Amos 'n' Andy
George Bernard Shaw once said, “There are three things I’ll never forget about America – Niagara Falls, the Rocky Mountains and Amos 'n' Andy.” This iconic series tells the story of two black characters—the modest, pragmatic Amos and the blustery, self-confident Andy—created by two white actors, Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll.
First airing as Sam ‘n Henry on Chicago’s WGN in 1926, the duo transitioned to rival station WMAQ in 1928 as Amos ‘n’ Andy. By 1931, the show had become a national phenomenon, attracting nearly 40 million listeners. Movie theaters even paused their features to broadcast the 15-minute show for audiences. Despite the controversy surrounding its dialect humor, the show appealed to a diverse audience.
From 1943 to 1955, Amos ‘n’ Andy was a weekly situation comedy, and the duo hosted The Amos ‘n’ Andy Music Hall from 1954 until their final broadcast on November 25, 1960. The series was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1988.
This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.
Chapters
Reviews
Great comedy
Nightmare
I really appreciate the opportunity to listen to a piece of history. After reading the history of Amos and Andy, I can see why people might be offended as the characters are questionable racial. However, I didn't listen to it from a race point of view. I really liked the characters as they were very funny... Andy as the dim wit and George as the ever scamming quick thinker with Amos being the ever ethical straight man. From history, a lot of people, (no matter what race they were) talked in slang like they do in the show. I do know that the television show/films were very racist as they protrade a very negative view of the African American/Canadian however, I didn't get that from listen to these shows. Keep an open mind and listen to how funny these stories are.
so funny!
the book owl
These stories are so hilarious! They all have a very diverse set of characters and yet have a unique story every time! It is so much like a little time capsule from WW2. Enjoy!
Beowulf
I listened to all of the episodes of Amos & Andy Show and enjoyed the fact that these old radio shows were saved.