goldie

Free old time radio — transcripts, sponsor breaks intact, open catalog for listeners and builders.

Listen

  • Shows
  • Calendar
  • Search
  • Halloween
  • Genres
  • Moods
  • Themes
  • People
  • Sponsors
  • Upcoming series

Builders

  • Developers
  • Goldie for AI (MCP)
  • api.goldie.fm
  • mcp.goldie.fm
  • llms.txt

Company

  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Goldie Pro

Audio from Internet Archive · Logs from the Old Time Radio Researchers. Goldie does not own the recordings.

Privacy · Terms · Contact · Developers · Catalog API api.goldie.fm · MCP mcp.goldie.fm · AI / MCP docs

goldie
ShowsCalendarAIPro
  1. Home
  2. /Shows
  3. /The Big Show
  4. /Fred Allen, Georgie Jessel
← All The Big Show episodes

You're about to be entertained by some of the biggest names in show business. For the next hour and 30 minutes, this program will present in person such bright stars as... Fred Allen. Lucienne Voyer. Portland Hoffa. Georgie Jessup. Groucho Marx. Ginger Rogers. Margaret Truman. Meredith Wilson. And my name, darlings, is Tallulah Bankett. The National Broadcasting Company presents The Big Show. The Big Show, 90 minutes with the most scintillating personalities in the entertain…

Transcript

Loading transcript…

Synopsis

The final episode of The Big Show is a celebration of the season's journey, hosted by the charismatic Tallulah Bankhead. As she introduces the audience to an impressive roster of stars, including Fred Allen, Groucho Marx, and Margaret Truman, she reflects on the tumultuous yet rewarding season. With humor and charm, Tallulah acknowledges the squabbles and challenges faced by the cast, expressing gratitude for the audience's support through thousands of letters and gifts.

Host

Ed Herlihy

Cast›

D

Dorothy Brown

F

Frank Wilson

Fred Allen

George Jessel

Ginger Rogers

Featured in playlists›

Goldie Originals that include this night

Ghost Story Hour

Spirits on the network.

24 episodes

You might also like

Shared stars, moods, and themes across the catalog

Suspense

Sorry, Wrong Number

An invalid woman overhears a chilling conversation about a planned murder while struggling with a malfunctioning telephone. As she fights to alert the authorities, the stakes rise with each passing moment.

Ep 43 · Tuesday, May 25, 1943 · 29:38

Victor Borge Collection

All The Right Notes Not Necessarily In The R

Rainer Hirsch explores the life and legacy of Danish entertainer Victor Borge, a pioneer of musical comedy. The episode delves into Borge's early years, his rise to fame, and the unique blend of humor and classical music that defined his career.

Ep 2459 · Sunday, September 27, 1953 · 28:23

Cavalcade of America

Keepsakes

In Keepsakes, Raymond Massey portrays Abraham Lincoln as he reflects on the significance of mementos and memories from his past. The episode explores Lincoln's early life and his relationship with Anne, highlighting the weight of history and personal connections.

Ep 685 · Tuesday, January 30, 1951 · 28:43

Academy Award Theater

The Enchanted Cottage

In The Enchanted Cottage, a young couple, Laura and Oliver, rent a mysterious cottage that holds the promise of love and enchantment. As they navigate their feelings for each other, they discover the true magic of the place lies in their love.

Ep 38 · Wednesday, December 11, 1946

An Evening With Groucho

Toronto Song

A couple, Mr. and Mrs. Klein, feel overwhelmed by their relatives, the 'wolves,' who have come to stay. They contemplate escaping to Toronto to find peace and avoid the chaos.

Ep 14 · Saturday, May 6, 1972 · 1:43

More from The Big Show

Same series — shared cast and standout nights

The Big Show

Groucho Marx, Bob Hope

Tallulah Bankhead hosts a star-studded episode of The Big Show, featuring comedy, music, and drama from iconic entertainers like Bob Hope and Groucho Marx. The lively banter and performances highlight the glamour of Hollywood.

Ep 22 · Sunday, April 1, 1951 · 89:28

The Big Show

Jack Haley, Paul Kelly

In this episode of The Big Show, Tallulah Bankhead hosts a star-studded lineup featuring performances from Uta Hagen, Paul Kelly, and Jack Haley. The cast engages in witty banter and comedic sketches, showcasing their talents in a lively radio variety format.

Ep 17 · Sunday, February 25, 1951 · 87:40

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Portland Hoffa

Tallulah Bankhead hosts a lively episode of The Big Show, featuring a mix of humor, music, and theatrical performances from stars like Fred Allen and Judy Holliday. The guests share anecdotes and engage in playful banter while showcasing their talents.

