“Yoo-hoo, Mrs. Bloom!”
It all started with those few words. The sitcom. From a character who was quintessentially, boldly, proudly and loudly, Jewish. More, a Jewish immigrant. Hear those words, and you instantly know the source (assuming you’re old enough to know that a mu mu isn’t the sound a cow makes): Molly Goldberg! The very first Jewish character on what many consider to be America’s first sitcom who fixed everyone, and everything from her family, to Mrs. Bloom, to the world, in her broken Yiddishe hecsent.
For over 20 years, “Yoo-hoo ...” was a national buzz-phrase, muttered by Americans – from Jews and Italians in New York, the Irish in Boston, to Scandinavians in Minneapolis, (to Jews again in L.A.).
“Come sit on the table, dinner is ready. You’ll swallow a cup, darling?” – Molly Goldberg
America fell in love with The Goldbergs.
1930's America fell in love with The Goldbergs on radio – the lives of an immigrant family headed up by Mama Molly, along with husband Jake, daughter Rosalie, son Sammy, Uncle David – and followed this bold major nationwide portrayal of Jews and Jewish life through to 1950s television.
"It's late, Jake, and time to expire." – Molly Goldberg
Watch a teaser for the 2009 documentary about Gertrude Berg
(article continues below)
Molly, through her Mollyisms, or cracked Yinglish, “shmoozed” common sense, wisdom, and compassion to further her “fix-it” mission.
“Vat's de matter, so late, Sammy? Let me look at your hands. Playing marbles, ha? A marble shooter you're gonna be? A beautiful business for a Jewish boy!" – Mollyism
Unlike Molly the character she played, Gertrude Berg the actress was highly literate. The only child of Dinah and Jacob Edelstein, born in Harlem in 1899, she honed her talent at the Jewish boarding house her parents, Dinah and Jacob Edelstein, ran in Fleischmanns, New York, where as a young girl, she entertained guests by writing and performing skits. It was also where she met her husband, Lewis Berg, a chemical engineer. The couple went on to have two children, Cherney Robert in 1922, and Harriet, in 1926.
In 1929, she submitted her script for a daily unlikely radio show called The Rise of the Goldbergs and so began one of the longest and most successful runs in media history. Berg went on to be not only a star, but the first female “hyphenate,” as creator- writer--actor long before the Streisands, Roseannes, Mary Tyler Moores, and Goldie Hawns. Even today, few, if any, have the control she had in her executive and creative roles. And she used it to stand up for Jews, and fight against abuses of the power she used so well.
“Throw an eye into the ice-box and give me an accounting.” – Mollyism
Concerned about Fascism in the thirties and the welfare of European Jews, Berg was active in many Jewish groups, before, during, and after World War II. More, she risked all when, despite intense pressure from the network and advertisers, she took a stand against the blacklist by refusing to fire co-star Philip Loeb – and she won.
“And dat’s bizness? It’s slavery--just like in ‘Oncle Tom’s Cabinet!’” – Mollyism
No one would dare fool with Gertrude-Molly – a genuine American hit! How was it possible for a Jewish family to become not just a hit, but the prototype of a new genre, with an audience of Gentiles? For Jews and non-Jews alike to laugh with, not at her? And how did Berg accomplish this in the 1930s, when the world – and the country – was rife with anti-Semitism; where Jews had trouble getting jobs, and many restaurants, hotels and clubs had “No Jews or Dogs Allowed” signs hanging in their windows?
#The Goldbergs portrayed Jewish life with heart, warmth, and humor, but without mockery.
The Goldbergs, under Berg’s brilliant direction, did what few sitcoms have managed to do since: Portray Jewish life with heart, warmth, and humor, but without mockery.
In creating The Goldbergs, she allowed Molly to speak for all first and second generation immigrants of every ethnicity. The timing, following the second great wave of immigration to the United States, was perfect. These families, whether Jewish, Irish, Italian, or Russian, were struggling with the same issues: assimilation, old vs. new values, and having to take the hand of their children in this new land. America loved Molly because Americans knew her, or someone like her. Whether they spoke Yinglish, Italiadish, or Eiredish, it was all Ameridish.
