Frank Fontaine

Frank Fontaine was a multifaceted entertainer whose distinctive vocal talents and comedic genius made him a beloved figure in mid-20th century American entertainment. From radio waves to television screens, Fontaine carved out a unique niche that would influence comedy for generations to come.

Early Life and Roots of Entertainment

Born Frank Fontaine on April 19, 1920, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he emerged from a family deeply rooted in performance. His father, Ray Fontaine, was a French-Canadian vocalist of notable reputation, while his mother, Anna McCarthy, worked as a dancer. This artistic lineage would prove instrumental in shaping Fontaine's future career. At just sixteen years old, Fontaine married his high school sweetheart, Alma Clair Wakeham, in 1937. Their partnership would become legendary, not just for their enduring relationship but for their remarkable family. The couple would go on to have eleven children - two daughters and nine sons - born between 1939 and 1959, a fact that became part of Fontaine's public persona.

Breaking into Radio and Early Performances

Fontaine's professional journey began in Boston-area supper clubs, where he honed his skills as a singer, dancer, and comedian. His career was briefly interrupted by World War II, during which he spent three years serving in the Army. His breakthrough came through Ed Sullivan, who introduced Fontaine to a nationwide audience in 1948 on Toast of the Town. Sullivan was so impressed that he repeatedly suggested Fontaine should be in pictures, which indeed came to pass with Fontaine appearing in 12 films.

The Jack Benny and Jackie Gleason Years

Fontaine's distinctive comedic style truly crystallized during his appearances on The Jack Benny Program. In a memorable 1950 radio episode, he played a character named "John L.C. Sivoney", a bum with a memorable laugh that captivated audiences. Benny was so impressed that he brought Fontaine back for multiple radio and television shows between 1950 and 1961. However, it was his collaboration with Jackie Gleason that would define his most iconic period. In 1962, Gleason invited Fontaine to appear on his American Scene Magazine series. Here, Fontaine developed the character of "Crazy Guggenheim", a bug-eyed, goofy-voiced persona that became immensely popular. At the end of each sketch, Fontaine would surprise audiences by singing a sentimental song in his natural, strong baritone voice.

Legacy and Later Life

Beyond entertainment, Fontaine was known for his compassionate side. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, he toured children's hospitals, attempting to spread joy to bedridden patients. Interestingly, he discovered that his "Crazy" persona sometimes frightened children, leading him to rename himself "Happy Guggenheim. Tragically, Fontaine's life was cut short. On August 4, 1978, after completing a benefit show and accepting a $25,000 check for heart research, he collapsed and died of a heart attack in Spokane, Washington, at the age of 58.

Conclusion

Frank Fontaine was more than just a comedian; he was a transformative figure in mid-century American entertainment. His unique vocal characterizations, infectious laugh, and ability to transition between comedy and genuine musical talent made him a true original.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• The Jack Benny Program (1950-1952)
• The Frank Fontaine Show (1952)
• The Bob Hope Show

Television

• American Scene Magazine with Jackie Gleason (1962-1966)
• The Scott Music Hall (1952)
• Good Morning (1956)

Film

• Nancy Goes to Rio (1950)
• Here Comes the Groom (1951)
• The Godmothers (1975) - Final film role