Frank Nelson

Frank Nelson

Deceased · Born: May 6, 1911 · Died: Sep 12, 1986

Personal Details

BornMay 6, 1911 Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
Spouse
  • Veola Vonn

    ( Jan 17, 1970 to Sep 12, 1986 )
  • Mary Lansing

    ( Jan 7, 1933 to May 11, 2025 )

Biography

Frank Nelson was a charismatic and multifaceted character talent whose instantly recognizable face had the extraordinary ability to elicit uncontrollable laughter merely by being seen, and his distinctive vocal catchphrase, often punctuated by a drawn-out "Eeeeee-yeeeeeeesss?", would frequently leave audiences in a state of uproarious hilarity, their sides aching from the sheer force of his comedic genius.

Throughout his illustrious career, which spanned an impressive six decades, Frank Nelson made a lasting and profound impact on the entertainment industry, effortlessly transitioning between various mediums, including film, television, radio, and voiceovers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy and entertainment.

Frank Brandon Nelson, a remarkable individual, took his first steps in the world of broadcasting at the tender age of 15, commencing his illustrious career as an announcer on Denver radio. As his talents and dedication continued to flourish, Nelson had remarkably transitioned to the bright lights of Hollywood by the age of 18, where he swiftly discovered a plethora of opportunities in local radio dramatic productions, frequently assuming the role of the leading man, showcasing his exceptional range and versatility as a performer.

Nelson's initial foray into the realm of national acclaim was marked by his involvement in the esteemed sitcom radio program "Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel" in the year 1932, where he had the privilege of sharing the spotlight alongside the illustrious comedic duo of Groucho Marx and Chico Marx.

In addition to his work on "Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel", Nelson's impressive vocal talents were also showcased on other highly acclaimed radio programs, including the swashbuckling adventure "The Three Musketeers" and the thrilling crime drama "Calling All Cars".

Frank's foray into the world of film began in the year 1936, with minor, uncredited roles as an announcer in movies such as "Fugitive in the Sky" and "Black Legion."

Frank's multifaceted comedic talents enabled him to effortlessly transition between diverse character roles, showcasing his remarkable adaptability and range as a performer. He brought to life a variety of memorable characters, from meticulous and precise clerks to fiery and hot-headed adversaries, captivating audiences with his unique blend of wit and charm.

Person Biography:

Frank Capra was born on May 18, 1897, in Bisacquino, Sicily, Italy. He immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age and grew up in Los Angeles. Capra began his career in show business as a stagehand and later worked as a writer and director for various film companies. He made his directorial debut with the 1927 silent film "The Strong Man," and went on to direct some of the most iconic films of the 1930s and 1940s, including "It Happened One Night," "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town," and "Meet John Doe." Capra's work was known for its humor, humanity, and social commentary, earning him five Academy Awards for Best Director. He continued to work in film and television until his death on September 3, 1991.

Frank's impressive repertoire extended far beyond the realm of live-action film and television, as he also possessed a remarkable gift for voice acting. He brought his unique vocal talents to a wide range of animated productions, including the beloved cartoon series "Mr. Magoo" and the iconic "Flintstones." Moreover, Frank's voice could be heard in numerous other animated series, showcasing his versatility and range as a voice actor. His notable credits in this field include providing voices for the futuristic "Jetsons," the lovable "Dinky Dog," and the underwater adventures of "Snorks."

Frank's professional trajectory was marked by his affiliation with the American Federation of Radio Artists, a prominent industry union, where he held the esteemed position of president from 1954 to 1957.

Frank's personal life was marked by two significant marriages, the first of which was to the talented actress Mary Lansing, with whom he shared the joy of parenthood, welcoming two children into the world. His second union was with Veola Vonn, a fellow actress who also had the distinction of appearing alongside him on the popular television show "I Love Lucy".

