March 23: Happy Birthday, Joan Crawford

Today's birthday salute goes to Joan Crawford, born today in 1904. Crawford's career began kicking in 1924, when she worked as a dancer in traveling revues. Spotted in a performances, she landed a gig in Innocent Eyes on Broadway. It wasn't long before she landed her first movie role, in The Circle, and the rest is history.

In 1934, Crawford made her first of many appearance on The Lux Radio Theatre, starring in an adaptation of the 1934 MGM film "Chained." In 1938 it was "Anna Christie," with Crawford playing the role made famous by Greta Garbo. She would later star in "A Doll's House" on the same program.

The much-sought actress also lent her talents to Screen Directors' Playhouse, Stars Over Hollywood, Hollywood Star Playhouse, and Suspense.

A happy birthday to Joan Crawford.

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1946 Great Crepitation Fart Contest

Not for the faint of heart, here is the remarkable 1946 Crepitation (Fart) Contest (part of the 1946 News Broadcasts Collection ). You'll enjoy the fart-off between champion Englishman Lord Windsmear, and challenger, Australian Paul Boomer who had stowed aboard a cabbage freighter. The hilarious comedy recording was apparently created a spoof by two Canadian radio sportscasters in 1946, but this 15 minute recording definitely has some gems in it. Apparently they made several copies, but it was not for distribution. The recording was copied again and again on disc and reel to reel tape. It was distributed underground and played in dark rooms and back alleys around the world. If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element This recording is available with many other delightful treats on Random Rarities #7 available on MP3 CD , Audio CD , and instant download .

April 27, 1932: The First Performance of Ed Wynn on Texaco Fire Chief Show

April 27, 1932: Ed Wynn , the Texaco fire chief, graced the airwaves for the first time on Texaco Star Theater. Wynn, who enjoyed popularity as a vaudeville performer, gave as a condition to his switch to radio, that a live audience react to his humor.His condition was granted by the network and so began Wynn's career as the first true superstar of radio. Ed Wynn was hosted a popular radio show on Tuesday nights for most of the 1930s. The radio show was heard in North America and sponsored by Texaco gasoline. On the show Wynn played as the " Texaco Fire Chief ". He was often seen wearing a fireman's helmet. For this show, Wynn would turned down the offer form The Wizard in MGM's adaptation of The Wizard of Oz , to play a role on that show.

June 12, 1890 Junius Matthews was born

On this day in 1980, Junius Matthews was born.

Old Radio

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