Allen, Fred (1894-1956), was a noted American radio , stage , television , and motion-picture comedian . He became known for his dry, drawling humor and witty comments. He began his career as a juggler . In 1920 he left vaudeville to appear in such musical shows as The Passing Show of 1922 and The Greenwich Village Follies. Allen entered radio in 1932. His motion pictures included Thanks a Million (1935) and Love Thy Neighbor (1940), the latter with Jack Benny , his traditional “rival.” Allen’s book, Treadmill to Oblivion (1954), deals with his experiences in radio.
Allen was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on May 31, 1894. His real name was John Florence Sullivan. He died on March 17, 1956.
