Show notes
Join us for a Thanksgiving Special on Vintage Classic Radio during this Saturday's "Saturday Matinee." We begin with "The Life of Riley" in the episode "Thanksgiving Flashback," originally aired on November 19, 1948. In this nostalgic episode, Chester Riley reminisces about past Thanksgiving celebrations, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt misunderstandings typical of the Riley household. The show stars William Bendix as Chester Riley, supported by Paula Winslowe as Peg, his wife, and John Brown as the ever-scheming Digby "Digger" O'Dell.
Next, we step back to November 18, 1940, for the "Burns and Allen Show." This episode finds George Burns and Gracie Allen preparing for a festive Thanksgiving, only to encounter their usual mix-ups and misunderstandings. Alongside George and Gracie, the episode features regulars such as Bill Goodwin, the show's announcer, and musicians like Meredith Willson.
Before our final presentation, we'll enjoy a musical interlude with Frank Sinatra singing "Homesick, That's All," offering a touch of melancholic nostalgia.
We conclude with "The Jack Benny Show," in the episode "Jack Dreams He is a Turkey," which first aired on November 21, 1943. In this amusing holiday special, Jack Benny experiences a hilarious dream sequence where he imagines himself as a turkey just before Thanksgiving. This episode features Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, Rochester, Dennis Day, and Don Wilson, with the show sponsored by Jello.
To cap off our Thanksgiving Special, Kay Kyser and his orchestra will play the classic "Shine On Harvest Moon," sending us off with a melody perfect for the season. Join us for a blend of comedy, music, and Thanksgiving spirit this Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio.