db/migrations/005-descriptions.sql

@@ -1042,55 +1042,315 @@ The Rotary Golden Theater was a short radio series produced by the International
 One notable episode, "Youth, Yesterday and Today," which originally aired on March 15, 1955, follows a former convict who recruits underprivileged youths for criminal activities. Through a Rotarian druggist, the Rotary Club learns about the situation and works to appeal to the young men's better nature. The episode culminates with the club's members helping the police apprehend the convict and many of the boys finding rehabilitation and purposeful lives. While the show may appear dated, its moral lessons continue to resonate with audiences today.
 
 - Screen Directors' Playhouse [screen-directors-playhouse]
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+Screen Directors' Playhouse was a popular American radio and television anthology series aired on NBC from 1949 to 1951. The show featured adaptations of films with the original film directors occasionally involved in the productions, usually limited to introducing the episodes and taking a brief curtain call with the cast. During its 122-episode run, the series hosted notable Hollywood actors such as Fred Astaire, Lucille Ball, Gary Cooper, Joan Crawford, and John Wayne, among others.
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+The radio version underwent several title changes, from NBC Theater and Screen Directors Guild Assignment to Screen Directors Assignment, finally known as Screen Directors' Playhouse from July 1, 1949. The television version of the series aired during the 1955-56 season and featured original teleplays along with adaptations of famous short stories, such as Robert Louis Stevenson's "Markheim."
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+Creator Don Sharpe believed that writing was the most critical factor for the show's success. Some notable film adaptations featured in the series included "Stagecoach," "The Best Years of Our Lives," "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House," "Music for Millions," "A Foreign Affair," "The Magnificent Obsession," "The Human Comedy," and "It's a Wonderful Life."
+
 - Sears Radio Theater [sears-radio-theater]
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+Sears Radio Theater was a radio drama anthology series that aired weeknights on CBS Radio in 1979 and was sponsored by the Sears chain. The show featured a different genre for each day of the week, including Western, Comedy, Mystery, Love and Hate, and Adventure nights. Luminaries such as Lorne Greene, Andy Griffith, Vincent Price, Cicely Tyson, Richard Widmark, Howard Duff, and Leonard Nimoy served as hosts.
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+In 1980, the show moved to the Mutual Broadcasting System and became the Mutual Radio Theater, which continued to air repeats from the CBS run, as well as a short season of new dramas. Sears stayed on as a sponsor during this time. The series was produced and directed by Fletcher Markle and Elliott Lewis, with theme music composed and conducted by Nelson Riddle. Sears Radio Theater featured many Golden Age radio actors and was an ambitious attempt to reinvigorate radio drama. The show ran until December 1981, and was the final radio drama series for Mutual.
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 - Secret Agent K-7 Returns [secret-agent-k-7-returns]
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+Secret Agent K-7 Returns is a syndicated radio series that aired in 1939, featuring Agent K-7 and his fellow agents B-9, Z, and M, along with their assistants Rita Drake, Yvonne Durrell, and Patricia Norwood. The series consists of seventy-eight exciting and informative fifteen-minute spy stories set against the backdrop of rising tensions in Europe before World War II. In early episodes, K-7 would offer cautionary tales about spies undermining world peace, while later episodes saw him taking on a more active role and assisting his agents in capturing wrongdoers.
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+Each episode focuses on the agents' efforts to thwart various plans, such as sabotage, blackmail, assassination, and border violations. The stories present a mix of mystery, adventure, and suspense, and the female assistants often have their moments of bravery and resourcefulness. Notable for its historical relevance, the show subtly warns America about the dangers posed by Hitler's Germany and reflects the nation's war-weariness.
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+The sound quality of the series is excellent, and the episodes feature a blend of organ music and sound effects that evoke the atmosphere typical of old-time radio shows. Actor Walter Pigeon plays Agent Z in some episodes, but most of the voice actors remain unknown, much like the real-life spies they portrayed.