Ep 25 · Sunday, April 22, 1951 · 87:30

The Big Show

Jimmy Durante, Milton Berle

The episode features a star-studded lineup including Milton Berle, Ethel Merman, and Rosemary Clooney, who entertain with music, comedy, and anecdotes from their careers. Tallulah Bankhead hosts the lively program filled with humor and camaraderie among the guests.

Ep 26 · Sunday, April 29, 1951 · 87:43

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Danny Thomas

The glamorous Tallulah Bankhead hosts a star-studded episode of The Big Show, featuring comedy and music from legends like Fred Allen and Danny Thomas. The performers engage in witty banter and showcase their talents, promising an entertaining hour and a half.

Ep 10 · Sunday, January 7, 1951 · 88:17

The Big Show

Groucho Marx, Judy Garland

The Big Show features a star-studded lineup including Groucho Marx, Judy Garland, and the Andrews Sisters, all hosted by the unpredictable Tallulah Bankhead. The program promises a mix of comedy, music, and heartfelt moments from Hollywood's finest.

Ep 15 · Sunday, February 11, 1951 · 88:39

Melancholy›

Same mood, other nights on the dial

Ports of Call

Scotland

The episode explores the rich history and culture of Scotland as the ship arrives in Glasgow, highlighting significant events and figures like Robert Bruce and Robert Burns. The narrative captures the beauty of the Scottish landscape and its historical significance.

Ep 8760 · Tuesday, November 14, 2102 · 28:47

The Devil and Mr O

Where Are You

A young couple on their honeymoon in New York City experiences a day filled with wonder and existential reflection atop the Empire State Building. As they navigate their love amidst the backdrop of a world at war, they ponder the future and the possibility of starting anew.

Ep 4 · Friday, October 8, 1971 · 29:52

Gunsmoke

Little Girl

After a tragic fire claims her step-father's life, young Charity is brought to Dodge City by Marshal Dillon, who must figure out her future amidst the chaos of her loss.

Ep 430 · Sunday, July 3, 1960 · 24:48

Ranger Bill

Henry's Miracle

Ranger Bill recounts the inspiring story of Henry Scott, a young boy who overcomes a severe spinal injury with the help of his father's love and faith. As Henry faces the challenges of his condition, the stakes rise when his father's health deteriorates.

Ep 153 · Wednesday, November 19, 1958 · 29:28

X Minus One

Saucer of Loneliness

A newspaper reporter discovers a woman who has received a mysterious message from a flying saucer, but she refuses to reveal its contents. As he tries to understand her loneliness, he realizes their connection runs deeper than he expected.

Ep 83 · Wednesday, January 9, 1957 · 28:52

Fort Laramie

Army Wife

An army wife reflects on her life after the sudden death of her husband, a beloved officer, as she contemplates her future and the changes ahead.

Ep 40 · Sunday, October 28, 1956 · 24:41

Romance›

More stories in this vein

Dangerously Yours

The Highwayman

In The Highwayman, a daring outlaw confronts a wealthy coachman while seeking romance with the landlord's daughter, Bess. The stakes rise as love and danger intertwine under the moonlit sky.

Ep 1 · Sunday, July 2, 1944 · 29:39

An Evening With Groucho

London Stories - Churchill & 2nd World War

Groucho Marx shares humorous anecdotes about Winston Churchill during World War II, highlighting the lighter side of a serious historical figure.

Ep 16 · Saturday, May 6, 1972 · 2:05

Escape

Sire De Maletroit's Door

In 1429 Paris, a young cavalier finds himself lost and pursued by soldiers, leading him to a mysterious house where he encounters the enigmatic Sire de Maltois and a beautiful woman named Blanche. The stakes rise as he navigates the dangers of love and honor amidst the chaos of war.

Ep 5 · Monday, August 4, 1947 · 29:33

Gunsmoke

Chester's Rendezvous

Chester develops a crush on Em Feeney, a newcomer in Dodge City, but complications arise when her brother is a wanted deserter from the army.

Ep 476 · Sunday, May 21, 1961 · 23:23

The Mel Blanc Show

The New Radio

Mel tries to win over his girlfriend's father, Mr. Colby, after a mishap with a new radio. The stakes rise as Mel navigates his comedic misadventures to gain acceptance.

Ep 10 · Tuesday, November 5, 1946 · 24:07

Ports of Call

Norway

The episode explores the rich history and culture of Norway, focusing on its legendary figures and stunning landscapes. It highlights the tales of King Harold and the Lady Giver, setting the stage for a journey through Norway's fjords and traditions.

