The Jack Benny Program was one of the most popular shows during radio's classic era. And one of the most popular characters on that program was Benny's trusty valet Rochester, as played by Eddie Anderson. He was the first African American to have a regular role on a network show, and became one of radio's highest paid entertainers during the golden age. Thanks to smart business investments, Anderson was one of the nation's wealthiest African-Americans who often used his money to help others. In 1950 Eddie Anderson was given his own radio show which was a rarity in radio and television for years to come.
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