An American singer, musician, and actor, he gained fame in the early 20th century for his distinctive voice and ukulele performances. He was a prominent figure in vaudeville and early sound films, often known by his nickname "Ukulele Ike." His most enduring legacy comes from voicing Jiminy Cricket in Disney's "Pinocchio" (1940), where he sang the iconic "When You Wish Upon a Star." Despite his success, he faced financial difficulties later in life.