Big Football Bet- The Life of Riley

The Life of Riley, created by Irving Brecher, starred William Bendix as Chester A. Riley, a cheerful but bumbling family man and aircraft worker in California. The show often centered on Riley's well-meaning but misguided attempts to fix problems, usually making things worse. His catchphrase, "What a revoltin' development this is!" became iconic.

The cast included Paula Winslowe as Riley's wife Peg, John Brown as coworker Jim Gillis and undertaker "Digger" O'Dell, and Sharon Douglas as his daughter Babs. Multiple actors played his son, Junior. Alan Reed, later famous as the voice of Fred Flintstone, appeared in various roles.

Originally a radio program (1944–1951), it transitioned to TV in 1949. Jackie Gleason first played Riley on TV due to contract issues with Bendix, who took over the role in 1953 and continued until 1958.