Unsung Hollywood Season 3 Episode 2 George Wallace

Unsung Hollywood is back with an all-new season featuring the ultimate untold stories of Hollywood’s most influential African-American stars. The second episode of the third season dives into the life and times of George Wallace, an American comedian, actor, and writer who rose to fame in the 1970s.

The episode traces Wallace's early years and rise to fame. Following the footsteps of his father, Wallace started playing the drums at an early age and became skilled enough to join his dad's band. Later, he served in the United States Army during the Korean War and upon his return, he started performing as a stand-up comedian in the nightclubs around San Francisco.

Wallace's sharp wit and impeccable timing quickly made him a crowd-pleaser, and he became a fixture in the comedy club circuit. It was during this time that he developed his signature style of humor – a blend of social commentary and absurdity. The episode also highlights how Wallace broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry and paved the way for future African-American comedians.

As time passed, Wallace started gaining popularity outside the nightclub scene and eventually landed his big break in the hit television show, The Jack Paar Show. The show proved to be a turning point in his career, and he became a household name with his appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Wallace appeared on numerous TV shows, including The Dean Martin Show and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

However, Wallace's career took a tragic turn when he was shot during a performance in Maryland in 1972. The shooting left him paralyzed from the waist down and confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Devastated but not defeated, Wallace continued performing and writing, showcasing his incredible resilience and fighting spirit.

The episode also covers Wallace's personal life, including his complicated relationship with his ex-wife, his children, and his alcohol addiction. Despite the challenges, Wallace never lost his sense of humor or his passion for performing, and he continued to inspire generations of comedians.

The episode features interviews with some of Wallace's closest friends and colleagues, including comedian and actor Marlon Wayans, comedian and writer Paul Mooney, and actor John Amos. They share their memories and insights on what made Wallace such a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

Overall, Unsung Hollywood's episode on George Wallace is an engaging and inspiring tribute to one of the most influential comedians of our time. Through interviews, rare footage, and poignant storytelling, the episode captures the essence of a man who overcame adversity to make a lasting impact on the world of comedy and beyond.