Product ID: TFACCO
Control Number: 7498096
The Fred Allen Collection 137 Episodes
The Fred Allen Collection showcases the radio legacy of Fred Allen, one of the most brilliant and influential humorists of the golden age of radio. Known for his quick wit, literary style, and satirical edge, Allen’s work helped elevate radio comedy with sharp social commentary, memorable characters, and a uniquely intelligent voice. This collection features highlights from his various programs, including The Linit Bath Club Revue, Town Hall Tonight, Texaco Star Theater, and The Fred Allen Show, spanning from the early 1930s through the end of the 1940s.
With a blend of topical monologues, sketch comedy, running gags, and celebrity guests, Fred Allen's shows became a staple of American entertainment, offering insight and laughter during some of the most turbulent decades in U.S. history.
The Stars
Fred Allen headlined each of the shows featured in this collection, often alongside his real-life wife and comedic partner Portland Hoffa, whose bubbly persona perfectly balanced Allen’s dry delivery. Regular characters from the iconic “Allen’s Alley” segment included Senator Claghorn (Kenny Delmar), Mrs. Nussbaum (Minerva Pious), Titus Moody (Parker Fennelly), and Ajax Cassidy (Peter Donald), each representing a different slice of American life and opinion.
Allen was also known for his interactions with other radio stars, most famously through his long-running mock feud with Jack Benny — a comedic rivalry that delighted audiences and spanned multiple programs.
Key Dates
• The Linit Bath Club Revue debuted on CBS Radio on October 23, 1932.
• Town Hall Tonight aired from 1934 to 1939, evolving into The Fred Allen Show.
• Texaco Star Theater (Fred Allen’s version) ran from 1940 to 1944.
• The Fred Allen Show continued on NBC and later CBS from 1942 until June 26, 1949.
• Allen made frequent television appearances in the 1950s, notably as a panelist on What’s My Line?
Other Information
Fred Allen was famous for lampooning the broadcasting industry itself — mocking sponsors, censorship, and radio clichés with biting satire and elegance. “Allen’s Alley,” which debuted in 1942, became one of radio’s most recognizable recurring segments, as Allen would “walk down the alley” and interview humorous characters offering commentary on current events and social issues.
Allen’s humor was more cerebral and socially observant than many of his peers, often addressing labor disputes, media influence, political absurdities, and cultural trends. Though this occasionally made his show a target for sponsors and network executives, it earned him deep respect from fellow performers and writers.
His mock feud with Jack Benny — in which the two traded comedic barbs across their respective shows — became one of the most celebrated exchanges in radio history, all performed with genuine affection and impeccable timing.
Today, the Fred Allen Collection preserves the legacy of a pioneering satirist whose voice was uniquely suited to the microphone. His sophisticated humor, brilliant timing, and commitment to elevating the medium of radio comedy remain a testament to his lasting impact on American 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: $24.99
Mice Price: $19.49
Length: 25
Width: 137
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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