Trivia

Became to first African-American comedian to open at the Copacabana nightclub in New York, in 1960. He opened for Bobby Darin, who in fact gotten Kirby to be his opening act.

He fell on hard times and in 1977 was arrested for selling an ounce of heroin to an undercover police officer. He was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to ten years in prison. He was released after serving 42 months.

In 1972 he joined top impressionists Frank Gorshin, Rich Little, Charlie Callas, Fred Travalena and Marilyn Michaels on the "Kopycats" segment of The ABC Comedy Hour (1972). George's sharp talents as a mimic ranged from Humphrey Bogart to Pearl Bailey.

Pleasant African-American comic, impressionist and song-and-dance man, one of the earlier black performers who found crossover success in the 1950s with his light, non-confrontational stand-up style. Was a favorite on The Ed Sullivan Show (1948).

Buried at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, IL.

Was portrayed by Amadeus Martin-Reid in Beyond the Sea (2004).