Fred Allen and Radio Comedy as a Vehicle of Social Criticism

Fred Allen, a leading network radio comedian from 1932 to 1949, was one of the few broadcast comics to specialize in social commentary. In a medium which strove to avoid the controversial, Allen performed three important functions of the social critic. He denied the truth of cherished American beliefs and toppled sacred national idols. He challenged the authority of dominant social groups, particularly business leaders, most particularly network radio executives. Finally, he defended the freedom of the individual artist especially writers and performers, in the mass media. Allen's legacy is a reminder that radio during the 1930s and 1940s offered more than diverting amusement.