Jack Benny was an American comedian, vaudevillian, radio, television and film actor, and violinist. Recognized as a leading American entertainer of the 20th century, Benny portrayed his character as a miser, playing his violin badly. Born: February 14, 1894, Chicago, Illinois, United States Died: December 26, 1974, Bel-Air, Los Angeles, California, United States Spouse: Mary Livingstone (m. 1927–1974) Children: Joan Benny