$5 Million
What is Dennis Day’s Net Worth?
Dennis Day was an American singer and personality who had a net worth equal to $5 million at the time of his death in 1988, after adjusting for inflation. He was best known for being a popular Irish tenor.
Dennis Day was born in New York City, New York in May 1916 and passed away in in June 1988. He frequently appeared on the television series The Jack Benny Program from 1951 to 1965. Day received two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for Television and Radio. He first appeared on Jack Benny’s radio show in 1939. He was a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. After returning he starred on his own TV series on NBC titled A Day in the Life of Dennis Day from 1946 to 1951. He later starred on The Dennis Day Show. Day appeared in films including Bucky Benny Rides Again, Sleepy Lagoon, Music in Manhattan, Golden Girl, The Girl Next Door, and more. Dennis Day passed away on June 22, 1988 at 72 years old.
Biography
Early Life
Owen Patrick Eugene McNulty, better known as Dennis Day, was born in the Bronx, New York, to Irish immigrants. He attended Manhattan College and was an active member of the glee club. His vocal talents were recognized early, leading him to a career in entertainment.
Radio Career
Day’s radio career took off when he sang with Larry Clinton’s band and subsequently joined the Jack Benny radio show in 1939. His character was a young, naive boy singer, which became a staple of his persona. He also showcased his talent for mimicry, impersonating famous personalities of the time.
Military Service
During World War II, Day served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. His absence from the Jack Benny program was filled by Larry Stevens, but he resumed his role upon his return.
Radio Sitcom
Post-war, Day starred in his own radio sitcom, “A Day in the Life of Dennis Day,” where he played a similar character to his role on Benny’s show, set in the fictional town of Weaverville.
Television
Day’s transition to television included an attempt to adapt his radio sitcom, which didn’t progress beyond a pilot. However, he continued to appear on “The Jack Benny Program” when it moved to TV and had his own series, “The Dennis Day Show,” where he played a more mature version of himself.
Film Appearances
Day’s film career included roles in “Buck Benny Rides Again,” “Music in Manhattan,” and he lent his singing voice to “My Wild Irish Rose.” He also voiced characters in the Disney film “Melody Time.”
Personal Life and Political Views
Day was married to Peggy Almquist and had ten children. He was a Republican, supporting Dwight Eisenhower and Barry Goldwater in their presidential campaigns.
Later Years and Death
Day remained in the public eye until his health declined. He died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 1988 and is remembered for his contributions to radio and television entertainment.
