Arthur (Artie) Auerbach (May 17, 1903 - October 3, 1957), was an American comic actor and professional photographer who became famous as “Mr. Kitzel”, first on the Al Pearce radio show in 1937 then as a regular on the Jack Benny radio show for 12 years. He also worked with Phil Baker before joining the Jack Benny Show.
May 17, 1903, New York City, New York, United States
Died
October 3, 1957, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, California, United States
Place Of Birth
New York City, New York, USA
Profession
Actor
Star Sign
Taurus
#
Trademark
1
Catchphrases "The pickle in the middle with the mustard on top" and "Ooh ooh, hoo!"
2
Yiddish accent
#
Fact
1
Though he spoke Yiddish, he did not speak with a Yiddish accent in real life.
2
Based his character of "Mr. Kitzel" on a friend who had a strong Yiddish accent. "Kitzel" means "to make laugh" in Yiddish.
3
Was a tabloid photographer for the New York Daily News and the New York Daily Mirror. He still kept his photographer job for many years into his comedy career.
Actor
Title
Year
Status
Character
The Jack Benny Program
1950-1958
TV Series
Mr. Kitzel / Mendelsohn
Shower of Stars
1957
TV Series
Here Comes Elmer
1943
Kitzel
Some Time Soon
1937
Short
Petrov (as Arthur Auerbach)
Self
Title
Year
Status
Character
The Ed Sullivan Show
1952
TV Series
Himself
Known for movies
Some Time Soon (1937) as Petrov
Here Comes Elmer (1943) as Kitzel
The Jack Benny Program (1950-1958) as Mr. Kitzel / Mendelsohn
$8 Million
