Frances Langford–Don Ameche Show, The – Nostalgia Central

1 9 5 1 – 1 9 5 2 (USA)
60 minute episodes

This lavish daytime musical variety series from ABC aired every weekday for six months from 10 September 1951 to 14 March 1952 and featured a potpourri of songs, comedy sketches, and audience participation fun, with actors Don Ameche and Frances Langford, who had previously worked together on the radio version of the comedy series The Bickersons (1946 – 1951).

The recurring comedy skit on the show was called ‘The Couple Next Door’, which depicted the trials and tribulations of marriage, with a young Jack Lemmon and (his then-wife) Cynthia Stone playing newlyweds. The skit served as the basis for their 1952 series, Heaven for Betsy.

Other segments of the show revolved around the endless stream of guests, with songs, dances and agreeable chit-chat-style interviews.

Velvet-voiced Frances Langford sang appealingly, and Don Ameche waxed enthusiastically about everything from an empty popcorn bag and polka dot paint to a vaudeville act that got the hook 30 years ago.

Ward Byron was the Executive Producer.

Hosts
Frances Langford
Don Ameche
Newlywed Husband
Jack Lemmon
Newlywed Wife
Cynthia Stone
Orchestra Leader
Tony Romano