Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Chronology - Week 1 - January

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January 1

J. Edgar Hoover, 6th Director (1924-1972) Federal Bureau of Investigation, appointed by President Coolidge, and whom Desi Arnaz considered a friend during several years of interaction between them; wrote the book, Persons in Hiding 1939, the film of which William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) was a star; is born in D.C., this date in 1895.

Xavier Cugat, considered foremost Latin musician in America at the time; one of Desi Arnaz’ first employers in the United States, having listened to Desi and the Siboney Septet (a group of five), hired the twenty-one year old on the spot for $35/week and a one-year’s apprenticeship, in 1937; Xavier was an artist and painted Lucille Ball in oil; composed ‘Cui Cui’, song from The Long, Long Trailer, 1956; appears with Desi Arnaz, 1984; as well as appears with Lucille Ball twice, 1994 (both via archival footages), is born is this date in 1900.

LA Examiner, Louella O. Parsons: “John Cromwell deserves credit for direction of I Dream Too Much, Lucille Ball appears in the cast, with Henry Fonda and Lily Pons,†published this date in 1936.

Lucille Ball appears in RKO Radio film, That Girl From Paris, as Claire 'Clair' Williams, with Lily Pons, Gene Raymond and Jack Oakie; and in uncredited role, Jimmy Dorsey, which is released this date in 1937.

LA Evening Herald Express, Harrison Carroll: “ . . . Lucille Ball, supporting player, is seen to advantage in supporting role in That Girl From Paris . . . . , the whole of which do good work,†published this date in 1937.

LA Examiner, That Girl From Paris, Louella O. Parsons: “I never realized how pretty Lucille Ball is until seeing her as the specialty dancer,†published this date in 1937.

Desi Arnaz gets early positive press: The Gotham Life Magazine, in an article on La Conga: “A word about Desi Arnaz, the handsome glamour boy who leads the famous Conga line . . .†this date in 1940.

Lucille Ball bought a “one-picture deal†at Columbia, Pink Lady, set to roll in February, a film apparently not made, this date in 1948.

W. Argyle Nelson, long-time associate of Lucille Ball and the Arnazes; as well as Production Supervisor, on set of Desilu Productions’ U.S. Marshal, 8 episodes, 1958-59, commencing this date in 1955.

Desilu Productions', Cavalcade of America “The Boy Who Walked to Americaâ€, co-starring Hugh Beaumont, Tyler McVey, William Schallert, John Stephenson, Stuart Whitman; and Lucy two-time guest cast member, George Pierrone, airs this date in 1956.

W. Argyle Nelson, long-time associate of Lucille Ball and the Arnazes, as Production Supervisor, 29 episodes, 1956-59, on set of Desilu Productions’, Whirlybirds “Airborne Goldâ€, (six prior unknown dates of episodes in 1956), this 7th episode, starring Mike Connors; as well as with James A. Paisley, Production Manager, and Dann Cahn, Editor, with twenty-plus year veteran Desilu employee involved in many Desilu productions and Desilu Studios-filmed programs, Bill Heath, Editorial Supervisor, airing this date in 1957.

Desilu Productions', Official Detective (unknown dates 1957) Everett Sloane, Host, 20 episodes, Episode 1, “Armor Attackâ€, with Joe DeSantis, as Kriegman, among others; Episode 12 “The Wristwatch, starring Ross Elliott, among others; Episode 13, “Bombing Terror†starring Harry Lauter, among others; Episode 14, “The Brunette†starring Charles Tannen, among others; Episode 18, “The Deserted Houseâ€, starring Peter Leeds, among others; and Episode 20, “Chainstore Hold-Ups, starring Jan Shepard, among others, premieres in 1957.

Desilu Studios'-filmed and Desilu Productions', This is Alice, “The Princessâ€, starring Phyllis Coates, as Clarissa Holliday Tommy Farrell, as Chet Holliday, and Patty Ann Gerrity, as Alice Holliday; premeires (39 episodes, 1958) in 1958.

Desilu Productions', U.S. Marshal “The Dinerâ€; starring John Bromfield; co-starring Harold J. Stone, among others; with W. Argyle Nelson, Production Supervisor, James A. Paisley, Production Manager, (first of 7 episodes, 1958-59), airs this date in 1958.

Desilu Productions', Grand Jury “Paroleâ€, Driscoll and Kennedy are ordered to scrutinize the actions of a parole board and discover that a convict was released from prison after bribing one of its members - starring Harold J. Stone, as John Kennedy; Lyle Bettger, as Harry Driscoll; Don Beddoe, as Donner; and Bob Hastings, as Tracy, premieres in 1959.

Lucille Ball is the Mystery Guest on CBS’ (“What’s My Line?â€) - John Daly, Host - her purpose - to plug her Broadway musical, Wildcat, with Faye Emerson and Shelley Berman, broadcast this date in 1961.

Hedda Hopper Collection: “Lucille Ball is inspired by radio and television and the live audience, rather than film; because, in film, with heavy stage make-up which disrupts facial movement, by the time the camera gets around to the ‘closeup’, the comedy is gone,†this date in 1962.

Post Journal - Jamestown, NY: “Lucy Heads Volunteer Fire Dept.†(The Lucy Show) Lucy harangues so ardently for so long about lack of adequate fire protection, she is cornered into taking charge of the Women’s Volunteer Firemen. Nothing could be more disastrous for the citizens of Danfield,†published this date in 1963.

Lucille Ball made guest appearances, from time to time - 1967 to 1984, on the top-rated live entertainment and information program, The Bob Braun Show, originating at WLWT, a daily 90-minute show syndicated throughout the heartland of America, featuring live music, singers, and special guests from many walks of life, beginning in 1967.

The Lucy Show “Lucy and Viv Reminisceâ€, written by Milt Josefsberg, based on an idea by Hilda Josefsberg; some segments by Madelyn Davis and Bob Caroll, Jr., with Bob Weiskopf and Bob Schiller, guest co-star, Vivian Vance (Lucy’s Ethel Mertz), with classic “flashback†scenes, in color and black and white (flashback scenes), without an audience, the second of three Times Lucille trots out old clips and builds a show around them, and all but one are clips from the first season, airing this date in 1968.

Brooks Benedict, Lucille Ball early film-career co-star, 1934, with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) 1935; Lucille 1935 and 1936; Frawley 1937; Lucille 1938; Frawley 1939; Desi Arnaz’ 1941; Lucille 1945 and 1947; as well as Frawley 1952, dies this date in 1968.

Maurice Chevalier, appears with Lucille and Desi, all by archival footage(s), Toast of the Town 1958; guest co-star, with entire cast, Lucille, Desi, Vivian & William (The Mertzes), The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show 1958, and (“I Love Lucyâ€) 50th Anniversary Special, 2001, via archival footage(s), dies this date in 1972.

