Art Baker

In the golden age of radio and early television, few personalities were as versatile and beloved as Art Baker. With his distinctive white hair and smooth, slightly nasal voice, Baker became a quintessential media figure who captivated audiences across multiple platforms during the mid-20th century.

Early Life and Radio Beginnings

Born Arthur Appleton Shank on January 7, 1898, in New York City, Baker's journey into entertainment was anything but conventional. Initially aspiring to be a singer, he served in the military where an unexpected twist of fate occurred - his hair turned prematurely white, a characteristic that would later become his trademark. After his military service, Baker explored various occupations, including touring with a traveling evangelist and operating an appliance store.

His radio career began in Los Angeles, where he started as an announcer at a local radio station. Baker's natural talent and engaging personality quickly propelled him into the spotlight. By the 1930s and 1940s, his voice could be heard in major markets across the United States, with Baker participating in as many as 22 shows, commercials, and productions per week.

Pioneering Radio Programming

Baker's radio work was groundbreaking and diverse. In 1936, he hosted Hollywood in Person, an innovative tabloid program that used a mobile production trailer to conduct candid celebrity interviews. His most notable radio achievement was Art Baker's Notebook, which he created on September 8, 1938. The program was syndicated in over 50 markets and ran uninterrupted for more than 2,000 episodes.

One of Baker's most memorable radio stunts occurred in 1947 when he interviewed Jimmy Stewart about an upcoming film. By offering listeners a free transcript and photo, Baker received nearly 50,000 letters in the first week. He also hosted several other significant radio shows, including People Are Funny, which debuted in 1942 and was the first game show to air repeats.

Television and Multimedia Career

Baker's transition to television was seamless. In 1950, he created You Asked for It, a groundbreaking show that allowed viewers to make requests that would be fulfilled worldwide. The program, which ran until 1959, became the longest-running show of its kind and established a format for future travel and variety shows.

Beyond television and radio, Baker appeared in over 40 films, typically playing business executives, doctors, and senators. His film work included narrating historical documentaries and propaganda films, such as a 1943 Disney-produced documentary. His versatility was evident in his ability to smoothly transition between different media platforms.

Personal Life and Legacy

Baker's personal life was as dynamic as his professional career. He was married four times and had five children. His fourth wife, Gerri Larsen, was a magician, and Baker became the host of It's Magic, a stage show credited with rejuvenating interest in magic in America.

On August 26, 1966, Baker died of a heart attack at a bank, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. His contributions were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, dedicated on February 8, 1960. Baker was more than just a broadcaster; he was a quintessential entertainer who helped shape mid-century American media.

Works and Appearances

Radio Shows

• Tapestries of Life - Nationally syndicated narrator
• Art Baker's Notebook (1938-1958) - Host
• People Are Funny (1942-1943) - Host
• Hollywood in Person (1936-1938) - Host

Television

• You Asked for It (1950-1959) - Creator and Host
• End of the Rainbow (1958) - Co-host

Film (Selected Appearances)

• Glendale on Parade (1939) - Narrator
• The Amazon Awakens (1944) - Narrator
• Johnny Belinda (1945) - Detective Lt. Cooley
• Multiple uncredited roles in various films (1937-1966)