As a child, Peary showcased his remarkable vocal talents, setting the stage for a future career in the entertainment industry. In 1925, he made the transition to radio, where he would go on to make a lasting impact. By 1929, Peary had secured his own radio show, a milestone that marked the beginning of his rapid ascent to stardom.
Fast forward to 1935, when Peary landed the role of a lifetime as Throckmorton Gildersleeve in the popular Fibber McGee and Molly Show. This iconic character would become an integral part of Peary's career, and he would go on to bring Gildersleeve to life in his own radio show, The Great Gildersleeve, which debuted on August 31, 1941, and ran for an impressive 17 years.
During his time on the radio, Peary's signature giggle became an instantly recognizable trait, captivating audiences and cementing his status as a beloved comedic figure. The Great Gildersleeve radio show went on to become one of the longest-running comedy shows in radio history, finally coming to a close in 1958.
After leaving the Gildersleeve radio show in 1951, Peary turned his attention to the big screen, appearing in numerous feature films, including four based on the Great Gildersleeve radio show. Although his film career began to wane in the 1950s, he remained busy in television and the recording industry throughout the decade.
Peary's final film appearance was in 1964, but he continued to make TV appearances well into the early 1970s, leaving behind a legacy that would endure for generations to come.
