Along with the other 25,000 people and things the Internet thinks are "national treasures'? At some point, the volume of national treasures makes the designation worth about a penny.
Mr. Laughton never failed to give an outstanding performance. I particularly liked him in "Witness for The Prosecution", currently free on UA-cam. Marlene Dietrich also gave a stellar performance in that film.
He was regarded by many of his peers as a rather unpleasant individual with issues of insecurity, poor self esteem and often insanely jealous of other actors' abilities and fame. I guess that very much makes him a mere mortal. For further proof of his mortality....go visit his grave. 😀
Bennett's comment to Charles Laughton was such a lovely compliment and delivered with real admiration. 23:12 Charles seemed very appreciative. It was nice after John's (well- intentioned) blathering about Henry VIII.
Charles Laughton, one of THE greatest film actors ever! My favorite movies are "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", "Witness for the Prosecution" and of course "Mutiny of the Bounty" (*MR* Christian!!). He even directed one of the best movies of the 1950s "The Night of the Hunter" with Robert Mitchum, Shelly Winters and Lillian Gish.
Imagine being able to see Charles Laughton and Burgess Meredith in Major Barbara on Broadway. Mr. Laughton was also the director. Included in the cast was Glynis Johns, Eli Wallach and Cornelia Otis Skinner
That is more of the kind of role one might expect for Burgess Meredith than one that he was considered for in a picture that ultimately was not made. There were several attempts to make a film of TE Lawrence's life before "Lawrence of Arabia" but none worked out for various reasons. A 1949 plan had Burgess Meredith playing the title role. I don't think it would have worked. Can't really see him on a camel among other reasons.
This is at least Laughton's 2nd appearance on this show and he never lasts more than a few minutes. His voice is so recognizable even when he mutters and tries to hide it.
People can't be defined by their pain alone: he had a loving a devoted wife (despite his conflicted sexuality) and a tremendous career. There was certainly a fair amount of joy in his life.
This is entertaining and a world that no longer exists and that is a loss because it was the best. I was born in the late 70s. This is amazing. Today entertainment is garbage and vulgarity.
When people on television had class...this wonderful program gives us the opportunity to see great actors and others out of their element and as very gifted and often kind and gracious people.
Charles Laughton is incomparable for me the greatest actor ever. No one comes close, sad that he died far too soon, his readings are also a joy to listen to fabulous ❤️
Charles Laughton, a great actor was only 56 at this time. Sadly he looks much older. He directed an excellant movie (just one) called, Night of the Hunter which everyone should see! Brilliant in Mutiny on the Bounty , Hunchback of Notre Dame, and other films.
He always looked older and ugly - and he knew that. It's a bit different to make a believable, complex characters out of that mold than be Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt and smile.
@@tylsimys67 Those are two good actors who don't mind and often excel from "uglifying" themselves a bit, as they are both strikingly good-looking. I think Tom Cruise' finest performance to date is Col. Stauffenberger in "Valkyrie"; I lost track of the fact that I was watching Tom Cruise 15 minutes into it. No arching of the eyebrows or wide smile; a very somber but determined slow burn from point a.) to point b.). Brad Pitt benefits from the mystifying, ghastly scar tissue around his neck in "Inglourious Basterds", not to mention obvious signs of aging. It lends a gritty realism to the Aldo Raine character that wouldn't be there if he'd hopped into the makeup chair each day for a beauty touch up like some hambones do.
Arlene Francis was so darn good on this show. Notice at 20:48 after Charles Laughton responds to her question, she replies back, "Jolly good!" She obviously picked up on his English accent, even though he only replied with one word. That alone is amazing. And I think she threw out the "jolly good" as a signal to her teammates that the mystery guest is British.
Burgess Meredith was a fine actor. When I was a teenager, I first became acquainted with him as the second high school principal on the TV drama "Mr. Novak". Later on, when watching episodes of "The Twilight Zone", I discovered he'd starred in four episodes. He started out on the stage and did well, and then went into movies. Thanks to the Hollywood blacklist during the era of McCarthyism, he didn't work in film for ten years, but managed to get by doing radio and stage roles and eventually found a renewed career doing television. Of course, he played "The Penguin" on "Batman" from 1966-1968. He was on the small side, all of 5'6" tall, and could play any part. He was both a star and a fine character actor -- someone dedicated to his craft. I especially liked him in the hour-long episode of "The Twilight Zone" called "Printer's Devil" from 1963 -- in that episode, he had the title role. Of course, he played in all the "Rocky" pics as the old man who trained Rocky to be a prizefighter -- I only saw the first one of those films. Burgess Meredith was an actor's actor, so to speak and never was anything other than excellent in my opinion.