Desilu Productions’, ABC's Late Night, formerly billed as ABC’s Wide World of Entertainment, “Warner Bros. Movies: A 50 Year Salute†hosted by Bette Davis, with Jack Benny and George Segal, among others, and “Marjoe's Country: Nashvilleâ€, Marjoe Cortner, Host; (both undated programs) airing during 1973; as well as “Episode Dated 8/24/73â€; but, premieres, with Liza Minnelli, with Genevieve and David Niven: “Jack Parr Tonightâ€, this date in 1973.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy is Really in a Pickleâ€, written by Madelyn Davis and Bob Carroll, Jr. - Harry needs “someone†for a sour pickle commercial, and both Lucy and Kim, (Lucie Arnaz), are used - based on (“I Love Lucyâ€) Vitameatavegamin episode, with guest, Dick Patterson, airing this date in 1973.

Lucie Arnaz stars, as herself, with Darren McGavin, as Humphrey Bogart, in Stacey Productions', Universal TV, Don Adams' Screen Test, “To Have and Have Not/The Maltese Falconâ€, Don Adams, Host, and Dick Tufeld, uncredited announcer, on this date in 1975.

Victor Buono, guest co-star, Desilu Productions’ Harrigan and Son, 3 episodes, 1961; The Untouchables, 1961, 1962; and Lucille's guest co-star (“Here’s Lucyâ€), 1969, appears with Lucille, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, 1971; as well as with Lucie Arnaz, The Hollywood Squares, 1972, dies this date in 1982.

Lucille Ball stars (“Here's Lucyâ€) “Lucy and the Guard Gooseâ€, as Lucy Barker, “World's Greatest Grandmaâ€, “Lucy's Green Thumbâ€, “Lucy and Curtis Are Up a Treeâ€, and “Breaking Up is Hard to Do†(all unaired episodes), premieres this date in 1986.

Lucille Ball is told Desi Arnaz has lung cancer, in early 1986.

Cesar Romero, co-star, with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1935; Lucille Ball early film-career friend, and appears with the Arnazes, Meet the Stars, #6: Stars at Play, 1941; with the Arnazes, A Star Is Born World Premiere, 1954; guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Red Skelton Show 1956, 1957; Arnazes guest co-star, Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour, also starring Vivian Vance and William Frawley (the Mertzes) 1957; guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed The Red Skelton Show, 1959, 1960; Desilu Productions’, The Texan, 1959, and The Ann Sothern Show, 1960; guest co-star, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Betty Hutton Show, 1960; Desilu Studios-filmed, Fractured Flickers, 1963; with Lucille, Salute to Stan Laurel, 1965; guest star, (“Here’s Lucyâ€), 1969, as well as with Lucille, Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood, 1987, dies this date in 1994.

Ray Walston, star, Desilu Studios-filmed, My Favorite Martian, as Uncle Martin, 107 episodes 1963-1966, appears with Desi Arnaz IV, Salute to Oscar Hammerstein II, 1972; as well as with Lucie Arnaz, The Mike Douglas Show, 1972, dies this date in 2001.

Latin Long Island – by N.J. Fernandez – “Cuba’s favorite son, America’s greatest import†– The Story of Desi Arnaz – published edition January/February 2005.

The Post-Journal, Jamestown NY - Saturday - Critical Eye - In past year, local area had full plate of art and entertainment offerings - by Robert W. Plyler - “At the risk of beginning tritely - Happy New Year. Concerts - ...and of the performance by Lucy portrayer, Suzanne LaRusch, who performed at the Reg Lenna Civic Center (formerly Palace Theater), as part of Lucy-Desi Days this (past) year...†published this date in 2011.

 

January 2

 

Howard Caine, of Hogan’s Heroes’ fame; cast member, Desilu Productions’ The Californians, 8 episodes, between 1957-1958; The Untouchables 2 episodes, 1961; Fair Exchange, 3 episodes, 1962; appears with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) My Three Sons, 1962; Desilu Productions' Glynis, 1963; and The Greatest Show on Earth, 1963; The Lucy Show, 2 episodes, 1964; as well as Desilu Studios-filmed, Slattery's People, 1965, is born this date in 1928.

Lucille Ball appears as a regular cast member Sunday nights on CBS Radio’s, The Phil Baker Show, on this date in 1938.

Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz depart Grand Central Station, NYC to Chicago and LA, for a delayed honeymoon. Desi kept other passengers awake late into the night playing his guitar and singing love songs to Lucille, on this date in 1941.

Desi Arnaz appears in Columbia Pictures Corporation’s Documentary/Short: Screen Snapshots: Memories in Uniform - John Carroll is Ralph Staub's guest and they reminisce and watch film of the days when Carroll and other Hollywood stars, Ronald Reagan, Gene Autry, James Stewart, Clark Gable and others, were in the uniforms of the US Armed Forces. broadcast this date in 1954.

Daily Variety, quotes Desi Arnaz: “I admit arguments with CBS about longer shows have been thoroughly dissipated by the rapid comeback of ‘Lucy’ in the ratings,†published this date in 1956.

Lucille Ball to an interviewer: “Desi and I were driving in from Palm Springs, headed for another hectic week at the Studio, when he reminded me that five years of doing (‘I Love Lucy’) were winding down; we had only a few shows to go, and it was time to renew our contract with CBS. We were still on top. How did I feel about it, he wanted to know . . .†in 1956.

(“I Love Lucyâ€) “Staten Island Ferry†- Fred and Lucy try the Ferry, because Fred fears going to Europe by boat – Lucy gets seasick, with veteran supporting cast members, Charles Lane and Stanley Farrar, airing this date in 1956.

Cosmopolitan, Frederick Christian: “Lucille Ball’s Serious Life With Desi Arnaz,†published in 1960.

Lucille Ball becomes better acquainted with future husband, Gary Morton, upon his return from his weeks’ Ohio nightclub engagements. They met with Wildcat co-star, Paula Stewart and her husband, Jack Carter (another popular comedian) who had collaborated for the ‘blind date,’ in a small Italian Restaurant, the Silver Moon Pizza Parlor, just ten blocks from Lucille’s apartment, in 1961.

Jack Carson, Lucille Ball early-career co-star, RKO’s 1937, 1938; co-stars with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) 1940, 1941, 1942; appears with Lucille and Desi Arnaz when he hosts A Star is Born World Premiere, 1954; Desilu Studios’ New Comedy Showcase, 1960; as well as with Lucille and Desi, via archival footages, Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage 1983; dies this date in 1963.

Dick Powell, Lucille Ball’s friend and early film career co-star 1943, 1944; TV, 1963; with Lucille and Desi, Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage, via archival footage(s), 1983; as well as with Lucille, That's Dancing, 1985, dies this day in 1963.

Desilu Productions', Fractured Flickers, with veteran supporting cast (Lucy) member, Hans Conried, Host, (who explains what a 'fractured flicker' is; introduces several wacky segments and interviews guests) co-starring this segment, Pat Carroll and semi-regulars, June Foray and Paul Frees, which airs on this date in 1964.

The Lucy Show “Lucy’s Substitute Secretary†- Bob O’Brien, writer - Lucille’s personally-requested guest co- star, Ruta Lee – also co-starring veteran supporting cast member Roy Roberts, in an episode revolving around Lucy’s vacation scheduled for Lake Arrowhead, California, airs this date in 1967.

Desi Arnaz IV, stars in Columbia Pictures' TV, Police Story, Season 3, Episode 13, “Spanish Classâ€, as Officer Taylor, co-starring Dane Clark and Cindy Williams, airing this date in 1976.

