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October 20: Happy Birthday, Arlene Francis



Today marks the day on which, in 1907, "What's My Line" regular Arlene Francis was born.

Francis was a New York native and a Finch College graduate, who achieved a relatively painless entry into show business. Her first big play appearance was when she was a mere 21, and she would go on to act in 25 Broadway plays.

Radio-wise, the fetching starlet joined the cast of the intelligent and challenging game show "What's My Line?"  The show was hosted by John Charles Daly and featured, along with Francis, high-brow personages such as Bennett Cerf and Dorothy Kilgallen.

One thing to recall about "What's My Line?" is that in addition to the main guessing game, the panelists also attempted to divine the identity of a mystery guest at the show's end.  MG's included Jimmy Stewart, Orson Welles, Marlene Dietrich and a host of others.

Thanks for the memories, Arlene!

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