THE HOST OF the Tonite Show, Jay Leno, had always liked to point out when a series had opted to use what Leno referred to as "The Evil Twin Plot." That is, it had a the central theme a situation in which some number of nefarious deeds were committed by an individual so similar in appearance; that they are blamed on the hero.
THIS WAS NOT the first foray into the genre of the mistaken identity by the Superman Series. We had already seen THE FACE AND THE VOICE in season 2. In this episode, a ex-con, "Boulder" (Reeves) is transformed facially to look like Superman; while voice instructor coaches him in impersonating the Man of Steel's voice.
GETTING BACK TO today's honored episode, Jimmy the Gent, it is Olsen's uncanny resemblance to an underworld figure of youthful vintage, "Kid Collons", that leads to all of the confusion and comedy of errors. The story gives young Jack Larson a great chance to let it all hang out and really "Han it Up!" His characterization is really remarkable and is a testimony to the actor's underrated abilities as a performer.
OF PARTICULAR INTEREST is "Kid Collins'" confrontations with crusty old Perry White (John Hamilton); as well as his fresh, "Wolf" approach with regard to Lois Lane (Noell Neill).
THE CHARACTER OF Jimmy Olsen, which was found to be the unexpected surprise of the SUPERMAN Series*, had proved its true value here by its carrying this episode; as did "Jimmy" in so many before.
BUT THIS TIME, there was a double dose of Jack Larson for our enjoyment and edification.
NOTE: * Jack Larson's JIMMY OLSEN portrayal was found to be so popular that his name was moved up in the cast listings. Also, after the SUPERMAN Series had debuted, DC Comics expanded the number of regular titles to feature the Man of Steel to include "SUPERMAN'S PAL, JIMMY OLSEN starting in 1953.