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 - Secrets of Scotland Yard [secrets-of-scotland-yard]
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+The Secrets of Scotland Yard, an intriguing crime drama series, aired internationally from 1949 to 1951 and briefly in the US in 1957. Based on true crime stories from the London Metropolitan Police, the show featured over 100 episodes, captivating listeners with tales of murder, forgery, and robbery. The series was initially hosted by Clive Brook, a successful actor and director, who occasionally discussed cases with Percy Hoskins, a crime expert and reporter for the London Daily Express. The show was known for its eerie and mysterious stories set in England, which attracted an eager audience each week.
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 - SF-68 [sf-68]
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+SF 68 was a South African anthology radio series that aired in 1968 on commercial station Springbok Radio. Produced by Michael McCabe, the show featured stories from renowned science fiction authors, including Ray Bradbury, Harlan Ellison, and Murray Leinster. Although only 33 episodes were produced with one season, the series gained popularity in America due to its high-quality storytelling.
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+Highlights from the available episodes include "Last Rites," which brings a priest face-to-face with a test of his faith; "Wanted in Surgery," depicting a future where medical practice is governed by strict regulations and robotic professionals; and "Jenny with Wings," featuring a girl born with wings who struggles to find acceptance and purpose in her life.
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+SF 68 brilliantly captured the imagination of its listeners, inviting them to explore the realm of the impossible and fantastic through engaging audio adventures.
+
 - Shell Chateau [shell-chateau]
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+Shell Chateau was a musical variety radio series that aired on NBC from April 6, 1935, to June 26, 1937, sponsored by Shell Oil. The show was initially hosted by Al Jolson, known as "The World's Greatest Entertainer," before a series of other hosts, such as Wallace Beery, Smith Ballew, and Joe Cook, took the reins. The hour-long program followed a format of songs, comedy routines, guest performances, and occasional dramatic sketches. Victor Young served as the orchestra leader, Ernie Watson and his orchestra performed on later episodes, and Carroll Carroll produced and wrote the series.
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+Notable guests on the show included Louis Armstrong, John Barrymore, Lionel Barrymore, Bette Davis, Judy Garland, Boris Karloff, Eleanor Powell, Ginger Rogers, Babe Ruth, and Fats Waller, among others. Despite the star-studded line-up, ratings dropped considerably when Jolson left the series in 1936, and the show ended in June 1937.
+
 - Sherlock Holmes [sherlock-holmes]
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+The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes are American old-time radio shows based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's stories of the famous detective. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes aired between 1930 and 1936, while The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes aired from 1939 to 1950.
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+Adapted by scriptwriter Edith Meiser, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes starred several actors in the role of Holmes, including Richard Gordon and Louis Hector, and Leigh Lovell as Dr. Watson. Meiser adapted all but one of Doyle's stories for the series, creating additional episodes based on Doyle's cases and non-Holmes stories. The series was initially sponsored by George Washington Coffee Company and later by the Household Finance Co.
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+The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes featured Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson for most of its run, with several actors taking on the roles in later seasons. Initially also adapted by Meiser, the series' writing duties were taken over by Denis Green, Anthony Boucher, and others at various times. The show was sponsored by Grove's Bromo Quinine, Petri Wine, and other companies throughout its run.
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+While most episodes of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes are considered lost media, some surviving recordings can be found online in varying audio quality.
+
 - Soldiers of the Press [soldiers-of-the-press]
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+Soldiers of the Press is a captivating war drama radio show that aired from February 28, 1943, to August 5, 1945, on WOR in New York City. Created in New York and syndicated by World Broadcasting System, the show highlights the experiences of the United Press war correspondents from various theaters of action during World War II.
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+Each 15-minute episode features an "on-the-scene" eyewitness account by veteran correspondents, delivering vivid, action-based narratives that cover a wide range of events from the war. Some of these correspondents include Walter Cronkite, Harrison Salisbury, Eleanor Packard, and Frank Hewlett. The series is also brought to life by talented New York actors like narrator Lon Clark and Jackson Beck.