Her Jewish humor reflected their trials, hopes, compassion, common sense, and above all patriotism, making their journey personal, amenable, and funny, as it has for We Jews for thousands of years. Is there a better way to impart knowledge of the human condition?
“Mr. Policeman, officer of the law, your honor, could you be so kindly if you would inform me of the location of where is 14th St.?" – Mollyism
American Jews were proud of Molly. Few decried the stereotypical accents and images. For the first time in history, our heritage was brought to the forefront of mainstream culture in a gentle, respectful vehicle, that was also fearless, satirical, and wise – which are the kishkes of most good Jewish humor.
Through Molly, we also saw how, in the right hands, the truth of our ethnicity, could entertain, inform, and strike a universal chord.
Without Berg’s courage and risk, a Sid Caesar, Joan Rivers, or Jackie Mason would be playing to an audience of 50 at the Flatbush Knights of Pythias, and a Seinfeld – wouldn’t be, altogether.
In the 1950s, like many immigrants, the Goldbergs “moved on up” from a New York tenement, to the Bronx, to Connecticut – then to cancellation in 1956. A generation had passed. Assimilation ceased to be front page news. The babies had boomed. As Jews “melted” into suburbia, appearing to, and desperately wanting to turn from kugel to apple pie, the issue itself was driven underground, along with positive Jewish images.
End of an Era
After The Goldbergs ended, Jews “disappeared” on air for two decades. The Vanilla families – The Nelsons, the Cleavers, the Andersons, and the Stones -- reigned in Main Street U.S.A.
Then, in the 1960's, a little egg cream once again entered the Land of Vanilla. Carl Reiner created what became The Dick Van Dyke Show with a Jewish family and workplace in mind. Ultimately the only openly Jewish character was Buddy (Morey Amsterdam who had a bar mitzvah on the show!), but the “groats” served was pure kasha. Not only was the tone Jewish, but other “probable” Jews included The Helpers, Rob and Laura’s friends, Alan Brady, the thinly disguised “Sid Caesar,” and Mel, the lackey brother-in-law.
Then came Rhoda (played by non-Jew Valerie Harper), Mary’s gal pal on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. When “Rhoda”spun off, enlarging the role of her family, we saw a marked change in how Jews were portrayed. Sitcoms, now in their adolescence, were rife with rebellion that reflected the turbulent 1960s and 70s. Many male writers were conflicted over their Jewish traditions and traits, which they perceived as obstacles – but not to getting a quick laugh on the back of exaggerated stereotype. Mothers, especially, took heat, or, a Jewish character was the foil for the “straighter” gentile, in shows such as Bridget Loves Bernie, Mad About You, The Nanny, Will and Grace, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and even Seinfeld (when any parent is involved). The exception was Brooklyn Bridge (1991), based on producer (Family Ties, Spin City) Gary David Goldberg’s early life, the show was an authentic look at Jewish life. Sadly, it lasted only two seasons, was a great disappointment.
Hello Molly? Today, we’re seeing indications of change. In Will and Grace, Grace married “in!” In drama, Jews are more “normalized” in House, Law & Order, NCIS, among others.
Is America “ready” to use cutting edge humor to portray Jewish values?
If so, We Jews need to stop struggling to be “Americans” and start struggling to define how to be “Americans” and “Jews.”
If so, we can finally be true to Gertrude Berg’s legacy.
"If it's nobody, or anybody ........ I'll call back." – Molly Goldberg
(34) Lazar, June 7, 2019 7:40 PM
Proudly "Jewish" -- but without any Judaism?
The Goldbergs didn't keep Shabbos and they ate nonkosher food. They were wonderful people, but so are alot of other people Where's the Jewish?
