Jack Benny, born as Benjamin Kubelsky, was an American comedian, vaudevillian, and actor. He was one of the most famous names in show business for more than 50 years and was an eminent star of radio, the stage and screen. He started out as a serious musician, before he discovered he could make people laugh. He received nationwide acclaim in the 1930s as a result of his weekly radio show ‘The Jack Benny Program’ which became a forerunner of the sitcom genre. His program was among the most popular shows on American radio, and later on television. He was one of the first comedians who was willing to let other people share some of the laughs. He rarely made jokes that hurt other people; instead he would let the other actors make fun of him. He also appeared in several Hollywood movies during his outstanding career as a comedian. He continued to perform and did a few television specials after his weekly series ended. He was one of America's best-loved funnymen during the 20th century and remained one of the top stars of radio, television, and stage throughout his career.
