Product ID: TSTCO
Control Number: 7498112
Texaco Star Theater 145 Episodes
Texaco Star Theater was one of the most prominent and long-running variety programs of radio’s golden age, combining music, comedy, celebrity guests, and patriotic messages into a fast-paced and star-studded weekly broadcast. Sponsored by the Texaco oil company, the show began as a music-focused program and evolved into a major showcase for some of the era’s top entertainers — most notably comedians like Ed Wynn, Fred Allen, and eventually Milton Berle, who brought the format to television stardom.
Airing from the early 1930s through the mid-1940s on radio, the show reflected the shifting tastes of American audiences, transitioning from formal music and light opera to mainstream comedy and variety.
The Stars
Texaco Star Theater featured several well-known hosts during its long radio run. The first was Ed Wynn, “The Perfect Fool,” whose vaudeville-style humor set a whimsical tone when the show debuted. In 1940, Fred Allen took over, transforming the show into a more sophisticated and satirical comedy format that included his famous “Allen’s Alley” segment. Allen’s version became the most acclaimed and popular radio iteration of the program.
Each version included guest stars from the worlds of film, radio, and music, along with a regular cast and orchestra. Notable musical contributors included Al Goodman and his orchestra, along with vocalists like Portland Hoffa (Allen’s wife and comedic partner) and others depending on the host.
Key Dates
• Texaco Star Theater debuted on October 5, 1931, on CBS Radio, with Ed Wynn as its first host.
• Fred Allen took over as host on October 2, 1940, on NBC, marking the show's most successful radio era.
• Allen remained with the show until June 25, 1944, after which the radio version faded as the program transitioned to television.
• The television version premiered in 1948 with Milton Berle, who turned it into one of the first major TV hits in broadcasting history.
Other Information
The show’s format adapted over time. Under Ed Wynn, it was more of a revue with music and novelty acts, while Fred Allen reshaped it into a satire-laced comedy-variety show. Allen’s dry wit, social commentary, and memorable characters like Senator Claghorn and Mrs. Nussbaum made the program a standout among its contemporaries.
Texaco’s corporate presence was heavily featured, with announcers often blending advertisements into skits or musical numbers. The Texaco theme song and the cheerful Texaco employees who were “men of Texaco” became familiar elements to listeners.
The program played a significant role in bridging vaudeville traditions with emerging mass media formats. While Texaco Star Theater began as a radio fixture, its enduring legacy is often associated with the television era, where Milton Berle’s outrageous antics earned him the nickname “Mr. Television.”
Today, Texaco Star Theater is remembered as a foundational variety show that evolved with its audience, helped launch or elevate major comedic careers, and demonstrated how commercial sponsorship, entertainment, and cultural commentary could blend into one of the most successful formats in broadcast history.
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: 145
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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