Jack Benny - Nighttime Radio · Jack Benny

Jack Benny - Buck Benny Rides Again

March 14, 2026·29 min·2 clips

Jack Benny is mysteriously absent as his cast debates whether they can host the show without him.

The episode opens with a Jell-O advertisement emphasizing its fruit flavors and red packaging. Jack Benny is absent as the broadcast begins, causing concern among cast members Mary Livingston and Phil Harris. They discuss Jack's sensitivity about being treated poorly by the cast last week. Don Wilson calls Jack's house, where Jack refuses to come to the studio, insisting the cast doesn't need him. Phil Harris reluctantly takes over as master of ceremonies, telling jokes about his tie. Jack Benny unexpectedly enters the studio but claims he's only looking for his hat, which is already on his head. After some back-and-forth, Jack agrees to stay if everyone follows his rules, including no phone calls. Carol Lombard immediately calls for Phil Harris, breaking Jack's new rule. Kenny Baker sings 'Night and Day' from the Gay Divorce. The show transitions into the serial 'Buck Benny Rides Again,' with Jack playing Sheriff Buck Benny. Buck investigates stolen cows and interacts with his fiancée Daisy and her father Frank. They learn outlaw Cactus-Face Elmer is at the Gem Theater watching a William S. Hart film. Buck teams up with Sheriff Andy Devine to capture Elmer. Inside the theater, they discover cows in the seats and confront Elmer. The serial ends with Buck being shot, creating a cliffhanger. The episode closes with a Jell-O chocolate pudding advertisement and credits.

As heard by us

A brisk Jack Benny hour where banter, sponsor copy, and music all keep moving together.

The program keeps Jack Benny at the center of the joke flow, with Mary Livingston, Phil Harris and his orchestra, sponsor patter, and the musical turns all working off one another.

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Why you'd press play

For a fast swing through the Jell-O Benny hour, Jack's authority keeps getting nudged off balance by Mary, Phil, and the room itself.

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