Eddie Cantor (born Edward Israel Itzkowitz, 1892 –1964) was
an American "illustrated song" performer, comedian, dancer, singer,
actor, and songwriter.
Familiar to Broadway, radio, movie, and early television
audiences, this "Apostle of Pep" was regarded almost as a family
member by millions because his top-rated radio shows revealed intimate stories
and amusing anecdotes about his wife Ida and five daughters.
His eye-rolling song-and-dance routines eventually led to
his nickname, "Banjo Eyes". In 1933, artist Frederick J. Garner
caricatured Cantor with large round eyes resembling the drum-like pot of a
banjo. Cantor's eyes became his trademark, often exaggerated in illustrations,
and leading to his appearance on Broadway in the musical Banjo Eyes (1941).
His charity and humanitarian work were extensive, and he is
credited with coining the phrase, and helping to develop the March of Dimes.
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