LA Times, Dan Martinson: “Whatever happened to Stars of Television’s ‘Golden Age’?†published this date in 1985.

Una Merkel, Lucille Ball’s early film career co-star, 1934, 1937, and distant relative; appears in film with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) 1940, 1941, 1950; as well as with Lucille, That's Dancing, 1985, and That's Entertainment! III, 1994, both via archival footage, dies this day in 1986.

Allan Hale, Jr., of Gilligan’s Island fame; co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) film, 1950; Desi Arnaz guest co-star, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1962; Lucille Ball guest co-star, 1963 and 1970, dies this date in 1990.

TV Guide cover - Roseanne Barr, one of many actresses impersonating Lucille Ball, appears as “Lucy Ricardo†on this date in 1992.

Shepard Menken, cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€), four episodes, 1951, 1953, 1956, dies this date in 1999.

The Latest From Everthing Lucy Blog – “PBS Documentary Features Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz in a four-part Documentary 'Pioneers of Television' Series, which is running consecutive Wednesday evenings through January 23, and traces Television's beginnings through episodes entitled 'Sitcoms', 'Late Night', 'Variety', and 'Game Shows',†posted this date in 2008.

Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, and (“I Love Lucy") will be featured in the new four-part PBS series "Pioneers of Television", a four-part Primetime Emmy-nominated documentary which looks at some of the programs and stars from the early days of US Television. The 'episode' on situation comedies focuses on contribution of several classics from the 1950s, including (“I Love Lucyâ€) and others. Appearing are: Phyllis Diller, Barbara Eden, Andy Griffith, Art Linkletter, Mary Tyler Moore, Joyce Randolph, Dick Van Dyke, and Betty White, and airs on this date in 2008.

 

January 3

 

Zasu Pitts, a veteran of some 217 films; Lucille Ball early film-career ‘hero’ (she admired Zasu’s red hair); appears with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz) The Gale Storm Show, 1956; guest, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Red Skelton Show, 1956; guest co-star, Desilu Productions’, Guestward Ho! 1961; as well as with Lucille, via archival footage, The Big Parade of Comedy 1964, is born this date in 1894.

Ray Milland, co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1934, 1940; Lucille Ball co-star, 1950, co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1952; as well as guest co-star, Desilu Productions’, Here’s Hollywood, 1962, is born this date in 1905.

Victor Borge, appears with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Toast of the Town, 1958; worked with Desi, who directed Lucille, at her insistence, in guest appearance, with Gale Gordon, for pilot of projected Borge anthology for Desilu Comedy Playhouse, produced and filmed in January 1962: a sketch about a woman who had never been in an airplane; never aired; with Desi Arnaz IV, The Hollywood Palace, 1964; with Lucie Arnaz, The 36th Annual Tony Awards, 1982; with Lucille, via archival footage, Legends of Comedy, 1992; as well as with Lucille and Desi (via arhival footage), Ed Sullivan All-Star Comedy Special, 1995, is born this date in 1909.

Maxene Andrews, of the legendary Andrews Sisters, co-stars with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1942; (performed with Desi Arnaz and his Orchestra for two nights in April, 1951) – was a neighbor of the Arnazes at Chatsworth, (hosted a baby shower for Lucille when Lucie was due to be born); guest, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Joey Bishop Show, 1964; appears with Lucille, via archival footage, Entertaining the Troops, 1994; is born this date in 1916.

Jesse White (The Maytag Repairman of television commercials); co-starred with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1948; Desilu Productions’, Cavalcade of America, 1956, guest co-star, Desilu Studios-filmed, Make Room For Daddy, 2 episodes, 1953-54; Desilu Productions’, The Texan, 1959; Desilu Studios-filmed, The Red Skelton Show, 1959; Desilu Productions’, The Ann Sothern Show 6 episodes, 1960-1961; Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, 2 episodes, 1958; Desilu Productions', Angel, 1961; Desilu Studios-filmed, The Dick Van Dyke Show, 1961; Lucille's guest co-star, (“Here’s Lucyâ€), 1972; as well as with Lucille, A Dean Martin Celebrity Roast: Jimmy Stewart, 1978; and Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood, 1987, is born this date in 1917.

William Frawley (Lucy’s Fred Mertz) appears, London's Globe Theater, She’s My Baby, as Meadows, an original play by Rodgers and Hart, 71 performances, through March 3, 1928, co-starring Irene Dunn, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Beatrice Lillie, and Clifton Webb, beginning this date in 1928.

Robert Loggia, guest,Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, 1959; and Desilu Productions’, The Untouchables, 1962; as well as co-star with Lucie Arnaz, 2006, is born this date in 1930.

Hollywood Citizen News, RKO-Radio Pictures will make The Second Shot – a romantic drama, with Lucille Ball, in one of the cast top slots; production may begin by the end of the month,†published this date in 1939.

Lucille Ball appears on the cover of Star Weekly on this date in 1948.

Lucille Ball signs a contract and stars in Miss Grant Takes Richmond, her first movie with Columbia, in 1949.

Hollywood Citizen News, Sidney Skolsky: “S.P. Eagle Party – The Affair – as it always is. Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, despite the orchestra and loud chatter, could be heard having their fun . . .†published this date in 1949.

Cosmopolitan – Albert Morehead – “Lucille Ball flunked dramatic school; was fired as a chorus girl; but, today this sexy readhead is TV’s Top Comedienneâ€, published in 1953.

(“I Love Lucyâ€) “Lucy Learns To Drive†- continuation episode of “Getting Ready†- preparing for the trip to California, Ricky buys a new 1955 Pontiac convertible for the trip; Lucy wrecks it trying to make a U-turn in the Holland Tunnel; and bringing sponsor Proctor & Gamble on board alternate weeks with Philip Morris, airing this date in 1955.

Desilu Productions', Cavalcade of America, “The Boy Who Walked to Americaâ€, co-starring, among others, Hugh Beaumont, William Schallert, John Stephenson, and Stuart Whitman, among others, airs this date in 1956.

(The Ford Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show), (The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour) “Lucy Hunts Uraniumâ€- the episode inspired by The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, guest co-starring Fred MacMurray and June Haver, the first episode filmed on location, viewed by 17.383 million homes, a 41.6 rating, involving a ‘Lucy moment’ for Desi, who performs a ‘perfectly-executed stunt’ himself, and then discovers no one has been filming, veteran supporting cast members, William Fawcett, Charles Lane, Robert Jellison, Norman Leavitt, Louis A. Nicoletti, Paul Powers, Maxine Semon, and Keith Thibodeau, as Little Ricky; Della Fox, Costumer for twelve episodes; as well as Robert Reeve, Rerecording Editor, and airing this date in 1958.

Lucille Ball appears on NBC's Today Show, with Dave Garroway, Host, with John Chancellor and Barbara Walters, co-host; Lucille speaking about her experiences in the Broadway musical play Wildcat, airing this date in 1961.

Julius (Julian) Tannen, Lucille Ball’s Jamestown NY early-childhood hero, and 1942 co-star, dies this date in 1965.

(The Lucy Show) “Lucy, the Rain Goddessâ€, involving Lucy in a tribal rain dance, co-starring veteran supporting player, Willard Waterman, as well as Jamie Farr and Alan Reed, Jr., airing this date in 1966.