David Felperin -- Yeah, me too. James Franciscus was something to look at and I was in high school, so I had that same reaction. Also when it came to Richard Chamberlain as Dr. Kildare. (In fact, James Franciscus was on the short list for playing Kildare, but Chamberlain was the ultimate pick.) Both totally handsome and young enough.
Loved your comment in tribute to the late great Mr Meredith ! So well said and so well put ! He really was one of our greatest actors, being equally good in both comedic and dramatic roles !
Burgess Meredith did a lot of roles in his career. It is not so bad to be known as playing "Mick" and the "Penguin" as your two most known roles. He was great as both characters.
He was also great in The Story Of GI Joe, in which he played the famous war correspondent, Ernie Pyle. *Robert Mitchum was also played a lead role in this movie
I'm a bit surprised that Burgess didn't catch the couple who ran the pub considering the short film he made during World War II introducing American servicemen to the English pub culture. Maybe he was too focused on what was going on between the tie and the belt. 😂
the great charles laughton, what a treat to see him in person and out of character. hilarious line of questioning with burgess and the pub owners, starting with arlene 13:27, and the slow subsequent loss of control by john daley. good stuff.
This is the second time the panel confused the mint with the Bureau of Engraving. The first time was when Ivy Priest, who is mentioned in this episode, was a contestant a year or two earlier. She was the person whose signature appeared on paper money and the panel thought for a time that she was with the mint.
what a wonderful experience to be able to see Laughton...such a good actor and a a great wit. too bad Elsa did not come as well. Witness for the prosecution...one of my very favorite pictures.
Absolutely love to see the beautiful clothes and accessories worn by the ladies and gents! Ladies often wore gloves, carried handbags, and always wore the most beautiful jewelry. Classy, classy, classy, all the way. Stunning ~~~~~ (It was awful when a thief mugged Arlene getting out of a taxi and took her diamond heart necklace. Hope he got caught later at least, with something, and stayed years and years in prison for his crimes.)
If you have never seen Peter Ustinov's impression of Charles Laughton from the time when he was talking about the making of Spartacus, I highly recommend it.
Being a child of the late 80's/early 90's I forever associate Mr. Meredith with Grandpa Gustafson in Grumpy Old Men - one of my favorites. How lovely to see him in younger days, what a ticket!
You are young. If you don't know, he is really best known playing the penguin in the 60's series "Batman", and most notably " Mickey", Rocky's trainer in the movie Rocky.
Oh yes, I've seen Rocky (of course!) but since Grumpy Old Men gets at least annual viewing in our house, that's the character I think of first. And what a character! Thank you for the info on Batman, though, I hadn't realized that and will look it up : )
+Jenny Brown I've never seen grumpy old men, but he was also known for being in the old "Twilight Zone" shows in the 60's. But I first remember him as the "Penguin" in Bat man. Not that I was a real Batman fan. For me he was Mickey.
I've looked up his filmography and he was in Of Mice And Men too! If you can stand a bit of cheesy-ness I highly recommend GOM and the sequel too, great repartee between Lemmon and Matthau (a la Odd Couple movie) and the still smokin' Ann-Margret and Sophia Loren : )
Watching this is very sadly nostalgic for me. I was not alive during this era but my Country was clearly in it's stride at this time. The game was won by using critical thinking skills and logic (a lost art) but putting the game aside for a moment; just listen to the beautiful use of the English language and the quaint and polite etiquette extended to every panelist. Now fast forward to 2014 and imagine how fascinated our culture is today with the vulgar Kardashian woman or the goon Kayne West or how young girls adore Miley Cyrus. This is all the evidence one needs as testimony to our Country's demise to the gutter in a short 60 year span. What brought that about? You and I know inside though it is unspeakable to discuss in polite society. Imagine the next 60! How terrifying is that thought?
You are correct. Our popular culture has become a sewer of vulgar exhibitionism and the celebration of mediocrity. Politeness has been gradually replaced by the cultural Marxism of political correctness.
Reggie1971la Please don't bother responding further to this user, Reggie. He or she will no longer be commenting on my videos due to many, many comments added of an aggressive and/or controversial nature, which I don't allow on this channel. You may continue to see notifications of comments from this person, but that's only because I have no way of controlling the Google+ content for linked posts that show up both there and on UA-cam. But rest assured, no more comments from this user will be seen on UA-cam from now on-- and practically no one pays the slightest attention to Google+ anyhow.
one of the greatest actors ever and even rarer...one of the few i watch a movie etc..just because he is in it...amazing that he perhaps was at his best in light comedy though no one would list him that way...or rather few would.... Charles Laughton.....one of a kind!
Look at all the fuzz and flakes on Laughton's lapel. They didn't have lint rollers in those days. I wonder if he was on a bender. The producers should have prohibited the question, "Are you appearing at the present time in the theater, or in a film that' currently playing?" It makes it too easy to guess.