Ep 8970 · Tuesday, November 23, 2106 · 24:11

← PreviousJimmy Durante, Milton BerleNext →George Sanders, Bea Lillie

Credits

  • Audio from Internet Archive (OTRR_The_Big_Show_Singles). Curated by OTRR. Goldie does not claim ownership of this broadcast.
  • Cast and sponsor data from RadioGold Index (J. David Goldin / UMKC Libraries).
  • Historical context from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).

51-05-06_ep27_Fred_Allen_Georgie_Jessell.mp3

The Big Show, Episode 27

Fred Allen, Georgie Jessel

Sunday, May 6, 1951 · 87:53

The Big Show, Episode 27

Fred Allen, Georgie Jessel

Sunday, May 6, 1951 · 87:53

Summary

The season finale of The Big Show features an array of stars, including Groucho Marx and Fred Allen, as they share laughs and heartfelt moments. Tallulah Bankhead reflects on the season's ups and downs while preparing to say goodbye until fall.

  • Melancholy
  • Romance
  • Psychological
  • Supernatural
  • Comedy
  • Drama

Sponsor breaks

Goodman Ace

Sponsors & network›

C

Canon Towels

Sponsor

N

NBC net

Network

Rainy Afternoon

Long-form comfort for gray windows.

24 episodes

Drama Desk

Character, craft, and living-room stage plays.

24 episodes

Melancholy After Midnight

Soft rain on the window.

24 episodes

Romance on the Air

Hearts, complications, soft landings.

24 episodes

Late Night Only

When the house is quiet and the dial is dark.

24 episodes

Fifties Fade

When TV took the living room (1950 and after).

24 episodes

Hour-Long Nights

When you want a full-length appointment.

24 episodes

Claudia

Mice Move In

Claudia and David discover a mouse in their home, leading to playful discussions about their new furry friend and the challenges of cohabitation with a mouse.

Ep 386 · Monday, March 21, 1949 · 14:19

The Mel Blanc Show

Songwriter

Mel Blanc navigates the bustling atmosphere of his fix-it shop while trying to impress a group of young fans with a surprise visit from pop singer Betty Rhodes.

Ep 8 · Tuesday, October 22, 1946 · 24:48

Lux Radio Theatre

It Grows on Trees

Two trees, owned by an ordinary family, start growing money instead of leaves! AFRTS program name: "Radio Theatre." The story was produced subsequently on The Lux Video Theatre o

Ep 855 · Monday, November 16, 1953 · 59:31

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Vivian Blaine

The episode features a star-studded lineup including Fred Allen and Vivian Blaine, who entertain with comedy, music, and lively banter. Tallulah Bankhead hosts the show, bringing her charm and wit to the stage.

Ep 23 · Sunday, April 8, 1951 · 82:53

The Big Show

Vivian Blaine, Jose Ferrer

The Big Show features a star-studded lineup including Vivian Blaine and Jose Ferrer, who entertain audiences with songs and scenes from classic plays. Tallulah Bankhead hosts this lively variety program filled with humor and musical performances.

Ep 9 · Sunday, December 31, 1950 · 87:15

Dragnet

The Big Little Jesus

A statue of the Child Jesus is stolen from a Los Angeles mission on Christmas Eve, prompting detectives to investigate its whereabouts. The case takes a heartwarming turn as they uncover the story behind the theft.

Ep 227 · Tuesday, December 22, 1953 · 29:19

The Six Shooter

Britt Ponset's Christmas Carol

Britt Ponset encounters a boy named Johnny who despises Christmas, prompting Britt to recount a story about a miserly man named Ebon who also hated the holiday. As they converse, the stakes of understanding the true spirit of Christmas unfold.

Ep 14 · Sunday, December 20, 1953 · 28:58

Ranger Bill

The Raging Rapids

Ranger Bill and his friends embark on a canoe trip, navigating dangerous waters while teaching important life lessons. The stakes rise as they face unexpected challenges and the need for teamwork and courage becomes essential.

Ep 129 · Monday, October 2, 1961 · 29:03

Suspense

Two Came Back

In the jungle, a love triangle complicates a dangerous expedition for gold, as tensions rise between a husband, his wife, and her lover. The stakes escalate when survival becomes a question of life and death.

Ep 856 · Sunday, June 5, 1960 · 23:17

That night in history

Headlines

  • 1951 — London's Royal Festival Hall opens with the Festival of Britain.
  • 1951 — The United States Senate Committee on Armed Services and United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations begin their closed door hearings into the relief of Douglas MacArthur by U.S. President Harry Truman.

On the air that night›

  1. Incredible but TrueWelcome HomeEpisode 71
  2. The Big ShowFred Allen, Georgie JesselCurrently listeningEpisode 27
  3. The Jack Benny ProgramI Was ShanghaiedEpisode 769
  4. WhistlerTwo and One Makes MurderEpisode 466