Don Wilson
Actor
About Don Wilson
Don Wilson was a renowned American radio announcer and occasional actor who became a household name through his long-running association with The Jack Benny Program. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Wilson began his career in radio during the 1920s, working at various stations before landing his breakthrough role as announcer for Jack Benny's show in 1934. His distinctive booming voice and deadpan comedic delivery made him an integral part of the program, often participating in skits and becoming a beloved character in his own right. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Wilson made numerous film appearances, typically playing announcers or himself in cameo roles, including his appearance in The Chase (1946). His radio career continued through the golden age of television, where he made occasional appearances. Wilson's contribution to American entertainment spanned over three decades, making him one of the most recognizable voices in broadcasting history until his retirement in the 1960s.
The Craft
On Screen
Primarily played himself or announcer roles with a natural, authoritative delivery
Milestones
- Became announcer for The Jack Benny Program (1934)
- Made film debut in the 1930s
- Appeared in The Chase (1946)
- Received Hollywood Walk of Fame star
- Transitioned successfully to television in the 1950s
- Published autobiography 'Don Wilson, Jack Benny's Announcer'
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
Special Recognition
- Radio Hall of Fame Inductee
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star for Radio
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Don Wilson played a significant role in shaping American radio comedy during its golden age. As the announcer for The Jack Benny Program, he became one of the most recognizable voices in American households, helping to define the format of comedy-variety shows. His catchphrase 'Jell-O again, folks!' became iconic and entered the American lexicon. Wilson's seamless integration into the comedy sketches of The Jack Benny Program helped break down the traditional barrier between announcers and performers, influencing how future radio and television shows would incorporate their announcers into the entertainment.
Lasting Legacy
Don Wilson's legacy endures as a pioneer of radio broadcasting and a key figure in American comedy history. His twenty-one-year tenure on The Jack Benny Program represents one of the longest-running partnerships in radio history. Wilson demonstrated that announcers could be more than just voices introducing shows; they could become integral parts of the entertainment experience. His work helped establish the template for comedy-variety shows that would dominate radio and television for decades. The preservation of The Jack Benny Program episodes continues to introduce new generations to Wilson's distinctive voice and comedic timing.
Who They Inspired
Wilson influenced generations of radio and television announcers by showing how announcers could become personalities in their own right. His natural delivery and ability to play along with comedy skits without breaking character set a standard for future announcers. Many later comedy shows, from The Tonight Show to Saturday Night Live, would incorporate their announcers into the entertainment, following the model that Wilson helped establish. His professionalism and reliability also set industry standards for broadcast announcers.
Off Screen
Don Wilson married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Lois Rutherford, with whom he had two children. After their divorce, he married Mexican actress Alicia del Río in 1954. Wilson was known for his professionalism and reliability in the entertainment industry, maintaining a reputation as one of the most dependable announcers in radio. He retired from broadcasting in the 1960s and spent his later years in California.
Education
University of Nebraska (attended)
Family
- Lois Rutherford (1925-1953)
- Alicia del Río (1954-1982)
Did You Know?
- Wilson was originally a school teacher before entering radio
- His catchphrase 'Jell-O again, folks!' was used when The Jack Benny Program was sponsored by Jell-O
- He appeared in over 20 films during his career
- Wilson's weight fluctuated significantly, often becoming a running joke on The Jack Benny Program
- He served in the Army Air Forces during World War II
- Wilson was known for his perfect attendance record on The Jack Benny Program
- His autobiography was published in 1978
- He was one of the few cast members who never missed a live broadcast
- Wilson's announcing style was imitated by many but never duplicated
- He continued to do occasional voice work even after retirement
In Their Own Words
Jell-O again, folks!
This is Don Wilson speaking
And now, here's the master of ceremonies, Jack Benny!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Don Wilson?
Don Wilson was a legendary American radio announcer best known for his 21-year tenure as the announcer on The Jack Benny Program. His distinctive booming voice and comedic timing made him an integral part of one of radio's most popular shows, and he also appeared in numerous films during Hollywood's golden age.
What films is Don Wilson best known for?
While primarily known for radio, Wilson appeared in over 20 films including The Chase (1946), Man About Town (1939), Buck Benny Rides Again (1940), and The Great Rupert (1950). He typically played announcers or himself in cameo roles.
When was Don Wilson born and when did he die?
Don Wilson was born on September 1, 1900, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and passed away on April 25, 1982, in Cathedral City, California, at the age of 81.
What awards did Don Wilson win?
Don Wilson received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for his contributions to radio. He was also inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame for his significant impact on American broadcasting.
What was Don Wilson's acting style?
Wilson's acting style was natural and authoritative, typically playing himself or announcer roles. His strength was in his distinctive voice delivery and deadpan comedic timing, which he perfected through years of radio work.
How long was Don Wilson on The Jack Benny Program?
Don Wilson was the announcer for The Jack Benny Program for 21 years, from 1934 until the show ended in 1955, making him one of the longest-running announcer-performer partnerships in radio history.
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Films
1 film
