Why “39 & Holding”? Because “40 isn’t funny …”

My good friend, John F. Harnish, recently reminded me that Jack Benny was the consummate 39-year-old. Mr. Benny was a popular radio, TV, and movie comic actor from the 1930s through most of the 1960s. He perfected a droll, penny-pinching persona who refused to age past his 39^th birthday.

Mr. Benny reportedly began his running gag to celebrate his 39^th year—again … and again—because “40 isn’t funny.” And Jack Benny was all about being funny. He demanded it—and he got it.

 

For those of us who remember his television shticks (I do, barely, of course—being just a kid myself—heehee), The Jack Benny Program was a highlight of our evening entertainment on the tiny boob tube. Mr. Benny and his cast of kookie characters and high-profile celebrities kept us laughing throughout the show.

The venerable comic was 39 years old 41 times before he passed into Comedian Heaven (in 1974, at 80 years old), and gave more character and emphasis to “Well,” than anyone I have ever heard utter the word.

At John’s urging I hit the Yahoo search button and was thrilled to find the International Jack Benny Fan Club. And then astounded to learn it was officially established in 1980 by a woman who was only ten years old at the time—several years after Mr. Benny’s death. Cool kid.

Now, thirty-two years later, Ms. Laura Leff maintains the site and forum for Jack Benny fans in more than 29 countries. Check it out—you’ll find fascinating history, products, and site links devoted to Mr. Benny and his cohorts.

With the 39 And Holding Club in its infancy, I have much to do to create a fun and entertaining site for you, and bona fide lifetime membership cards are just the first step. John’s innocent suggestion about Mr. Benny led me to explore how I might pay tribute to the first 39-forever guy.

While there may be more ideas in the future, one thought is since 39-AHC cards are numbered, to issue an honorary #39 membership card in Mr. Benny’s name (for his estate, if they are interested).

And … since membership has not yet reached 39, one lucky new 39 And Holding Club member will be issued a matching card. Perhaps a contest for the best “39 ways to stay young” tips would make things interesting? Whatcha think?

Not sure of the mechanics to it all yet, but … keep your mouse hovering over this blog, as an announcement is forthcoming. I’m thinking we could have some fun with this—culminating on June 23, 2012—Baby Boomer Recognition Day. Are you up for it?

Rock On!
(P.S.: And many thanks to John for reminding me of Mr. Benny--the original 39 And Holding birthday boy!)