MovieChat Forums > I Love Lucy (1951) Discussion > Three Cheers for Frank Nelson!

Three Cheers for Frank Nelson!

posted 5 years ago by [email protected] (1732)
6 replies | jump to latest

How great was this character actor? Although he appeared several times - in different
roles - throughout the show's run, he managed to make his characters unique enough,
so that it never FEELS repetitive.

Think about it. He's the dorky, bespectacled waiter, the nerdy radio/TV host, "Freddie
Filmore", the annoyingly persistent - and incorrect - police sergeant, the impatient
customs manager, and the staid Ralph Ramsey.

Nelson never altered his appearance, but rather gave a new spin on these various men,
so they seem different enough to be fresh to viewers. Certainly Ralph Ramsey was his
most down-to-earth "normal guy" character. Yet even here, he's still a treat to watch.

[–] steven1660 (140) 5 years ago

I agree! He was so different as Ralph then he was as Freddie Filmore, I almost forget its the same actor lol. He was fantastic, and Lucy worked with him when she was in radio.

[–] [email protected] (5501) 5 years ago

He also played the unlucky Ben Benjamin in "Ricky's Movie Offer" who is mistaken for a burglar by Ethel and Lucy and gets knocked unconscious.
He comes to on the couch and stares in confusion at Lucy. "Whoooo are youuuuuu?"
He gets a huge laugh out of a three word question.

His role in the episode was very small, but Frank Nelson made it memorable

[–] [email protected] (1732) 5 years ago

Yes! How could I forget Ben Banjamin?. Nelson is soooo serious here (not friendly, even before he's conked on the
noggin).

I can't believe how well he does being passed out, and sitting there, having his hair combed, and a lit cigarette placed
in his hand. Also he's so good at falling off the sofa!

And speaking of Ben Benjamin, can you imagine HIS reaction to Lucy doing that number with the dummy??? I doubt
he could ever feel totally trusting of Lucy because, deep down, he knew something wasn't right when he was crowned.
Although he was a talent scout - not sure if he worked for MGM specifically.

[–] liscarkat (16552) 5 years ago

Nelson was also a regular on the far-superior Jack Benny show.

[–] [email protected] (1732) 5 years ago

Cute. Benny was NEVER superior to Lucille Ball. Just older.

[–] gcarras (2727) 3 years ago

WELLLL>.:) I like to answer my cellphone with YESSS! On Faceboiok, someone said he was the bastard child of Franklin Pangborn and Gale Gordon ()and I would agree..)