Life_Of_Riley_451215_Grandma_s_Boyfriend
Download and listen anywhere
Download your favorite episodes and enjoy them, wherever you are! Sign up or log in now to access offline listening.
Life_Of_Riley_451215_Grandma_s_Boyfriend
This is an automatically generated transcript. Please note that complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Description
Known for its tag line "What a revoltin’ development this is", The Life of Riley, starring William Bendix, first aired in January of 1944. The show was originally conceived as...
show moreThe ironic title, suggesting a life of ease and comfort, probably had its origins in the 19th century. Some suggest the phrase "the life of Riley" referred to the 19th century clan Riley of County Cavan in Ireland, who consolidated power and wealth to such an extent that they minted their own money. Others claim the phrase is a reference to Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley. Whatever the origin, "the life of Riley" became a catch phrase in the popular culture of the 1940s that has lasted to the present day, and is tied irrevocably to the character of Chester A. Riley.
In addition to Bendix’ Riley, the show featured immensely popular supporting characters, including Digby "Digger" O’Dell, the ghoulish "friendly undertaker" voiced by John Brown (who also played Thorny on Ozzie and Harriet, Al on My Friend Irma, and Broadway on The Damon Runyan Theatre). Riley’s annoying co-worker, Gillis, was also voiced by Brown. Uncle Baxter, Riley’s unwelcome permanent houseguest, was played by Hans Conreid.
Information
Author | Entertainment Radio |
Organization | Entertainment Radio |
Website | - |
Tags |
Copyright 2024 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company