Artie Auerbach
In the golden age of radio comedy, few performers captured the hearts of audiences quite like Artie Auerbach, the master of dialects who became immortalized as Mr. Kitzel. A versatile entertainer who seamlessly transitioned from press photography to radio stardom, Auerbach left an indelible mark on American entertainment during the mid-20th century.
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Born Arthur Auerbach on May 17, 1903, in New York City, he emerged from a Polish-Jewish background where Yiddish was spoken at home. Despite not having a natural Yiddish accent when speaking English, Auerbach would later become renowned for his masterful dialect performances. Growing up in a family where his father, Wolfgang, was a dancer in London, Auerbach was self-educated, developing his skills by frequenting local libraries and cultivating a keen observational humor. Before entering show business, Auerbach established himself as a talented press photographer. Working for New York tabloids and the New York Daily News, he covered significant stories and developed a reputation for his wit. It was during this period that he began entertaining colleagues with humorous anecdotes, showcasing the comedic talents that would later define his career.
The Rise of a Dialect Comedy Master
Auerbach's entry into entertainment came through a fortuitous discovery by Phil Baker, who was impressed by his remarkable ability to perform nearly 30 different dialects. In 1934, he made his Broadway debut in the revue Calling All Stars, portraying a hillbilly character. This performance marked the beginning of his transformation from photographer to comedian. The birth of his most famous character, Mr. Kitzel, occurred serendipitously during a drug store assignment. Hearing a singer performing with a distinctive Yiddish dialect, Auerbach was inspired to create a character that would become his comedic signature. The name "Kitzel" itself means "to tickle or make laugh" in Yiddish, perfectly encapsulating the character's essence.
The Jack Benny Program and Radio Stardom
Auerbach's career reached its zenith with The Jack Benny Program, where he became a beloved recurring character. Joining the show in 1946 as a hot-dog vendor, he quickly became famous for his catchphrase, "De pickle in de middle mit de mustard on top." This line even inspired a popular song that made him the National Pickle Packers Association's Man of the Year. What set Mr. Kitzel apart was his unique relationship with Jack Benny. Unlike other characters who routinely mocked Benny, Kitzel was consistently good-natured. His other memorable catchphrase, "hoo-hoo-hoo-HOOOOO!", became instantly recognizable to radio audiences. Auerbach successfully transitioned the character from radio to television, continuing to appear on the show until his death.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his professional success, Auerbach's personal life was equally interesting. He was married twice, with his first marriage to Cleo Manning notably involving intervention from Lucille Ball. His second wife, Doris, was significantly younger, and they never had children. Tragically, Auerbach's vibrant career was cut short when he died of a heart attack on October 3, 1957, at just 54 years old. He passed away in Van Nuys, California, just a day after being admitted to the hospital and on the very day he was scheduled to begin rehearsals for a Jack Benny television show.
Works and Appearances
Radio
- The Goldbergs (Regular Cast Member)
- The Jack Benny Program (1946-1957, as Mr. Kitzel)
- Al Pearce Show (Various Appearances)
- The Wonder Show (1938)
Television
- The Jack Benny Program (1946-1957)
Film
- Here Comes Elmer (1943)
Live Performance
- Calling All Stars (Broadway Revue, 1934)
Artie Auerbach's legacy extends beyond his performances, embodying the spirit of mid-20th-century comedy and the art of dialect humor. His ability to create memorable characters and make audiences laugh remains a testament to his extraordinary talent.