Charles Laughton's brother was a hotelkeeper on the east coast of Yorkshire in England. A few years after I stayed there in the early '80s, the hotel had to be evacuated on account of its imminent slide into the North Sea., the ravages of coastal erosion taking its toll.
I' am binge watching all of these fine shows of WML, and you can learn a lot of the times and events of the 50's thru them. I also have featured some of them on My face Book page called Baby Boomers 1946 - 1964.
What's My Line? You learn so much about the times and see the changes in all involved and get to watch them age in a week-end of viewing, and get to see how current issues are talked about and history as it happens.
That scene between him and Peter Ustinov! "Let's mix business with pleasure......" You know, you see these top actors fro the time of WML and you get a yen to see them onstage. Actually go into a theater and watch/listen to them interact under the guidelines of a finely crafted play. As opposed to jumping over each other in superhero leotards in front of a green screen.
Marvellous. Love the show and Charles, the panel and the contestants. Sad to think, these wonderful people passed long ago. So much better times than today. Family fun, with no profanity bad manners or filth. Thank you so much for posting my favourite game show.
According to a 1944 directory of London pubs, the Sussex Tavern was located at 668 Streatham High Road SW16. London. The building is still there, but it is now a kebab house.
One thing in regards to the Mystery Guests. They are usually only in NYC for some other reason. All the people on the panel read the Theatrical Rags, so they know who is in town doing what.......what movie, what play, etc. So that gives them an edge up. That's why the panel usually guesses who the Mystery Guest is.
Yes. This. I don't know if you've seen the comments from folks who are convinced the show was rigged because of the quick guesses in the mystery guest segments. As if any producer would think it would be entertaining for the audience for the panelists to end the round after 3 questions. I kinda find it annoying that Bennett, in particular, ended the mystery guest segments so quickly so often. As I recall, he's the reason they decided to switch the format of questioning to one at a time per panelist, because he so often guessed on his first turn.
And they ask the same damn questions every show. How did it last this long? I suppose because the surprise guests were not only real movie stars, but craftsmen as well.
aspenrebel it seems to be kind of a shame that they always get it so fast. Why even bother to have the person show up??? Just have a picture and let them guess by asking John, who is in town this week, let's see... hmmm?????
In 1956, the U.S. Mint had three locations where circulating coins were struck: Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. If a coin had no identifying letter on it, it was made in Philly -- and if it showed D, it was made in Denver and S meant it was made in San Francisco. Nowadays, the San Francisco Mint no longer makes circulating coins, but it's still there and still active. It makes special coins that are sold to collectors, especially "proof" coins whose backgrounds are finely polished and shiny like mirrors -- and even expensive proof coins made of coin silver alloy (90% silver content). I've noticed, in the past, that panelists on WML seem to have the mistaken idea that "the Mint" issues all U.S. money, which isn't true. The mint only mints coins, which is why it's known as a "mint" -- The U.S. Bureau of Printing & Engraving produces paper money, which is issued through the various regional branches of the Federal Reserve Bank. Paper money is printed, not minted. Arlene Francis seemed to be one of these people who is confused about what mints do -- and so did Burgess Meredith John Daly had it right when he informed the panel that the U.S. Mint has nothing to do with paper money but only makes coins.
Laughton seems to be fighting off misery--this is in the wake of his sole directorial masterpiece, NIGHT OF THE HUNTER, being released to crickets by a studio that didn't care about it to a '50's audience that didn't get it.
Anyone notice this quirk. Without blindfolds, John Daly will announce a conference, but with blindfolds, never does. It always generates a question from the panel.
Laughton clearly was not amused. 😂 Still, I love him on film. I live far from “the legitimate theatre.” Thank You for posting this. Maybe he was tired, sick, or having a bad day …. ❤️
Two months earlier, Charles Laughton agreed to fill in for Ed Sullivan (who had been in a car accident) on his show. Not that important, but important because Charles introduced a special guest that night whose appearance would become iconic.
I've watched quite a few of these episodes and many of them Mr. Daly says, 'we'll be back in 30 seconds'...How I wish the commercials of today only took 30 seconds! The show interrupts the seemingly endless string of commercials!
The first guest, W H Brett, Director of the U.S. Mint, had a father of the same name who was a Union Civil War Vet and the founder of Western Reserve University in northeast Ohio. His father was Pres of the American Library Association and a major innovator in the Public Library system in and around Cleveland Ohio.
The Loud Laugher with the "har har har" must be a member of the staff as it shows up often when someone is really bombing, like Burgess did at one point ( he turned and noticed it). The Loud Laugher laughs like that a lot when Robert Q lays an egg as well. I look forward to hearing it.
Indeed ! That was one of his best roles and greatest performances ! Of course I think he was wonderful in everything...my personal favorite is the barrister in "Witness for the Prosecution".
