Escape and Suspense!

Suspense - The McKay College Basketball Scandal

In "The McKay College Basketball Scandal," Tony Curtis stars as a college athlete who is asked to throw a game.

In another one of Suspense's "stories taken from life," we meet Fred Hudson, the star player on the McKay College basketball team. He and his father think basketball will be his career, but his mother and his girlfriend can't see that far ahead. Fred's grades aren't good, but his history professor thinks he has potential as a history major.

Young Fred, who is caught in the middle of this confusion, is then approached by two men. They offer him a lot of money to throw the game. Fred needs the money, but will he do it?

"The McKay College Basketball Scandal" was written by Millard Kaufman and produced/directed by Elliott Lewis. Tony Curtis, in his only appearance on Suspense, starred as Fred Hudson. Also appearing were Joseph Kearns, Martha Wentworth, Jack Moyles, Lou Merrill, Barbara Eiler, and Jack Kruschen. This episode aired on September 24, 1951.

. Download Suspense_1951.09.24_McKayCollegeBasketballScandal

Suspense - The Wages of Sin

In "The Wages of Sin," Barbara Stanwyck plays a tough-talking beauty who makes a risky deal.

As the episode opens, the police are inspecting the apartment of Ruby Miller, a somewhat notorious tabloid darling.  A man was murdered in her living room, and though Ruby was not at home, the police are certain that a deal was made in advance to use her apartment as the scene of the crime.

When Ruby does return to her apartment, she insists that she knows nothing about the dead man lying on her rug. The police don't believe her, but they can't prove her story wrong or her alibi false. 

Of course, Ruby does know more, and now that the police have let her go, she intends to profit even further from the deal she made.

"The Wages of Sin" was written by E. Jack Neuman and John Michael Hayes. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. Barbara Stanwyck, in her only appearance on Suspense, played Ruby Miller. Also appearing were John Dehner, Jerry Hausner, John Hoyt, and Lou Merrill.  This episode aired on October 19, 1950.

.  Download Suspense_1950.10.19_The Wages of Sin

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Consideration

"Consideration" is a love story about a wife who believes her husband wants to kill her in order to collect the insurance money.

As the episode opens, Charles admits to his wife, Ellen, that he has been borrowing money to keep up their lifestyle. To  pay off those loans, he had to steal funds from his company. Now, Charles wants to use the savings in their safe deposit box to replace the money he stole from work, and he asks Ellen to go get it.

Ellen tells him that she would do just that, but she has already gambled away all of that money. She has been betting on the horses but never winning, so there isn't any money left.

Charles appears forgiving, but when he takes out a new life insurance policy on her, Ellen becomes conviced that he is planning to kill her.

"Consideration" was written by Ken Bodra, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman MacDonnell.  Rosalind Russell, in the second of her three appearances on Suspense, starred. Also appearing were Jerry Hausner, Sam Edwards, John McIntire, Joseph Kearns, and Cathy Lewis. This episode aired on February 2, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.02.02_Consideration.mp3

(Image from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Summer Night

"Summer Night" is based on a story by Ray Bradbury and stars Ida Lupino in a creepy episode about a serial killer.

As the episode opens, Anna is trying to phone her friend Helen, but she can't get through. The operator is having trouble connecting the call because everyone in town is in a panic about two murders that have recently taken place. The "Lipstick Killer" has struck twice, and the town is terrified he will strike again.

Anna wants Helen to come and stay with her because she doesn't feel safe alone in her home. Helen finds the request odd because the two of them haven't spoken for four years, but she eventually agrees to come over. Helen knows that her old friend Anna is a bit strange, but she soon realizes how much stranger Anna has become since she last saw her.

"Summer Night" was adapted by Robert L. Richards from an original story by Ray Bradbury. Anton M. Leader produced and directed. Ida Lupino starred as Anna. This episode aired on July 15, 1948.

. Download suspense_1948.07.15_Summer Night.mp3

"Summer Night" was also presented on the Suspense television show on February 19, 1952, but that episode is not known to be available at this time.

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Tell You Why I Shouldn't Die

In "Tell You Why I Shouldn't Die, a Coney Island pitchman has to talk fast to save his own life.

Charlie is holding Nat at gunpoint. He wants to kill Nat in return for the many things that his buddy "has done for him."

Before he does, Charlie allows Nat to give him one last pitch. One last chance to explain why he shouldn't die.

Nat explains that he did steal Charlie's girl, Eileen, but that was partly her fault, too. He did take Eileen to Reno to get married and then dump her for someone else, but only because they really weren't right for each other. Yes, he did turn Charlie into the police for murdering Eileen when she returned from Reno, but he only did it because it was in Charlie's best interest...

Will Charlie let bygones be bygones?

"Tell You Why I Shouldn't Die" was written by David Ellis and produced/directed by Elliott Lewis . Richard Widmark starred as Nat and Hy Averback played Charlie. Also appearing were Mary Shipp, Cathy Lewis, Joy Terry, and Larry Thor. This episode aired on June 7, 1951.

.  Download Suspense_1951.06.07_TellYouWhyIShouldntDie.mp3

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - For Love or Murder

In "For Love or Murder," Mickey Rooney stars as a young pianist who helps his older girlfriend kill her husband.

As the episode opens,Tommy Lee is on his way to commit a murder. His girlfriend, Ann, wants to be rid of her husband, and she has staged a burglary during which her husband will be killed.

Tommy agreed with her plan, and he agreed to be the "burglar." Now, Tommy is on his way up to their apartment. He wants to do this for Ann because he is in love, but is her love worth it?

"For Love or Murder" was written by John Shaw, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman MacDonnell . Mickey Rooney, in one of his three appearance on Suspense, played Tommy. Also appearing were Lurene Tuttle, Barney Phillips, and Joseph Kearns. This episode aired on December 8, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.12.08_For Love or Murder.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The Crowd

Suspense's "The Crowd" was loosely based on the 1943 short story by Ray Bradbury. The supernatural element of the original story isn't incorporated into this episode, but Suspense's version is an intriguing and well-performed radio play about a killer on the loose in New York City.

As the episode opens, police lieutenant Johnny Stillano is called to investigate a murder. When he arrives at the scene, he has to fight his way through the crowd that has gathered around the victim's body. The crowd seems to have materialized out of nowhere, and it wants to absorb every morbid detail of the murder.

Later, the lieutenant receives a package and then a phone call from the killer -- who appears to be taunting him. Can the lieutenant learn the killer's identity before he strikes again?

"The Crowd" was adapted for Suspense by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. Elliott Lewis produced/directed. Dana Andrews, in the third of his four appearances on Suspense, starred. Joseph Kearns played the killer. Also appearing were Lou Merrill, Howard McNear, and Jeannette Nolan. This episode aired on September 21, 1950.

.  Download Suspense_1950.09.21_TheCrowd.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Three Times Murder

In "Three Times Murder," a woman is blackmailed by the attorney who knows she is a murderess.

Laura Starling Morton, accused of murdering her husband, is taken to trial but not convicted of the crime due to insufficient evidence. The assistant district attorney who tried the case knows that she did it, and he is determined to profit from that knowledge, one way or another. After the trial, Laura moves on with her life in a new city and soon remarries. She thinks that her troubles are behind her, but they aren't.

"Three Times Murder" was written by John DeWitt and Robert L. Richards. Rita Hayworth, in her only appearance on Suspense, played Laura Starling Morton. Hans Conried played Elmer Garner. Also appearing were Wally Maher, Bill Johnstone, and Lou Merrill . William Spier produced and directed. This episode aired on October 3, 1946.

. Download Suspense_1946.10.03_Three Times Murder.mp3

Four years later, Suspense presented this episode again under the title "Murder Strikes Three Times."  Marlene Dietrich, in her only appearance on Suspense, played Laura Starling Morton. Hans Conried again played Elmer Garner. William Spier produced and Norman MacDonnell directed. This episode aired on February 16, 1950.