Howard McNear, Arnazes co-star The Long, Long Trailer 1953; appears in Desilu Productions’ Willy 1955; supporting cast member (“I Love Lucyâ€) 1956; Desilu Productions’, The Brothers, 1956; Desilu Studios-filmed, The Real McCoys, 1958-59; Desilu Productions’, December Bride, 1956, 1957, and The Ann Sothern Show, 1958, 1960; as well as guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Joey Bishop Show, 1961, dies this date in 1969.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy and the Little Old Ladyâ€, written by Fred S. Fox and Seaman Jacobs - Helen Hayes, guest co-star and Lucille Ball idol, arrives at the Agency, stranded; Lucy takes her in, with Lucie Arnaz, as Kim Carter, airing this date in 1972.

LA Times, Cecil Smith: “Lucy: Truly a Child of the Tube,†published this date in 1980.

Lucie Arnaz and husband, Laurence Luckinbill appear on Regis and Kathy Lee, on this date in 1991.

Palm Springs Life: “Love Lucyâ€, published in 1997.

Palm Springs Life – by Allene Arthur – “How We Loved Lucy: How the Desert Loved Lucy – But Desi’s Got Some’Splainin’ to Doâ€, published in 2002.

Pat Hingle, guest co-star, Desilu Productions' The Untouchables 1962, 1963; Mission: Impossible, 1967; appears with Lucille Ball, General Electric's All-Star Anniversary 1978, as well as Lucie Arnaz' co-star, 1982, dies this date in 2009.

 

January 4

 

Dyan Cannon, guest star, Desilu Productions’, The Untouchables, 1962, appears with Lucille Ball, Women I Love: Beautiful But Funny, 1982; with Lucie Arnaz and Lucille, Night of 100 Stars II, 1985; as well as with Lucille, via archival footage, Bob Hope's Bag Full of Christmas Memories 1993, is born this date in 1937.

Hollywood Citizen News, Lloyd E. Sloan: “Lucille Ball has purchased an original story, The Dawn Comes Up, by Lee Lawrence – a melodrama-comedy about a red-headed gal who gets involved with some Oriental heavies, and finally decides to take a fast boat to Frisco. She’ll ask Columbia for star billing,†published this date in 1949.

Cosmopolitan, Albert Morehead, “Lucy Ball. She Flunked Dramatic School; Was Fired as a Chorus Girl, but Today This Sexy Redhead is TV’s Top Comedienne,†published in 1953.

Cosmopolitan: “Lucille Ball says there’s a need for an all-around comedienne, who plays everything from slapstick to romance. I’m the girl, and I’m out to prove it,†published in 1953.

Confidential: “Does Desi Really Love Lucy?†published in 1955.

An elderly couple came backstage after a performance of Wildcat with an incredible story of being in Hawaii, where they found a gold chain and Saint Christopher Medal, with a wedding ring inscribed: “To Desi With Love From Lucy†and wanted to return it personally (it turns out that the year before Desilu bought RKO he had lost them during their vacation in Hawaii!) in 1961.

Ralph Dumke, co-star, the Arnazes Forever Darling 1956; as well as guest cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1957; as well as Desilu Productions', The Texan, 1959, dies this date in 1964.

Kraft Music Hall - “An Evening With Desi Arnaz†- Vivian Vance (Lucy’s Ethel Mertz), Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr., guest co-starring, with Desi, Sr. as an aging Band Leader at a high school prom, airing on this date in 1970.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy’s Vacationâ€, written by Fred S. Fox and Seaman Jacobs - Lucy wants to take her two-week vacation, Harry balks - episode with Parley Baer, a My Favorite Husband and (“I Love Lucyâ€) veteran supporting cast member who will also play Harry’s “shrink†in several future episodes; as well as Sid Gould, airing this date in 1971.

Life Magazine: In an article on famous people who passed away in 1989, quoted Lucille Ball, posthumously: “I don’t have an epitaph; but, it is nice to have entertained five generations . . . only recently have I realized I’ve outlived my supply of henna,†in 1990.

Lucie Arnaz (Research: ....although no information is available on this casting), is cast as Bess Hammersmith, in series, Sons and Daughters, premiering on this date in 1991.

TV Guide: Lucy Ricardo is once again imitated by Roseanne Barr†“Is Roseanne the new Lucy? NO. Not since the 50's, has one woman so dominated television†(reportedly, the lowest-selling TV Guide cover ever), published for the week ending the 10th, this date in 1992.

Palm Springs Life, “Love Lucy,†is published in 1997.

Biography: This TV Series placed Lucille Ball as Number One on its list of the Top 15 television comedians, in an episode in 2002.

The Latest from Everything Lucy – TampaBay.com – by Anne Glover, Times Staff Writer - Suzanne LaRusch hopes you'll love Lucille Ball, too - “LaRusch portrays Ball in a play she wrote, 'An Evening With Lucille Ball, Thank You for Asking!' opening tonight through the 17th at David A. Straz, Jr., Center for the Performing Arts. It's a play; not old skits. LaRusch began writing the play in 1997; but, not until 2006 did she have a version she would perform. She has been greatly supported by Lucille's children, Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill and husband, Laurence Luckinbill, and Desi Arnaz IV, and wife, Amy Arnaz – Lucie, as Director, provides valuable insight into her parents' life, and joins in 'talkback' sessions after performances on January 14, 15 and 16â€, posted this date in 2010.

 

January 5

 

George Reeves, (TV’s Superman from 1952-1957); co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1952; guest co-star, (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1957; and with Lucille, Desi, Frawley and Vivian Vance (The Mertzes), by archival footage, as well as Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill and Desi Arnaz IV, The (“I Love Lucyâ€) 50th Anniversary Special, 2001, is born this date in 1914.

Jane Wyman, friend of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz; co-star, William Frawley (Lucy’s Fred Mertz), 1950; co-star with Vivian Vance (Lucy’s Ethel Mertz), 1951, a film just completed when Vivian was introduced to Desi; Bill Asher, who directed the last Lucy episode, joined Jane in NBC’s Fireside Theater, 1955; Desilu Productions’, Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, 1960; as well as guest, Desilu Productions’, Here’s Hollywood, 1962; with Lucille, Hollywood Without Make-Up, 1963, with Lucille, Women I Love: Beautiful But Funny, 1982; with Lucille, Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood, 1987; as well as with Desi and Lucille, via archival footage, Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's, 1997, is born this date in 1917.

NY Times: “Hey Diddle Diddle will continue with rehearsals despite the illnesses of its co-producer, Anne Nichols, and cast member, Lucille Ballâ€, published this date in 1937.

LA Examiner, Behind the Makeup: “Desi Arnaz, Robert Taylor and Phil Terry wore beards for their roles in Bataan Patrol - a fan on the set said they looked pretty awful and were not the type to charm a woman, and was informed the men were married to three of the most beautiful women in Hollywood (Barbara Stanwyck, Lucille Ball, and Joan Crawford),†published this date in 1943.

Lucille Ball appears on Chicago Sunday Tribune Picture Section cover this date in 1947.

Desi Arnaz and the Desi Arnaz Orchestra record the background music for CBS-TV (“I Love Lucyâ€), Episode #18, episode, filmed this date in 1952.

