George Leslie Gobel was born on May 20, 1919, in Chicago, Illinois. He was raised by his father, who worked as a butcher, and was an only child. Growing up, George discovered his love for music and comedy, often entertaining his family with his jokes and songs.
George began his career in show business as a country music singer, appearing on National Barn Dance. However, it was his comedic talent that truly set him apart. He caught the attention of audiences with his unique style of humor, often blending music with his jokes.
In 1954, George landed his own weekly NBC television show, The George Gobel Show. The show became a hit, running for six years until 1960. Audiences loved George's wry sense of humor and his charming personality, making him a household name.
While George was primarily known for his comedy, he also tried his hand at acting. In 1956, he starred in the film The Birds and the Bees, although it was not a commercial success. Despite this, George continued to pursue acting and appeared in various television shows and movies throughout his career.
During World War II, George enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces. He served as a flight instructor in AT-9 aircraft at Altus, Oklahoma. George's time in the military shaped him in many ways, teaching him discipline and determination that would serve him well in his future career.
George was married to Alice and together they had three children. Despite his busy career, George always made time for his family. He cherished his role as a husband and father, finding joy in spending time with his loved ones.
George Gobel will always be remembered as a talented comedian and actor who brought laughter to millions of people. His unique brand of humor and warm personality endeared him to audiences everywhere. George's legacy lives on through his timeless performances and the laughter he brought to the world.
George Gobel passed away on February 24, 1991, but his impact on the world of comedy and entertainment will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer in the world of comedy, paving the way for future generations of comedians to follow in his footsteps.