(33) Nancy Lazarus, April 1, 2015 5:33 AM
From Museum of Radio and Television
"From June 1951 to February 1952, however, the television version was forced off the air for lack of a sponsor after Philip Loeb, the actor then playing Molly’s husband Jake, was alleged to have ties to the Communist Party. Though Berg defended her costar and refused to fire him, Loeb resigned in an attempt to save the show. Berg continued to pay his salary for two years, but Loeb’s job prospects were nonexistent. He committed suicide in 1955. Hope this clarifies.
(32) bren43, August 24, 2010 1:28 AM
Small town in Kentucky
As a kid we either went to the movies or had the radio on. I heard the Goldergs and it open me to the world of New York and she was the only Jewish person I know until later in life. O thought she was a great person and quite interesting.
(31) marnie: the author, July 17, 2010 6:02 PM
Re: Philip Loeb's firing and Gertrude Berg: The Emmes ...
The events surrounding Philip Loeb and Gertrude Berg have been reported somewhat differently depending upon the source. Here's what we know for sure. Berg fought valiantly for several years and lost sponsorship as a result of her refusal to fire Loeb who was also a labor activist. Eventually he did leave, but the info becomes a bit murkier. It's been reported that she a) gave in after years of defiance and faced sure cancellation; or b) Loeb resigned. It's also been reported that she privately continued to pay Loeb, who, tragically, committed suicide in 1955. While he had difficult personal issues, no doubt the horrors of the blacklist ordeal was also a major factor, as it was in the premature death of Jewish star, John Garfield. So, Berg does deserve enormous credit -- either way -- as she did what most of Hollywood did not: Stood up and fought at great risk and cost to herself and her career. Hope that "cleared" it up, though I agree, details vary. The one thing all report: Berg put up a noble and difficult fight for several years. Shalom, and thanks, as always, for the comment. Marnie
(30) Sue, July 16, 2010 1:46 PM
Goldbergs on Satellite now
We have been watching reruns of the The Goldbergs on the JLTV (Jewish Life TV) channel on satellite. The show was show live and sometimes a stage director ends up in the scene. I really enjoy getting to watch a show I had heard so much about but never got to see before.
(29) Beverly Kurtin, July 15, 2010 10:05 PM
Memories
For my birthday, my niece bought me a pair of DVDs of the programs. I started listening to the show on the radio. We finally got a TV and it was so amazing to see that the characters on the radio looked just as I had imagined them. Years later, I used to have lunch at the Desilou Studio Cafe because it was right behind the building in which I worked. If a sit-com was being shot, the folks who worked on the sets ate there too. It was fun eating "with" Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Morry Amsterdam, and others, especially Jim Neighbors who once turned around quickly to pick up something he forgot and WHAM, his entire lunch wound up on my dress. He was so embarrassed, and I tried to tell him it was okay. The next day he handed me a coupon for his dry cleaner for no cost. I've always considered him a nice guy, now he's on top of my top 10 gentlemen list.
(28) Sarah, July 15, 2010 8:11 PM
Correction
Beautiful article but one correction: Ms. Berg did fire Mr. Loeb. I wouldn't want Aish printing wrong info. From IMDB: Mini Biography Mr. Loeb returned to Broadway following his unjust firing from "The Goldbergs". He starred in the Broadway production of "Time Out for Ginger" and was appearing in the play's touring company at the time of his suicide in the Hotel Taft in New York on September 1, 1955. Had he lived a few days longer he would have learned that the FBI had decided to fully clear his name. His suicide was not only linked to his blacklisting but also to the fact that his wife of many years had recently died and his mentally ill son's condition was quickly deteriorating. Mr. Loeb was also in failing health. But there is no doubt that his treatment by the government broke his heart and his spirit.
Nancy Lazarus, April 1, 2015 5:25 AM
Not True
As the great-niece of Tillie Berg, I can tell you that the IMDB listing has many 'facts' wrong. I did not see mention of the Loeb affair in IMDB, however Tillie most definitively DID go to bat for Loeb and DID pay him after she was ultimately forced to let him go.
