Became to first African-American comedian to open for the Copacabana in New York in 1960. He opened for Bobby Darin, who in fact gotten Kirby to be his opening act.
Buried at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.
In 1972 he joined top impressionists Frank Gorshin, Rich Little, Charlie Callas, Fred Travalena and Marilyn Michaels on the "Kopycats" segment of "The ABC Comedy Hour". George's sharp talents as a mimic ranged from Humphrey Bogart to Pearl Bailey.
Pleasant African-American comic and song-and-dance man, one of the earlier black performers who found crossover success in the 50s with his light, non-confrontive standup style. Was a favorite on "The Ed Sullivan Show."
Unfortunately he fell on hard times and was arrested by federal authorities during a cocaine bust, for which he received a lengthy prison sentence.
Was portrayed by Amadeus Martin-Reid in Beyond the Sea (2004/I).