Legendary American entertainer and comedian Bob Hope celebrates his 100th birthday today. From stage to screen and from radio to television, Bob Hope sang, danced and laughed his way into the hearts of millions around the world. VOA-TV’s Jim Bertel takes a look back at a century of Hope.
NATURAL SOUND – MOVIE
LANA
“Say, have the FBI Men found a steak yet?”
BOB HOPE
“Yes, it’s back stage. But Lana, this is dangerous. If this audience sees steak, they’ll come up here on stage after it.”
LANA
I don’t know, they’ve seen ham all evening and you’re still here.”
Bob Hope’s quick wit and comedic timing is legendary in the entertainment industry. After launching his career in Vaudeville, he easily transitioned to radio, television and went on to make more than 60 films.
NATURAL SOUND – BOB HOPE FILM MONTAGE
But it was entertaining the troops that became Bob Hope’s trademark. For nearly six decades, he traveled the globe entertaining military units far from home. The media dubbed him “America’s number one soldier in grease paint,” while the G.I.’s affectionately named him “G.I. Bob.”
BOB HOPE
“It’s been awhile since I’ve entertained servicemen. But Washington told me, if we can bring ships out of moth balls, why not you.”
Everyone including many American presidents, loved his comedic flair.
BOB HOPE
“I wanna tell you Mr. President with all the travel and work you’ve done, you look just great.”
U.S. PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN
“Bob, you look great too."
(BOTH TOGETHER)
"Well, I hope I look that good when I’m your age.”
Bob Hope “MC’d” (acted as the master of ceremonies for) the Academy Awards 16 times, but never received an Oscar for his acting.
BOB HOPE
“Thank you ladies and gentlemen. I’m happy to be here anyway.”
His first big movie roll was in “The Big Broadcast of 1938” in which he sang what later became his signature tune “Thanks For The Memories.”
NATURAL SOUND – BOB HOPE SINGING “THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES…”
Bob Hope, thanks for the memories.