Podcast Summary: MGM Movie Club 36-02-11 xxx Johnny Green

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: MGM Movie Club 36-02-11 xxx Johnny Green
• Release Date: February 17, 2025

Introduction

In the February 17, 2025 episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "MGM Movie Club 36-02-11 xxx Johnny Green", host Frank Hernandez welcomes listeners to another engaging session of the MGM Radio Movie Club. This episode transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Hollywood's bustling scene before the advent of television.

Opening Remarks and Hollywood News

Frank Hernandez opens the episode by introducing the MGM Radio Movie Club, highlighting its status as the oldest club of its kind on the air. He sets the stage for an evening filled with Hollywood updates and exclusive interviews.

Brady Harris' Hollywood Roundup

Brady Harris takes the helm shortly after, delivering a comprehensive update on the latest happenings in Hollywood, London, and New York. His segment covers a range of topics, including personal updates from celebrities, upcoming film productions, and recent social events.

• Celebrity Updates:

  • Lila Himes and Phil Berg: Brady shares that the couple is contemplating significant decisions, hinting at potential changes in their personal lives. (02:14)
  • Mary Carlisle's Birthday: Celebrated her 21st birthday in London, receiving congratulations from Jim Blakely in Hollywood, leading to reflections on financial responsibilities. (02:30)
  • Douglas Fairbanks Jr.: Accompanied by his father, Douglas Sr. is urging him to join a production in China, while Douglas Jr. plans to start his own project, Knights of the Round Table, in London. (03:15)

• Upcoming Productions and Events:

  • Houses of Morgan Event: Featuring Walder Wolf King and Walder O'Keegan as guests of honor, anticipating the arrival of Freddie Bartholomew and other stars at prestigious New York hotels. (04:10)
  • Colette d'Harville: Dean Taylor's French doll undergoes screen tests across various countries, considering a Technicolor project in Ethiopia. (05:00)
  • Lily Poon's Performances: Scheduled to sing with the Monte Carlo Opera Company before joining RKO studios for further screen work. (05:50)
  • Gary Cooper's Visit: Despite immense fanfare at Grand Central, Gary Cooper's stay is brief due to an upcoming holiday in Bermuda, with hopes that Robert Young might extend his visit. (06:20)

• Film Critique: "Rhodes":
  Brady offers a critical perspective on the Gaumont British production Rhodes, which premiered in New York. He contrasts his emotional response to the book by Walter Houston with the less impactful screen adaptation, citing pacing and episodic storytelling as potential shortcomings. He praises Oscar Hamaker's performance as Paul Kruger and commends British production values. (05:30)

• Invitation to Guests:
  Brady announces the evening's guests, Johnny Green and Jack Whiting, expressing his admiration and excitement for their participation. (06:00)

Notable Quote:
Brady reflects on his relationship with Hollywood stars, saying, “Working in Hollywood is like a golf game. It all depends on your approach. For some people, all those glamorous stars might prove distracting, but for me, they were inspirations.” (12:37)

Musical Interlude

Frank Hernandez transitions the program to a musical segment, presenting Frank Hernandez himself as the movie club serenader. Accompanied by Con Maffe on the organ, Frank performs a rendition of "Eeny Meenie Miny Moe," delighting listeners with classic tunes that evoke the era's charm. (06:32 - 08:33)

Interview with Johnny Green and Jack Whiting

The highlight of the episode features an engaging interview with the esteemed composer Johnny Green and Broadway star Jack Whiting. The conversation delves into their careers, personal anecdotes, and experiences in the entertainment industry.

Brady Harris and Johnny Green's Banter

Brady and Johnny engage in a lively discussion, sharing humorous stories and insights from their time in Hollywood. Brady recounts encounters with legendary figures such as Ethel Merman, Joan Blondell, and Ginger Rogers, illustrating the camaraderie and challenges within the industry. (09:18 - 12:50)

• Anecdotes:

  • Ethel Merman: Brady reminisces about accompanying Ethel at the piano during her early performances, highlighting her rise to fame. (09:45)
  • Joan Blondell Reunion: A nostalgic recount of a personal meeting with Joan Blondell after two years apart, showcasing the tight-knit nature of Hollywood friendships. (10:24)
  • Ginger Rogers: Brady humorously criticizes the song title "I've Got It, But It Don't Do Me No Good," attributing it to Ginger Rogers' musical style. (10:38)

• Work with Fred Astaire:
  Brady shares his experience collaborating with Fred Astaire on the phonograph recordings of Top Hat, emphasizing Astaire's passion for music and their creative synergy. (11:47)

Notable Quote:
Brady humorously laments, “If I didn't wander into the stables one night and heard my partner telling the other horses that he'd been entertained in Claudette Colbert's living room.” (11:02)

Jack Whiting's Hollywood Adventures

Jack Whiting discusses his recent stint in London, contrasting the relaxed broadcasting style there with the meticulous scheduling typical in New York. He shares stories about fan interactions and the challenges of adapting performances for different audiences.

• London vs. New York Broadcasting:
  Jack highlights the more leisurely approach in London, where running overtime on broadcasts is acceptable, unlike the stringent timing in New York. (19:06)

• Fan Engagement:
  He describes the dedicated fanbase in London, known as the Gallery First Nighters, whose approval is crucial for a play's success. (19:58)

• Upcoming Projects:
  Jack reveals his plans to return to New York for rehearsals on March 11 and to participate in a film at Warner Studios in Teddington, expressing a desire to continue his Broadway career post his London engagements. (20:24)

Notable Quote:
Jack humorously responds to Brady's remark about selling Jell-O, “They wouldn't let me take that,” referring to his refusal to bring his piano to events. (13:57)

Musical Performances by Guests

The episode features live performances from Jack Whiting, who sings his hit "Joan of Arkansas," and an accompanying performance by Brady, adding a vibrant musical dimension to the interview segment. The songs evoke the spirit of classic Broadway and Hollywood musicals, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere of the program. (22:34 - 27:59)

Notable Lyrics Excerpt:
“Down in the country where oats are sown
Lived a farmer's daughter by the name of Joan.
Shy as a bunny and as funny but a honey...” (22:34)

Conclusion

As the episode draws to a close, Brady Harris and Jack Whiting exchange goodbyes with heartfelt sentiments, promising to return for future sessions. Frank Hernandez wraps up the meeting, reinforcing the community spirit of the MGM Radio Movie Club and leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the next episode. (27:56 - 28:45)

Notable Quotes and Highlights:

• Brady Harris on Hollywood Inspiration:
  “Working in Hollywood is like a golf game. It all depends on your approach.” (12:37)

• Jack Whiting on Broadcasting Styles:
  “Technically they're exactly the same, of course, but their method of broadcasting is entirely different.” (19:06)

• Humorous Exchange on Singing Restrictions:
  Brady Harris: “Isn't that a fine kettle of fish when a composer can't play his own tunes?” (17:57)
  Johnny Green: “Many thanks.” (18:12)

• Jack Whiting on Fan Reception:
  “If they hadn't liked me and anything goes, I could never have stayed in London.” (19:58)

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully blends Hollywood news, personal interviews, and musical performances, encapsulating the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes stories and the camaraderie of industry insiders, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts of classic radio and vintage Hollywood glamour.