprising his role that achieved greater success, firmly establishing the show on television.
Other Information
The Life of Riley stood out among its contemporaries for its working-class setting and its portrayal of a blue-collar family navigating life’s everyday challenges. Riley was not a suave hero or a wise patriarch; he was an ordinary man who made plenty of mistakes but always had his heart in the right place. This made him highly relatable to audiences in post-World War II America.
The humor of the show often stemmed from Riley's harebrained schemes, misunderstandings, and his over-the-top reactions to life's minor setbacks. Despite his frequent blunders, Riley’s devotion to his family and friends always shone through, giving the series a warmth that resonated with listeners.
In addition to its success on radio and television, The Life of Riley also inspired a feature film in 1949, starring William Bendix in his signature role. The radio version won the very first Emmy Award ever given for "Best Film Made for and Shown on Television" thanks to its early TV adaptation, and it remains a landmark in American sitcom history.
Today, The Life of Riley is fondly remembered for its charming depiction of middle-class American life, its iconic characters, and its mix of heartfelt comedy and gentle life lessons, securing its place among the greats of old-time radio entertainment.
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: $27.49
Mice Price: $21.19
Length: 27.5
Width: 260
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
***** Item Detail Page End
***** Home
Blind Mice Order Center: 346 839-3150
Open 9 am - 4pm CST Monday-Friday
You have arrived!
Blind Mice Mega Mall - "The Mall with the Blind
In Mind!
Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers!
The Mice have built Blind Mice exclusivily for the Blind & Low Vision Community! The sighted have millions of web sites built for them...
Each store is an independent business owned and managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community!
Please browse the great offerings from the merchants in Blind Mice Mega Mall
You will find great items and unique products for the Blind and Low Vision community.
Shop all the stores and check out just one time! The Mice make it easy to shop from all of our outstanding merchants!
Remember, the Merchants operating stores in Blind Mice Mega Mall are also part of the Blind and Low Vision Community so when you buy from them you are supporting the Blind and Low Vision Community directly!
Every purchase at Blind Mice Mega Mall benefits the Low Vision / Blind Community!
** **
Have a MICE Day! Make It Count Everyday!
You help the Blind Community every time you purchase from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall
Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community!
Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault!
Join the Today's Cheese Newsletter Here!