![What's My Line? - Alfred Greunther; Fred MacMurray & June Haver; Tab Hunter [panel] (Feb 10, 1957)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MNwLYV-k-Ug/mqdefault.jpg)
![What's My Line? - Alfred Greunther; Fred MacMurray & June Haver; Tab Hunter [panel] (Feb 10, 1957)](/img/tr.png)
![What's My Line? - Jules Montenier [the program's sponsor!]; Jayne Mansfield (Feb 12, 1956)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/B_CZn-Zajew/mqdefault.jpg)
What's My Line should be declared as a national treasure.
Along with the other 25,000 people and things the Internet thinks are "national treasures'? At some point, the volume of national treasures makes the designation worth about a penny.
As I do when I take off my hat, you make a good point !! :-)
But this is a National Treasure and to think otherwise would be an act of gross stupidity.
michellecalling I agree
@@buckhorncortez absolutely and totally!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mr. Laughton never failed to give an outstanding performance. I particularly liked him in "Witness for The Prosecution", currently free on UA-cam. Marlene Dietrich also gave a stellar performance in that film.
This show is lovely. The outfits, the manners, the respect and the the panel and John Daly.
I can never watch enough of Charles Laughton. Way back as a child I remember my dad saying Charles Laughton was one of the greatest actors ever.
charles laughton is a legend...its almost unreal to see him like this among mortals.
He passed away just 6yrs after the show.
He was regarded by many of his peers as a rather unpleasant individual with issues of insecurity, poor self esteem and often insanely jealous of other actors' abilities and fame. I guess that very much makes him a mere mortal. For further proof of his mortality....go visit his grave. 😀
@@DG-mv6zw
In other words, an actor. But a glorious one.
@@DG-mv6zw That's all hearsay, but you've just taken it upon yourself to reveal outright what you are 😂
Even that mans signature is above and beyond and to see him write is a joy.A true star in every sense.Charles Laughton.
An actor ahead of his time. His one and only movie directorial effort "Night of the Hunter" is a true unique masterpiece.
Oh, how we are so lacking now days in great talents like Charles Laughton. Really, there are no actors in Hollywood who can come close.
It’s always a treat to watch what my parents were laughing at, long after I went to
bed!
I like Burgess Meredith's voice. He had a very good distinct voice.
Griffith Williams Someone had to say it ;-). Glad it wasn't me.
He squawked like a penguin when he wasn't banging out a column on a typewriter on the front lines.
I absolutely love Burgess as Jack Lemmon’s dad in Grumpy & Grumpier Old Men.🤣
He’s a gem.
Yeah, he was fantastic in that role.
Yeah. "One day you wake up and realize.... you're not eighty anymore!"
I eat 5 pieces of bacon for breakfast, a bacon sandwich for lunch, and for dinner...bacon
Bennett's comment to Charles Laughton was such a lovely compliment and delivered with real admiration. 23:12 Charles seemed very appreciative. It was nice after John's (well- intentioned) blathering about Henry VIII.
Dorothy Kilgallen is such a captivating lady. She always seems like the smartest person in the room, yet the most humble.
Not necessarily humble. I’ve seen her arrogant side quite a few times on this show. In particular- her disdain for men with beards.
Still she was legendary.
Humility is the last thing I'd associate with her.
Captivating, yes.
I wish I could go back to the pre Covid-19 1950s. This old show really helps cheer me up.
I love the way they say goodnight to each other. It’s endearing.
WML is magic. Love watching these shows over and over again.
When he finally smiles, it’s wonderful!
Charles Laughton, one of THE greatest film actors ever! My favorite movies are "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", "Witness for the Prosecution" and of course "Mutiny of the Bounty" (*MR* Christian!!). He even directed one of the best movies of the 1950s "The Night of the Hunter" with Robert Mitchum, Shelly Winters and Lillian Gish.
Night of the Hunter. There's never been anything quite like it.
Flike A master piece.
Bizarre and unsettling. Surrealistic. Decades ahead of its time.
Flike The Hitchcock movie Hitchcock never made.
Robert Mitchem was the Di Nero of his time.....
Imagine being able to see Charles Laughton and Burgess Meredith in Major Barbara on Broadway. Mr. Laughton was also the director. Included in the cast was Glynis Johns, Eli Wallach and Cornelia Otis Skinner
That is more of the kind of role one might expect for Burgess Meredith than one that he was considered for in a picture that ultimately was not made. There were several attempts to make a film of TE Lawrence's life before "Lawrence of Arabia" but none worked out for various reasons. A 1949 plan had Burgess Meredith playing the title role. I don't think it would have worked. Can't really see him on a camel among other reasons.
This is at least Laughton's 2nd appearance on this show and he never lasts more than a few minutes. His voice is so recognizable even when he mutters and tries to hide it.
