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Los Angeles, 1955. "Comedians George Burns and Gracie Allen." Color transparency for the Look magazine assignment "Fall TV Preview." View full size.
GarandFan's comment reminds me of a line I read in one of George's many autobiographies. Paraphrased, it went:
"They say you're not supposed to speak ill of the dead.
God, I wish Mary Livingstone was still alive."
George Burns was always a snappy dresser, even by today's standards - beautiful, classy suits and ties. I would love to be able to dress like he did (does Tavelman's even exist anymore?).
Who'd have predicted he'd have another 41 years of entertaining ahead of him? She, lamentably, did not, dying a mere 9 years hence.
She'd doubtless have been proud of the way he soldiered on after her passing, but I cannot help but wonder: did she get the new car?
Mary Livingstone went to Gracie's for tea one afternoon. The maid brought in a beautiful and ornate tea service. As Mary was admiring it, Gracie said "George got it for me after he went to Chicago on a business trip. He had a brief affair and felt so guilty that he purchased this tea service for me." Mary was aghast that Gracie would mention such private information. There was a long pause in the conversation, then Gracie said, "I hope George goes back to Chicago this year. I could really use a new car."
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