Kenny Delmar

In the golden age of radio, few performers captured the imagination of American audiences quite like Kenny Delmar. A versatile actor and comedian, Delmar became a household name through his iconic radio performances, most notably creating the unforgettable character of Senator Beauregard Claghorn. His unique vocal talents and comedic timing would not only define an era of entertainment but also inspire one of animation's most beloved characters.

Early Life and Theatrical Beginnings

Born Kenneth Frederick Fay Howard on September 5, 1910, in Boston, Massachusetts, Delmar was destined for the stage from an early age. His mother, Evelyn Delmar, was a vaudevillian who toured the country with her sister, introducing young Kenny to the world of performance. By the age of seven, he was already treading the boards, making his first screen appearance in a film as a child actor. During the challenging years of the Great Depression, Delmar temporarily stepped away from performing. He worked in his stepfather's business and even ran his own dancing school for a year. It was during this period that he married Alice Cochran, one of his ballet teachers, who would become a pivotal support in his decision to pursue a career in radio.

Breaking into Radio Broadcasting

By the late 1930s, Delmar had established himself as a prominent radio announcer, working on major series and demonstrating his remarkable vocal versatility. He played multiple roles in significant productions, including Orson Welles' legendary War of the Worlds broadcast in October 1938. In this groundbreaking radio drama, he portrayed Captain Lansing of the Signal Corps and delivered a memorable address as the Secretary of the Interior, deliberately mimicking President Franklin Roosevelt's distinctive speaking style. His ability to create distinctive characters quickly caught the attention of radio producers, leading to regular appearances in repertory casts and roles in popular programs like My Friend Irma.

The Rise of Senator Claghorn

Delmar's most significant contribution to American comedy came with the creation of Senator Beauregard Claghorn on Fred Allen's radio program. Debuting on October 7, 1945, the character became an instant sensation. Within six months, Time magazine declared him "unquestionably the most quoted man in the nation". Senator Claghorn was a bombastic, hyper-chauvinistic Southern legislator whose catchphrase "That's a joke, son!" became a national phenomenon. Delmar claimed the character was inspired by a talkative Texas cattle rancher who had once given him a ride while hitchhiking. The character's popularity was so immense that he not only dominated radio but also inspired the Looney Tunes character Foghorn Leghorn.

Expanding into Television and Animation

As radio transitioned to television, Delmar continued to showcase his talents. In 1949, he hosted the live-action program School House on WABD-TV. He also found success in voice acting for animated series, lending his distinctive voice to characters like The Hunter in various Saturday morning cartoons. His Senator Claghorn inflections became a trademark, ensuring his comedic style remained recognizable to new generations.

Legacy and Impact

Kenny Delmar passed away on July 14, 1984, in Stamford, Connecticut, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in American entertainment. He was more than just a radio performer; he was a pioneering voice actor who helped shape the comedy and broadcasting landscape of mid-20th century America. His ability to create memorable, larger-than-life characters ensured his place in the pantheon of classic radio performers.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• Fred Allen Show (1945-1950) - Senator Beauregard Claghorn
• My Friend Irma (Various years) - Multiple roles
• War of the Worlds (1938) - Captain Lansing, Secretary of the Interior

Television

• School House (1949) - Host
• Various animated series voice roles, including The Hunter

Film

• Senator Claghorn Speaks (1947) - Lead role
• Early silent film appearance (1921) - Child actor

Voice Acting

• Foghorn Leghorn character inspiration
• Voice of The Hunter in animated series
• Voices in Klondike Kat (Major Minor)

Kenny Delmar's multifaceted career exemplified the creativity and dynamism of mid-20th century American entertainment, bridging radio, film, and animation with his extraordinary vocal talents.