The Take off for Hollywood

Originally aired April 26, 1937, this episode of Fibber McGee & Molly finds the couple frantically packing their trailer for the big trip west to start work on their Paramount picture This Way Please. Between Molly’s practical concerns about forwarding addresses, utilities, and moth-eaten tuxedos, Fibber dreams of custard-pie slapstick with “old Harpo Wilcox” and orange groves where walnut juice passes for breakfast. Visitors stream in—Harlow Wilcox claiming a Hollywood invitation from Mr. Johnson, dramatic coach Barry Lionmore offering pompous acting lessons, Geraldine gushing over “bungalows,” and Mrs. Wearybottom warning about treacherous mountain roads. Perry Como croons “There’s Something in the Air,” Elmo Tanner whistles “When Hearts Are Young,” and Ted Weems’ band keeps the mood lively. With suitcases, trunks, and neighborhood kibitzers underfoot, Fibber dubs himself a natural movie idol while Molly remains grounded in common sense. Complete with Glow Coat spots and road-trip humor, this transitional episode launches the McGees from Wistful Vista toward Hollywood stardom—ready or not.