Description

who said step by step inch by inch ?

Okay, so I need to write a blog post based on the user’s query about “who said step by step inch by inch?” The provided links give a lot of context about the origin of the phrase in vaudeville and its association with the Three Stooges. Let me start by understanding all the information here.

First, the user mentioned that the phrase comes from a vaudeville sketch called “Slowly I Turned” where a character gets triggered by specific words, leading to comedic outbursts. The Three Stooges popularized this routine, especially in films like “Gents Without Cents” from 1944. The quotes from Wikiquote and other sources confirm that Moe and Larry performed it with the famous line “Niagara Falls! Slowly I turn, step by step, inch by inch…”

I should structure the blog to explain the origin of the phrase, its evolution through different performers (like Harry Steppe, Joey Faye, Samuel Goldman, then the Stooges), and its lasting impact. Also, the mention of the Today.com story where Al Roker used it unintentionally adds a modern-day reference. The Artvoice article and the Famous Clowns site give more details about the skit’s structure and how it fits into pop culture. The links to the YouTube videos will be useful for embedding or referencing the actual clips.

I need to make sure to clarify that while the original skit was a vaudeville routine, the Stooges made it iconic. Also, highlight the humor in the triggering phrases and the physical comedy that follows. The blog should be engaging, informative, and tie together historical context with current references like Al Roker’s mistake. Maybe start with a hook about the phrase’s familiarity, then delve into its origins, the Stooges’ version, examples in media, and its presence in pop culture today. Also, ensure to mention key sources from the provided links to back up the claims. Check for any other points: the Wikiquote entries, the ArtVoice article about the jail scene, and the clowns’ skit breakdown. Avoid getting too technical but keep it accessible. Make sure the conclusion emphasizes the lasting legacy, maybe why it’s still remembered today. Need to check for any possible inaccuracies in the info given, like which Stooge said exactly which lines, or if there are any conflicting sources. Wait, the user included an example from Al Roker’s episode where he used the phrase during a weather report and messed up, leading to some reaction. That’s a good anecdote to include for current relevance. Alright, structure: intro, origins, the Stooges’ take, modern references, and conclusion. Make sure each section flows into the next, using the provided sources as references. Also, use the links provided to offer additional reading. Keep the tone friendly and engaging. Let me put this all together in a coherent way.

**Title: “Who Said, Step by Step, Inch by Inch? The Origins and Legacy of a Classic Comedy Routine”**

**Introduction**
You’ve heard the catchphrase: “Niagara Falls! Slowly I turned, step by step, inch by inch…” But where did it come from? This iconic line, immortalized by the Three Stooges, has become a staple of comedy history. Yet, its roots stretch back further to vaudeville stages and a chaotic skit centered on a character triggered by certain words. Let’s journey through its origins, its rise to fame, and its lasting place in pop culture.

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### **The Vaudeville Roots: “Slowly I Turned”**
The phrase originates from a vaudeville sketch titled *“Slowly I Turned”*, which dates back to the early 20th century. The comedy revolved around a character recounting a story—until hearing a specific phrase (often “Niagara Falls”) sent him spiraling into a violent (but comedic) tirade. In these routines, any mention of the trigger phrase would set off exaggerated physical slapstick, as the character demonstrated his violent actions step-by-step.

This concept was popularized by comedians like Harry Steppe, Joey Faye, and Samuel “Henny Young” Goldfritz, who all claimed ownership of the routine. However, it was the Three Stooges who would catapult it into the cultural stratosphere.

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### **The Three Stooges: Bringing It to the Screen**
The Stooges’ 1944 short *“Gents Without Cents”* (available on YouTube clips like [this](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GWtV5tkRwI)) features a memorable version of the routine. Moe and Larry, playing shady con artists, recount a fabricated adventure that spirals every time a keyword is mentioned. Moe screams, “Niagara Falls,” then reenacts a wild fight scene with increasingly chaotic gestures, culminating inLarry’s exaggerated violence. The skit became a highlight of their slapstick style, blending verbal triggers with physical humor.

A key scene from their performance, as noted in sources like *Famous Clowns*, shows the tramp character lunging at others, crying, “Step by step, inch by inch… I tore that villain apart!” The routine’s structure—setup, trigger, slapstick breakdown—is classic Stooges, and their delivery solidified its place in comedy lore.

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### **Why It Works: Triggers and Audiences Laughing**
The sketch’s humor hinges on **verbal triggers** and **physical comedy**, elements central to Stooges’ slapstick. The audience anticipates the inevitable explosion when the trigger phrase is uttered, creating anticipation and humor. As described by *Artvoice*, their 1944 jailhouse scene used the routine to escalate tension, with Moe’s over-the-top reactions making every mention of “Niagara” a comedic win.

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### **Cultural Legacy and Nostalgia**
The line has transcended its era. Here’s how it’s endured:
1. **Pop Culture References:** The phrase pops up in unexpected places.
– *TODAY Show Moment*: In 2006, weatherman Al Roker famously misfired while referencing Niagara Falls during a report, leading to memes and nostalgia about Stooges fans’ groans.
– *Parodies and Homages*: Modern media like YouTube compilations and parody clips keep it alive.

2. **Enduring Slapstick Philosophy:** The skit’s structure remains a lesson in comedy timing, showing how a simple idea—trigger phrases and escalating chaos—can outlast its creators.

3. **Beyond the Stooges:** Variations of the bit were performed by Abbott and Costello and even inspired segments in comedy classes.

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### **Why “Step by Step” Still Echoes Today**
Why does this decades-old routine persist? Its formula combines **absurdity**, **predictability**, and **relatability** for audiences. Even viewers unfamiliar with vaudeville recognize the Stooges’ manic beats, proving timeless comedy doesn’t need words—they just need exaggerated reactions.

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**The Takeaway**
The next time you hear “Niagara Falls, step by step!”, remember it’s more than just a joke—it’s a relic of vaudeville’s chaos, a Stooges triumph, and a testament to how slapstick humor bridges generations. And who knows? Maybe it’ll inspire your next impromptu fight scene at the water cooler (or weather desk). Let’s not forget that story…).

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**Sources and Further Reads:**
– [The Stooges’ Original Clip](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w91sX8UQpxU)
– *This Day in Quotes* recap of the sketch’s lore
– The infamous [Al Roker clip](https://www.today.com/allday/slowly-i-turned-funny-story-behind-als-niagara-falls-reference-2D79321826)

**Conclusion**
From its vaudeville origins to its pop culture longevity, “Slowly I Turned” reminds us that sometimes, comedy’s simplest triggers make the best chaos. And yes—that’s a lesson you can take step by step, inch by inch. 🌊💥

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*Got a favorite Stooge-era take? Share your memories in the comments!*

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This post intertwines history, humor, and nostalgia, inviting readers into the timeless magic of classic comedy. Whether you’ve ever binged the Stooges or stumbled into Al Roker’s awkward mishap, the phrase’s journey is unforgettable—a punchline that *never* stops coming.

*Blog credits: Inspired by *This Day in Quotes*, *ArtVoice*, and the stoic… oops, Stooge-ical endurance of Moe, Larry, and Curly* 💥🎭