10 August 2024
Eartha Kitt on The Good Old Days (1972)
Her appearance on the British television show The Good Old Days in 1972 was a memorable moment that showcased her unique talent and charismatic presence. I suppose to some, 1972 must seem like the good old days now!
The show, which aired on the BBC, was known for its recreation of the music hall entertainment popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It featured a variety of acts, including singers, comedians, and novelty performers, all presented in the nostalgic style of the Victorian era. I must say I was very surprised to someone of Kitt’s international renown appear on this kind of show.
Kitt was already an international star known for her distinctive voice, sensuality, and commanding stage presence, brought more than a touch of glamour and sophistication to the program. Yet at this point in time, she may still have been persona non grata in the US for her comments to the First Lady about the Vietnam War in 1968 ("The children of America are not rebelling for no reason. They are not hippies for no reason at all. We don't have what we have on Sunset Blvd. for no reason. They are rebelling against something. There are so many things burning the people of this country, particularly mothers. They feel they are going to raise sons – and I know what it's like, and you have children of your own, Mrs. Johnson – we raise children and send them to war.")
America's loss was the UK's gain. She stole the show, performing in the traditional music hall setting, which was surely a departure from the more modern stages (not to mention audiences!) she was accustomed to. Kitt’s ability to blend into different styles while maintaining her unique persona was on full display. Her engagement with the show’s host - Leonard Sachs (who seems speechless for once) is something to behold. Mind you he had just described her as a “torrid tornado of titillation” so perhaps he’d already said enough! To say she had him and the audience in the palm of her claw is an understatement to say the least…
Dressed in a glamorous outfit that captured the essence of her feline and elegant style, Kitt delivered her performances with the sultry, playful charm that had become her trademark. Her appearance on The Good Old Days not only entertained the audience but also highlighted her versatility as a performer who could adapt to various genres and settings while still captivating her viewers.
This performance added to Eartha Kitt’s legacy as a versatile and enduring entertainer who could effortlessly bridge the gap between different cultural eras, making her appearance on The Good Old Days a notable event in her illustrious career.
Dressed in a glamorous outfit that captured the essence of her feline and elegant style, Kitt delivered her performances with the sultry, playful charm that had become her trademark. Her appearance on The Good Old Days not only entertained the audience but also highlighted her versatility as a performer who could adapt to various genres and settings while still captivating her viewers.
This performance added to Eartha Kitt’s legacy as a versatile and enduring entertainer who could effortlessly bridge the gap between different cultural eras, making her appearance on The Good Old Days a notable event in her illustrious career.