(“I Love Lucyâ€) “Ricky Has Labor Painsâ€, one of the ‘pregnancy’ episodes, with overall warmth and humanity, based, in part, on the My Favorite Husband episode, “The Christmas Stag,†co-starring Jerry Hausner and Hazel Pierce, airing this date in 1953.

Post Journal - Jamestown, NY: Lucy-Desi May Come in Helicopter – Tentative Plans Made For Landing Behind Jamestown High School – “Jamestown is planning a major production of its own with an all-Jamestown cast to greet a favorite daughter and her husband when they arrive here in three weeks for the world premiere of their latest MGM picture, ‘Forever Darling’. Plans are underway for CBS Television coverage of the festivities, as well as talk of Life Magazine doing a photo story on the event,†published this day in 1956.

Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse,â€Trial At Devils Canyonâ€, co-starring Lee J. Cobb and Phyllis Coats, Vito Scotti, among others, airs this date in 1959.

Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball appear in an episode of Desilu Studios-filmed (The Danny Thomas Show): “Lucy Upsets the Williams’ Household,†as Lucy and Ricky Ricardo; move in with the Williams while the men are appearing together at a nightclub; guest co-starring veteran supporting cast member, Hans Conried, (with different writers and different characterizations of Lucy and Ricky), with James A. Paisley, Production Manager, airing this date in 1959.

The Arnazes and Desilu Productions might well regret its recent sale of (“I Love Lucyâ€) to CBS for a relatively low $4 million, when the network finally is able to jump sponsor-conflict hurdles and schedule the series to air on its weekday daytime schedule, beginning this date in 1959.

Variety: “There’s a whole new career shaped out for (‘I Love Lucy’), which already enjoys the distinction of being probably the all-time, high billing bonanza for CBS-TV, what with its multiple re-run schedules, etc,†published this date in 1959.

J. Edgar Hoover, after reviewing scripts and films of The Untouchables, which Desi Arnaz sent him, stated to Desi that Eliot Ness never was one of ‘his’ agents when the Bureau of Investigation assumed the name Federal Bureau of Investigation, in 1935, years after Ness’ legendary employment, so he would appreciate it if the show did NOT reflect his name alongside Ness’,†this date in 1959.

Lucille Ball appears on Newsweek Magazine cover this date in 1962.

Life, “A Lusty Return by Lucy,†published this date in 1962.

Life Magazine, photographer, Ralph Crane: Lucille Ball appears on the cover and in an article entitled, “Lucy is Back†(three-merged clowning Lucy heads), published this date in 1962.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy and Liberaceâ€, written by Fred S. Fox and Seaman Jacobs - Liberace brings $50,000 worth of his personal clothing, including the Edwardian tuxedo jacket, one of several he uses in his club act for the rest of his life, also guest co-starring Paul Winchell, which episode airs this date in 1970.

Hans Conried, Lucille Ball early film-career co-star, The Big Street, 1942; veteran supporting cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1952; guest co-star, Desilu Studios-filmed, Make Room For Danny, 1956-63; Whirlybirds, 1957; Desilu Studios-filmed, The Red Skelton Show, 1957; Desilu Productions’, The Californians, 1958; The Lucy Show, 1963; and Host, Desilu Studios-filmed, Fractured Flickers, 1963-64; as well as guest, (“Here’s Lucyâ€), 1973, dies this day in 1982.

Desi Arnaz IV, stars as Walter Nebicher in 20th Century Fox TV’s Automan, “Ships In The Nightâ€, with Robert Lansing and Gerald S. O'Loughlin, and guest co-starring veteran co-star, Frank Aletter, Cesare Danova, as well as France Nuyen, Desi's partner - Dino, Desi & Billy combo - Billy Hinsche, composer, theme music, airing this date in 1984.

Sid Gould, cousin, Gary Morton, Lucille Ball veteran supporting cast member, 16 episodes, The Lucy Show, 7 episodes with Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz); 1 with Lucie Arnaz, 1967; Lucille's film co-star, 1963; co-star, The Lucille Ball Comedy Hour: “Mr. And Mrs.â€, 1964; (“Here’s Lucyâ€) - 37 episodes, 1968-1974, - 1, Vance, 1972 - 12 with Lucie - 5 with Desi Arnaz, IV; co-star, with Lucille, Happy Anniversary and Goodbye, 1974, as well as Lucy Gets Lucky, 1975, dies this date in 1996.

Buffalo News, “Arts Council Direction Takes Job In Schenectady . . .†published this date in 2002.

The Latest from Everything Lucy Website – Do It Today: An Evening With Lucille Ball at the Florida International Museum - “An icon of American television lives on in the form of Suzanne LaRusch in An Evening With Lucille Ball, Thank You for Asking! opening tonight and remains onstage at Straz Center for the Performing Arts, for a two-week period. Directed by Lucie Arnaz, the one-woman show allows LaRusch's Lucy to share stories about classic sketches from (“I Love Lucyâ€) and her relationship with co-star husband, Desi Arnaz. Lucille was named one of Time Magazine's '100 Most Important People of the Century' and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kennedy Center Honors. Talkbacks with Lucie Arnaz will occur after performances on January 14, 15 and 16â€, posted this date in 2010.

 

January 6

 

William Newell, co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), 1939, 1941; Lucille Ball early film-career co-star, 1945; with Frawley, 1948, 1949, 1950; with both Lucille and Frawley, 1950; Desilu Productions’, Our Miss Brooks, 1955, The Texan, 1958, cast member, Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, 1959; and Desilu Productions’, The Untouchables, 1960; is born this date in 1894.

Helen Kleeb, supporting cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1955; guest, Desilu Productions', Those Whiting Girls, 1955; guest, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Adventures of Jim Bowie, 1957; Desilu Productions', The Walter Winchell File, unknown year, The Ann Sothern Show, 1959; co-star, William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), The Gale Storm Show, 1959; Desilu Productions', Harrigan and Son, 1960, 2 episodes, 1961, is born this date in 1907.

Billy Sands, guest star Desilu Productions',ABC's Wide World of Entertainment, 1973; as well as 3 episodes of (“Here's Lucyâ€), 1971, 1972, 1974, is born this date in 1911.

Loretta Young, Lucille Ball early-film career co-star, 1934, 1943; with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), Letter to Loretta, 1954; with Lucille and Desi Arnaz, Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage, 1983; as well as with Lucille, Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood, 1987, is born this date in 1913.