(27) stephanie, July 15, 2010 6:24 PM
Thank You, Jewlarious!
I was too young to remember Molly on TV, but my parents and grandfather never missed it. They loved Molly. Later, some local network aired some episodes and I finally got to see the show first-hand! Then I understood why my family loved it. I also wanted to tell you, as a surfer of Jewish articles, Jewlarious ranks #1 on my personal list. This article is a perfect example of why! I guess what I love most is the way it presents important and complicated information and still be entertaining! I wish papers like the Times would take a leaf from your pages!!! Then I saw this was a series! Ditto on the rest. One thing. I noticed it was a series because its listed on top. I think a link on each article back to home page so readers can easily see the others. Meanwhile, my sincere compliments to Jewlarious and the writer on a terrific job describing how important Molly was to my parents and the Jewish people!!!!! Stephanie B.
(26) heather, July 14, 2010 2:57 PM
Great Program
I used the Goldberg's sitcom to teach my film class last year. My students were quite surprised at how much fun they had watching an old show. I enjoyed the Sanka commercial. Now I know why my grandmother was so brand loyal!
(25) Eugene Flam, July 14, 2010 2:33 PM
Great article. Same evolution in other areas of show biz
I was actually on the Goldbergs for one show. As a singer I was making kiddush as seen through the window as a neighbor on Pesach. Similar development was going on on B'way and in opera only the world sees things through comedy. Other mediums are more subtle& happening behind the scenes. I'm "still going"
(24) Simcha Mendel, July 14, 2010 4:42 AM
MEMORIES!!!!!
Brings back good memories. I never watched Molly Goldberg because I was too young born in Dec. '59. I do remember many of the sitcoms from that era such as "Leave it to Beaver", "My Three Sons", "The Dick Van Dyke Show", etc. & they were great. Those were the good times.
(23) Elly, July 13, 2010 11:23 PM
I Remember..I Liked That lady!
I sit here with tears running down my face, as I remember watching Molly, when I was a little girl. In those days I didn't know I was Jewish, but I was drawn to this show. (I found out about my hidden identity in 1995, after attending my first Passover Seder.) I wish there were shows like that today!!!
(22) Anonymous, July 13, 2010 10:50 PM
Correction
Just a correction to this fine article: "The Dick Van Dyke" show was on the air during the 1960s, not the 1970s.
(21) Hinda, July 13, 2010 8:33 PM
We Need More Goldbergs!!!
I dated a Goldberg but he was not like Mollie's family. Today we have lost the ability to be proud of our heritage and where we came from. Sadly here in Northern California there's a mass of anti-Zionist Jews who would support the destruction of Israel upon the establishment of a pro-Nazi country called New Palestine. I was fortunate to have found cd's of the radio show (those that survived) and had played them countlessly for my 83 year old mother upon visiting her in Sept. 09. My children now in their late teens, early 20s were amazed at how life was portrayed and often wondered if it was possible. They loved the accents by the way. By the way, Valerie Harper was in Broadway play recordings of "When You are in Love, the Whole World is Jewish." Perhaps in her soul she is Yiddishkeit.
(20) Anonymous, July 13, 2010 7:30 PM
I loved Molly!!!
I enjoyed this article so much! It takes me back to when we would sit and watch Molly and her world. OH, that she were still on TV instead of the garbage most of it is in this troubled world! It was so great!
(19) David S. Levine, July 13, 2010 7:11 PM
She Was Excellent
Molly Goldberg stood up for her family at all times. In one episode she would not allow some vaguely anti-Semitic employer to discriminate against Rosalie. She made certain that her children worked up to their potential and that there was enough food on the table--always an issue in her part of Bronx County. I was too young for her radio show but watched her television show often. I didn't always understand what she was getting at because her milieu was mine, but I got it later on. TV Land network should show these programs.