.  Download Suspense_1950.02.16_MurderStrikesThreeTimes.mp3

(Images of Rita Hayworth and Marlene Dietrich from Wikimedia Commons )

Suspense - Murder by the Book

In "Murder by the Book," silent film star Gloria Swanson plays a mystery writer who is asked to investigate a high profile murder in a small town.

Emily Carlisle is the most famous female mystery writer in America. When she is asked to investigate the death of her own doctor, she is hesitant. She feels that she is too closely involved, not only because she was the man's patient, but also because her stepdaughter was one of his employees.

Nevertheless, Emily accepts the assignment. She begins her investigation with Lieutenant Hahn, the local officer assigned to work with her. He tells Emily that one woman has already confessed to the crime, but that he doesn't believe she is the real killer. Emily agrees, and that means that a murderess is still on the loose.

"Murder by the Book" was written by Robert L. Richards and produced/directed by William Spier. This episode was one of three that were broadcast from New York City. Gloria Swanson, in her only appearance on Suspense, starred as Emily Carlisle. Also appearing were Berry Kroeger, Joseph Kearns, Lurene Tuttle, and June Havoc. This episode aired on July 10, 1947.

.  Download Suspense_1947.07.10_ Murder By The Book.mp3

(Image of Gloria Swanson from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Nobody Loves Me

Suspense's "Nobody Loves Me" stars Peter Lorre in a sad and disturbing episode about a man who expresses his own agony through murder.

As the episode opens, Joe Reece enters a busy police station and pulls out a gun. He is willing to surrender himself, and the whereabouts of a missing woman, but first the officers must listen to his life story.

The story of how he became a murderer began when...

"Nobody Loves Me" was written by Herbert Clyde Lewis and Silvia Richards. William Spier produced and directed. Peter Lorre, in the last of his six appearances on Suspense, starred as Joe Reece. Wally Maher and Joseph Kearns appeared as the police officers. This episode aired on August 30, 1945.

. Download Suspense_1945.08.30_Nobody_Loves_Me.mp3

Here also is an intriguing video of this Suspense broadcast that was created by adding a simple series of illustrations. At first, this video moves slowly, but give it a few minutes, and you wil be hooked into this story!

For more information about this YouTube video, "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me Pt. 1," click here.

For Part Two of "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me" click here.

For Part three of "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me" click here.

(Image of Peter Lorre by Yousuf Karsh from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Consequence

In "Consequence," Jimmy Stewart plays a man who escapes his unhappy marriage by taking a dangerous chance.

At their ten-year class reunion, Dr. Phil Martin meets his old college chum, Ted Wolf, and invites him back to his house for dinner. Phil and his wife, Gwen, appear to have a perfect life, but later, Phil admits to Ted that he is trapped in an unhappy marriage and a meaningless career. Later that night, an accidental fire burns down Phil's house while both Gwen and Phil are out. Everyone assumes that the body found inside is that of Dr. Phil Martin, but it is actually Dr.Ted Wolf. Seizing this unexpected opportunity, Phil assumes Ted's identity and runs away to Los Angeles.

"Consequence" was written by Vladimir Pozner and George Sklar and was adapted for radio by Robert L. Richards. William Spier produced/directed. James Stewart, in the first of his four appearances on Suspense, starred as Dr. Phil Martin. Cathy Lewis played Jo. This episode aired on February 21, 1946.

.  Download Suspense_1946.02.21_Consequence.mp3

Jimmy Stewart appeared in the same role again three years later. Anton M. Leader produced/directed. Betty Lou Gerson played Gwen.  This episode aired on May 19, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.05.19_Consequence.MP3

(Image of James Stewart from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Salvage

In "Salvage," Van Johnson plays a pilot hired to help retrieve a fortune in gold from the bottom of the ocean.

Danny Connor's troubles began when he received an unexpected visit from his former girlfriend, Gloria. Her husband, Wendell H. Davis, wanted to hire a pilot, and she suggested that Danny would be right for the job. Her husband's company planned to search for sunken treasure in the Carribbean, and they needed a pilot to scout the waters by plane.

Danny accepted the job but soon realized he had become involved in more than he had agreed to. Now, he is at sea on an old, badly-equipped ship that belongs to his ex-girlfriend's shady husband..."What sense was there to taking a job like that? No sense."

"Salvage" was written by Sidney Renthal, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman MacDonnell. Van Johnson, in the third of his five appearances on Suspense, starred as Danny Connor. Joseph Kearns played Wendell H. Davis.  Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Sam Edwards, and William Conrad. This episode aired on April 6, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.04.06_Salvage.mp3

(Image from Wikipedia)

Suspense - A Killing in Abilene

"A Killing in Abilene" stars Alan Ladd in a western saga about a man determined to bring his brother's murderer to trial.

Jeff Mander has spent two years in pursuit of the man who murdered his brother. As the episode opens, Jeff rides into the small town of Pleasant Valley. There, he finds the townspeople gathered around a pit where they have just uncovered a body . As it turns out, the man whom they believe has committed this murder, Lee Burrage, is the same man that Jeff is looking for.

Jeff wants to bring the accused man back to trial in Abilene, but the townspeople have their own ideas about justice. Will he be able to convince the townspeople that Lee Burrage deserves a trial?

"A Killing in Abilene" was written by Gil Doud and Antony Ellis. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. Appearing with Alan Ladd were Parley Baer, Jeannette Nolan, and Barton Yarborough. This episode aired on December 14, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.12.14_AKillingInAbilene.mp3 

Suspense presented this tale again with Parley Baer in the lead role on February 3, 1955.

. Download Suspense_1955.02.03_AKillingInAbilene.MP3

This story also made it to the Suspense television show in 1951, but that episode, if it survives, is not available at this time.

(Image from Morguefile)

Escape - Present Tense

Escape's "Present Tense" has similarities to "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" but takes the story in a more nightmarish direction. In the introduction to this episode, the story is billed as James Poe's "seething tale of violent death." That it is.

Vincent Price plays a poet turned ax murderer named Roger who escapes while being transported to prison. When he returns to his home, Roger finds his wife Mary and her lover. He thought he had murdered them, but clearly they had just tricked him into believing that he did! So, Roger grabs a cleaver and gets his revenge. Then, he is convicted again, sent to prison again, sentenced to death again, escapes again, returns home again...

"Present Tense" was written for Escape by screenwriter James Poe and was produced/directed by William N. Robson.  Vincent Price starred as Roger, the cleaver-wheeling poet. Also appearing were: Charles McGraw, Joan Banks, Harry Bartell, and Ben Wright. This episode aired on January 31, 1950.

. Download escape_1950.01.31_ PresentTense.mp3   

Seven years later, William N. Robson presented this radio-play again on Suspense. The peppy music that accompanies this episode is distracting and the pace of the story is much faster. Vincent Price again played the role of Roger. Also appearing were Daws Butler, Jack Kruschen, Peg La Centra, Ellen Morgan, Sam Pierce, Charles Lavalack, and Joe DiSantis. This episode aired on March 3, 1957.

. Download Suspense_1957.03.03_PresentTense.mp3

(Images from Wikimedia Commons and Morguefile)

Suspense - Muddy Track

"The Muddy Track" is a radio noir about a bookie who is framed for the murder of a model.

Harry Clark is new in town and down on his luck. He is alone in a bar sipping a Coke when he is descended upon by Brandy. She takes a liking to him, buys him a bourbon, and soon his luck begins to change. Her "friend," Mr. Persian, arrives shortly afterwards and offers Harry a job as a bookie. Mr. Persian buys Harry another round, but this time Harry asks for a brandy. Mr. Persian warns Harry that, "Brandy lovers often die young."

