Eddie Cantor Quotes

Powerful Eddie Cantor for Daily Growth

About Eddie Cantor

Edward Isaac 'Eddie' Cantor (July 31, 1892 – October 10, 1964) was an American vaudevillian performer, comedian, actor, singer, and radio personality, popularly known as "The Old Southern Comedian." Born in New York City to Russian-Jewish immigrant parents, Cantor grew up in a poor neighborhood, which greatly influenced his comedic style. Cantor began his career in vaudeville at the age of 14, performing with his siblings as 'The Three Cantors.' However, it was after partnering with George Jessel that he found success under the stage name Eddie Cantor and the Duplicate Keys. His act combined singing, comedy, and impressionism, which set him apart in the world of vaudeville. In 1926, Cantor made his Broadway debut in the Ziegfeld Follies, where he performed for six years. During this period, he also ventured into radio and film. His radio show 'The Chase and Sanborn Hour' became one of the most popular programs on NBC during the Golden Age of Radio. Cantor was a key figure in the transition from vaudeville to radio and films. His movies included "Whoopee!" (1930), "Kabuki" (1936), and "Pal Cookin'" (1937). He is remembered for his signature catchphrase, "Mama!," which he incorporated into his act. Despite his success, Cantor faced numerous challenges, including anti-Semitism and a battle with alcoholism. However, he used his platform to advocate for Jewish causes and charities. During World War II, he performed for troops stationed overseas, earning the rank of special agent in the Office of War Information. Cantor's influence extended beyond entertainment. He was one of the first celebrities to use his fame to raise money for charitable causes. His life story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to social justice.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"It takes less time to do a thing right, than it does to explain why you did it wrong."

This quote emphasizes the importance of doing tasks correctly from the outset rather than having to justify mistakes or errors. By putting in the effort to get things right initially, one can save time, resources, and potential hassle that may come with correcting or explaining mistakes. The implication is that a proactive, diligent approach is more efficient in the long run than reacting to and fixing problems that could have been avoided.


"A day without sunshine is like night."

This quote by Eddie Cantor suggests that a day without happiness, positivity, or joy - much like a day without sunlight - can feel as if it's filled with darkness and gloom. It emphasizes the importance of finding and appreciating the brightness and warmth in our lives to help us get through even the most challenging days.


"Life is just a bowl of cherries, don't take it serious, life's just a joy ride."

The quote "Life is just a bowl of cherries, don't take it serious, life's just a joy ride" by Eddie Cantor conveys the idea that one should appreciate and enjoy life as a delightful experience rather than worrying too much about its difficulties or challenges. It suggests that like a bowl of cherries, life is filled with moments of sweetness and pleasure, but also contains pits (challenges) which can be navigated through with a light-hearted, optimistic approach. The underlying message encourages people to find joy in the journey and not let the hardships overshadow the beauty and goodness that life offers.


"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do."

The quote by Eddie Cantor emphasizes the fulfillment derived from achieving goals that others deem impossible. It highlights the joy and satisfaction gained when one successfully navigates through challenges, overcomes obstacles, or pushes beyond perceived limitations set by others. Essentially, it's about defying expectations and proving doubters wrong, which can lead to personal growth and a sense of accomplishment.


"You can't stop laughter - why would you want to? Laughter is like vacuuming: It makes the couch feel better."

This quote by Eddie Cantor suggests that laughter, similar to vacuuming, has a positive impact on our surroundings, making them feel better. Just as vacuuming removes dirt from carpets, laughter cleanses emotions, releasing tension and negativity, promoting a more pleasant atmosphere. In essence, the quote encourages us not to suppress laughter because it brings joy, lightness, and improvement to ourselves and others.


Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going to fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.

- Eddie Cantor

Enjoy, Why, Going, Miss

When I see the Ten Most Wanted Lists... I always have this thought: If we'd made them feel wanted earlier, they wouldn't be wanted now.

- Eddie Cantor

Thought, Always, Made, Most Wanted

A wedding is a funeral where you smell your own flowers.

- Eddie Cantor

Marriage, Flowers, Own, Funeral

Marriage is an attempt to solve problems together which you didn't even have when you were on your own.

- Eddie Cantor

Marriage, Own, Which, Solve

It takes 20 years to make an overnight success.

- Eddie Cantor

Success, Overnight, Takes

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