Actor · Announcer

Hy Averback

1920–1997 · Minneapolis, Minnesota, US

In the vibrant landscape of mid-20th century American entertainment, Hy Averback emerged as a multifaceted talent who seamlessly navigated radio, television, and film. From his early days as a radio announcer to becoming a respected director and producer, Averback's career embodied the dynamic spirit of post-World War II media.

Early Years and Radio Beginnings

Born Hyman Jack Averback on October 21, 1920, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he moved to California with his family at the age of nine. After graduating from the Edward Clark Academy Theater in 1938, Averback began his broadcasting career in Beverly Hills before World War II. During the war, he became a pivotal entertainment figure, entertaining troops in the Pacific with comedy and music programs. He notably created the character Tokyo Mose, a satirical portrayal that lampooned Japanese propaganda. His radio breakthrough came in 1947 when he was hired to announce the Jack Benny Program for the summer season. Averback quickly became a prominent voice on NBC, announcing shows like The Sealtest Village Store and appearing on various radio programs including Sweeney and March on CBS. His versatility allowed him to not just announce, but also act, appearing multiple times on radio shows and starring in Secret Mission, a transcribed program about escapes from behind the Iron Curtain.

Transition to Television and Directing

Averback's comedic talents translated seamlessly to television. In the 1950s, he appeared on popular comedy shows like The Saturday Night Revue, Tonight, and NBC Comedy Hour. He was a series regular as Mr. Romero on sitcoms and gradually transitioned into directing. His directorial career became particularly distinguished, with credits including landmark television series such as MASH*, The Bob Newhart Show, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Notably, he won a Directors Guild of America Award for directing episodes of MASH* in the mid-1970s. His actual recording was even used in a MASH* episode where he announced himself as Bob Hope's announcer.

Film Career and Diverse Productions

Beyond television, Averback made significant contributions to film. He co-narrated The Story of Life, an educational film about human sexuality in 1948. As a film director, he helmed several notable movies including Chamber of Horrors (1966), I Love You, Alice B. Toklas (1968), and Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came (1970).

Personal Life and Legacy

Married to Dorothy Bridges Averback from 1949 until his death, Hy Averback was active in entertainment from 1947 to 1992. He purchased a home in the Racquet Club Estates neighborhood of Palm Springs in 1969. On October 14, 1997, he passed away at age 76, leaving behind a rich legacy in American entertainment. Averback represented a quintessential mid-century media professional - adaptable, talented, and instrumental in shaping the entertainment landscape across multiple platforms.