I can’t say I knew much about Al Jolson aside from his “Mammy”, and I’m not sure I really know that much more now. Larry Parks does, however, deliver quite engagingly as the young Jewish lad who was spotted by “Steve” (William Demarest) and in spite of strong objection from his father (Ludwig Donath) takes to the boards. He is a talented lad, no doubt about that, and so is quickly offered bigger and better parts…
The Jolson Story (1946)
The Music... The Magic... The Times... of America's Greatest Entertainer.
At the turn of the 20th century, young Asa Yoelson decides to go against the wishes of his cantor father and pursue a career in show business. Gradually working his way up through the vaudeville ranks, Asa — now calling himself Al Jolson — joins a blackface minstrel troupe and soon builds a reputation as a consummate performer. But as his career grows in size, so does his ego, resulting in battles in business as well as in his personal life.
Top Cast
Larry Parks
Al Jolson
Evelyn Keyes
Julie Benson
William Demarest
Steve Martin
Bill Goodwin
Tom Baron
Ludwig Donath
Cantor Yoelson
Scotty Beckett
Asa Yoelson
Tamara Shayne
Mrs. Yoelson
Jo-Carroll Dennison
Ann Murray
John Alexander
Lew Dockstader
Ernest Cossart
Father McGee
Lilian Bond
Woman (uncredited)
Frank Baker
Audience Member (uncredited)
Franklyn Farnum
Man in Audience (uncredited)
Bess Flowers
Woman in Audience/Nightclub Patron (uncredited)
Sam Harris
Nightclub Patron (uncredited)
Edwin Maxwell
Oscar Hammerstein (uncredited)
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FAQ about The Jolson Story
What is The Jolson Story about?
At the turn of the 20th century, young Asa Yoelson decides to go against the wishes of his cantor father and pursue a career in show business. Gradually working his way up through the vaudeville ranks, Asa — now calling himself Al Jolson — joins a blackface minstrel troupe and…
When was The Jolson Story released?
The Jolson Story was released in 1946.
What genres does The Jolson Story belong to?
The Jolson Story is categorised as Drama, Music.
Who stars in The Jolson Story?
The cast of The Jolson Story includes Larry Parks, Evelyn Keyes, William Demarest, Bill Goodwin, Ludwig Donath.