Danny Thomas, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz’ friend and guest co-star; appears with Lucille and Desi A Star Is Born World Premiere, 1954; guest, Desilu Productions', Shower of Stars, 1954; one of the Desilu Studio ‘clan’ Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse, and recurring guest appearances, 1958; Desilu Studios-filmed, star, Make Room for Daddy, 106 episodes 1953-1964, The Jack Benny Program, as himself, 2 episodes 1953-1959; Desilu Productions', Here's Hollywood, 2 episodes, 1961; Executive Producer, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Dick Van Dyke Show, 5 episodes, 1962-65, associate producer, 1962, Producer, The Bill Dana Show, 1963, 1964, The Dick Van Dyke Show, 1963; Executive Producer, The Real McCoys, 54 episodes, 1957-63; guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Joey Bishop Show, 1964; guest star, The Lucy Show, 1965; Executive Producer, Desilu Studios-filmed, That Girl, 9 episodes 1965-71; Executive Producer, The Guns of Will Sonnett, 49 episodes 1967-69, Producer, 1 episode, 1967; with Lucille, Carnival Nights, 1968; with Lucille, Make Room for Granddaddy, 1970; with Lucille, The Bob Hope Show, 1970; guest star, (“Here's Lucyâ€), 1973; with Lucie and Desi IV, Vivian and William (The Mertzes), CBS Salutes Lucy: The First 25 Years, 1976; with Lucille, The Practice, 1976; with Lucille, Host, CBS: On The Air, Part II, 1978, Happy Birthday, Bob, 1978, Bob Hope's 30th Anniversary Special, 1981, with Lucille and Desi (all by archival footages), Hollywood Out-takes and Rare Footage, 1983; with Lucille, All-Star Party for Clint Eastwood, 1986; with Lucille, America's Tribute to Bob Hope, 1988; with Lucille, The American Experience, 1988; with Lucille, via archival footage, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, 1992; guest - all via archival footage, The (“I Love Lucyâ€) 50th Anniversary Special, 2001; with Desi, via archival footage, The Nightclub Years, 2001; as well as with Lucille and Desi, archival footage appearances by all, TV Land Moguls, 2004, is born this date in 1914.

Vic Tayback, co-star, Desilu Productions’, Mission: Impossible, 1966, 1968; guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed, Family Affair, 1966, 1967; Desilu Productions', Star Trek, 1968; with Desi Arnaz, Alice, 1976; as well as with Desi Arnaz IV, Gridlock, 1980, is born this date in 1930.

LA Evening Herald Express, Harrison Carroll: “Lucille Ball and bridegroom, Desi Arnaz, were plenty lucky escaping from an automobile crash in Palm Springs New Year’s Eve afternoon. Their new car was hurled against a cement wall and was badly damaged. Outside of Lucille getting a black eye, the honemooners escaped injury,†published this day in 1941.

Desi Arnaz and the Desi Arnaz Orchestra record for RCA Victor, in Hollywood, California, - 4-disc Album, Babalu, “La Comparsitaâ€, “Tico Tico†and “Brazilâ€, this date in 1947.

LA Times - Edwin Schallert: “She (Lucille Ball) has efficiency as a comedienne . . . in Elmer Rice play, Dream Girl,†published this date in 1948.

Lucille Ball comes to the Biltmore Stage, LA, after twenty-seven weeks starring in Dream Girl for Herbert Kenwith, producer, play opening June 10, 1947, East Coast McCarter Theatre Stage, part of Princeton Drama Festival - a summer-stock production, with further performances in Boston, Detroit, Milwaukee, and other cities, (a part Lucille received as a ‘gift’ not of her own determined efforts for a stage career, when Kenwith pursued her over several days last year; conspired to meet her; had lunch with her; and convinced her to star in his play), this date in 1948.

Post Journal - Jamestown, NY: “Lucille Ball appears in Her Husband’s Affairs, beginning tomorrow at the Shea’s Theater (now the Lucille Ball Little Theater)â€, published this date in 1948.

LA Times – Edwin Schallert: Dream Girl, with Lucille Ball: “…she has efficiency as a comedienne; has been wasting her time in films; excellent in her performance in the Elmer Rice playâ€, published this date in 1948.

LA Evening Herald Express, Harrison Carroll: “When Desi Arnaz winds up his tour, February 7, he and Lucille Ball will have eight months together in Hollywood - probably the longest stretch since their marriage,†published this date in 1948.

[‘Research’ Note: This note appears with several dates of importance, pre-“I Love Lucy†which made history and will perpetuate.] Hollywood Citizen News, Lloyd L. Sloan: “Peter Lawford, Keenan Wynn and other stars are tossing a shindig at Ciro’s Restaurant honoring Lucille Ball’s new Favorite Husband radio show – the favorite husband, Desi Arnaz, is making the publicity boys at Columbia happy these days; has written two songs for Night in Havana, recording them for Victor, and will plug them and the film at NY Strand, and stage a Cuban premiere of the film this summer,†published this date in 1949.

Lucille Ball and co-star, Richard Denning, appear, My Favorite Husband “Liz Substitutes in Club Play,†– episode #113, basis for (“I Love Lucyâ€) “Lucy Writes a Playâ€, airing this date in 1951.

Desi Arnaz and Orchestra record the background music for CBS-TV (“I Love Lucyâ€), Episode #144, which episode is filmed this date in 1956.

Jerry Thorpe, writer, and Bert Granet, producer, of the thirteen sixty-minute Lucy-Desi Specials, drove out to Palm Springs to the Arnaz’ Ranch, (they, enjoying the holidays), to show them a ‘rough cut’ of “Lucy Wins a Racehorse,†this date in 1958.

The Lucy Show “Lucy Plays Florence Nightingaleâ€, Chris needs a dress for her first formal dance; Lucy candy stripes at the hospital where Mooney has a broken leg, veteran supporting cast member, Kathleen Freeman, in her first Lucy role, airing this date in 1964.

Desilu Productions', Mannix, “The Falling Starâ€, starring Mike Connors, as Joe Mannix, with Army Archerd, Rona Barrett, Joseph Campanella, Morgan Jones, Jan Sterling, among others, airs this date in 1968.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy, the Fixer†- Ray Singer, writer, - Lucy goes to work at Harry’s house, so he can get a tax deduction, and ‘fixes’ Harry’s electrical wiring - pure Laurel and Hardy, from beginning to end, with Lucie Arnaz, as Kim Carter, airing this date in 1969.

Post Journal - Jamestown, NY: Celoron Park’s Early Outdoor Movies – mid-1920’s: “Lucille Ball made things lively at Celoron Park when she moved to Celoron and the local youth dressed up in their mothers’ old clothes and attended movies, free of charge, where a projection booth had been set up by George Samuelson and on a building wall,†published this date in 1979.

Ruth Perrott, Lucille Ball early radio-career co-star and veteran supporting cast member, My Favorite Husband; once considered for the role of Ethel Mertz (“I Love Lucyâ€); supporting cast member, 1952, 1953; guest Desilu Studios-filmed, Make Room for Daddy, 1962; as well as The Bill Dana Show, 1963, dies this day in 1996.

Weekly Magazine - American Profile - shares a major story with its three million readers entitled: “Jamestown Loves Lucyâ€, on this date in 2008.

Bob LeMond, narrator - My Favorite Husband, Lucille Ball-Richard Denning CBS’ Radio show; Lucille Ball early film-career co-star, 1942; appears (“I Love Lucyâ€), Unaired Pilot, 1951; with Arnaz children, Lucie and Desi IV, and the cast, via archival footages, (“I Love Lucyâ€) The Very First Show! 1990, dies this date in 2008.

 

January 7

 

Eliot Daniel, Disney arranger and lyricist, and (“I Love Lucyâ€) theme music composer, 181 episodes, incidental music for the first few seasons; theme music for Desilu Productions’, December Bride, 1 episode and composer – Willy, 16 episodes, 1954; Those Whiting Girls, 6 episodes 1955; (“I Love Lucyâ€) Christmas Show, 1956; Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour, 13 episodes 1957; and Desilu Productions’, Angel, 10 episodes 1960; wrote (“I Love Lucyâ€) theme played in The Mambo Kings, starring Desi Arnaz IV, as his father, 1992, is born this date in 1908.