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+From Pearl Harbor's attack to Doolittle's bombing raid on Tokyo and battles in North Africa, the dedicated and brave war correspondents take listeners on a journey through the lesser-known and historic events of the war. These engaging and patriotic stories give insight into the individual experiences of the fighting forces, making Soldiers of the Press a valuable resource for understanding World War II.
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 - Space Patrol [space-patrol]
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+Space Patrol was a popular American science fiction adventure series set in the 30th century, originally aimed at juvenile audiences. Airing on ABC from September 18, 1950, to March 19, 1955, the show chronicled the adventures of Commander Buzz Corry (Ed Kemmer) and his sidekick, Cadet Happy (Lyn Osborn), as they brought law and order to the interplanetary frontier aboard their spaceship, Terra V. The show featured various futuristic gadgets and villainous characters, often with Russian- or German-sounding accents.
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+The show developed a sizable adult audience, leading to numerous merchandise tie-ins, from toys to mail-order premiums. The same cast performed in both the TV and radio versions, with producers Larry Robertson and Mike Moser, writer Lou Huston, and announcers Dick Tufeld and Dick Wesson.
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+Notable characters included Carol Karlyle (Virginia Hewitt), the daughter of a United Planets leader, and villains such as Mr. Proteus and Prince Baccarritti. Space Patrol used sound effects rather than music and advertised products like Wheatchex and Ricechex during commercial breaks.
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 - Speed Gibson of the International Secret Police [speed-gibson-of-the-international-secret-police]
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+Speed Gibson of the International Secret Police was an action-packed radio adventure series that aired weekly from January 2, 1937, to May 25, 1940. The plot follows 15-year-old pilot Speed Gibson and his friends as they take on international crime and the sinister Octopus, an elusive criminal mastermind, thanks to Speed's uncle Clint Barlow, a member of the International Secret Police. Speed's sidekick, Barney Dunlap, and Clint Barlow are played by John Gibson and Howard McNear, respectively.
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+The series, written by Virginia Cooke, features two main story arcs: "The Menace of the Octopus," which sees Speed and his friends pursuing the Octopus and his gang throughout the Orient, and "Speed Gibson And The Atlantian Syndicate," where the chase continues on the African continent. The show gained success for its aviation-based adventures, complete characters, and thrilling action, making it a popular choice among young listeners. Notably, all 178 episodes have survived intact.
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 - Stand By for Crime [stand-by-for-crime]
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+Stand By for Crime, an early 1950s radio show, follows Chuck Morgan, a believable news anchor at Los Angeles radio station KOP, as he uncovers crime stories around the city. Morgan, played by Glen Langen, is friends with Lieutenant Bill Miggs, who tips him off on intriguing crime news. Carol Curtis, played by Adele Jurgens, is Morgan's resourceful "Gal Friday," and their old-school banter adds charm to the show. The series, influenced by the "just the facts" style of Dragnet, offers a gripping, day-at-the-office portrayal of crime-solving, featuring encounters with shady characters and solid dialogue. Glen Langen and Adele Jurgens, the lead actors, were actually married in real life, having met on the movie set of The Treasure of Monte Cristo. Stand By for Crime is an enjoyable, underrated classic for fans of post-WWII West Coast crime dramas.
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 - Strange as it Seems [strange-as-it-seems]
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+Strange As It Seems was a radio show featuring strange and unusual stories about fantastic people and events, based on the daily syndicated newspaper cartoon panels created by John Hix. The show began as a 15-minute program on March 22, 1935, and aired on various schedules throughout the mid-1930s and into the late 1940s. Early shows were hosted by Gayne Whitman and sponsored by Ex-Lax, with production and direction by Cyril Armbrister, and music by Felix Mills. The show featured a mix of dramatized mini-plays, strange trivia facts, and occasional interviews. In August 1939, the show was picked up by the CBS network as a 30-minute program, with Alois Havrilla as the host and sponsorship by Palmolive Shave Cream. The Strange As It Seems radio show was similar to Ripley's Believe It Or Not and featured bizarre events that were comparable in nature, entertaining and educating its audience about the marvels of the world.
