George Jessel

George Jessel (1898–1981) was an American entertainer whose career spanned vaudeville, Broadway, radio, film, and television. Born in New York City, he began performing as a child and became a prominent vaudevillian and master of ceremonies, later widely billed as the “Toastmaster General of the United States.” Jessel also worked as an actor, singer, comedian, and producer, and he appeared in numerous motion pictures. He hosted and guested on radio and TV programs and was known for his storytelling style and celebrity roasts. Jessel remained a familiar public figure in American show business for decades.