I love watching theses old shows..
Brings back memories of the days of black and white TV and only 3 channels.
Poor Mr. Laughton: such a actor but a tortured soul
People can't be defined by their pain alone: he had a loving a devoted wife (despite his conflicted sexuality) and a tremendous career. There was certainly a fair amount of joy in his life.
This is entertaining and a world that no longer exists and that is a loss because it was the best. I was born in the late 70s. This is amazing. Today entertainment is garbage and vulgarity.
I love Twilight Zone so I'm glad to see Burgess Meredith!!!
and 20 years before he was in Rocky
Me too Meredith as Henry Bemis in The Twilight Zone episode, "Time Enough at Last"
and the penguin in batman ,,1966
and the coach in rocky
Just saw an episode of Marvelous Mrs Maisel, where they mentioned his broken eyeglasses episode in Twilight Zone!
When people on television had class...this wonderful program gives us the opportunity to see great actors and others out of their element and as very gifted and often kind and gracious people.
rickw1100 so classy they were, not like the trash today !
Burgess Meredith was both Rocky's trainer and the Penguin on the original Batman TV series.
Charles Laughton is incomparable for me the greatest actor ever. No one comes close, sad that he died far too soon, his readings are also a joy to listen to fabulous ❤️
Dorothy Kilgallen was one sharp cookie.
I really enjoyed watching Bergess Meredith as a young man in this episode!
Charles Laughton, a great actor was only 56 at this time. Sadly he looks much older. He directed an excellant movie (just one) called, Night of the Hunter which everyone should see! Brilliant in Mutiny on the Bounty , Hunchback of Notre Dame, and other films.
He always looked older and ugly - and he knew that. It's a bit different to make a believable, complex characters out of that mold than be Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt and smile.
@@tylsimys67 Those are two good actors who don't mind and often excel from "uglifying" themselves a bit, as they are both strikingly good-looking. I think Tom Cruise' finest performance to date is Col. Stauffenberger in "Valkyrie"; I lost track of the fact that I was watching Tom Cruise 15 minutes into it. No arching of the eyebrows or wide smile; a very somber but determined slow burn from point a.) to point b.). Brad Pitt benefits from the mystifying, ghastly scar tissue around his neck in "Inglourious Basterds", not to mention obvious signs of aging. It lends a gritty realism to the Aldo Raine character that wouldn't be there if he'd hopped into the makeup chair each day for a beauty touch up like some hambones do.
Arlene Francis was so darn good on this show. Notice at 20:48 after Charles Laughton responds to her question, she replies back, "Jolly good!" She obviously picked up on his English accent, even though he only replied with one word. That alone is amazing. And I think she threw out the "jolly good" as a signal to her teammates that the mystery guest is British.
No signal, she said it on countless occations.
Burgess Meredith was a fine actor. When I was a teenager, I first became acquainted with him as the second high school principal on the TV drama "Mr. Novak". Later on, when watching episodes of "The Twilight Zone", I discovered he'd starred in four episodes. He started out on the stage and did well, and then went into movies. Thanks to the Hollywood blacklist during the era of McCarthyism, he didn't work in film for ten years, but managed to get by doing radio and stage roles and eventually found a renewed career doing television. Of course, he played "The Penguin" on "Batman" from 1966-1968. He was on the small side, all of 5'6" tall, and could play any part. He was both a star and a fine character actor -- someone dedicated to his craft. I especially liked him in the hour-long episode of "The Twilight Zone" called "Printer's Devil" from 1963 -- in that episode, he had the title role. Of course, he played in all the "Rocky" pics as the old man who trained Rocky to be a prizefighter -- I only saw the first one of those films. Burgess Meredith was an actor's actor, so to speak and never was anything other than excellent in my opinion.
I had a big crush on Mr. Novak.
David Felperin -- Yeah, me too. James Franciscus was something to look at and I was in high school, so I had that same reaction. Also when it came to Richard Chamberlain as Dr. Kildare. (In fact, James Franciscus was on the short list for playing Kildare, but Chamberlain was the ultimate pick.) Both totally handsome and young enough.
See him as a priest in True Confessions.
Best performance: "Of Mice and Men" as George. "Tell me about the rabbits" I balled my eyes out during the last scene.
Loved your comment in tribute to the late great Mr Meredith ! So well said and so well put ! He really was one of our greatest actors, being equally good in both comedic and dramatic roles !
Burgess Meredith did a lot of roles in his career. It is not so bad to be known as playing "Mick" and the "Penguin" as your two most known roles. He was great as both characters.
Twilight Zone was the best!
@@Frankcastlepunisher74 He had some great roles on that show too if memory serves me.
