Bilko

[Tommy Tainant]

Was given a Bilko box set tonight. Havent seen any for 20 years so I am quite looking forward to watching a few.
Was he popular over there ?

 

[Auld Phart]

At the time, very popular.

They made a terrible movie, starring Steve Martin, a few years ago.

But reruns of the original don't show up very often.

 

[Tommy Tainant]

18 episodes in the box set. Used to watch it late night a long time ago.
Set in happier and more confident days I think.
I believe that Ernie was the inspiration for Top Cat.

 

[Auld Phart]

Very possible, considering this bit of trivia about Top Cat.

"The show was a parody of The Phil Silvers Show (1955), with Arnold Stang imitating Sgt Bilko's voice for the character of Top Cat. Benny the Ball was voiced by Maurice Gosfield who played Pvt Duane Doberman in The Phil Silvers Show. Benny and Pvt Doberman both shared the same demeanor and rotund appearance."

 

[Tommy Tainant]

Benny was definitely Doberman. Top Cats aides were also based on the two guys that supported Ernie. Fancy was one of them.