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  • Comedy

The Great Gildersleeve is a classic American radio sitcom that aired from 1941 to 1958. Originally spun off from popular radio show Fibber McGee and Molly, the series stars Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, played by actor Harold Peary. Gildersleeve moves from Wistful Vista to Summerfield, where he takes care of his niece and nephew and becomes the town's water commissioner. The household also includes the intelligent and caring cook, Birdie Lee Coggins (played by Lillian Randolph). Throughout the show, Gildersleeve has several love interests and is known for his comical adventures with friends, neighbors, and various women. The Great Gildersleeve is notable for being one of the earliest spin-off programs in broadcast history and for creating a cast of believable and charming characters.