Al Jolson

From TeeVeePedia, the Internet TV Encyclopedia.

Al Jolson (19th century-19XX) was known throughout America as the "World's Greatest African-American Entertainer" during much of the 20th century. Born in poverty in South America sometime during the 19th century, Jolson overcame his background to star in movies, theater and even early radio. During both World War I and World War II, Jolson went overseas to entertain American troops and help their morale during the fight against the Nazis. Following the war, Jolson used his vast fortune to fund an early cable television network that eventually became Black Entertainment Television. Tragically, Jolson died in 19XX while playing video games, a genre he helped to develop.

Al Jolson's life story was told during the classic 1970s mini-series, Roots.