Gotham Life: “A word, too, about Desi Arnaz, a LaConga, protégé and featured in Too Many Girls, the handsome glamour boy leading the famous Conga line, who hurries off after every performance to continue playing at LaConga, just up Broadway, published this date in 1940.

Lucille Ball and co-star, Richard Denning, appear, My Favorite Husband “Over Budget – Beans,†– episode #26, with veteran supporting cast members, Parley Baer, Helen Burke, John Hiestrand, and Frank Nelson - produced and directed by Jess Oppenheimer and written by Madelyn Pugh and Bob Carroll, Jr., airs this date in 1949.

[‘Research’ Note: This note appears with several dates of importance in prelude “I Love Lucy†which made history and will perpetuate.] Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, taking time off from their respective radio shows, ‘plug’ those radio programs on the east coast and each perform on the CBS’ Ed Wynn Show, Lucille in pantomime with Ed; Desi ‘Straw Hat Song’ - will again perform in (“I Love Lucyâ€) Men are Messy, 12/3/51 - the first live television show to originate from Hollywood, this date in 1950.

(“I Love Lucyâ€) â€The Benefit†- the first show establishing that Lucy cannot sing, a bit borrowed from the Arnazes stage act, and establishes that Ethel can play the piano, music provided by Marco Rizo (member of the Desi Arnaz Orchestra – offstage) - the episode based on My Favorite Husband “Charity Review,†episode is one which Lucy “actually†does get into Ricky’s act, and airs this date in 1952.

Desi Arnaz and Orchestra record the background music for CBS-TV (“I Love Lucyâ€), Episode #83, which episode is filmed this date in 1954.

Post Journal - Jamestown, NY: “Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Head Heart Fund Volunteers – Jamestown’s Lucille Ball and husband, Desi Arnaz have been named co-chairmen of the Heart Fund Volunteers for the second successive year, which marks the fifth year Lucille and Desi have participated in the campaign,†published this day in 1956.

CBS’ The Lucy Show – 30-minutes, black & white – this is not a misprint, nor Miss Ball’s classic 1960’s sitcom. The re-runs of (“I Love Lucyâ€) on Sundays had done so well for CBS, they decide to add this extra night of (“I Love Lucyâ€) re-runs on Saturdays in the very early evening. New graphics are made to reflect the change of title and sponsor this date in 1956.

Desi Arnaz, as Ricardo The Orchestra Leader, and the Desi Arnaz Orchestra, perform at CBS-TV General Service Studios (“I Love Lucyâ€) “Lucy and the Loving Cup,†the last episode on which the Tropicana/Club Babalu set appears on the series, which episode revolves around guest co-star, jockey Johnny Longdon getting a trophy, and veteran supporting cast members, Robert Foulk, Sandra Gould, and Keith Thibodeaux (Little Ricky), airs this date in 1957.

James A. Paisley, Production Supervisor, 17 episodes, Desilu Studios-filmed, The Betty Hutton Show, “Love Comes to Goldieâ€, commencing this date in 1960.

The Lucy Show “Lucy’s Sister Pays a Visitâ€, guest co-starring Peter Marshall, The Hollywood Squares host of many years, and a reference in the original script to Jack and Paula Carter, who introduced Lucille to Gary Morton during Wildcat, airing this date in 1963.

Desilu Productions', The Greatest Show on Earth “Where The Wire Endsâ€, starring Jack Palance, as Johnny Slate, co-starring Dorothy Malone and Alejandro Rey, among others, airs this date in 1964.

Lucille Ball and husband, Gary Morton, make a guest appearance on Password, with Host Allen Ludden, a vehicle for Lucille to play a game (her favorite thing to do besides performing); look beautiful and plug her current television series; airing this date in 1965.

The NY Post reported that a film version of the Broadway show Wildcat would star Ann-Margret, though it never came to pass, this date in 1966.

Desi Arnaz Productions', Desi executive producer, The Mothers-in-Law, “The Kids Move Outâ€; co-star, Jerry Hausner, as Janitor, with regular cast members, airs this date in 1968.

LA Times: “Just after lunch while on Christmas holidays, a skier crashed into Lucille Ball, breaking her leg in several places. Lucille ‘recuperated’, after weeks in Aspen Valley Hospital and rest in Palm Springs, by filming the next twenty-four episodes of (“Here’s Lucyâ€) in a wheelchair,†published this date in 1972.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy is a Bird-Sitterâ€, guest co-starring Arte Johnson, later of Saturday Night Live fame, who always closes with “Goodnight, Lucy,†and which episode is based, in part, on “Lucy Gets a Bird†(The Lucy Show), airing this date in 1974.

Sarah Selby, supporting cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1954; Desilu Productions', Cavalcade of America, 1956; with William Frawley (Lucy's Fred Mertz), My Three Sons, 1960; Desilu Productions', The Greatest Show on Earth, 1964; with Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz), 1965; as well as guest star, Desilu Studios-filmed, Family Affair, 2 episodes, 1966, dies this date in 1980.

LA Times, Robert Riggs: “Where’s Ricky Ricardo’s Hollywood?†published this date in 1983.

 

January 8

 

Jose Ferrer, husband to Rosemary Clooney, Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz) co-star, 1950; guest co-star, Desilu Productions', The Greatest Show on Earth, 1963; appears with Lucie Arnaz, The 35th Annual Tony Awards, 1981, and Night of 100 Stars, 1982; as well as appears with Lucille Ball, The Kennedy Center Honors: A Celebration of the Performing Arts, 1986; is born this date in 1912.

Larry Storch, guest, Desilu Productions', Shower of Stars, 1955; appears with Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz), ,1965; co-star, Desilu Productions', The Mothers-In-Law, 1967; co-star, Mannix, 1968; with Lucille Ball, Ann-Margret: From Hollywood with Love, 1969; appears in film with Desi Arnaz, 1976; co-star, Desi Arnaz IV, The Love Boat, 1978, in film, 1982; is born on this date in 1923.

Soupy Sales, who appeared in 5370 live television shows, the most in TV history; uncredited co-star, Lucille Ball film, 1963, co-star, unsold pilot - Desilu Productions', Vacation Playhouse, 1966; and with Desi Arnaz IV, Hollywood Squares, 1970; Panelist, with Lucie Arnaz, (“What's My Line?â€) 70's, is born this date in 1926.

Lucille Ball appears, uncredited, as the Secretary, in Columbia film, Behind The Evidence, co-starring Pat O'Malley, as Lt. James, released this date in 1935.

Elvis Presley, with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, all three icon(s) appearances via archival footage(s) Toast of the Town, 1958; with Lucille, via archival footage, Fame in the Twentieth Century, 1993; and That's Entertainment III, 1994; with Lucille and Desi, via archival footage, ABC 2000: The Millennium, 1999; with Desi, via archival footage, The Nightclub Years, 2001; as well as with Lucille, at #3; Elvis at #2, both via archival footage, 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons, 2003, is born this date in 1935.