Harry goes to work the next day, but when he finds Brandy murdered, he realizes he was set-up. Now Harry is on the run for a murder he didn't commit, but he can't get out of town without some help.

"The Muddy Track" was written by Buckley Angell and Bob Shelly. Anton M. Leader produced and directed. Academy-award winner Edmond O'Brien, in one of his four appearances on Suspense, starred as Harry. Ann Blyth starred as Eleanor Grayson. This episode aired on November 11, 1948.

.  Download Suspense_1948.11.11_Muddy_Track.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Escape - An Occurance at Owl Creek Bridge

"An Occurance at Owl Creek Bridge" tells the strange story of a Confederate civilian sentenced to be hanged by the Union army.  The short story by Ambrose Bierce was first published in 1890, and the text is available online from Wikisource.

In 1947, William N. Robson adapted this story for Escape, and though he took some liberties to fill the half-hour time slot, his dialogue and story enhancements were good. He added a scene with a deadly snake, presumably so we wouldn't forget what show we were listening to, and also added a scene with Jethro, a former slave. He presented his radio play once on Escape and then three times on Suspense. Though the script is the same in all four episodes, the lead role was played by four different actors. Most notably, by Joseph Cotten and Vincent Price.

"An Occurance at Owl Creek Bridge" was produced, directed and adapted for Escape by William N. Robson. The role of Peyton Fahrquhar was played by Harry Bartell and Jethro was played by Luis Van Rooten. William Conrad and Bill Johnstone narrated. This episode aired on December 10, 1947.

. Download Escape_12.10.1947_OwlCreekBridge.mp3

Nine years later, the story was presented for the first time on Suspense. Victor Jory starred. This episode aired on December 9, 1956.

. Download suspense_1956.12.09_Occurrence At Owl Creek Bridge.mp3

Suspense presented a slightly shorter version of the same radio-play on December 15, 1957. Joseph Cotten played Peyton Fahrquhar. Also appearing were Ellen Morgan, Harry Bartell, Jack Kruschen, Lou Merrill, and Roy Glenn.  William Conrad was the narrator. This episode aired on December 15, 1957.

. Download Suspense_1957.12.15_OccurenceatOwlCreekBridge.mp3   

Suspense presented this story for the last time on July 9, 1959, with Vincent Price in the lead role. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Barney Phillips, Sam Pierce, Roy Glenn, Norm Alden, and Sam Edwards.

. Download Suspense_1959.07.19_OccurrenceatOwlCreekBridge.mp3   

(Image of Ambrose Bierce from Wikipedia)

Richard Widmark and Suspense

This week saw the passing of actor Richard Widmark (1914-2008), who died at age 93. Though he is known primarily for his film and television work, he began his career in radio and left behind an interesting collection of performances.

Richard Widmark made thirteen appearances on Suspense between 1942 and 1954. His first appearance occurred as early as episode #4, when he appeared in Suspense's presentation of "Rope," Patrick Hamilton's 1929 play about the Leopold and Lobe murder case. On Suspense he played roles that ranged from Iago in Shakespeare's Othello to a radio-script writer gone mad in "A Murderous Revision."

Here is the list of episodes in which he appeared:

1) "Rope" (07/08/1942) - Considered a lost episode. No known recordings of this broadcast exist.

2) "Too Hot to Live" (10/26/1950)

3) "Tell You Why I Shouldn't Die" (06/07/1951)

4) "The Hunting of Bob Lee" (10/29/1951)

5) "A Murderous Revision" (12/03/1951)

6) "The Track of the Cat" (02/18/1952)

7) "Mate Bram" (04/14/1952)

8)  "How Long is the Night" (10/13/1952)

9) "The Spencer Brothers" (1/26/1953)

10) "Othello" Part One (05/04/1953)

(Suspense's presentation of Othello was the first on radio.)

11) "Othello" Part Two (05/11/1953)

12) "A Message to Garcia" (09/14/1953)

13) "The Card Game" (04/19/1954)

(Image of Richard Widmark from 1950 film Panic in the Streets from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Track of the Cat

In "The Track of the Cat," Richard Widmark plays Curt, a Nevada rancher who is determined to hunt down the mysterious panther that killed his brother.

The snow is falling on the Nevada mountains, and in the early morning winds, there are sounds of trouble on the ranch. Curt and his brothers think that a mountain lion is upsetting their cattle, and they want to go into the canyon to kill it. Their mother asks them not to go because there is a blizzard coming, and because she believes that the first snow of the year brings out the great black panther. Is the black panther a Native American legend or is it real? When Curt finds his brother Arthur dead from an attack by the ghostly animal, he vows to hunt it down.

Suspense's radio-play was adapted by Sylvia Richards from the 1949 novel by Walter Van Tilburg Clark. This story also became a movie in 1954 that starred Robert Mitchum and Teresa Wright. For a review of the DVD version of Track of the Cat visit DVDBeaver.com.

Appearing with Richard Widmark in "Track of the Cat" were Parley Baer, Harry Bartell, Sharon Douglas, Lee Millar, and Martha Wentworth. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. This episode aired on February 18, 1952.

.  Download Suspense_1952.02.18_TheTrackOfTheCat.mp3

(Image by Steve Mestagh from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Night Must Fall

"Night Must Fall" was one of a number of hour-long episodes that Suspense presented in 1948. Their radio play was adapted from the 1935 play by Emlyn Williams and performed by actors from both the original London stage production and the 1937 film Night Must Fall.

The episode opens in a cottage in rural England, the home of Mrs. Bramson. The disappearance of a local woman has recently brought Scotland Yard investigators into the town and into her home. At the same time, she also receives a visitor named Danny. He and Dora, the maid, are involved and Mrs. Bramson expects him to marry Dora. Mrs. Bramson is a difficult old bitty confined to a wheelchair, but she takes a liking to Danny and offers him a job in her home.

Danny accepts the job and moves in, but Mrs. Bramson's niece, Olivia, has her suspicions about him.

"Night Must Fall" was adapted for Suspense by Robert L. Richards and directed by Anton M. Leader. Robert Montgomery produced, hosted and starred as Danny. Ten years earlier, he had been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor in the film Night Must Fall. Dame May Whitty and Matthew Boulton had both appeared in the original London stage play, but Whitty also appeared in the film version and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Also appearing in this broadcast were Heather Angel as Olivia and Richard Ney as Hubert. This episode aired on March 27, 1948.

. Download Suspense_1948.03.27_NightMustFall.mp3

(Image of Robert Montgomery in Night Must Fall from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Black Shawl

"The Black Shawl" stars Dame May Whitty and Maureen O'Sullivan in a weird story about an Englishwoman who engages a home companion to live with her...and the person hidden in her home.

As the episode opens, Susan Applebie tells us that she is about to be murdered. Only three days earlier, she had been enjoying herself at the town fair, but then she met Elizabeth Masters.

Mrs. Masters approached Susan at the fair with an offer of employment as a home companion. She told Susan that her primary responsibilities would be to brew tea and chit chat, and for that, she would be well paid. Susan agreed because she and her fiance needed the money, but when her fiance heard about her new position with the strange old woman, he wasn't pleased.  Despite his concerns, she started her new job the next night.

Now, Susan is imprisoned in the house of a madwoman who has a peculiar grudge against home companions.

"The Black Shawl" was written by Richard R. Lewis and produced/directed by William Spier. This episode was the first of Dame May Whitty's four appearances on Suspense, but it was Maureen O'Sullivan's only appearance. This episode aired on July 27, 1944. 

. Download Suspense_1944.07.27_TheBlackShawl.mp3   

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Lonely Road

In "The Lonely Road," Gregory Peck plays a man who becomes dangerously smitten with his house-maid.