He was also great in The Story Of GI Joe, in which he played the famous war correspondent, Ernie Pyle. *Robert Mitchum was also played a lead role in this movie
I'm a bit surprised that Burgess didn't catch the couple who ran the pub considering the short film he made during World War II introducing American servicemen to the English pub culture. Maybe he was too focused on what was going on between the tie and the belt. 😂
That video can be found elsewhere on UA-cam. It’s quite amusing, and Burgess was good in it.
the great charles laughton, what a treat to see him in person and out of character. hilarious line of questioning with burgess and the pub owners, starting with arlene 13:27, and the slow subsequent loss of control by john daley. good stuff.
This is the second time the panel confused the mint with the Bureau of Engraving. The first time was when Ivy Priest, who is mentioned in this episode, was a contestant a year or two earlier. She was the person whose signature appeared on paper money and the panel thought for a time that she was with the mint.
what a wonderful experience to be able to see Laughton...such a good actor and a a great wit. too bad Elsa did not come as well. Witness for the prosecution...one of my very favorite pictures.
A masterly character actor. None better. No one in the same league today.Watch Hobson's Choice for a magnificent performance by Laughton.
I love Hobson's Choice!
My favourite film.
Two of my favorites Arlene Francis, & Burgess Meredith
Absolutely love to see the beautiful clothes and accessories worn by the ladies and gents! Ladies often wore gloves, carried handbags, and always wore the most beautiful jewelry. Classy, classy, classy, all the way. Stunning ~~~~~
(It was awful when a thief mugged Arlene getting out of a taxi and took her diamond heart necklace. Hope he got caught later at least, with something, and stayed years and years in prison for his crimes.)
If you have never seen Peter Ustinov's impression of Charles Laughton from the time when he was talking about the making of Spartacus, I highly recommend it.
Charles Laughton added his weight, in more ways than one, to many a great film, my favourites being:
Witness for the Prosecution and
Spartacus.
Everyone on TV was more classy back then. Especially Dorothy. Rest in Peace.
Burgess Meridith had one of the greatest voice!!!
Amen to that ! I think that's why he was very active in radio and as a narrator and commercial spokesman !
WOW the audience kept quiet during the panel's conference when the correct line was mentioned. That's a watershed moment!
Brilliant in love this program Sunday night 10pm don't forget everyone lolx.
I live in Palos Verdes, CA, and Laughton used to holiday up here. These were the boondocks then. Hard to believe.
Being a child of the late 80's/early 90's I forever associate Mr. Meredith with Grandpa Gustafson in Grumpy Old Men - one of my favorites. How lovely to see him in younger days, what a ticket!
You are young. If you don't know, he is really best known playing the penguin in the 60's series "Batman", and most notably " Mickey", Rocky's trainer in the movie Rocky.
Oh yes, I've seen Rocky (of course!) but since Grumpy Old Men gets at least annual viewing in our house, that's the character I think of first. And what a character!
Thank you for the info on Batman, though, I hadn't realized that and will look it up : )
+Jenny Brown I've never seen grumpy old men, but he was also known for being in the old "Twilight Zone" shows in the 60's. But I first remember him as the "Penguin" in Bat man. Not that I was a real Batman fan. For me he was Mickey.
Jenny Brown Another thing is, as you said, it's weird seeing him as a young man. It's like seeing your grandfather as a young man.
I've looked up his filmography and he was in Of Mice And Men too! If you can stand a bit of cheesy-ness I highly recommend GOM and the sequel too, great repartee between Lemmon and Matthau (a la Odd Couple movie) and the still smokin' Ann-Margret and Sophia Loren : )
DOROTHY was TOP CLEVER......noone could beat her 💗
Watching this is very sadly nostalgic for me. I was not alive during this era but my Country was clearly in it's stride at this time. The game was won by using critical thinking skills and logic (a lost art) but putting the game aside for a moment; just listen to the beautiful use of the English language and the quaint and polite etiquette extended to every panelist.
Now fast forward to 2014 and imagine how fascinated our culture is today with the vulgar Kardashian woman or the goon Kayne West or how young girls adore Miley Cyrus. This is all the evidence one needs as testimony to our Country's demise to the gutter in a short 60 year span. What brought that about? You and I know inside though it is unspeakable to discuss in polite society. Imagine the next 60! How terrifying is that thought?
You are correct. Our popular culture has become a sewer of vulgar exhibitionism and the celebration of mediocrity. Politeness has been gradually replaced by the cultural Marxism of political correctness.
yabadabadu You obviously don't understand the term "cultural Marxism" in the sense that I am using it.
Reggie1971la Please don't bother responding further to this user, Reggie. He or she will no longer be commenting on my videos due to many, many comments added of an aggressive and/or controversial nature, which I don't allow on this channel. You may continue to see notifications of comments from this person, but that's only because I have no way of controlling the Google+ content for linked posts that show up both there and on UA-cam. But rest assured, no more comments from this user will be seen on UA-cam from now on-- and practically no one pays the slightest attention to Google+ anyhow.
