Bob Hope: America's Entertainer

• Documentary

Episode overview

His career started in the glory days of vaudeville. More than 70 years later, he is revered as the most popular and influential entertainer of the century, the show-biz giant all others are measured against. On stage and screen, on TV and radio, on Broadway and USO stages worldwide, Bob Hope has enjoyed a career of unmatched popularity. In this special, feature-length presentation, Biography traces his remarkable life, from his vaudeville debut he had third billing, behind a trained seal to entertaining the troops of Desert Storm. Extensive clips capture his greatest performances, while family photos and the recollections of friends, colleagues and family provide an intimate portrait of the private man. And Hope himself reflects on his life and legacy, from his groundbreaking work in TV and radio to his close friendships with U.S. presidents. Biography proudly presents the incredible life of an entertainer who has left his mark not just on his profession, but on the nation.

60 minutes