James H. Allen

James_H._Allen

James H. Allen was an American actor, comedian, and writer known for his work in vaudeville and early radio. He was born on February 15, 1896, in Springfield, Massachusetts, and passed away on January 28, 1958, in New York City.

Early Life

James H. Allen was born into a family with a strong tradition in the performing arts. His father was a stage actor, and his mother was a singer. Allen showed an early interest in theater and comedy, performing in local productions and school plays.

Career

Vaudeville

Allen began his professional career in vaudeville, where he quickly gained a reputation for his comedic timing and versatility. He performed in various vaudeville circuits across the United States, often collaborating with other well-known performers of the time.

Radio

With the decline of vaudeville, Allen transitioned to radio, where he found considerable success. He became a regular on several popular radio shows, including The Jack Benny Program and The Fred Allen Show. His distinctive voice and comedic style made him a favorite among listeners.

Writing

In addition to his work as a performer, Allen was also a prolific writer. He wrote scripts for radio shows, as well as comedy sketches and routines for other performers. His writing was known for its wit and clever wordplay.

Personal Life

James H. Allen was married to Margaret O'Brien, a fellow performer, and they had two children. He was known for his generosity and often mentored younger performers.

Legacy

James H. Allen's contributions to vaudeville and radio comedy have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. He is remembered as a pioneer in early American comedy and a talented writer.

Related Pages

• Vaudeville
• Radio
• The Jack Benny Program
• The Fred Allen Show
• Comedy