Selects: Sammy Davis Jr: National Treasure
Summary
In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant explore the complex life of entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. They discuss his rise from poverty, his time in the Rat Pack, and his groundbreaking career as a multi-talented performer. The conversation covers his conversion to Judaism, his turbulent marriages, and his controversial political endorsements, including his support for Richard Nixon.
Topics discussed
Intro, ads, and Sammy Davis Jr. impression
Billy Crystal's blackface controversy and Sammy's early life
Sammy's complex identity, height, and lack of formal education
Army racism, the Chitlin' Circuit, and Vegas segregation
Ad break: SimpliSafe and Home Depot
The Rat Pack, impressions, and breaking into Hollywood
Car accident, loss of eye, and loyalty to the Maston Trio
Conversion to Judaism, marriages, and JFK disinvitation
Ad break: SimpliSafe and Home Depot
Nixon support, USO tours, and Rat Pack racial dynamics
Church of Satan membership and the 'Poor Devil' pilot
Later career, financial ruin, and death
Listener mail on 911 codes and outro
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