Information Please

Rediscover the wit and wisdom of Information Please!—the classic American radio quiz show that captivated audiences from 1938 to 1951. Hosted by the brilliant Clifton Fadiman, a former literary editor, this iconic show brought together an esteemed panel of experts, including Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, and John Kieran, each known for their intellect and humor. Listeners submitted questions in hopes of stumping the quick-witted panel, and with celebrity guests like Groucho Marx and Orson Welles, each episode delivered a unique blend of knowledge and laughter. From poetry and sports to music and history, Information Please! entertained with lively debates, clever puns, and spontaneous humor. Now re-broadcasted for a new generation, this show is perfect for trivia lovers, history buffs, and fans of vintage radio. Tune in and enjoy a true gem from radio’s golden age! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

May 9, 2023

29 min

In this May 9, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes guest Gene Tunney, former heavyweight boxing champion and U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel dives into questions about iconic boxing maneuvers, Shakespearean quotes, and notable sporting nicknames.Tunney’s expertise takes center stage as he recalls legendary punches like the “Mary Ann Blow” and analyzes Hemingway’s depiction of boxing in Fifty Grand. The panel also navigates Shakespearean jewels and historical political terms, blending wit and intellect. Tune in for a unique mix of sports trivia, literary charm, and humor in this memorable episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 2, 2023

29 min

In this May 2, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates a witty and engaging session featuring special guests Donald Ogden Stewart, Oscar-winning screenwriter of The Philadelphia Story, and composer Deems Taylor, a celebrated figure in American music. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join the duo to tackle topics ranging from poetic references to automobile parts to identifying ships in literary classics.Stewart’s humor and Taylor’s musical expertise shine as the panel navigates questions about Shakespearean lines, nursery rhymes, and memorable scenes from classic films. With lively debates and clever banter, this episode delivers an evening of entertaining trivia and timeless radio charm. Tune in to enjoy wit, knowledge, and a touch of Hollywood glamor on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 25, 2023

26 min

In this April 25, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes the distinguished actor Paul Lukas, star of Watch on the Rhine, as the evening’s guest. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the team navigates a diverse range of questions, from literary lovers and the Merry Wives of Windsor to famous imaginary games and musical compositions by young prodigies.Lukas lends his charm and theatrical expertise to discussions about Dostoevsky’s Karamazov brothers, Shakespearean humor, and iconic film directors. The episode sparkles with wit and insight as the panel dives into cultural trivia and playful debates. Tune in for an evening of humor, intellect, and delightful surprises on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 18, 2023

29 min

In this April 18, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a lively session featuring Chief Magistrate Henry Curran, author of Pillar to Post, and Rex Stout, celebrated creator of the Nero Wolfe mysteries. Regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant complete the panel as they explore topics from nostalgic childhood games to the intricacies of military forms of address.The experts face off on questions like the origins of classic playground phrases, identifying famous literary cats, and navigating the nuances of historical naval ranks. Curran’s sharp wit and Stout’s literary flair add depth and humor to this delightful episode. Tune in for a mix of nostalgia, trivia, and lighthearted debates in this engaging installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 11, 2023

29 min

In this April 11, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a fascinating trivia session featuring the distinguished actor Philip Merrivale, currently starring in The Talley Method. With regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel explores a variety of topics, from Shakespearean farewell speeches to plays where generals take center stage.Merrivale brings his theatrical expertise to life as the panel identifies classic quotes from plays like Hamlet and Henry VIII, and discusses the historical figures behind epic battles such as Zama and Philippi. With lively debates and humorous moments, this episode offers a delightful mix of literature, history, and radio charm. Tune in for an engaging and witty session of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2023

29 min

In this April 4, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates a captivating session with guests Lyman Bryson, professor and radio broadcaster, and journalist John Gunther, author of Inside Europe. With regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles a variety of challenging topics, from the distinctions among diplomatic titles like ambassador and consul to literary characters famous for their love of sleep.Bryson’s educational insights and Gunther’s geopolitical expertise shine as they navigate questions about Patrick Henry’s famous speech, poetic riddles involving water sounds, and intriguing presidents during key historical events. With humor, intellect, and lively banter, this episode of Information Please is a treat for trivia enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Tune in for an evening of timeless wit and knowledge! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 28, 2023

31 min

In this March 28, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a lively trivia session featuring special guest Elsa Lanchester, the talented actress and Broadway star of They Walk Alone. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel explores a wide range of topics, from circus celebrities and literary ships to famous nursery rhymes and mathematical quandaries.Lanchester’s wit and charm add sparkle as the panel tackles questions involving Tom Thumb’s family, Manx cats, and iconic vessels like the Jolly Roger. From poetry and music to historical references, this episode offers an engaging mix of humor and intellectual banter. Tune in for a delightful evening with Information Please that’s sure to entertain and educate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 21, 2023

29 min

In this March 21, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a lively session featuring returning guest Deems Taylor, composer and music critic, and Roland Young, the charming star of Topper Returns. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles amusing nonsense rhymes, animal trivia, and literary enigmas with wit and humor.Taylor’s musical expertise and Young’s sharp humor shine as they navigate topics ranging from poetic nonsense about pigs and penguins to identifying famous fictional cats. The episode also features discussions of characters like Galileo and Dante, adding literary depth to the fun. Tune in for an entertaining mix of charm, knowledge, and quick-witted banter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 14, 2023

29 min

In this March 14, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively and educational session with special guest Claude Wickard, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel dives into a mix of topics, from musical entrance themes to curious agricultural facts about cabbages and crops.Wickard’s expertise adds depth to discussions about farming practices and nutrition, while Levant shines during questions about iconic music associated with dramatic entrances. The evening also features lighthearted debates about nursery rhymes, botanical terms, and the economics of farming. Tune in for an entertaining blend of trivia, humor, and insights in this classic episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7, 2023

29 min

In this March 7, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents a lively session featuring Notre Dame football legend Elmer F. Layden and author Christopher Morley. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles a variety of questions, from identifying famous nicknames for historical and sports figures to discussing memorable quotes from classic poetry.Layden’s athletic expertise shines as the panel recalls football highlights and strategic plays, while Morley’s literary knowledge adds depth to questions involving poetry and literary characters. With a mix of humor, history, and intellectual banter, this episode is a treat for sports fans and trivia lovers alike. Tune in for an entertaining evening that combines gridiron glory with literary lore on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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