What's My Line? OK, and thank you. I love the channel BTW.
Reggie1971la Thanks. :) Glad you're enjoying the shows.
The greatest of all English actors.
My dad new burgess and I once got a call asking for dad when I asked who was calling he answered this is burgess.
one of the greatest actors ever and even rarer...one of the few i watch a movie etc..just because he is in it...amazing that he perhaps was at his best in light comedy though no one would list him that way...or rather few would....
Charles Laughton.....one of a kind!
I love Charles Laughton. I always make sure to pay him a visit when I go to Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills.
Is Elsa Lanchester buried next to him?
@@kennethlatham3133 no. She was cremated and her ashes scattered I believe.
17 yrs old,,,,and I love it,,,
Charles Laughton was great in The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Les Miserables my two favorites 👍👍👍
I saw him when I was a cadet at Culver Military Academy. When he came on stage, no one applauded. After the show, he said he was quite offended.
What's My Line will always be a treat.
Once again a thud is heard during John's introduction and without any hesitation he keeps on with his speech saying "a set that's coming apart." 2:14
I found it also strange to hear a siren at 5:38
The best show ever, clean and funny
Look at all the fuzz and flakes on Laughton's lapel. They didn't have lint rollers in those days. I wonder if he was on a bender. The producers should have prohibited the question, "Are you appearing at the present time in the theater, or in a film that' currently playing?" It makes it too easy to guess.
I love What's My Line!
Charles Laughton's brother was a hotelkeeper on the east coast of Yorkshire in England. A few years after I stayed there in the early '80s, the hotel had to be evacuated on account of its imminent slide into the North Sea., the ravages of coastal erosion taking its toll.
Scarborough.
Such a pleasure to watch TRUE movie stars & respectful panelists.
Love Mr Laughton and this show.
I' am binge watching all of these fine shows of WML, and you can learn a lot of the times and events of the 50's thru them. I also have featured some of them on My face Book page called Baby Boomers 1946 - 1964.
Glad you're enjoying them, Robert. Very addictive show!
What's My Line? You learn so much about the times and see the changes in all involved and get to watch them age in a week-end of viewing, and get to see how current issues are talked about and history as it happens.
***** Yes! A show like this is a great time capsule of American history and culture.
Never knew Charles Laughton was married to Elsa Lanchester (The Bride of Frankenstein) for decades up until his death. :)
It was an odd marriage to say the least. You can find a number of places on youtube where she discusses it.
I didn't either until you posted this.
I loved him in the original movie, Spartacus.
That scene between him and Peter Ustinov! "Let's mix business with pleasure......" You know, you see these top actors fro the time of WML and you get a yen to see them onstage. Actually go into a theater and watch/listen to them interact under the guidelines of a finely crafted play. As opposed to jumping over each other in superhero leotards in front of a green screen.
He stole every scene in which he and Laurence Olivier appeared.
Marvellous. Love the show and Charles, the panel and the contestants. Sad to think, these wonderful people passed long ago. So much better times than today. Family fun, with no profanity bad manners or filth. Thank you so much for posting my favourite game show.
Enjoyed this TREMENDOUSLY
Those pub-keepers were charming!
According to a 1944 directory of London pubs, the Sussex Tavern was located at 668 Streatham High Road SW16. London. The building is still there, but it is now a kebab house.
Nomadic Politics - Phew. I thought you were going to say a laundromat!
RIP Oliver Burgess Meredith (November 16, 1907- September 9, 1997)(aged 89)
One thing in regards to the Mystery Guests. They are usually only in NYC for some other reason. All the people on the panel read the Theatrical Rags, so they know who is in town doing what.......what movie, what play, etc. So that gives them an edge up. That's why the panel usually guesses who the Mystery Guest is.
Yes. This. I don't know if you've seen the comments from folks who are convinced the show was rigged because of the quick guesses in the mystery guest segments. As if any producer would think it would be entertaining for the audience for the panelists to end the round after 3 questions. I kinda find it annoying that Bennett, in particular, ended the mystery guest segments so quickly so often. As I recall, he's the reason they decided to switch the format of questioning to one at a time per panelist, because he so often guessed on his first turn.
+What's My Line? You have to wonder how many times he knew but didn't guess cause it would ruin the show.
