Mel Shavelson

In the golden age of radio and Hollywood, few talents could match the versatility and creativity of Melville Shavelson. A master of comedy, writing, and entertainment, Shavelson emerged as a pivotal figure who seamlessly bridged the worlds of radio, film, and television, leaving an indelible mark on American popular culture.

Early Life and Radio Beginnings

Born on April 1, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Melville Shavelson discovered his comedic talents early. While studying at college, he worked as a humor columnist, hinting at the wit that would define his career. His breakthrough came in 1938 when he joined comedian Bob Hope's radio show as a joke writer, a position he would hold for the next five years. Shavelson quickly became an integral part of Hope's comedy machine, crafting jokes and screenplays that would help define the comedian's signature style. His work on Hope's radio show and subsequent film screenplays demonstrated his exceptional ability to craft humor that resonated with audiences across different media.

Expanding Horizons: From Radio to Hollywood

Shavelson's talent extended far beyond radio. He was nominated twice for Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay - first in 1955 for The Seven Little Foys, which featured Hope in a rare dramatic role, and again in 1958 for another collaborative project. His versatility was remarkable; he wasn't just a writer but also a director, creating memorable films like Houseboat (1958) and Yours, Mine and Ours (1968). His creative output was prolific. Shavelson wrote screenplays for numerous Bob Hope films, including The Princess and the Pirate (1944) and Variety Time (1949). He also directed a wide range of films that showcased his comedic and dramatic talents.

Professional Achievements and Recognition

Beyond his film and radio work, Shavelson was a significant figure in the writers' community. He served multiple terms as President of the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw) from 1969 to 1971, 1979 to 1981, and 1985 to 1987. His influence extended to television, where he created award-winning series and wrote for numerous Academy Award shows. Shavelson was also an accomplished author. His autobiography, How to Succeed in Hollywood Without Really Trying, P.S. — You Can't!, published in April 2007, offered insights into his remarkable career. He co-authored books with Bob Hope and wrote other works including How to Make a Jewish Movie and the novel Lualda.

Legacy and Personal Life

In his later years, Shavelson became a respected instructor, teaching screenwriting at USC's Master of Professional Writing Program from 1998 to 2006. He was known for telling his students, "I'm a writer by choice, a producer by necessity and a director in self-defense" - a quip that encapsulated his multifaceted career. Personally, Shavelson was married twice. His first wife, Lucille, with whom he had two children, passed away in 2000. He married Ruth Florea in 2001 and remained with her until his death. An amateur radio operator with the callsign W6VLH, Shavelson passed away on August 8, 2007, at the age of 90 in Studio City, California.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• Bob Hope Radio Show (1938-1943), Joke Writer

Film (as Director)

• The Seven Little Foys (1955)
• Beau James (1957)
• Houseboat (1958)
• The Five Pennies (1959)
• Yours, Mine and Ours (1968)

Television

• Created Emmy-winning television series (specific titles not detailed in source)
• Wrote for multiple Academy Award shows

Books

• How to Succeed in Hollywood Without Really Trying, P.S. — You Can't! (2007)
• Don't Shoot, It's Only Me: Bob Hope's Comedy History of the United States (1990)
• How to Make a Jewish Movie (1971)
• Lualda (1973)

Melville Shavelson's career exemplified the dynamic, creative spirit of mid-20th century American entertainment, bridging radio, film, and television with remarkable skill and humor.