Gallagher and Shean - Definition and Overview

Gallagher & Shean was a highly successful double-act on Vaudeville and Broadway in the 1910s and 1920s, consisting of Edward Gallagher (1873 - March 28, 1929) and Al Shean (real name Albert Schoenberg) (May 12, 1868 - August 12, 1949).

Having led separate careers in the Vaudeville tradition, it was when they teamed up that they gained popularity. Most widely-known was their theme song Mister Gallagher and Mister Shean which was a hit at the Ziegfeld Follies in 1922.

Gallagher and Shean first paired up during the tour of "The Rose Maid" in 1912, but they quarreled and split up two years later. They next appeared together in 1920, through the efforts of Shean's sister, Minnie Marx. This pairing lasted until 1925 and led to their fame.

In 1921, they were sued by the Schubert organization for breach of contract. According to Schubert, they could not perform for the Ziegfield Follies. The case claimed that Gallagher and Shean's act was "unique and irreplaceable." The comedians' defense was that their act was a mediocrity and the judge initially found in their favor, although the decision was later reversed.

Shean was also uncle to the Marx Brothers.

Example Usage of Gallagher