And they ask the same damn questions every show. How did it last this long? I suppose because the surprise guests were not only real movie stars, but craftsmen as well.
aspenrebel it seems to be kind of a shame that they always get it so fast. Why even bother to have the person show up??? Just have a picture and let them guess by asking John, who is in town this week, let's see... hmmm?????
good point. panel seems to have problems when mystery guest is not in town for specific performance or promotion. good point
In 1956, the U.S. Mint had three locations where circulating coins were struck: Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. If a coin had no identifying letter on it, it was made in Philly -- and if it showed D, it was made in Denver and S meant it was made in San Francisco. Nowadays, the San Francisco Mint no longer makes circulating coins, but it's still there and still active. It makes special coins that are sold to collectors, especially "proof" coins whose backgrounds are finely polished and shiny like mirrors -- and even expensive proof coins made of coin silver alloy (90% silver content). I've noticed, in the past, that panelists on WML seem to have the mistaken idea that "the Mint" issues all U.S. money, which isn't true. The mint only mints coins, which is why it's known as a "mint" -- The U.S. Bureau of Printing & Engraving produces paper money, which is issued through the various regional branches of the Federal Reserve Bank. Paper money is printed, not minted. Arlene Francis seemed to be one of these people who is confused about what mints do -- and so did Burgess Meredith John Daly had it right when he informed the panel that the U.S. Mint has nothing to do with paper money but only makes coins.
Laughton seems to be fighting off misery--this is in the wake of his sole directorial masterpiece, NIGHT OF THE HUNTER, being released to crickets by a studio that didn't care about it to a '50's audience that didn't get it.
To US viewers: pub keepers are not called that name as such in the UK. 'Pub Landlord' is the correct title.
Anyone notice this quirk. Without blindfolds, John Daly will announce a conference, but with blindfolds, never does. It always generates a question from the panel.
Mr. Laughton's Guasimodo is a gem .
Kilgallen is sharp
Charles Laughton had to be one of the top five actors of all time.
So glad you are still posting these. Thanks. I look forward to them.
I'm not stopping unless someone makes me stop!
What's My Line?
As Journey said, "Don't Stop!" and as Barry White said, "Can't Get Enough."
They are good stuff!!!
16Lizards Wasn't it "Don't Stop Believing"? I know this only because of the final episode of "The Sopranos". . . :)
"Don't Stop" is Fleetwood Mac. : )
Great classical actor Laughton
This great program from the past never had a James Holzhauer from the present Jeopardy to guess correctly almost 100% the vocations of the guests.
Laughton clearly was not amused. 😂 Still, I love him on film. I live far from “the legitimate theatre.” Thank You for posting this. Maybe he was tired, sick, or having a bad day …. ❤️
Two months earlier, Charles Laughton agreed to fill in for Ed Sullivan (who had been in a car accident) on his show. Not that important, but important because Charles introduced a special guest that night whose appearance would become iconic.
@David Pinegar ELVIS
Thanks so much for posting this. It was thoroughly enjoyable to watch.
I've watched quite a few of these episodes and many of them Mr. Daly says, 'we'll be back in 30 seconds'...How I wish the commercials of today only took 30 seconds! The show interrupts the seemingly endless string of commercials!
You must be misremembering-- the commercials were all a minute long.
@@WhatsMyLine Hmmm, must have been a time displacement error due to a synapse regulator malfunction....brought on by aging equipment... :)
@@WhatsMyLine Listen again at 2:28. John clearly says "thirty seconds."
@@neilmidkiff I thought I had heard it! thanks, cheers!
Great shivering iceberg !
Burgess Meredith before he was Mickey, Rocky's trainer. Wow, I feel so lucky to have seen this!!
How true ! And it's even before he played The Penquin, one of the most well known villians from the 60's megahit TV show, "Batman".
Dorothy had a six sense!
The first guest, W H Brett, Director of the U.S. Mint, had a father of the same name who was a Union Civil War Vet and the founder of Western Reserve University in northeast Ohio. His father was Pres of the American Library Association and a major innovator in the Public Library system in and around Cleveland Ohio.
Fascinating. Love these bits of history. Thanks
Ole Charles Laughton was a rather untidy fellow. He looked and acted as if he just woke up
Fat men should always wear buttoned double-breasted suits
Tom Novak they should probably bathe, wash and comb their hair first
Did you see all the flakes on his lapel?
Charles Laughton had something you critics of him don't...talent!
The Loud Laugher with the "har har har" must be a member of the staff as it shows up often when someone is really bombing, like Burgess did at one point ( he turned and noticed it). The Loud Laugher laughs like that a lot when Robert Q lays an egg as well. I look forward to hearing it.
The sharpening used here makes them all look like cartoons.
Charles laughton legend 👏
"I didn't hear no flip of cards. Get up you son of a gun, cuz Mickey loves ya."
That makes 2 binge watchers of WML.
When Bennett Cerf is on the panel the celebrities have no chance as he knows everybody and he knows if they are in New York.
I love him in Hobbson's choice
Indeed ! That was one of his best roles and greatest performances ! Of course I think he was wonderful in everything...my personal favorite is the barrister in "Witness for the Prosecution".