Charlie McCarthy Chalk Carnival Figure
Edgar Bergen and his smart talking dummy Charlie McCarthy
began their show business career in vaudeville. A guest appearance
on Rudy Vallee's radio show in 1936 transformed the hard working
duo into an instant hit. Within several months they were the stars
of the Chase and Sanborn Hour. On this show Charlie feuded
with W. C. Fields, flirted with Dorothy Lamour and in general
was loved by all. Even though the concept of a radio ventriloquist
seems quite absurd today Charlie and later Mortimer Snerd and
Effie Klinker enjoyed tremendous success. Many promotional items
were produced over the years. Out 15.25" chalk figure was
most certainly a carnival prize. It probably dates from the late
1930's or early 1940's. It has its original gray, black, and red
paint. Charlie is wearing his tuxedo, top hat, and monocle. There
is still some of the original glitter on the lapels, bow tie and
hat. There is a chunk of the hat missing on the back. Click to view back
There are no marks. Despite his problems he is a wonderful souvenir
of the golden age of radio. $60.00 (Stock number 003CharlieMcCarthy)
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