Interview Bob Smith In his nearly three-hour interview, “Buffalo” Bob Smith (1917-1998) talks about his early years and interest in music, which eventually led to his vocal group, the High Hatters Trio, being discovered by Kate Smith, and brought to New York City to be on radio. He describes his vaudeville act and his...
Interview Chuck Jones In his three-hour interview, Chuck Jones (1912-2002) fondly recalls creating notable Looney Tunes characters, including "Bugs Bunny," "Daffy Duck," "Pepe Le Pew," "Wile E. Coyote," and "Road-Runner." He speaks about attending art school, outlines the early days of Hollywood's animation industry in...
Interview Irving Fein In his three-and-a-half-hour interview, Irving Fein (1911-2012) speaks at length about his 28 years managing and producing for Jack Benny, as well as his years managing George Burns. Fein discusses his transition from motion picture publicity to producing for Benny in 1947 -- a path that led him...
Interview Dick Smith In his five-and-a-half-hour interview, Dick Smith (1922-2014) speaks at length about the difficulties of establishing television's first makeup department, at NBC. He discusses the challenges of working with the studio's hot lights, the live schedule that left little time for makeup changes, and...
Interview Larry Wilmore In his three-and-a-half-hour interview, Larry Wilmore talks about his early years, developing his stand-up routine, and doing improv. He describes early shows he auditioned for or appeared on, including a.k.a. Pablo and The Facts of Life , as well as appearing on Stand Up Spotlight , and writing...
Interview Arthur Penn In his three-hour interview, Arthur Penn (1922-2010) discusses his early years and his experience in World War II. He recalls his first television job as floor manager for The Colgate Comedy Hour where he learned how to direct for television. He details his association with producer Fred Coe, who...