Frank's life took a devastating turn when he was diagnosed with cancer in 1985. Unfortunately, his battle with the disease ultimately proved unsuccessful, and he succumbed to its effects on September 12, 1986, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of memories and a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Career

{"id":61848,"title":"The Malibu Bikini Shop","year":"1986","character":"Richard J. Remington","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-malibu-bikini-shop","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_61848.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_61848.jpg"},"released":1}
1986
The Malibu Bikini Shop
The Malibu Bikini Shop as Richard J. Remington
{"id":93715,"title":"Garfield in Paradise","year":"1986","character":"Hotel Clerk \/ Salesman (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/garfield-in-paradise","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_93715.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_93715.jpg"},"released":1}
Garfield in Paradise
Garfield in Paradise as Hotel Clerk / Salesman (voice)
{"id":2277,"title":"The Jetsons","year":1985,"character":"Robot Dance Instructor (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/the-jetsons","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_2277.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_2277.jpg"},"released":1}
1985
The Jetsons
The Jetsons as Robot Dance Instructor (voice)
{"id":6353,"title":"Monchhichis","year":1983,"character":"","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/monchhichis","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_6353.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_6353.jpg"},"released":1}
1983
{"id":63534,"title":"The Looney, Looney, Looney Bugs Bunny Movie","year":"1981","character":"Satan (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-looney-looney-looney-bugs-bunny-movie","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/7nvldnc2g6b0.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/7nvldnc2g6b0.jpg"},"released":1}
1981
{"id":144904,"title":"Dorothy in the Land of Oz","year":"1980","character":"Jack, the Hungry Tiger (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/dorothy-in-the-land-of-oz","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_144904.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_144904.jpg"},"released":1}
1980
Dorothy in the Land of Oz
Dorothy in the Land of Oz as Jack, the Hungry Tiger (voice)
{"id":185982,"title":"The Little Rascals' Christmas Special","year":"1979","character":"Sales Clerk (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-little-rascals-christmas-special-1979","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_185982.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_185982.jpg"},"released":1}
1979
{"id":163655,"title":"Puff the Magic Dragon","year":"1978","character":"Tall Doctor (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/puff-the-magic-dragon","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_163655.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_163655.jpg"},"released":1}
1978
Puff the Magic Dragon
Puff the Magic Dragon as Tall Doctor (voice)
{"id":10589,"title":"Dinky Dog","year":1978,"character":"Uncle Dudley","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/dinky-dog","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_10589.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_10589.jpg"},"released":1}
Dinky Dog
Dinky Dog as Uncle Dudley
{"id":81320,"title":"The Mouse and His Child","year":"1977","character":"Crow #1 (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-mouse-and-his-child","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_81320.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_81320.jpg"},"released":1}
1977
The Mouse and His Child
The Mouse and His Child as Crow #1 (voice)
{"id":10257,"title":"Sanford and Son","year":1975,"character":"","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/sanford-and-son","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_10257.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_10257.jpg"},"released":1}
1975
{"id":1130,"title":"The Addams Family","year":1964,"character":"Mr. Pomeroy","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/the-addams-family-1964","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/shows\/poster\/598hsbmgre50.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/shows\/poster\/598hsbmgre50.jpg"},"released":1}
1964
The Addams Family
The Addams Family as Mr. Pomeroy
{"id":10432,"title":"The Lucy Show","year":1962,"character":"Conductor","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/the-lucy-show","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_10432.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_10432.jpg"},"released":1}
1962
The Lucy Show
The Lucy Show as Conductor
{"id":827,"title":"The Flintstones","year":1961,"character":"Clerk (voice)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/the-flintstones","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/show_827.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/show_827.jpg"},"released":1}
1961
The Flintstones
The Flintstones as Clerk (voice)
{"id":94742,"title":"Kiss Them for Me","year":"1957","character":"R.L. Nielson (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/kiss-them-for-me","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/6012ai5c68i0.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/6012ai5c68i0.jpg"},"released":1}
1957
Kiss Them for Me
Kiss Them for Me as R.L. Nielson (uncredited)
{"id":67124,"title":"It's Always Fair Weather","year":"1955","character":"Midnight with Madeleine Announcer (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/its-always-fair-weather-1955","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_67124.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_67124.jpg"},"released":1}
