Andy Devine: The Unforgettable Voice of Old-Time Radio

Andrew Vabre Devine was born on October 7, 1905, in Flagstaff, Arizona. He grew up in the nearby town of Kingman, where his family had moved when he was just a year old. Devine's father, Thomas Devine Jr., was born in Michigan, while his mother, Amy Ward, was the granddaughter of Commander James H. Ward, the first U.S. Navy officer killed during the Civil War.

As a young man, Devine attended several colleges, including St. Mary's, St. Benedict's, Northern Arizona State Teacher's College, and Santa Clara University, where he was a talented football player. He even played semi-professional football under the pseudonym "Jeremiah Schwartz." Devine's athletic prowess would later lead to his first significant film role in the 1931 movie "The Spirit of Notre Dame."

Entry Into Radio

After college, Devine headed to Hollywood, where he worked as a lifeguard at Venice Beach, conveniently located near the major film studios. It was during this time that Devine's distinctive, wheezy voice first caught the attention of casting directors. Though initially thought to be a hindrance in the transition to talkies, Devine's unique vocal quality ultimately became his trademark.

Devine claimed that his distinctive voice resulted from a childhood accident in which he fell while running with a curtain rod in his mouth, causing it to pierce the roof of his mouth. However, a biographer later revealed that this was one of several stories Devine fabricated about the origin of his voice. Regardless of the true story, Devine's raspy, duo-tone delivery made him instantly recognizable and helped launch his successful career in radio and film.

Notable Radio Shows and Characters

Devine's radio career took off in the 1930s, and he became a regular on the popular "Jack Benny Program." Benny frequently referred to Devine as "the mayor of Van Nuys," a nod to Devine's role as the honorary mayor of that city, where he lived to avoid the bustle of Hollywood.

One of Devine's most iconic radio roles was as Jingles, the sidekick to Guy Madison's character, Wild Bill Hickok, in the long-running series "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok." Devine and Madison reprised their roles when the show later transitioned to television.

In addition to his work on the "Jack Benny Program," Devine appeared over 75 times on the show between 1936 and 1942, often in Benny's recurring Western sketches, "Buck Benny Rides Again." Devine's ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles made him a valuable asset to the show's ensemble.

Broadcasting Style and Signature Techniques

Devine's distinctive voice and comedic timing were the hallmarks of his radio performances. His wheezy, scratchy delivery added a unique charm to his characters, whether they were sidekicks, supporting players, or the occasional lead. Devine's ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his voice alone made him a master of old-time radio.

In addition to his vocal talents, Devine was known for his physical comedy and improvisational skills. He often incorporated slapstick elements into his radio performances, drawing on his background as a football player and lifeguard. Devine's willingness to take risks and try new things endeared him to both his co-stars and the listening audience.

Professional Relationships and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Devine forged strong professional relationships with a number of notable figures in the entertainment industry. His long-running partnership with Jack Benny on the "Jack Benny Program" was particularly fruitful, with Devine becoming a beloved member of the show's ensemble cast.

Devine also enjoyed a successful collaboration with actor Guy Madison, with whom he starred in the radio and television versions of "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok." The two actors shared a natural chemistry that helped to make their characters, Wild Bill and Jingles, one of the most iconic duos in Western entertainment.

In addition to his work in radio, Devine appeared in numerous films, often alongside other legendary actors such as John Wayne. His ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles made him a valuable asset to the film industry, and he continued to work steadily throughout his career.

Legacy and Influence

Andy Devine's impact on the world of old-time radio cannot be overstated. His distinctive voice and comedic talents made him a beloved figure among listeners, and his versatility as a performer allowed him to take on a wide range of roles and characters.

Devine's legacy extends beyond his radio work, as he also made significant contributions to the film and television industries. His memorable performances in classic movies like "A Star Is Born" and "Stagecoach" cemented his status as a true character actor, while his role as Jingles on "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok" introduced him to a new generation of fans.

Even after his passing in 1977, Devine's influence continues to be felt in the world of entertainment. His name has been immortalized in popular culture, with references to his distinctive voice and persona appearing in songs, television shows, and other media. Truly, Andy Devine's legacy as one of the most iconic and unforgettable voices of old-time radio will endure for generations to come.

Works and Appearances

Radio

"The Jack Benny Program" (1936-1942) - Recurring character
"The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok" (1951-1958) - Jingles, Wild Bill Hickok's sidekick
"Andy's Gang" (1955-1960) - Host

Television

"The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok" (1951-1958) - Jingles, Wild Bill Hickok's sidekick
"The Twilight Zone" (1959) - Guest appearance
"The Rounders" (1966) - Honest John Denton
"Batman" (1966) - Cameo appearance as Santa Claus

Film

"The Spirit of Notre Dame" (1931) - Supporting role
"A Star Is Born" (1937) - Danny McGuire
"Stagecoach" (1939) - Buck
"Romeo and Juliet" (1936) - Supporting role
"Island in the Sky" (1953) - Expert pilot
"Zebra in the Kitchen" (1965) - Supporting role
"The Green Slime" (1969) - Supporting role
"Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came" (1970) - Supporting role

Animation

"Robin Hood" (1973) - Voice of Friar Tuck

Stage

"Show Boat" (1957) - Portrayal of Cap'n Andy