Part of my weekly/daily routine entails reading through the “happenings in entertainment history on this day” type of notices. Mentioned as part of today’s entertainment history – March 8 (either today or tomorrow depending on where in the world you may be) – is the last TV appearance of the three Marx Brothers in 1959. That would be Groucho, Chico and Harpo and the show they last appeared in together was titled “The Incredible Jewel Robbery,” an installment of CBS’ General Electric Theater anthology series, which ran from 1953 to 1962 and was hosted by Ronald Reagan.
Since I found the appearance on YouTube, albeit in two parts, I thought it would be fun to post it here and bring it to the attention of anyone who happens on by. Being a big fan of the Marx Brothers I loved it. Chances are you may too.
I’ve very little to add in the form of information except that you’ll notice the introduction lists only Chico and Harpo in the “starring” roles with no mention given to Groucho who makes a cameo at the very end of the show. It turns out Groucho appeared uncredited on the CBS show because he was under contract with NBC at the time. CBS gave everyone a heads up before the broadcast by stating, “If you watch the show you’ll see a familiar face equipped with mustache and leer. Because of his contract terms, his name can’t be mentioned, but he is not Jerry Colonna.”
And now…
From 8 Mar 1959, 9:00 pm, CBS – General Electric Theater
“The Incredible Jewel Robbery”
Starring Harpo Marx, Chico Marx, Groucho Marx, Benny Rubin, Joy Rogers, Ronald Reagan (host)
Part 1:
Part 2:
I love that this was a silent film for all intents and purposes with the only line spoken by Groucho at the very end.
Once upon a screen... 