Who is Edgar Bergen?
Imagine a world where the ventriloquist was the top of comedy, and a man stood at his height. This man was Edgar Bergen. Born by a cold winter day, on February 16, 1903, in Chicago, Illinois, the history of Bergen’s life is as captivating as its performance. The humble beginnings to become a familiar name, his journey testifies to the talent, resilience and a little wooden magic.
| Name | Edgar John Bergen |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Ventriloquist, actor, actor |
| Date of birth | February 16, 1903 |
| Place of birth | Chicago, the |
| Country | UNITED STATES |
| Net value | $ 2 million |
| Source of income | Radio shows, movies, live performance |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch |
| Weight | 175 pounds |
| Ethnic | Swedish-American |
| Parents | Johan Henriksson Berggren, Nilla Svensdotter Berggren |
| Siblings | None |
| Spouse | Frances Bergen (m. 1945–1978) |
| Children | Candice Bergen, Kris Bergen |
| Education | Northwest University |
Early and beginnings
Edgar John Bergen, originally born Edgar John Berggren, was the son of Swedish immigrants Johan Henriksson Berggren and Nilla Svensdotter Berggren. Having grown up in Chicago, the young Edgar has always been fascinated by the world of entertainment. His first brush with the ventriloquism came when he was only 11 years old. He bought a practical book and learned the basics of art. Imagine a boy, impatient and curious, practicing in front of a mirror with an old puppet with socks – who was Edgar.
Become famous
Bergen’s great break in the 1930s when he presented Charlie McCarthy, a snarky model and with a rapid spirit with a monocle and a top hat. Charlie was not only a puppet; He was a character who resonated with the public. Shortly after, Mortimer Snerd, an adorable and mind model, joined the act. These characters were not only wooden figures; They were extensions of the personality of Bergen, each bringing a unique flavor to its performance.
The radio was the medium that catapulted Bergen with national renown. “”Sanborn prosecution and time“has become one of the most popular radio broadcasts of its time, with millions of people by adjusting each week to listen to the puffs of Charlie and Mortimer. The Bergen ventriloquist was so convincing that many listeners thought that the characters were real people.
Hollywood and beyond
Bergen’s success was not confined to radio. He made a transparent transition to Hollywood, with several films alongside his models. Films like “You can’t deceive an honest man“(1939) and”Fun and free fantasy“(1947) presented his versatility as an artist. Bergen was not only a ventriloquist; he was an actor, an actor and even a Vaudevillian. His ability to adapt to different mediums and public was remarkable.
Personal life
Behind the scenes, Bergen’s life was as colorful as his career. In 1945, he married the magnificent actress and model Frances Westerman, known professionally under the name of Frances Bergen. Their marriage was a mixture of Hollywood glamor and real affection. Together, they had two children, Candice Bergen and Kris Bergen. Candice, according to her father’s footsteps, has become a successful actress, better known for her role in the television series “Murphy Brown”.
Inheritance and impact
The influence of Edgar Bergen on the world of entertainment is undeniable. He brought the Dominant Ventriloquist, which makes it a respected and loved art form. His characters, in particular Charlie McCarthy, have become cultural icons, influencing generations of comedians and ventriloques.
Bergen’s inheritance is also obvious in its many distinctions. He received an honorary Oscar in 1938 for his contributions to the entertainment industry, a testimony of his impact and his talent. His star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a permanent reminder of his contributions to the entertainment world.
Net value and financial success
At the time of his death on September 30, 1978, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, Edgar Bergen had raised an important fortune. Its net value was estimated at around $ 2 million, a considerable amount for its time. His income came from various sources, including his radio programs, films and live performances. Bergen’s financial success is a reflection of its versatility and its ability to connect with the public on different supports.
Funny facts and trivia
- Charlie McCarthy monocle: Did you know that the Charlie McCarthy monocle was actually a gift from WC Fields? Fields and Charlie had a famous comic rivalry, but outside stage, they were good friends.
- Candice Bergen’s career: Candice Bergen, Edgar’s daughter, has not only become a successful actress, but also won five Emmy Awards for her role in “Murphy Brown”.
- Ventriloquism techniques: Bergen was a master of ventriloquist techniques. He could throw his voice in such a way that it seemed that his models spoke independently.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: The Bergen star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is located at 6425 Hollywood Boulevard, an essential visit to any fan.
In conclusion
The life of Edgar Bergen was a talented tapestry, hard work and a touch of magic. From a young boy with a puppet with a legendary artist, his journey is a source of inspiration for many. His characters, Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd, continue to delight the public, a testimony of the lasting heritage of Bergen. As we remember Edgar Bergen, we celebrate not only a ventriloquist but a real pioneer in the world of entertainment.
