The Fabulous Irishman (Playhouse 90)

"The Fabulous Irishman" was an American television play broadcast live on June 27, 1957, as part of the CBS television series, Playhouse 90. It was the 39th episode of the first season.

"The Fabulous Irishman"
Playhouse 90 episode
Katharine Bard and Art Carney from "The Fabulous Irishman"
Episode no.	Season 1 Episode 39
Directed by	John Frankenheimer
Written by	Elick Moll
Original air date	June 27, 1957 (1957-06-27)
Guest appearance
Art Carney as Robert Briscoe

Plot

The play tells the story of Irish politician Robert Briscoe. It begins in 1918 when Briscoe, as a young Jewish Irishman, became active in the Irish Republican Army (IRA). During the Irish War of Independence, he smuggled arms past the Black and Tans and was the subject of a "shoot on sight" order. He later became the first Jewish Lord Mayor of Dublin.

Cast

The cast included performances by:

• Art Carney as Robert Briscoe
• Katharine Bard as Lillian Isaacs
• Michael Higgins as Jamie Farrow
• Charles Davis as Sean O'Brien
• Eli Mintz as Mr. Isaacs
• George Mathews as Mellows
• David Opatoshu as Briscoe's Father
• Berta Gersten
• Peter Lorre

Eddie Cantor hosted the broadcast.

Production

Martin Manulis was the producer and John Frankenheimer the director. Elick Moll wrote the teleplay. The play was presented live on June 27, 1957.

Reception

In The New York Times, J. P. Shanley called it "a splendid tribute to a colorful patriot" and "a most creditable conclusion" to Playhouse 90's first season. Shanley wrote that Carney was "ideal" for the title role and that Carney has proven himself "a versatile and brilliant actor."

In The Boston Globe, Elizabeth W. Driscoll called it "one of the most heartwarming offerings of the season and "a story that had all the authenticity and much of the impact of 'The Informer' without its great tragedy." She praised the absence of "sanctimonious little speeches" and wrote that Carney gave a performance that "helps convince you television is a wonderful thing."