Eddie Cantor was an illustrated song performer, comedian, dancer, singer, actor, and songwriter on Broadway, radio, film and television, who lived from 1892 to 1964. In a career in the time span of more than 50 years, he hosted radio shows that told intimate stories and amusing anecdotes of his wife and daughters; and performed many hit songs, including "Makin' Whoopee" and "If You Knew Susie." He was famous for his eye-rolling song-and-dance routines, which eventually led to him being called "Banjo Eyes," a nickname originating from artist Frederick Garner's caricature depicting him with large round eyes resembling the drum-like pot of a banjo. Cantor was also an extensive humanitarian, who named and helped organize March of Dimes. He was awarded an honorary Academy Award in 1956 for distinguished service to the film industry.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
Eddie Cantor made his debut in the 1934 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition to Eddie's live appearance that year, he was also accompanied by a balloon version of him. Eddie Cantor was also notable for being the only real-life celebrity to have a balloon likeness in the parade. The balloon only appeared in 1934, and like many other balloons from this time period, he was recycled into part of the 650 pounds of rubber donated to the military for World War II. He is unlikely to ever return as a balloon, as the real Eddie Cantor passed away in October 1964.