AS SEEN ON TV: GEORGE JESSEL

Comedian Charlie Callas has passed away at the age of 86. Rubbery-faced and an all-around manic nutjob in his comedy routines, he also played it straight - or near as, anyway - in a few TV shows and movies. I'll remember him best as Malcolm Argos on the mid-70's detective series 'Switch' with Robert Wagner, Eddie Albert, and Sharon Gless.

But here he is in character for one of the 'Dean Martin Roasts', this time for Don Rickles. And for the young-uns out there, he's doing an impression of "Toastmaster General" Georgie Jessel.....

GEORGE JESSEL

AS SEEN ON:
'The Dean Martin Roasts'

AS PLAYED BY:
Charlie Callas

From Wikipedia:
George Jessel (3 April 1898 – 23 May 1981) was an American illustrated song "model," actor, singer, songwriter, and Academy Award-winning movie producer. He was famous in his lifetime as a multitalented comedic entertainer, achieving a level of recognition that transcended his limited roles in movies. He was widely known by his nickname, the "Toastmaster General of the United States" for his frequent role as the master of ceremonies at political and entertainment gatherings.

He became known as a host on the banquet circuit, famous for his good-natured wit aimed at his fellow celebrities. In 1946, he was one of the founding members of the California branch of the Friars Club. (A recording exists of an example of his "blue" work in front of a stag audience, although it was actually recorded at a roast hosted by the Friars' rival, the Masquers Club.) He also traveled widely overseas with the USO entertaining troops. As he grew older, he wrote eulogies for many of his contemporaries in Hollywood.

And this is the type of Jessel material we see Charlie Callas performing here......

For more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Jessel_(actor)

BCnU!