Steven Gare and his wife, Ellen, life in an isolated house in the country. They are in need of help around their home and so, they post an advertisement. A girl named Jenny responds, and Ellen hires her. Initially, everything seems to go well, but soon Ellen becomes uncomfortable with Jenny. Ellen sees something dangerous in her, and she isn't wrong. Jenny wants get rid of the Ellen, so she and Steven can run off together.

"The Lonely Road" was written by Mary North and produced/directed by William Spier. Gregory Peck, in the first of his five appearances on Suspense, played Steven Gare. Cathy Lewis played Ellen Gare, and Maria Palmer played Jenny. Peck and Palmer had previously worked together in the 1944 film Days of Glory. This episode aired on March 21, 1946.

. Download Suspense_1946.03.21_Lonely_Road.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Give Me Liberty

"Give Me Liberty" sounds patriotic, but this Suspense episode is a harsh tale about an escaped criminal unable to free himself of his handcuffs.

Mr. Earl French embezzeled $250,000, was caught, and then sentenced to seven years in prison. None of this bothers him because it was all according to his plan. He never disclosed to the authorities where the stolen money was, and after he completes his prison term, he plans to spend it.

On route to the penitentiary, Mr. French is smug while chatting with the police officer accompanying him. His plan, however, takes a sudden new direction when the train crashes. In the aftermath, he murders the police officer, switches their wallets, and escapes.

Now, the only obstacles to his freedom are the handcuffs that he can't remove. Mr. French can't get the tools he needs to break them, and no one will help him. His smugness turns to desperation as his circumstances become worse, and he meets up with a cruel female hobo.

"Give Me Liberty"  was written by Herb Meadow and starred William Powell. Ann Morrison played the hobo.  This episode aired for the first time on October 21, 1948.

.  Download Suspense_1948.10.21_GiveMeLiberty.mp3

Suspense presented this story again on March 29, 1955 with good results. Television actor/writer Tony Barrett played Mr. French. Also appearing were Michael Ann Barrett, Dick Beals, Helen Kleeb, and Lou Merrill.

.  Download Suspense_1955.03.29.GiveMeLiberty.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Lovebirds

Suspense's "The Lovebirds" stars Joan Fontaine in a story about a resentful woman trapped in an unhappy marriage to a needy man.

As the episode opens, Martha explains how she has played nursemaid to her husband, Sam, for seven years. Throughout that time she has been waiting for him to die from one of his many ailments, but Sam has proven to be spunkier than his doctor predicted. Martha is tired of taking care of a husband she hates, but no one suspects her real feelings. Sam and Martha appear to be so devoted to each other that people call them "the lovebirds."

One night, Martha decides to take matters into her own hands by giving Sam an overdose of sleeping pills. When Sam survives the overdose, she tries again. What Martha doesn't know is that Sam has caught on to what she is up to, and he has his own plans for her.

"The Lovebirds" was written by Cheryl Hendricks and adapted for Suspense by Harold Swanton.  This was Joan Fontaine's only appearance on Suspense. At the time, she was promoting the film, You Gotta Stay Happy (1948). Also appearing were Jerry Hausner, William Johnstone, and Lestor Schott. This episode aired on March 3, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.03.03_Lovebirds.mp3

(Image of Joan Fontaine from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Too Hot to Live

Suspense's "Too Hot to Live" is the story of a stranger in a small prairie town who tries to run from a murder.

As the episode opens, we meet Jefferson, a former soldier turned drifter. After he is ousted from the freight train on which he has been hitching a ride, he walks down a sun-baked road towards the closest town, Marcus Junction. On the way, his worn-out shoes fall apart.

The first person he meets in Marcus Junction is Benjamin, the sheriff. He directs Jefferson to a place where he can have his shoes repaired and then offers to buy him a coffee in the diner next door. Jefferson leaves his shoes and socks at the repair shop and goes over to the diner.

Jefferson only came in for the coffee, but Rachel, the waitress, offers more. She invites him upstairs to her apartment for the afternoon. He accepts, and after a few too many strong drinks, he wakes to find Rachel murdered. Now he must outrun the law--in his bare feet.

"Too Hot to Live" was written by Sam Rolfe and starred Richard Widmark. This episode aired on October 26, 1950.

.  Download Suspense_1950.10.26_TooHotToLive.mp3

Suspense presented this story again with Sam Edwards in the role of Jefferson on June 29,1954.

. Download Suspense_1954.06.29_TooHotToLive.mp3

Suspense presented this story a third time with Van Heflin the role of Jefferson on April 12, 1959. This version is a little shorter, but just as good. The background music in this episode is effective.

. Download Suspense_1959.04.12_TooHotToLive.mp3

(Image of Richard Widmark from Flixster.com)

Suspense - Goodnight Mrs. Russell

Suspense's "Goodnight Mrs. Russell" stars Bette Davis in a story about a woman who becomes the victim of a crazed short-order cook. It is an episode that will make you think twice about eating alone at night in an empty restaurant.

Bette Davis plays Mrs. Russell, an office worker who often spends her lunch hours with her co-workers at the cafe near their office. Henry, the young cook behind the counter, seems uncomfortable around the younger women, but likes Mrs. Russell. Although he never smiles, and stops to listen to sounds that only he can hear, she likes him, too.

One night, after working late, she drops in at the cafe for dinner. She becomes uneasy about being alone with Henry and leaves without finishing her food. Afraid that she has hurt Henry's feelings, she returns to have dinner again several weeks later.

Henry doesn't accept her show of interest in his food as a compliment. He knows, from the voices in his head, that she is really one of the many enemies out to get him.

"Goodnight Mrs. Russell" was written by Ben S. Hunter and it was Bette Davis' only appearance on Suspense. At the time, she was promoting the movie Beyond the Forest. Elliott Reid played Henry. This episode aired on October 20, 1949.

. Download suspense_1949.10.20_GoodNightMrs Russell.MP3

Suspense presented this radioplay again on August 3, 1954. Virginia Gregg played Mrs. Russell and Victor Perrin played Henry.

.  Download Suspense_1954.08.03_GoodnightMrsRussell.mp3

(Image of Bette Davis from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Guilty Always Run

Suspense goes to the beach, but not to frolic, in a story called "The Guilty Always Run." In his only appearance on Suspense, Tyrone Powers plays a man suspected of murdering a surfer girl.

As the episode opens, Janie and Jeff are at home in their rented summer house when they receive several strange calls from a young woman. The girl on the other end of the line is gasping for help, but the calls make no sense. Janie suspects that the calls are from Karen, a girl that Jeff had been seen with. Jeff swears to her there is nothing going on between the two of them, but Janie doubts him.

The next day, Jeff does find Karen -- floating in the surf. Jeff becomes the main suspect in Karen's murder until his best friend, Lou, steps in with an alibi.

"The Guilty Always Run" was written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. William Conrad played Lou and Cathy Lewis played Janie. Also appearing were Jack Kruschen, Frank Nelson, and Charlotte Lawrence. At the time he appeared on Suspense, Tyrone Powers was promoting the film, King of the Khyber Rifles. This episode aired on March 22, 1954.

. Download Suspense_1954.03.22_TheGuiltyAlwaysRun.mp3

(Image of Tyrone Power in 1953 by Carl Van Vechten. Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Three Blind Mice

Suspense's "Three Blind Mice" stars Van Heflin in a radio noir about a publishing firm and its three partners. One is dead, the other is on Death Row, and the third has taken over the firm from the other two.

The episode opens inside the office of Lockwood, Bentley and Walsh Publishing. Mr. Arthur Lockwood knows that his partners are out to get him, and it appears that everyone in the company knows as well. By all appearances, he is on the way down.

Mr. Lockwood refuses to accept that. He wants his corporation back from his partners. He also wants Helen Conover, the head of the firm's promotion department, but she is involved with his partner, Mr. Walsh.

None of this worries Mr. Lockwood. He seems confident that there will be a day when he is back on top. When Mr. Lockwood finds one of his partners dead at the office, it appears that his problems may be resolved sooner than he thought.