1955
It's Always Fair Weather
It's Always Fair Weather as Midnight with Madeleine Announcer (uncredited)
{"id":67301,"title":"It Should Happen to You","year":"1954","character":"Harold at Macy's (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/it-should-happen-to-you","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_67301.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_67301.jpg"},"released":1}
1954
It Should Happen to You
It Should Happen to You as Harold at Macy's (uncredited)
{"id":174285,"title":"Remains to Be Seen","year":"1953","character":"Fred Fleming","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/remains-to-be-seen","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_174285.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_174285.jpg"},"released":1}
1953
Remains to Be Seen
Remains to Be Seen as Fred Fleming
{"id":67837,"title":"The Clown","year":"1953","character":"Charlie (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-clown","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_67837.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_67837.jpg"},"released":1}
The Clown
The Clown as Charlie (uncredited)
{"id":13512,"title":"Money from Home","year":"1953","character":"Radio Exercise Instructor (voice) (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/money-from-home","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_13512.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_13512.jpg"},"released":1}
Money from Home
Money from Home as Radio Exercise Instructor (voice) (uncredited)
{"id":68105,"title":"Bonzo Goes to College","year":"1952","character":"Dick","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/bonzo-goes-to-college","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_68105.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_68105.jpg"},"released":1}
1952
{"id":68075,"title":"Here Come the Nelsons","year":"1952","character":"Clifford Hastings","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/here-come-the-nelsons","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_68075.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_68075.jpg"},"released":1}
Here Come the Nelsons
Here Come the Nelsons as Clifford Hastings
{"id":68362,"title":"You Never Can Tell","year":"1951","character":"Lieutenant Gilpin","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/you-never-can-tell","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_68362.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_68362.jpg"},"released":1}
1951
You Never Can Tell
You Never Can Tell as Lieutenant Gilpin
{"id":6607,"title":"I Love Lucy","year":1951,"character":"Freddie Filmore","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/show\/i-love-lucy","type":"show","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/shows\/poster\/1gf4jno3tks0.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/shows\/poster\/1gf4jno3tks0.jpg"},"released":1}
I Love Lucy
I Love Lucy as Freddie Filmore
{"id":82792,"title":"The Milkman","year":"1950","character":"Mr. Green","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-milkman","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_82792.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_82792.jpg"},"released":1}
1950
The Milkman
The Milkman as Mr. Green
{"id":174609,"title":"So You're Going to Have an Operation","year":"1950","character":"Examining Hospital Doctor","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/so-youre-going-to-have-an-operation-1950","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_174609.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_174609.jpg"},"released":1}
So You're Going to Have an Operation
So You're Going to Have an Operation as Examining Hospital Doctor
{"id":198641,"title":"Down Memory Lane","year":"1949","character":"(archive footage)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/down-memory-lane","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_198641.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_198641.jpg"},"released":1}
1949
Down Memory Lane
Down Memory Lane as (archive footage)
{"id":72676,"title":"Gang Bullets","year":"1938","character":"Radio Announcer (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/gang-bullets","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_72676.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_72676.jpg"},"released":1}
1938
Gang Bullets
Gang Bullets as Radio Announcer (uncredited)
{"id":72904,"title":"Black Legion","year":"1937","character":"Radio Announcer (uncredited)","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/black-legion","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_72904.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_72904.jpg"},"released":1}
1937
Black Legion
Black Legion as Radio Announcer (uncredited)
{"id":73411,"title":"Fugitive in the Sky","year":"1936","character":"Announcer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/fugitive-in-the-sky","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_73411.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_73411.jpg"},"released":1}
1936
{"id":73753,"title":"Broken Toys","year":"1935","character":"Various","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/broken-toys","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_73753.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_73753.jpg"},"released":1}
1935
Broken Toys
Broken Toys as Various
{"id":73721,"title":"Pluto's Judgement Day","year":"1935","character":"Cat Prosecutor","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/plutos-judgement-day-1935","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_73721.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_73721.jpg"},"released":1}
Pluto's Judgement Day
Pluto's Judgement Day as Cat Prosecutor