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 - Strange Wills [strange-wills]
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+Strange Wills was a unique radio program syndicated in 1946, produced by Teleways/Michelson Syndication in Hollywood. The show starred stage and film actor Warren William, who also played a part in the creative team. The premise of the show was based on actual wills from lawyer-turned-author Ken Krippene's research, with the names changed to protect the identities of those involved. This mystery drama series focused on the complexities, dramas, and legal entanglements arising from unusual wills, and starred William as Probate Attorney Warren Francis O'Connell.
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+The show had a talented cast, including Howard Culver, Carleton G. Young, Lurene Tuttle, William Conrad, and Peggy Webber, with a supporting cast of talented West Coast voice actors. Despite only having one season of 26 shows, the program left a mark for its intriguing stories ranging from insanity, horror, to pirate tales and lost treasure.
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+Charles Michelson bought the syndication rights of Strange Wills and licensed them to Grace Gibson Radio Productions for distribution in Australia. Warren William eventually acquired the entire series of productions with plans to continue the series on NBC under the name I Devise and Bequeath. Sadly, William passed away in 1948, and no further work on the series is known to have occurred.
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 - Superman [superman]
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+The Adventures of Superman is a classic radio serial that aired from 1940 to 1951, featuring the iconic DC Comics character, Superman. It was originally syndicated on New York City's WOR and later broadcast across various American radio networks, totaling 2,088 original episodes. Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the show presented Superman's journey to protect mankind from evil with his incredible powers, while maintaining his alter-ego as Clark Kent, a mild-mannered reporter. Bud Collyer played the role of Superman, and his identity was kept secret for several years. Joan Alexander portrayed the smart and cynical Lois Lane, with Julian Noa and Jackie Kelk playing other prominent characters. The show was known for memorable storylines, such as Superman's battles with the Ku Klux Klan, and introduced key elements of the Superman universe like kryptonite. The radio series was hugely successful during World War II and the post-war years, gaining a loyal following of after-school listeners.
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 - Suspense [suspense]
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+Suspense was a popular radio drama series that aired on CBS Radio from 1940 to 1962. Known as one of the premier drama programs of the Golden Age of Radio, it featured suspenseful thriller-type scripts and starred leading Hollywood actors of the era. With nearly 945 episodes broadcast during its run, the show's first producer, William Spier, set the rules for its storytelling framework, which focused on life-and-death situations with compelling characterizations. Writers for the show included major mystery authors like John Dickson Carr and Lucille Fletcher, and episodes were adapted from works by Edgar Allen Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, Cornell Woolrich, Dorothy L. Sayers, and H.G. Wells. Many famous actors appeared on the show, including Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant, Humphrey Bogart, Lucille Ball, and Olivia De Havilland. Suspense left a lasting legacy and marked the end of the Golden Age of Radio.
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 - Tales of the Diamond K [tales-of-the-diamond-k]
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+Tales of the Diamond K was a 15-minute syndicated radio show aimed at a juvenile audience, airing in the mid-1950s. Despite claims of a thousand episodes produced, only 39 are known to exist today. Hosted by movie cowboy Ken Maynard and his horse, Tarzan, the series featured exciting stories set in the Old West, including cowboys, cattle trails, rodeos, parades, and hidden treasures. Ken Maynard was an accomplished stuntman and trick rider, performing in Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and becoming one of the first singing cowboys in Columbia Records. His career was eventually overshadowed by alcoholism, leading to his passing in 1973.
