Hope’s Debt to Russia
Before Bob Hope left Moscow, Soviet officials suggested that some of the satirical barbs from his monologue should be cut from the television broadcast. Hope explained he had no intention “to defame Russia or proclaim it. Our business was comedy. All we wanted was to do a good show.” The Soviets relented but unexpectedly charged Hope for production and lab costs. The title of Hope’s account of the trip, I Owe Russia $1200, references his unpaid debt.
Before Bob Hope left Moscow, Soviet officials suggested that some of the satirical barbs from his monologue should be cut from the television broadcast. Hope explained he had no intention “to defame Russia or proclaim it. Our business was comedy. All we wanted was to do a good show.” The Soviets relented but unexpectedly charged Hope for production and lab costs. The title of Hope’s account of the trip, <em>I Owe Russia $1200,</em> references his unpaid debt.