"Three Blind Mice" was written by Kenneth Pettis and Robert L. Richards. Van Heflin starred as Arthur Lockwood. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, William Johnstone, and Wally Maher. This episode aired on January 30, 1947.

.  Download Suspense_1947.01.30_ThreeBlindMice.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - End of the Road

Suspense's "End of the Road" stars Glenn Ford in a radio noir about a car salesman who gets involved with a troubled woman.

Ford plays Speed Evans, a man for whom women have been an "expensive" habit. He wants to turn over a new leaf, but when he meets a captivating woman in his showroom, he quickly finds himself back to his old ways. Her name is Sylvia, and she is there with her wealthy husband, Mr. Ganlon, to buy a new car. Speed takes her on a flirtatious test drive and convinces Syvlia that she must have the car--and the salesman.

Sylvia and Speed have an affair, but she is unable to leave her older husband or her mysterious past behind. Speed drives Sylvia back to her hometown in Arizona to find the truth, but their trip leads them into danger.

"End of the Road" was written by Irving Moore and Robert L. Richards. At the time Glenn Ford appeared in this episode, he was promoting the 1947 noir film Framed. "End of the Road" was the first of Ford's two appearances on Suspense. Cathy Lewis played Sylvia Ganlon. Also featured were Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns, William Johnstone, and Wally Maher. This episode aired on February 6, 1947.

.  Download Suspense_1947.02.06_EndOfTheRoad.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Three Lethal Words

Suspense's "Three Lethal Words" stars Joan Crawford as a woman who goes mad after being jilted by her younger husband.

Crawford plays Jane Winters, a screenwriter in Hollywood. As the story opens, she has just arrived in the office of Phillip Lewis, the head of a studio story department. She has come to pitch him an idea for a screenplay.

As she explains her idea for a movie about a screenwriter named Sally, who takes revenge on her younger husband, the boundaries between Jane's fictional character and her own life become blurred.

Joan Crawford's performance in this episode is captivating. Her ability to speak every single word of her dialogue with clarity and conviction is impressive. This was the second of Joan Crawford's two appearances on Suspense. At the time, she was promoting the film Goodbye, My Fancy.

"Three Lethal Words" was adapted for radio by Academy award nominated screenwriter Walter Brown Newman from a story by Charles Vion. Joseph Kearns played Phillip and Hy Averback played Chris. Also appearing were: Bea Benadaret, Lillian Buyeff, Ted de Corsia, Don Diamond and Sylvia Simms. This episode aired on March 22, 1951.

.  Download Suspense_1951.03.22_ThreeLethalWords.mp3

(Image of Joan Crawford from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Too Perfect Alibi

Suspense's "The Too Perfect Alibi" stars Danny Kaye as man with an obsession for his friend's fiance.

Danny Kaye plays Sam, the sweetest friend a couple could ever have. Jack and Catherine think he is wonderful, but honestly, Jack thinks Sam is too wonderful. Sam gives them a house for a wedding present, he gives Catherine a high-paying job, and he always picks up the tab when they do things together. All of this annoys Jack because it makes him look cheap.

Sam doesn't care what Jack thinks. He is consumed with a fairy tale perception of love, and he is determined to get Catherine for himself. The first part of Sam's plan to win Catherine involves getting rid of Jack, but the first part of his plan goes too well. As a result, the second part doesn't work out the way it was supposed to.

"The Too Perfect Alibi" was written by Martin Stern and produced/directed by Anton M. Leader. This was the first of two appearances that Danny Kaye made on Suspense. Also appearing were Hy Averback, Wally Maher, John McIntire, and Paul Frees. This episode aired on January 13, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.01.13_TheTooPerfectAlibi.mp3

(Image from Morguefile.com)

Suspense - The Sisters

"The Sisters" begins with the purchase of a coffin for someone who has not yet died. Lydia Haskell explains that she has had a premonition of her own death and wants to plan her own funeral arrangements. The mortician and the police don't believe her story and think she is suicidal. It appears, however, that Lydia may have someone else in mind for that coffin. Her sister, Ellie, is a madwoman who lives in the attic of Lydia's house. One of them is going to die, but which one?

"The Sisters" was written for Suspense by screenwriter George Wells and was presented three times. The script is more or less the same in each version, but the performances vary with the actresses in the lead roles. The first time this story aired, Ida Lupino starred as the cold and calculating Lydia Haskell and Agnes Moorehead put in a gentle performance as Ellie. This episode was produced/directed by William Spier and aired on February 3, 1944.

.  Download Suspense_1944.02.03_TheSisters.mp3

The second time Suspense presented this story, Rosalind Russell and Lurene Tuttle starred. In this version, the sister fight scenes are the best and we get a better sense of how disturbed Lydia is.  This episode was produced/directed by Anton Leader and aired on December 9, 1948.

Download Suspense_1948.12.09_TheSisters.mp3

The third time this story was presented Francis Farmer and Cathy Lewis starred. This version is shorter and less intense . It was produced/directed by William N. Robson and aired on March 30, 1958.

Download Suspense_1958.03.30_The Sisters.MP3

(Image of Rosalind Russell and Lurene Tuttle performing "The Sisters" from Library of Congress/American Memory)

Suspense - Motive for Murder

The mysterious murder of a vacuum cleaner salesman is a dilemna for Alan Ladd in Suspense's "Motive for Murder." He plays a detective named "Irish" whose wife, Mary, has just been found passed out alongside a dead salesman. All of the evidence points to Mary, but Irish believes she was framed. He intends to go through the facts one by one to prove her innocence. These are things he knows for sure:

Fact! -- Strangers usually don't kill each other.

The people involved in this scenario had to have known each other. He sets out to find their connection.

Fact! -- The vacuum cleaner salesman had come to do a demonstration, but there was no vacuum cleaner at the murder scene; therefore, someone had killed to get that vacuum cleaner.

If he can figure out who wanted it, he can find the murderer.

Appearing with Alan Ladd were Joseph Kearns as the lieutenant, Howard McNear, John Dehner, Ed Max, Jeannette Nolan, and Lurene Tuttle.  "Motive for Murder" was based on the 1948 short story by John and Ward Hawkins and was adapted for radio by  E. Jack Neuman.  This show aired on March 16, 1950.

Download suspense_1950.03.16_Motive for Murder.mp3

The same story had been presented the previous year by Radio City Playhouse. Bernard Grant played David Murphy and Mitzi Gould played Mary. The credits aren't given on the recording but the radio adaptation was probably written by Harry W. Junkin. It aired on June 20, 1949.

Download rcph.1949.06.20_Motive_for_Murder.mp3

(Image of Alan Ladd from classicsavers.com.)

Suspense - Lady Killer

"Lady Killer" is about an insurance investigator and her hunches. The story begins as Peg Lincoln boards a plane for Capital City with a ticket she bought from a woman in the airport's lobby. Shortly afterwards, the flight's take-off is delayed, and Peg suddenly needs to be taken to the hospital. She believes that she was poisoned by Grant Benton, the charming man who sat next to her on the plane. He appears to have saved her life by getting her to the hospital so quickly, but was he the one who caused the harm? The police tell her that he is above reproach and that she is imagining danger where there is none.

Her instincts tell her that he is trouble, neverthless she allows him to drive her home from the hospital. Just before they arrive at her home, he runs over a pedestrian! He says it was an accident, but Peg thinks it was murder. Why would he want to hurt Peg or that pedestrian crossing the street?

"Lady Killer" is a tight radio drama with a suspenseful ending. Loretta Young, in her only appearance on Suspense, starred as Peg Lincoln. At the time, she was also appearing in the film Key to the City (1950) and had just received an Academy award nomination for the 1949 film Come to the Stable. Lawrence Dobkin, John McIntire, and Sydney Miller also appear in this episode. The radioplay was written by William Bruckner, who later wrote an episode for the tv series Letter to Loretta starring Loretta Young. "Lady Killer" aired on March 2, 1950.

