Harold's Old Time Radio Episode Summary: Bob Hope Show 38-12-27 ep014 Lum And Abner Release Date: February 13, 2025

Hosted by Harolds Old Time Radio, this episode delves into a classic display of comedic brilliance from the Golden Age of Radio. Featuring the legendary Bob Hope alongside beloved characters Lum and Abner, the show delivers laughter, memorable exchanges, and delightful musical interludes.

1. Introduction and Opening Remarks [00:00 - 00:17]

The episode kicks off with Bill Goodwin introducing "The Pepsodent Show," starring the iconic Bob Hope. Immediately setting a jovial tone, Skinny Ennis with his band welcomes listeners:

Skinny Ennis [00:10]: "We hope you're feeling fine. Just sit back and recline. Bob Hope will call to wish you all a happy '39."

Bob Hope then takes center stage, blending humor with light-hearted banter about his experiences and interactions with sponsors:

Bob Hope [00:17]: "Ah, thank you so much. How do you do, ladies and gentlemen? This is the pepsident kid, Bob Hope, making a living by the skin of other people's teeth."

2. Guest Introduction: Lum and Abner [02:00 - 02:18]

Bill Goodwin warmly introduces the evening's special guests, Lum and Abner—one of radio's most beloved comedic duos. He also mentions the musical accompaniment by Skinny Ennis and his band, "Six Hits and a Miss," along with Jerry Colonna's appearance, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the show.

Bill Goodwin [02:00]: "Tonight we're very happy to present as our guests one of the most popular teams on the radio, those pine ridge favorites Lum and Abner."

3. Banter and Comedic Interactions [02:18 - 04:20]

Bob Hope engages in playful ribbing with Bill Goodwin, joking about his "shiny teeth," and provides humorous observations about their Christmas party experiences. This segment establishes the rapport between the host and his guests, setting the stage for the ensuing comedy.

Bob Hope [02:18]: "I have an uncle at Paramount. That's Bill Goodwin. That's Bill Goodwin, ladies and gentlemen. Just look at Goodwin's shiny teeth. Seven snow whites with one dopey."

Bob Hope [04:11]: "Bob, there's a girl here who wants to see you."

4. Comedy Sketch: Attempted Play with Lum and Abner [05:00 - 16:33]

Bob Hope endeavors to involve Lum and Abner in a scripted play set in the frozen north, where they portray trapper characters navigating humorous mishaps. The sketch is characterized by Lum and Abner's improvisational antics, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and interruptions that thwart Bob's plans.

Key Moments:

• Lum and Abner's Confusion:

  Lum [05:00]: "Is this a pepsidant show?"

  Abner [10:21]: "Well, Abner, I ain't talking about one man with two heads. I'm talking about two men with one head."

• Bob's Frustration:

  Bob Hope [13:05]: "Is this still the pepsida sholom? Who is Frank?"

• Climactic Exit:

  Lum [16:15]: "And another thing. How about the money you said you was going to give us?"

  Bob Hope [16:21]: "Well, I was. Huh?"

The sketch culminates with Lum and Abner deciding to leave the play, much to Bob's dismay, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live radio comedy.

5. Musical Performance: "Crazy Rhythm" by Skinny Ennis and His Band [07:29 - 09:09]

Amidst the comedic chaos, Skinny Ennis and his band deliver a lively rendition of "Crazy Rhythm," infusing the show with musical charm. Their performance adds a melodious counterbalance to the comedic elements, showcasing the variety that was a hallmark of Golden Age radio programs.

Skinny Ennis [07:29]: "Here's the doorway. I'll go my way, you'll go your way Crazy rhythm From now on we're through..."

6. Continuation and Resolution of the Comedy Sketch [09:15 - 16:33]

Returning from a brief pause, Bob Hope attempts to conclude the failed play, addressing the audience and compensating Lum and Abner for their participation. The interplay remains humorous, emphasizing the improvisational strengths of the guests.

Bob Hope [16:10]: "Well, all right, fellas. Here's $10 for you, Lum. And here's $10 for you, Abner."

Lum [16:27]: "Yeah, that takes care of us all right. But what about Frank?"

7. Musical Performance: "What is This Thing Called Love" by Jerry Colonna [16:43 - 20:44]

Following the comedic episode, Jerry Colonna takes the spotlight with a heartfelt performance of the classic song "What is This Thing Called Love." His rendition adds emotional depth and showcases the musical diversity featured in the show.

Jerry Colonna [17:29]: "What is this thing called love? This funny thing called love? Just who can solve its mystery?"

8. Farewell and Closing Remarks [28:23 - 29:31]

As the show draws to a close, Bob Hope extends his gratitude to Lum and Abner, acknowledging their comedic talents and contributions to the program's success. He also teases future guests, maintaining excitement for upcoming episodes. The episode concludes with a warm farewell from Bill Goodwin, reaffirming the show's connection with its sponsors and listeners.

Bob Hope [28:23]: "We've signed for 1939 with you. And thank you so much. And thanks for the memory of Lum and Abner's team."

Bill Goodwin [29:31]: "Lum and Abner appeared on this program. To the courtesy of General Foods, the makers of Postum... This is the National Broadcasting Company."

Notable Quotes:

• Bob Hope [00:17]: "I suppose the Christmas spirit filled you all with faith and charity. So tonight I'm here to give you hope. Isn't that cute?"

• Professor Colonna [06:54]: "Yes, my whole family trees from the south. The sooth. I mean the south."

• Abner [11:38]: "You got the awfulest imagination I ever seen on a humie."

• Bob Hope [16:10]: "Here's $10 for you, Lum. And here's $10 for you, Abner."

• Lum [16:27]: "Yeah, that takes care of us all right. But what about Frank?"

• Bob Hope [27:15]: "That's the most encouraging thing you've said tonight."

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio encapsulates the essence of vintage radio entertainment, blending sharp wit, memorable characters, and engaging performances. Bob Hope's masterful hosting, complemented by Lum and Abner's improvisational comedy and the melodic talents of Skinny Ennis and Jerry Colonna, create a timeless experience that continues to resonate with audiences today.