Radio Entertainer. Born in San Francisco, California, he was a popular radio personality best-known as host of the talent show, "Ed Bowes' Amateur Hour". He began his career as managing director of New York's Capital Theatre and as a producer of Broadway shows in the late 1800s. In the early 1930s, he branched into radio as the creator of New York WHN-Radio's "Major Bowes and His Capitol Family Show", which featured a variety amateur talent. The rapid popularity of the show soon evolved into "Ed Bowes' Amateur Hour", which started airing on NBC Radio in 1934. Some of Bowes' discoveries included opera singers Lily Pons, Robert Merrill, Beverly Sills, comedian Jack Carter, plus pop singers Teresa Brewer and Frank Sinatra. During his twelve year reign as the show's host, it ranked among America radio's top ten programs. He died on the eve of his 72nd birthday at his home in Rumson, New Jersey.
Radio Entertainer. Born in San Francisco, California, he was a popular radio personality best-known as host of the talent show, "Ed Bowes' Amateur Hour". He began his career as managing director of New York's Capital Theatre and as a producer of Broadway shows in the late 1800s. In the early 1930s, he branched into radio as the creator of New York WHN-Radio's "Major Bowes and His Capitol Family Show", which featured a variety amateur talent. The rapid popularity of the show soon evolved into "Ed Bowes' Amateur Hour", which started airing on NBC Radio in 1934. Some of Bowes' discoveries included opera singers Lily Pons, Robert Merrill, Beverly Sills, comedian Jack Carter, plus pop singers Teresa Brewer and Frank Sinatra. During his twelve year reign as the show's host, it ranked among America radio's top ten programs. He died on the eve of his 72nd birthday at his home in Rumson, New Jersey.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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