Summary: This program aired 12-21-48 and was the Audition (Pilot) Program for NBC. The Martin and Lewis Show was the first time that the world had a real taste of the comedic dynamic duo, composed of the venerable Dean Martin and the wacky Jerry Lewis. When Dean and Jerry met, Dean had been trying to make it big as a crooner for over ten years. Jerry, coming from vaudeville parents, naturally wanted to be a performer since he was a wee one. When they were both in their 20s, the boys were introduced by friends in New York City and began performing together. Each helped smooth out the others rough edges. Dino helped Jerry relax on stage, and Jerry helped bring out Dinoâ??s comedic side. The duo performed at nightclubs for several years. They were working their way through the big clubs when NBC announced a talent hunt. They were looking for rising young performers for television and radio. Some of the Network executives caught a nightclub act of Martin and Lewis. They were instantly won over by their chemistry. They tried them on television, but radio was a more popular venue, so they moved them on over and made plans for The Martin & Lewis Show.
