The life of Bob McFadden was characterized by a series of serendipitous events and fortunate coincidences that played a significant role in shaping his trajectory. Born in the city of East Liverpool, located in the state of Ohio, McFadden's early life was marked by a sense of uncertainty and exploration, which would later serve as a catalyst for his entry into the world of entertainment.
During World War II, McFadden's military service took him to the island of Puerto Rico, where he discovered his hidden talent for singing and impressionism. It was here, in the midst of war, that he first found his footing as a performer, honing his skills in a weekly talent show that brought together a diverse group of individuals from all walks of life.
After leaving the Navy, McFadden returned to civilian life, but his true calling remained in the world of show business. He spent time working in a Pittsburgh steel mill, where he developed a strong work ethic and a sense of discipline that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
Despite the demands of his industrial job, McFadden's passion for performance never wavered, and he continued to pursue his dreams, eventually landing a gig as an opening act for some of the most iconic performers of the time, including the McGuire Sisters and Harry Belafonte. This exposure not only helped him to develop his craft but also provided him with a platform to share his talents with a wider audience.
Throughout his life, McFadden's journey was marked by a series of unexpected twists and turns, each of which played a crucial role in shaping his path and helping him to achieve his goals. From his early days in Puerto Rico to his later success as a performer, McFadden's life was a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a never-ending passion for the art of entertainment.
In the vibrant city of Boston, nestled in the year 1950, a chance encounter would forever alter the trajectory of McFadden's life. It was during this pivotal moment that he crossed paths with the love of his life, Jeanette, both of them immersed in the captivating world of entertainment. As fate would have it, the duo's undeniable chemistry would serve as the foundation for a long-standing professional partnership, with McFadden's soulful voice soaring above the stage while Jeanette and her identical twin sister wowed audiences with their mesmerizing synchronized swimming routine, their movements choreographed in perfect harmony as they glided effortlessly through the pool's crystal-clear waters.
The McFaddens made a significant move to Queens in the mid-1960s, marking a pivotal moment in Bob's professional journey as a voiceover talent. As his career began to take off, he leveraged his unique vocal abilities to lend his voice to an array of advertisements and cartoons, cultivating a lucrative sideline that would eventually generate hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Throughout the years, Bob's voice became a sought-after commodity, promoting an astonishingly diverse range of products, from the iconic Ban deodorant to the popular Geritol supplement. His impressive repertoire also included a notable gig that earned him a staggering $12,000, whereby he expertly mimicked the sounds of a jet airplane taking off, his voice soaring to new heights.
Bob's remarkable ability to adapt his voice to suit various commercial purposes not only brought him financial success but also showcased his remarkable vocal range and versatility, solidifying his position as a highly sought-after voiceover talent in the industry.
Notable among McFadden's extensive repertoire of memorable commercials is the Wisk laundry detergent advertisement, where he brought to life the character of a parrot, repeatedly uttering the now-iconic catchphrases "Ring around the collar" and "Nice shirt". This particular commercial would go on to achieve a remarkable longevity, being played for an astonishing 25 years or more, thereby solidifying McFadden's status as a household name.
Moreover, McFadden's impressive range as a voice actor was further showcased through his work as a dog barker for Crest toothpaste, yet another testament to his enduring popularity and versatility as a commercial talent.
In the year 1982, TV Guide publication paid homage to McFadden by proclaiming him as one of the elite individuals exceling in the realm of television commercial voice-overs. Undeterred by his newfound recognition, McFadden continued to dedicate himself to his craft, embracing a diverse array of projects that showcased his remarkable versatility.
Among his many notable endeavors, McFadden made a lasting impression as the voice behind the iconic characters Cool McCool's "Pop the Cop" and Milton the Monster. These characters, though seemingly disparate, shared a common thread in that they both benefited from McFadden's remarkable vocal range and distinctive tone.
In addition to his work in the world of voice-overs, McFadden also explored the realm of comedy, lending his talents to various comedy albums and even taking the stage in supper clubs. It was here that he honed his skills as an impressionist, effortlessly capturing the mannerisms and inflections of legendary figures such as Jack Benny and Ed Sullivan.
McFadden, having retired to Delray Beach, Florida, continued to be deeply involved in the entertainment industry, showcasing his remarkable talent for singing impressions of renowned vocalists such as Frankie Laine, Billy Eckstine, and The Ink Spots.
In the year 1959, McFadden received an extraordinary request to perform a show in Spanish in Cuba, mere days preceding Fidel Castro's takeover of the country.
Notwithstanding his unfortunate demise on January 7, 2000, precipitated by the debilitating effects of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, the remarkable career and multifaceted voiceover artistry of McFadden remain an enduring testament to his skill and artistry, with his remarkable achievements continuing to be commemorated and cherished by fans and admirers alike.
