Fred Allen

Fred Allen (May 31, 1894 – March 17, 1956) was a United States comedian best known for his witty, pointed radio programs of the 1930s and 1940s, including a comic "feud" with comedian Jack Benny. Allen was famous among his peers for his ability to ad-lib - a skill that Benny famously paid tribute to, responding to a mock insult with the line "You wouldn't say that if my writers were here."

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Allen was born John Florence Sullivan in Cambridge, Massachusetts to Irish Catholic parents. He started off his professional career as Freddy St. James, but a mix-up at a venue turned out to be a blessing. Edgar Allen was booked at the same place as Freddy James, but the front office accidentally promoted the appearance of Edgar James and Fred Allen.

May 31: May 31 is the 151st day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (152nd in leap years), with 214 days remaining, as the last day of May....

1894: 1894 was a common year starting on Monday (see link for calendar)....

March 17: March 17 is the 76th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (77th in Leap years). There are 289 days remaining....

Fred Allen related Images and Photos (experimental)

Radio Comedian Fred Allen Paroding Milton Berle Who Has Been Called "King of Television"	Damsel in Distress Joan Fontaine Fred Astaire George Burns Gracie Allen 1937	Fred Claus	Fred Durst
Fred Durst	Fred Claus (BD)	Allen Iverson	Allen Iverson
Allen Iverson	Allen Iverson	Allen Iverson	Allen Iverson