Blondie (radio) to the strip, like the appearance of Dagwood's famous sandwiches - and the running gag of Dagwood colliding with the mailman amid a flurry of letters, (which preceded the title sequence in almost every film). The films were typical of family-fare situational comedies of the period, and are endearingly funny in a low-key way. As the series progressed, the Bumstead children grew from toddlers to young adults onscreen. Larry Simms as Baby Dumpling (later known as Alexander) reprised his role in all the films. Daughter Cookie was played by three different child actresses, beginning in 1942 with her first appearance
Al's Baby less than enthused, but Sal argues that it's in their best interest to keep Dagwood cheerfully happy about their presence, and so they drop by. The dinner is quite trying for Al's temper, as Dagwood insists on flirting and groping him shamelessly. A long winter settles in, and Al finds himself forced to repeatedly visit Dagwood's mansion to keep from going stir-crazy. Despite little incidents like Dagwood trying to kill Sal so he can marry "Alma" himself, things proceed smoothly up until spring. Then, a call to Don Sarcoma is tapped, allowing the mob to send hitmen after Al -