LA Examiner, Louella O. Parsons: “Lucille Ball is hobbling around with a sprained ankle, the result of a badminton spill,†published this date in 1938.

CBS' Radio hosts The Screen Guild Theater, 30-minute anthology drama running 527 episodes, (through 6/28/48), (Lucille Ball appears while the Theater is under the auspices of the NBC Network 1950), premieres this date in 1939.

LA Evening Herald Express, Jimmy Starr: “ . . . to the Biltmore Theater, to take a squint at Lucille Ball in Dream Girl . . . thought she sparkled in a dull playâ€. . . published this date in 1948.

Lucille Ball offered a “one-picture†deal at Columbia – Pink Lady – set to roll in February; but the film never happens; (then, Jack Benny’s radio writers concoct a Broadway-bound play, expressly for Lucille and Desi Arnaz, Hey, Seniorita; theatrical impresario Shubert brothers seek out the Arnazes for Casa McClusky; United Artists' consider the Arnazes for a film based on roving war photographer Capa’s biography Slightly Out Of Focus; each never to materialize; but, Sorrowful Jones, with Bob Hope, ultimately does), which offer of contract occurs this date in 1948.

William Morris Agency representatives – mindful of Desilu’s successful adaptation of Our Miss Brooks from radio to TV – approached Martin Leeds (Desilu) about transferring the long-running CBS’ radio-comedy series, December Bride, to the small screen this date in 1954.

William Frawley (Lucy’s Fred Mertz) appears on TV, The NBC Comedy Show, directed by Herbert Kenwith; Leo Durocher, Host, with Hy Averback, Pat Carroll, George Liberace, Jonathan Winters, and Henny Youngman, among many others, airing this date in 1956.

Lucille Ball always speaks well of her co-star, William Frawley, saying that Frawley “is Fred Mertz,†and literally pays tribute to him on This is Your Life “William Frawleyâ€, Ralph Edwards, hosting - also appearing Tim Considine and Fred MacMurray, among others, airing this date in 1961.

The NY Times – Lucille Ball interview, by Margaret McManus: “However pleased with recent husband, Gary Morton, she acknowledges to herself and others she is, in fact, a ‘career woman’ . . .†published this date in 1962.

Desi Arnaz guest appears, with Robert Wagner, on The Joey Bishop Show, this date in 1968.

Robert Bice, guest, Desilu Productions' Cavalcade of America 1956, Sheriff of Cohise (unknown year), Desilu Studios-filmed The Adventures of Jim Bowie 1956; (“I Love Lucyâ€), 1957; as well as Desilu Productions', The Texan, 1959; dies this date in 1968.

LA Times – Lucille Ball: “Just after lunch, on Christmas holiday with Gary, DeDe, Lucie, and then-husband Phil Vandervort, a woman came down the ski trail on Snowmass; crashed into me, and broke my leg in four places’ . . .†published this date in 1972.

(“Here’s Lucyâ€) “Lucy Goes on Her Last Blind Dateâ€, written by Madelyn Davis and Bob Carroll, Jr., with guest co-star, Don Knotts, because Harry ‘knows’ he’s rich; and with veteran supporting cast members, Vanda Barra and Sid Gould, airing this date in 1973.

Jenny Lewis, cast member, 13 episodes, as Becky, Life With Lucy, 1986; with Lucie Arnaz, Who Gets the Friends?, 1988, is born this date in 1976.

Reta Shaw, co-stars with Vivian Vance (Lucy’s Ethel Mertz), 1947, directed and produced by George Abbott; Lucille Ball guest co-star, The Lucy Show, with Vivian Vance, 1962; (“Here’s Lucyâ€), with Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz IV, 1968, co-starring with Lucie, 1972, as well as 1973, dies this date in 1982.

Boyd 'Red' Morgan, uncredited, guest, Desilu Productions', The Californians, 1958; Desilu Studios'-filmed, Yancy Derringer, 1958, 1959, both uncredited roles, Desilu Productions', The Texan, 3 episodes (1 uncredited role), 1959, Desilu Studios'-filmed, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, 1961; with Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz), 1965; Desilu Studios'-filmed, The Guns of Will Sonnett, 1968; as well as Lucille Ball guest, (“Here's Lucyâ€) 2 episodes, 1970; one episode, 1974, dies this date in 1988.

Donald L. Brodie, Lucille Ball early film-career co-star, both uncredited, 1935; guest cast member, (“I Love Lucyâ€) 1955; as well as guest, Desilu Studios'-filmed, Yancy Derringer 1959, dies this date in 2001.

Vanity Fair, David Kamp: “Magnificent Obsession,†– “a 1942 film by Orson Wells, The Magnificent Ambersons, considered to be a ‘lost film’ since it was taken over by RKO, ultimately purchased by Paramount, part of which became Desilu Studios, and may have been misplaced or destroyed at some point in time,†article published in 2002.

TV’s 15 Greatest Comedians - A & E Network – Lucille Ball was the number one television comic in this countdown - that being a mere hour-long, featuring very brief profiles of the top 15, in 2002.

Yvonne DeCarlo, guest Desilu Productions', Shower of Stars, 1957, and The Greatest Show on Earth, 1964; with Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance (Lucy's Ethel Mertz) via archival footage, 50 Years of Funny Females, 1995, dies this date in 2007.

Don Galloway, star, Ironside, between 1967-1975, as Det. Sgt. Ed Brown, 194 episodes; writer “Seeing is Believing†1969, co-stars with Desi Arnaz, Ironside 1974; co-star, Desi Arnaz IV, Love, American Style 1971; as well as with Desi IV, Automan, 1983; dies this date in 2009.

[C L A U D E]

My God honey, it must have taken you forever to get all this information together.

[Brock]

It must be a labour of love. The information contained in each post is incredible and a great reference!

[leenorman]

My God honey, it must have taken you forever to get all this information together.

 

February 2, or thereabouts within a day or two, I'll be commencing my 7th year in research, and typing.... hopefully, this will be the 'year' I get it to publisher; have the first 40 copies paid for since 2008!!!! iUniverse....

 

Thanks for being my most faithful 'reader'....hope you buy the book; it's been quite the emotional and educational trip of my life........Love, JK

[leenorman]

It must be a labour of love. The information contained in each post is incredible and a great reference!

 

Love you, too, for allowing me to post some of the entries; the 'actual' work is edited each week I enter it, by about an hours' worth of extra work; can't give away ALL my secrets until it's published.... Thanks again, Brock. Love, JK

[C L A U D E]

February 2, or thereabouts within a day or two, I'll be commencing my 7th year in research, and typing.... hopefully, this will be the 'year' I get it to publisher; have the first 40 copies paid for since 2008!!!! iUniverse....

 

Thanks for being my most faithful 'reader'....hope you buy the book; it's been quite the emotional and educational trip of my life........Love, JK

You HOPE i'll buy the book, yeah right, TRY AND STOP ME, all the great work you've put in, it's a MUST for any Lucy fan.

[leenorman]

You HOPE i'll buy the book, yeah right, TRY AND STOP ME, all the great work you've put in, it's a MUST for any Lucy fan.

 

Okay, BUB, you just became the President of my Fan Club; whenever.... Love, JK