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, later 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.
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(Image from I Confess from Wikimedia Commons)
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