The Great Gildersleeve

Leroy's Million Dollar Laundry

English · Radio, Humor

Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve is the blustery, big-hearted head of the household in the small town of Summerfield. A former radio character who became the star of his own comedy, Gildersleeve shares his home with his niece Marjorie, nephew Leroy, and housekeeper Birdie, whose practical outlook often keeps his grand ideas in check.

The program follows Gildersleeve through family life, civic responsibilities, and the everyday complications of a close-knit community. Episodes mix domestic comedy with his involvement in local affairs, as he tries to manage the people around him—and frequently finds that his own confidence has created the problem.

Harold Peary’s performance gives Gildersleeve a distinctive bluster, punctuated by his famous rolling laugh. The warm ensemble and small-town setting make the show an inviting blend of family sitcom and community comedy, with affection beneath its teasing humor.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.