William Demarest

William Demarest

A golf enthusiast, he died the same day and year as pro golfer Jimmy Demaret.

Began his career in vaudeville.

Biography in: "Who's Who in Comedy" by Ronald L. Smith. Pg. 135. New York: Facts on File, 1992. ISBN 0816023387

Brother of actor Rube Demarest.

Co-starred on NBC Radio's "The Eddie Bracken Story" (1945).



Former professional boxer

Had a falling-out with actor/singer Al Jolsen

Hated to talk about his boxing career

Interestingly, Mr. Demarest appeared in "The Jazz Singer" (albeit uncredited) starring Al Jolson and also appeared in the "The Jolson Story" (and later "Jolson Sings Again") which recounts (among other things) the making of "The The Jazz Singer." He appears to be the only performer to have appeared in both movies.

Played a character with the name Steve Martin in two movies The Jolson Story (1946) and Jolson Sings Again (1949).


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