Product ID: BARSCO
Control Number: 7498090
Bob And Ray Show 475 Episodes
The Bob and Ray Show was a brilliantly understated and satirical old-time radio comedy that poked gentle fun at broadcasting itself, as well as the absurdities of everyday American life. Debuting in the 1940s, the show featured dry humor, sharp parodies, and an innovative format that would influence generations of comedians and radio personalities.
Rather than relying on traditional setups or laugh tracks, Bob and Ray’s humor was built on subtle timing, deadpan delivery, and the hilariously mundane.
The Stars
The comedy duo consisted of Bob Elliott and Ray Goulding — two Boston-based broadcasters who met at local station WHDH and began improvising bits between newscasts. On air, they played dozens of characters, often switching voices mid-scene with minimal fanfare.
Ray’s deep voice lent itself to pompous authority figures and announcers, while Bob played softer-spoken, often clueless personalities. Together, they created an absurd radio universe populated by figures such as Wally Ballou (the worst field reporter ever), Mary McGoon (domestic expert with bizarre recipes), and sportscaster Biff Burns.
Key Dates
• The show debuted in 1946 on WHDH in Boston.
• A national version aired on NBC from 1951 to 1953, followed by stints on CBS, NBC Monitor, and NPR into the 1980s.
• Bob and Ray continued performing together for over four decades, including television appearances and live stage shows.
Other Information
The Bob and Ray Show was notable for its minimalist production: no studio audience, no musical interludes, and minimal sound effects. Their improvisational skill and straight-faced delivery made the satire all the more biting. They parodied everything from soap operas to man-on-the-street interviews, always with a tone of mock-seriousness.
Unlike many of their contemporaries, Bob and Ray rarely relied on catchphrases or slapstick. Instead, they focused on character-driven sketches, circular conversations, and the absurdity of bureaucratic red tape, commercial radio, and overblown announcer styles.
The duo's influence can be seen in later comedians like Garrison Keillor, David Letterman, and the writers of Saturday Night Live. Their understated style has earned them a place among the most respected and original voices in American comedy.
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: $29.99
Mice Price: $23.29
Length: 30
Width: 475
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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