Harold Peary

Harold 'Hal' Peary (1908-1985) was an American actor, comedian, and singer known for his work in radio, films, television, and animation. He gained fame for his portrayal of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character that originated as a supporting role on radio's 'Fibber McGee and Molly' in 1938. Born Jose Pereira de Faria in San Leandro, California, to Portuguese parents, Peary began his radio career in San Francisco as a singer. He moved to Chicago in 1937 and became a regular on 'Fibber McGee and Molly,' where the Gildersleeve character was born. Peary also appeared on other radio programs, including the horror series 'Lights Out.'