(18) marnie macauley, July 13, 2010 4:56 PM
To Marion Block
Re: your comments about "Brooklyn Bridge" -- just wanted to say thanks for adding a point of view that, frankly, I hadn't thought about! My first reaction, still tentative is, showing the child's relationship with the Irish girl, was, no doubt authentic to the creator. Assimilation was a huge issue. I recall going through the same with my own parents, even at his age (and my parents were adament. No "dates" with non-Jews). So, if we take in context from the view of the storyteller, he was showing a "time" and not particularly making a statement. But ........ you're right. I don't recall many Jewish girls on the show. I understand it's now (finally!) out on DVD. Must get it, and re-look. Yet, with all, I was fascinated by the show. It was so truly different at the time, and was refreshingly bold and authentic when compared to how Jews were being portrayed in sitcoms. Thanks for making me think! :) Shalom, Marnie
(17) shushan dennis, July 13, 2010 3:27 PM
Goldberg was a shonda
why would a stereotype be something to be proud of? And what with queer uncle david living in the house? OY VEY!
(16) D.K. Milgrim-Heath, July 13, 2010 1:54 PM
The Goldberg's Radio-TV Entertainment Of Yesteryear
The Goldberg's Radio-TV Entertainment Of Yesteryear By D.K.Milgrim-Heath©2010 The Goldberg's radio-TV entertainment of yesteryear- I wasn't around in the 1930’s - I make this clear! Not even remembering their arrival on TV- Since I was newborn preemie arriving in 1953! We know America's love with the Goldberg’s show- Portraying Jews as immigrant examples so long ago. Passing times now shown a re-run channel memory- Educated 1960's generations to now to including me. Immigrants’ lives were like this from where we came- Even though Goldberg’s were Jewish in all and name. Growing up with TV after the Goldberg era- I still hold that nostalgia ever so dearer. Didn’t God give the Jewish people our gift to write? By King David and others to modern media: Radio-TV way with delight. Yes-comedy of the 1960-1970’s was great by families of a different name- Comedy is still comedy not being the Goldberg’s things were never the same
(15) Jeanne Borrman, July 13, 2010 1:48 PM
The Goldbergs
Molly Goldberg was a neighbor we all wanted. I am Catholic and our family never missed The Goldbergs. I didn't see it so much as ethnic but pure "Gold". My husband and I loved Brooklyn Bridge and were saddened when it was cancled. I hope more "Jewish" TV comes along and stays
(14) r, July 13, 2010 1:28 PM
"Father knows Best" was another gem of the era
When I tell people today how "way back when' in my early childhood, TV was so different--and by implication/reflection, that era's social aspirations, mores and role models-- most people find it hard to believe that there was really a program called "Father knows Best" -- which did NOT make fun of fathers. That is, to the best of my memory. I was very little then and just remember such a title. But even that, no one could get away with today.... On the other hand, my pride in being Jewish does not depend on gefilte fish or kishke. Family values are part of it, but all geared to a higher, more spiritual purpose. Just like the "Goldbergs" moved on -- they, to a "better" neighborhood--let's grow up and move on -- ever higher in our aspirations .... Best wishes!
(13) H.E.BROWN, July 13, 2010 2:39 AM
MRS. MOLLY GOLDBERG
ONE OF MY FAVORITE TV SHOWS BACK THEN (NIFTY 50'S ) GROWING UP. WHY WOULD AN 11,12, YEAR OLD GENTILE BOY HAVE MOLLY GOLDBERG AS ONE OF HIS FAVORITES ? I'AM 71 NOW AND I STILL WATCH IT WHEN I CAN FIND IT. MAYBE IT IS HER MOTHERLY LOVE.
(12) Grace Fishenfeld, July 13, 2010 12:29 AM
Talk Nice
My name used to be Goldgerg. My mother Jenny and daddy Joe Goldberg, gathered the family together to listen to THE GOLDBERGS. I thought they were my family. Bubby, downstairs did not like the way molly spoke. Bubby thought Molly was murdering the hanglish language. How come the men on the program knew how to talk? Feh, what's wrong mit her ears, she asked.
