Ameche was a versatile and popular film actor in the 1930s and '40s, usually as the dapper, mustached leading man. He was also popular as a radio master of ceremonies during this time. As his film popularity waned in the 1950s, he continued working in theater and some TV. His film career surged in a comeback in the 1980s with fine work as an aging millionaire in Trading Places and a rejuvenated oldster in Cocoon.
Brother of actor Jim Ameche. Interred at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery (formerly St. Philomina's), Dubuque, Iowa. (Grave unmarked). Father of six children: Ronald, Dominic, Thomas, Lonnie, Bonnie and Connie. Portrayed Alexander Graham Bell in The Story of Alexander Graham Bell in 1939. In 1957, his brother, Jim Ameche, portrayed Bell in The Story of Mankind. Inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1992. He became a major star on radio. His teaming with Frances Langford as "The Bickersons" is regarded as classic comedy on radio. "The Bickersons" were revived for a series or record albums. Biography in: "Who's Who in Comedy" by Ronald S. Smith, pg. 51-53 (article titled "The Bickersons"). New York: Facts on File, 1992. ISBN 0816023387 Master of ceremonies for the NBC-Red network radio program "The Chase and Sanborn Hour" (later "The Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy Show") from 1937 to 1940. Attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa Calling the telephone the "Don Ameche" became popular American Slang in the 1930s and '40s due to his role as Alexander Graham Bell