.   Download Suspense.1950.03.02_LadyKiller.mp3

(Image of Loretta Young on radio from the Loretta Young Paper Dolls & Coloring Book)

Best or Worst? - Lady in Distress

Suspense's "Lady in Distress" showcases Ava Gardner. The radio-play was written by John Michael Hayes, who also wrote the screenplays for the Alfred Hitchcock films Rear Window, The Trouble With Harry, and The Man Who Knew Too Much. So why isn't this episode better? It could have been a neatly packaged radio noir but it isn't.

"Lady in Distress" begins with a hitch-hiker, which is always a good start, but then Ava Gardner's character, Mrs. Harris, and the hitch-hiker named Sullivan start talking while she is driving. We find out that he is an escaped criminal, and that now she is in danger. They keep talking and driving, driving, driving. The humm of the motor, the sound of rain, the endless dialogue...zzzz. Suddenly, they stop in a diner for hamburgers and coffee in a completely unnecessary scene. Then there is more talking, driving...motor humming...rain sounds...zzz...zzzz.

When we wake up again we find out that the escaped convict wants revenge on the policeman who put him in prison. That man just happens to be the husband of Mrs. Harris! Of course, that's no accident. She hates her mean, crabby husband and wants to help Sullivan accomplish his revenge. They arrange to put a bomb in her husband's car but things don't go as planned.  It would be a surprise if they did because neither of these two seems that bright. In the end, the bad people get their come-uppance through their own evil work.

So, that's that.

You really have to listen closely to this story to appreciate it but due to the somnolent sound effects, this is hard to do. "Lady in Distress" was Ava Gardner's only appearance on Suspense. The previous year she had starred in the film noir The Killers by Ernest Hemingway. Also featured in this episode were Howard Duff as Sullivan and Wally Maher as the husband. It was produced and directed by William Spier, who later worked with Gardner on the film Tam Lin. "Lady in Distress" aired on May 1, 1947.

.  Download Suspense.1947-05-01_Lady_In_Distress.mp3

The Legend of Sonny Tufts

"The Legend of Sonny Tufts" is an urban legend about a radio broadcast. Who was Sonny Tufts? How did his name become a joke? What supposedly happened on a Suspense episode hosted by Joseph Cotten? Snopes.com delved into this famous legend and came up with some possible answers. To find out, visit their Sonny Tufts urban legend page for the story and the audio clips.

The two radio broadcasts mentioned in the Snopes.com article,"Sneak Preview" and "Cat & Mouse," are posted below. Neither ranks among the best Suspense offered, but they aren't among the worst either. Any radio performance by Joseph Cotten is worth listening to once, even if the radio-play isn't exceptional. The radio-play for "Cat & Mouse" isn't that bad, but Tufts' colorless performance does nothing to help it.

"Sneak Preview" was written by Robert L. Richards and starred Joseph Cotten, Hans Conried, Dennis Hoey, Cathy Lewis, and John McIntire. When he appeared on this episode, Cotten was promoting his upcoming movie Since You Went Away. This show aired on March 23, 1944.

.   Download Suspense_1944.03.23_Sneak_Preview.mp3

"Cat & Mouse" is a WWII era story that takes place in Boston and in a ski resort in Vermont. It was written for Suspense by Hugh Pentecost and starred Sonny Tufts as John Guthrie. Also featured were Wendell Holmes, John McIntire, Lurene Tuttle, and Will Wright. At the time he appeared on Suspense, Tufts was promoting the movie, I Love a Soldier. This episode aired on March 30, 1944.

.   Download Suspense_1944.03.30_Cat_and_Mouse.mp3

Suspense - Noose of Coincidence

Beware of people who introduce themselves as a "prophet of the future." They cause nothing but trouble.

Suspense's "Noose of Coincidence" is about a man who doubts that the future can be predicted, yet becomes involved in a series of events just as they were foretold to him.  Set in the late 1940's, this episode stars Ronald Colman as Christopher Swann, a London bookseller forewarned that he will marry a redheaded woman and that he will be hanged on November 9th.

He does marry a redheaded woman named Margaret but she turns out to be an intolerable shrew. Not long afterwards, he meets another redheaded woman, Ann. Their mutual love of books brings them together and they soon fall in love. Swann realizes too late that he married the wrong redhead, but before he can do anything about it, the rest of the prophesy plays itself out.

"Noose of Coincidence" was a short story written for Suspense by American writer William Fifield and then adapted by Herb Meadow. William Fifield worked as a radio announcer and scriptwriter for CBS and NBC as a young man, and while most radio writers went on to television and movies, Fifield took a more Bohemian path. He moved to Europe in 1950 where he recorded and wrote books about his conversations with men such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and other artists. His later works include fiction as well.

Also appearing in this episode were Hans Conried and Raymond Lawrence. The names of the female actresses aren't given. This broadcast aired on April 7, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.04.07_Noose_Of_Coincidence.mp3

(Images from Classicsavers.com and Morguefile.com )

Suspense - The Blue Hour

Claire Trevor, the Academy Award winning actress and "Queen of Film Noir," made one of her five appearances on Suspense in the drama "The Blue Hour." Here she plays Lois LaPaul, a Chicago dancer who becomes a media darling when her wealthy paramour is murdered. Instantly in demand, she accepts an offer to perform at an "extremely chic" nightclub called the The Blue Hour in New York City. At the airport she meets Alec Mahoney, a reporter with whom she shares some saucy banter.

When she arrives at the sparkling blue nightclub she soon discovers that the owner, Anthony LaCada, has no real interest in her dancing talents. His icy interest is in her murdered boyfriend, Jason White.

Not knowing what to do, she turns to Mahoney for help. Together they discover the blue diamond worth half a million dollars that Jason White was hiding.

"The Blue Hour Diamond" at the center of this story was probably based on the Hope Diamond, pictured to the right. This episode was written by Marty Schwartz and includes a number of moments of entertaining dialogue.

"The Blue Hour" was produced edited and directed by William Spier. The music, more prominent and detailed than usual in this episode, was composed by Lucien Moraweck and conducted by Lud Gluskin. At the time Claire Trevor appeared on this episode she was promoting the movie The Velvet Touch. Also featured were Hans Conried, Wally Maher and Sydney Miller.  This broadcast aired on September 25, 1947.

.  Download Suspense_1947.09.25_The_Blue_Hour.mp3

(Photo of the Hope Diamond from Morguefile.com)

Suspense - Always Room at the Top

Suspense's "Always Room at the Top" was only broadcast once, which is a shame. This bizarre episode should have been given at least a second chance.

There is a lot to like in a story that begins with a job applicant named Helen being kicked out of an interview, then continues with the interviewer, Ms.Thornton, falling out of her office window and landing on the pavement in front of Helen. Not wasting the opportunity, Helen then barges her way back into the office and talks the boss into hiring her for Ms. Thornton's job!

After that, the story just gets better. In fact, so much happens so quickly in this episode that it borders on being surreal, or perhaps just silly. When it comes to stories about catty and ruthless female executives, this one takes the cake and runs away with the spoon!

"Always Room at the Top" stars Anne Baxter in the role of Helen Brandt. A few years later, in 1951 she appeared in the film classic about an ambitious female, All About Eve. At the time she appeared in this episode of Suspense in 1947, she was promoting the movie The Razor's Edge for which she would receive an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress.

Also appearing in this episode are Wally Maher and Jack Webb. Cathy Lewis played Marie Harris. The name of the actress playing JeanThornton is not given.

The radio-play was written by Eleanor Beeson.

"Always Room at the Top" aired on February 20, 1947.