(11) Sally R., July 12, 2010 7:44 PM
Yiddish into English?
Thanks for this treasured memory of growing up with the Goldbergs. I am thrilled to relate these memories to the younger (today's) generation. My favorite quote from Molly (said in the Yiddish intonation}: "If we live I'll see you tomorrow; if not, the next day." Amen to that.
(10) Bernard Yablin, July 12, 2010 6:44 PM
The Goldbergs
This was a listening must for my family and myself in the 1930's.Wasn't there another one at that time called"Life Can Be Beautiful" also with a Jewish theme?
(9) Stu Shiffman, July 12, 2010 6:26 PM
Wonderful stuff, I wish that I had been exposed to more of it.
(8) , July 12, 2010 3:27 PM
Gertrude Berg's spirit lives on in every comic out their who, by lineage or choice is Jewish. The delivery of her creation in lines said and a presence became such a wonderful form of "ear candy" to even little ones like me. I could listen to the radio that was a pale green color and enjoy this and I always related to it. I was a wee kid but the brilliance and the characters created by this divine woman before her time always ahead of others that would copy and sometimes successfully the charm she exuded. Thanks for this article. K
(7) tobywil, July 12, 2010 2:33 PM
thanks for the great article Ms Winsten-Macauley
Sorry I missed the documentary, it brings it all back to my early years when tv's were introduced. As we couldn't afford one. I would race home at lunch time in Toronto from school so that she could watch the soaps.Her family was probably the only one on the block who owned a tv. My grandmother in NY loved to listen to her on the radio, we weren't allowed to speak when she was on, that is when we could afford to visit her, when I first heard Molly. At that time I don't know whether she was on the radio in Canada, I don't recall having a radio. thanx again, tobywil
(6) Marion Bloch, July 12, 2010 2:24 PM
Goldbergs-yes, Brooklyn Bridge-no
While I remember the TV Goldbergs well, if vaguely, since I was young I was offended by Brooklyn Bridge. The portrayal of the family was warm and accurate, but the way they dealt with Jewish girls was terrible, in that it was non-existent. The two boys were only interested in the girls attending the Catholic school across the street, not the Jewish girls on their street. As the writers for many series were assimilated Jewish men Jewish women have often been badly treated.
(5) Stewart Perry, July 12, 2010 1:33 PM
God Bless Gertrude Berg and God Bless Marnie, too.
This brings back such wonderful memories from my youth (I am 77) and an up-date, too. I really enjoyed Gertrude Berg, and I am enjoying reading about her this morning, thanks to Marnie Winston-Macauley. Stewart Perry
(4) Alan S., July 11, 2010 11:09 PM
Excellent article. One small correction: The Dick Van Dyke show was from early sixties, not the seventies as stated.
(3) Dr.Josh, July 11, 2010 3:19 PM
AMERICANS AND JEWS
Finally. My compliments to the author and to AISH! She hit the nail on the head. The challenge is "how to be Americans AND Jews!" Can it be done? I believe so. Not only did Molly do it for the Jews, Bill Cosby did it for Black Americans. BOTH were funny. BOTH didn't sacrifice their ethnicity. Just the opposite! Please, more of these thoughtful, intelligent articles!! They're "good for the Jews." Dr. Josh
(2) Julie, July 11, 2010 3:11 PM
I Remember Molly
As one who does know what a mu mu is, I remember Molly with great affection and pride, taking a leaf from my parents' attitude. What lessons Molly taught in her special inimitable way! What I didn't know was the story behind the story. Thank you for sharing it with respect, pride, and love. Beautifully written, this article also raises important questions I hadn't thought about. If Berg could make such a difference, Jewish writers and humorists can do so today. The author gave us much to ponder. Wonderful story! Julie P
(1) Irene Solnik, July 11, 2010 2:53 PM
Molly
This brought back memories of a little girl whose big sister was named Rosalie and wondered why there was no Irene in the show. To quote "thanks for the memories".