Andy Devine, born in 1905, was a talented American character actor known for his distinctive raspy voice. He graced both the silver screen and television during the golden era of Hollywood. Introducing students to Andy Devine provides an opportunity for them to learn about the history of cinema, television, and radio while exploring a unique talent that emerged during that time.
Early Life and Career
Begin teaching students about Andy Devine by discussing his early life. Originally named Andrew Vabre Devine, he was born in Flagstaff, Arizona. As a teenager, he played semi-professional football and even took up boxing. Unfortunately, an accident involving a broken jaw and subsequent infection left him with his trademark raspy voice.
Devine’s acting career began in the late 1920s when he appeared in several silent films. However, it was his role in “The Spirit of Notre Dame” (1931) that propelled his career forward due to his memorable voice. Point out that he successfully transitioned from silent films to talkies, unlike many actors of the time.
Notable Roles and Projects
Focus on several iconic roles of Andy Devine throughout his career. Some highlights include:
1. Jingles – In “The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok” TV series (1951-1958), Devine played the character Jingles, alongside Guy Madison as Wild Bill Hickok. This was one of his most famous roles.
2. Cookie – Devine portrayed Cookie in over 400 episodes of the radio show “Jack Benny Program,” which ran from 1936 to 1949.
3. Buck Peters – In “Riders Of The Whistling Pines” (1949), Devine played Buck Peters alongside Gene Autry.
4. Friar Tuck – One of Devine’s more notable film roles came in 1938 when he played Friar Tuck in “The Adventures of Robin Hood.”
The Teaching Process
When teaching students about Andy Devine, emphasize the importance of his skills as a character actor. Show film clips, provide radio show recordings, and play episodes from television series to give them a sense of Devine’s talent.
Discuss the progression of his career in the context of the cultural changes occurring during that time–the evolution of cinema, radio, and television. Invite guest speakers who have studied or worked with Devine’s films or shows to further engage students with firsthand accounts.
Encourage students to conduct research on Andy Devine and other key figures from that era. Assign projects that involve presenting information about a specific role or performance and discuss how they contributed to his overall career.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Andy Devine is an excellent way to immerse them in film, radio, and television history. By exploring his life and work, students can develop a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the entertainment industry while learning about a unique figure who left an indelible mark on it.