Download suspense.1947.02.20. Always_ Room_ At_ The_ Top.mp3

(Image from I Confess from Wikimedia Commons)

Best or Worst? - In Fear and Trembling

"In Fear and Trembling" answers the question, "how badly can you screw up your own life?"  This is an episode with little suspense, but it does has something to say about jealousy.

Mary Astor, in her only appearance on Suspense, plays Lucia Durant. Lucia's husband of four years is Gilbert Durant, and they live in his windswept mansion on a cliff..., we don't know exactly where. Her half-sister Beverly came to live with them around the same time that Lucia started to not feel well. Around the time when, "an insidious horror began to gnaw at her happiness..."

Lucia doesn't eat much and is haunted by a terrible dream. Is it a dream, or a premonition?  Gil  suggests a tonic for her that just happens to have strychnine as one of the ingredients. Beverly complains that Lucia is a hypochondriac with no "pep", but Lucia thinks her sister is out to steal her husband. The only person Lucia seems to trust is the housekeeper.

Verna Felton plays Mrs. Benson the housekeeper. You may not be familiar with the name Verna Felton, but her voice is recognizable to people of all ages as the fairy godmother in Disney's Cinderella. In this role, she isn't as helpful. When Mrs. Durant goes missing, Mrs. Benson calls the police and blames Gil and Beverly for Lucia's disappearance based on what she heard while eavesdropping.

This story borders on being funny because of Lucia's character. The story concludes into a "big lesson" that comes down on Lucia's head. Although she has suspected her sister and her husband of being involved, she finds out her suspicions were wrong. Even better, it had never occurred to Gil and Beverly that they might be in love until Lucia mentions it to them. Then, they realize she might be right. In her final act of stupidity, Lucia makes it possible for them to be together.

This episode was written by J. Donald Wilson and aired on February 16, 1943. The names of the supporting cast aren't given on the recording.

Download Suspense_43-02-16_In_Fear_And_Trembling.mp3

(photo from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Thing in the Window

"The Thing in the Window" is the story of a man convinced that he sees a dead body in an apartment across the street.  Try as he might, he can't get anyone to believe him. Obsessed with finding the phantom body, he becomes a terrific annoyance to his neighbors.

The radioplay, written for Suspense by Lucille Fletcher, was performed in 1946 and 1949. The first presentation starred Joseph Cotten, and the second Robert Montgomery. There are some minor differences in the scripts and the endings, but both versions are entertaining.

When "The Thing in the Window" aired in 1946, it was Joseph Cotten's 7th guest appearance on the series. The "perennial Suspense favorite" would make a total of 17 appearances.  At the time, he was promoting his upcoming film Duel in the Sun. 

Actor, director, and SAG president Robert Montgomery made a number of appearances as well. In 1944 and 1948, he starred in later adaptations of Suspense's premier episode, "The Lodger". Montgomery was also the host of Suspense for a period in 1948 when the show was temporarily expanded to a one-hour format. When he appeared in "The Thing in the Window," he was promoting the movie June Bride. As it turned out, it was his last appearance on the series. It is worth noting however, that his daughter, actress Elizabeth Montgomery, would later star with Suspense's favorite actress, Agnes Moorehead, on the television show Bewitched.

"The Thing in the Window" starring Joseph Cotten aired on December 19, 1946.

Download Suspense.1946.12.19_Thing_In_The_Window.mp3

The version starring Robert Montgomery aired on January 27, 1949.

Download Suspense.1949.1.27_The_Thing_in_the_Window.mp3

(Photo from Morguefile.com)

Suspense - The Copper Tea Strainer

Betty Grable, famous for her "million dollar legs", is the star of Suspense's radio noir "The Copper Tea Strainer." Her legs aren't visible on radio, of course, but we hear her running around in high heels. Grable is convincing and sympathetic in this bleak but gripping, drama about a woman exhausted by having to care for her whiny, invalid mother. Raymond Burr co-stars as the detective who comes to question her and William Conrad plays the boyfriend. "The Copper Tea Strainer" was written by John T. Copeland for Suspense.

At the time she made this appearance, her only one on Suspense, Betty Grable was promoting the film The Beautiful Blonde From Bashful Bend, a more light-hearted project than "The Copper Tea Strainer."

This episode aired on April 21, 1949.

Download Suspense.1949.04.21_Copper_Tea_Strainer_The.mp3

 

Suspense - To Find Help

Suspense's "To Find Help"  is so plausible that it is genuinely scary. 

The casting of this episode is what makes it intriguing. The role of a menacing young man who has "something wrong with his mind" was originally performed by Frank Sinatra, and later by Gene Kelly. Appearing in "To Find Help" is an unexpected choice for a musical star, but that is the hook. Both actors gave the performance their own flair but played it differently. The same year that this episode first aired, Sinatra starred with Kelly in the movie Anchors Away.

This is a World War II era cautionary tale about an older woman who hires a young man to do some handywork around her house. She doesn't know the man well, but help is hard to find because of the war. She doesn't see any reason to worry because he seems so meek. The female role, Mrs. Gillis, was first played by Suspense's favorite actress, Agnes Moorehead. Ethel Barrymore played the role opposite Kelly in 1949. This episode was written for Suspense by Mel Dinelli.

The episode starring Frank Sinatra and Agnes Moorehead aired on January 18, 1945.

Download Suspense.1945-01-18_To_Find_Help.mp3

The episode starring Gene Kelly, Ethel Barrymore and William Conrad aired on January 6, 1949.

Download Suspense.01.06.1949.To_Find_Help.mp3     

(Image of Gene Kelly from www.classicsavers.com)

Best or Worst? - Summer Storm

In the Suspense episode "Summer Storm" we enter the world of a man named Eddy, a guy with a sensitivity to weather changes. He also likes to talk to himself - and talk he does!  He chatters to himself so much that after a while you just can't help but drift off. That might be understandable if it was any ol' actor playing him, but this is Henry Fonda, one of the greatest actors of the 20th century.

In this episode we meet Eddy as he is leaving his boarding house and skipping out on the rent. When his landlady's husband, Mr. Waters, tries to stop him, Eddy attacks. When the neighbors respond to the cries for help, he is unable to flee and hides in the house. When Eddy escapes, he discovers that events aren't going to play out the way that he thought.

Why we are supposed to care about what happens to Eddy? Honestly, he seems pretty screwed up. The story lacks a worthwhile point and a satisfactory resolution at the end. It is a bad episode with a great actor.

"Summer Storm" is not to be confused with the movies of the same name. Not much information about this episode is available on the recording, but according to Suspense:Twenty Years of Thrills and Chills, it was written for Suspense by William Spier. Verna Felton, Elliot Lewis, Wally Maher, and Lou Merrill appeared. "Summer Storm" aired on October 18, 1945.

.  Download Suspense.SummerStorm.10.18.1945.mp3

Five years later, this episode was performed on the Suspense television show with much better results. Visit Suspense Television for more information about how they improved it.

Suspense - Deep, Deep is My Love

Suspense producer and announcer William N. Robson introduces the episode "Deep, Deep is My Love" by stating that it is a story about skin divers, "intruding upon a world for which nature never intended them." Here we learn about the dangers of narcosis, or as Jacques Cousteau called it, the "rapture of the deep."  The story takes place at Point Dume, a beach located near Santa Monica, California.

Lloyd Bridges was the star of the television show Sea Hunt (1958-1961) when he appeared on this episode of Suspense. He plays Don, a diver who wants to investigate an unusual experience that occurred during his previous week's dive. Don and his clingy wife Joyce are at odds because she does not want him to go on the dive without her. He wants to be alone but Joyce wants them to do everything together. She relents and he escapes to a tranquil underwater realm where there is a golden girl who really understands him.

