Product ID: FAHOSCO
Control Number: 7498098
Fred Allen Hour Of Smiles 7 Episodes
Fred Allen’s Hour of Smiles was an early incarnation of Fred Allen’s radio comedy, showcasing the sharp wit and comedic creativity that would later define his legendary career. Airing in the early 1930s, the show was a blend of topical monologues, light musical performances, satirical sketches, and Fred Allen’s trademark dry humor. Sponsored by Ipana Toothpaste and Sal Hepatica laxative, it aired under the umbrella of The Ipana Troubadours and helped establish Allen’s voice as a unique force in radio entertainment.
The show marked Fred Allen’s rise from vaudeville to national radio stardom, laying the groundwork for his later success with Town Hall Tonight and The Fred Allen Show.
The Stars
Fred Allen starred as himself — a sardonic, cerebral comic whose low-key delivery and keen sense of satire stood in contrast to the broader, slapstick humor of the era. He was frequently joined by Portland Hoffa, his real-life wife and on-air comedic partner, whose high-pitched voice and cheerful demeanor offered the perfect foil to Allen’s dry quips.
The show also featured guest musicians, novelty performers, and singers typical of 1930s variety programming. Allen acted as the master of ceremonies, tying together the music and comedy with humorous observations, monologues, and recurring bits.
Key Dates
• Fred Allen’s Hour of Smiles aired on NBC’s Red Network beginning in 1934.
• It followed Allen’s earlier series, The Salad Bowl Revue and The Linit Bath Club Revue, evolving in tone and style.
• The program would eventually transition into Town Hall Tonight in 1934, which became Allen’s best-known and most influential radio series.
Other Information
While lighter in tone than Allen’s later shows, Hour of Smiles still displayed his signature disdain for formulaic entertainment and his fondness for satirizing the radio industry, advertising, and everyday absurdities. Allen’s unique approach to comedy — mixing wordplay, character humor, and social observation — made the show stand out even in its early format.
The program was heavily shaped by its sponsors, which was a common practice at the time, but Allen still managed to insert subtle barbs at commercialism and the conventions of sponsored content — a recurring theme in his later work.
Hour of Smiles also marked the beginning of Allen’s use of recurring sketch formats and character interviews that would later evolve into staples like “Allen’s Alley.” Though not as polished or politically pointed as his peak-era shows, it was a vital stepping stone in his evolution as one of radio’s most influential voices.
Today, Fred Allen’s Hour of Smiles is remembered as an important chapter in the comedian’s development — an early platform where Allen began shaping the biting, literate, and enduring brand of humor that would make him a giant of American radio.
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: $9.99
Mice Price: $9.39
Length: 10
Width: 7
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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