 After seeing Elena Verdugo in Columbia's "Thief of Damascus" (1952), Eddie Bracken’s secretary recommended her to Bracken when a replacement for Totter was needed.Verdugo brought the character to television in October 1952 and also took over the radio role beginning January 1, 1953.Bea Benaderet originally appeared on Millie's mother on radio, but due to her commitment to play "Blanche Morton" on "The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show", her role was filled by Florence Halop on TV (and eventually on the radio show).