The radio play was written by novelist and screenwriter Hank Searls, who later wrote the best selling books Overboard, Jaws II, and Sounding. This episode also stars Marie Lynne, Tracy Roberts, and Bill Quinn. It was broadcast 48 years ago on April 26, 1959.

Download Suspense-59-04-26DeepDeepIsMyLove.mp3

Escape-Leiningen Versus the Ants

"Leiningen vs. the Ants", a short story by Carl Stephenson published in Esquire magazine in 1938, was presented by Escape, Suspense, Mystery in the Air, and Lux Radio Theater. The story depicts the battle between the owner of a plantation in the Brazilian jungle and an attacking army of soldier ants.

You may already be familiar with this story from the movie version. In 1954 "Leiningen vs. the Ants" became The Naked Jungle starring Charleton Heston. In the film Leiningen has a love interest, a mail order bride played by the seductive Eleanor Parker. Leiningen spends the first half of the film grumbling because the new bride he ordered isn't a virgin - and he is. Then, in the second half, the ants come marching along to provide tension for the love story. William Conrad, who had previously played Leiningen on Escape, stars as the district commissioner. The movie went in a different direction but the radio versions stayed true to the original work.

The adaptation of this story for radio by Robert Ryf aired three times on Escape and twice on Suspense. For Escape, William Conrad played Leiningen on January 14, 1948 and May 23,1948. Tudor Owen played the role for Escape on August 4, 1949. William Conrad starred as Leiningen for Suspense on August 25, 1957. Luis Van Rooten played the role for Suspense on November 29, 1959.

Of the five different presentations of this same radio play, here are:

Tudor Owen as Leiningen:  Download Escape.1949.08.04_Leiningen_vs_the_Ants.mp3

William Conrad as Leiningen:  Download Suspense.08.25.1957.Leiningen vs the Ants.mp3

"Leiningen vs. the Ants" was also the inspiration for an episode called "Trumbo's World" on the ABC television show MacGyver.

See also: "Three Skeleton Key"

Suspense - Library Book

In honor of National Library Week, here is the Suspense episode "Library Book." This episode stars Myrna Loy as Prudence, a public librarian who stops at nothing to discover who vandalized the library's copy of Gone With the Wind. She is the stereotypical librarian - until she takes off her glasses. Then, for reasons she can't understand, men call her "toots." Of course, the audience understands because Prudence is really Myrna Loy, the sexy star of The Thin Man movies. In her heyday in the 1930's, she was voted "The Queen of Hollywood" by fans.

"Library Book" was based on the 1939 short story "The Book That Squealed" by Cornell Woolrich and was adapted for Suspense by William Spier. The dialogue is witty and the story is entertaining for anyone who has worked in a library. Conrad Binyon, Cathy Lewis and Wally Maher also appear. 

This episode was broadcast on September 20, 1945.

Download Suspense.1945.09.20_Library_Book.mp3

Suspense-Somebody Help Me

Last week's episode, "Drive-In," warned of the dangers of getting into a car with a stranger. This week's episode, "Somebody Help Me," warns of the dangers of getting "picked-up."  Based on a true story, this cautionary tale is still a good one. Which true story this is based on, they don't say.

"Somebody Help Me" was written for Suspense by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, who later collaborated on many television projects. Movie actor Cornel Wilde (pictured) starred as Eddy Franklin, and Suspense regular Cathy Lewis starred as Eileen.

Eddy is an unctious, chatterbox with a temper who uses his Southern gentleman's charm to pick up Eileen. The audience knows that Eileen is in trouble as soon as she gets into his car but she doesn't. This is a simple crime drama that makes its point easily. Keep in mind while listening to Wilde's performance that he was born in Hungary and spoke five languages: Hungarian, French, German, English, Italian, and Russian.

This episode was broadcast on March 29, 1954.

Download suspense1954.03.29 Somebody Help Me.mp3

Suspense-Drive In

If you need a reminder as to why it is you should never accept a ride from a stranger -- then "Drive-In" is for you! This episode belongs to a sub-genre of Suspense stories that are also cautionary tales. These dramas are still convincing because their warnings are still valid.

Judy Garland stars in this episode but do not expect to hear singing. Here she demonstrates that she was just as compelling as an actress on radio as she was in movies. In 1946, the year this show aired, she also appeared in the films: The Harvey Girls, Ziegfield Follies, and Till the Clouds Roll By.

"Drive-In" was written for Suspense by Mel Dinelli and Muriel Ray Bolton.  It was broadcast three times but Garland only appeared in the lead role once. Raymond Lewis played the driver. This version was heard on November 21, 1946.

Download 461121_drive_in_w_judy_garland.mp3

Suspense - The Hitchhiker

The Suspense episode "The Hitchhiker" is well known because the radio play was transformed into a television episode, and it has since lived on in reruns. In this story, a supernatural hitchhiker follows the main character on a trip across the country.

Orson Welles, for whom the role was written, first performed "The Hitchhiker" on the CBS network's Mercury Theater on the Air in 1941, and then again on Suspense in 1942. The radio play was written by Lucille Fletcher, who also wrote Suspense's most famous episode, "Sorry, Wrong Number." (This episode also features her husband, legendary film-composer Bernard Herrmann, who composed and conducted the music.) In 1960, "The Hitch-Hiker" became an episode of the CBS television show, The Twilight Zone but with Inger Stevens in the lead role.

The radio version has chilling sound effects. Well, chilling or hokey. It depends on your point of view. Listen for the sound effects of the phone call made by Welles. The suspense builds as his call goes from operator to operator across the country, but it also shows how many people had to be involved just to make a phone call back then!

This episode was broadcast on September 2, 1942.

Download Suspense.1942.09.02_Hitchhiker.mp3 

Many old radio shows have stories that include hitchhikers. They often play on the urban legends of "The Vanishing Hitchhiker" or "The Two Hitchhikers".

Here is an episode from the radio series The Clock (1946-1948) that is also called "The Hitchhiker". It is a spin on the urban legend where one of two hitchhikers is dangerous but appearances turn out to be deceiving.

This episode was broadcast on February 9, 1947.

Download Clock.1947.02.09_The_Hitchhiker.mp3

For more information about urban legends about hitchhikers consult The Encyclopedia of Urban Legends by Jan Harold Brunvand.

For more information about the Twilight Zone episode "The Hitch-Hiker" consult The Twilight Zone Companion by Marc Scott Zicree.

To watch the Twilight Zone's version of "The Hitch-Hiker" on YouTube.com click here.

(Photo by Robb Kiser)

Rev. 08/16/08

Escape-The Most Dangerous Game

The new movie Zodiac, the dramatization of the hunt for the killer who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1970’s, includes references to the short story “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell (1924). It is available at classicshorts.com and many other sites.

"The Most Dangerous Game" was made into a movie in 1932 and many different versions were later done for radio and television. Both Escape and Suspense broadcast episodes based on this story but Escape's version was better because they excelled at exotic jungle tales like this one. Their version stays true to the original short story, the actors are convincing in their roles and they all have the appropriate accents.

Escape broadcast this episode on October 1, 1947.

Download Escape.1947.10.01_Dangerous_Game.mp3

Suspense's version of "The Most Dangerous Game", which takes a few liberties from the short story, stars Orson Welles as General Zaroff. Welles' drawn-out performance pulls a lot of attention away from the story and onto himself and there is also the baffling addition of a loud pet bird named Zhu-Zhu that Welles interacts with - a lot.

Still, it does have Orson Welles.

Download Suspense.1943.09.23_The_Most_Dangerous_Game.mp3

(P.S. In response to the comments posted about episode, it is true that Paul Frees and Orson Welles sound very similar! For clarity, Paul Frees starred as Sanger Rainsford in Escape's version of The Most Dangerous Game along with Hans Conried as Zaroff. Orson Welles starred as General Zaroff in Suspense's version along with Keenan Wynn as Rainsford. )