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 - Tales of the Texas Rangers [tales-of-the-texas-rangers]
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+Tales of the Texas Rangers is an old-time radio and television police procedural drama set in the 20th century western era. The radio show aired on NBC Radio from 1950 to 1952, with Joel McCrea voicing the fictitious Texas Ranger Jace Pearson. The stories were reenactments of actual Texas Ranger cases and dealt with modern crimes in Texas between 1928 and 1948. The series was directed and produced by Stacy Keach Sr., with real-life Texas Ranger Captain Manuel “Lone Wolf” Gonzaullas serving as the show’s advisor.
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+The television adaptation aired on CBS from 1955 to 1958, with Willard Parker taking over the role of Jace Pearson. Harry Lauter portrayed Ranger Clay Morgan, Pearson's regular partner. The TV version was more flexible with its time frame, occasionally jumping from the 1840s to the 1950s. The show also inspired a comic book distributed by Dell Comics and other adaptations.
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+Tales of the Texas Rangers combined the police realism of Dragnet with a western setting, focusing on upholding American laws and patriotism. With gritty storytelling, the show was a unique and popular addition to both radio and television western programming.
+
 - Tarzan and the Diamond of Asher [tarzan-and-the-diamond-of-asher]
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+Tarzan and the Diamond of Asher is an exciting Old Time Radio serial adapted from the novel, Tarzan and the Forbidden City by Edgar Rice Burroughs. First aired on May 14, 1934, the show follows the thrilling adventures of the immortal character Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle, as he navigates through intrigue, mystery, and danger in the heart of Africa.
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+Set deep within an extinct volcano, where the Forbidden City of Asher lies, two safaris face hardships and perils in pursuit of their individual missions. One safari seeks to rescue the leader's son, while the other, led by a cunning and unscrupulous Oriental, hunts for the elusive Father of Diamonds. The show aired on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, totaling 39 15-minute episodes, directed by Fred Shields and narrated by John McIntire.
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+Created by American author Edgar Rice Burroughs, Tarzan has remained an iconic figure in literature and radio, captivating audiences with his thrilling adventures and heroic nature. Burroughs, who originally found success with the 1914 novel Tarzan of the Apes, continued to write numerous Tarzan novels and other fantastical adventures that still endure today.
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 - Tarzan and the Fires of Tohr [tarzan-and-the-fires-of-tohr]
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+Tarzan and the Fires of Tohr is an exciting Old Time Radio show that follows Tarzan and his friend Paul D'Arnot as they investigate slave traders and ivory smugglers. Produced under the personal direction of Edgar Rice Burroughs, the pair encounter numerous perils and adventures, including saving a lost expedition and eventually getting captured by a strange yellow race. The show is filled with love, hatred, jealousy, political intrigue, courage, and loyalty.
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+The second serial produced by Burroughs, it got off to a slow start and unfortunately didn't have a successful run, only airing on ten radio stations including those in Hawaii, Canada, and Australia. Recording was completed in late 1935, with Carlton Kadell as Tarzan and Ralph Scott as D'Arnot. John McIntire narrated through episode fourteen before director Fred Shields took over. Barbara Luddy played Queen Ahtea, and Gale Gordon portrayed a male lead character.
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+Despite not being a commercial success, Tarzan and the Fires of Tohr offers an entertaining and thrilling story for fans of Tarzan and classic radio adventure tales. Edgar Rice Burroughs, the creator of Tarzan, went on to have a successful career in writing adventure fiction for the masses, with his works remaining popular to this day.
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 - Tarzan: Lord of the Jungle [tarzan-lord-of-the-jungle]
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+Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle is a 1951-1952 radio series created by Commodore Productions and based on the iconic character by Edgar Rice Burroughs. The show aired on the Mutual-Don Lee West Coast Network, the CBS network, and in syndication. Featuring 75 episodes, the series starred Lamont Johnson as Tarzan, who is brought to life through exciting and detailed stories that take him across Africa.
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+Unlike other depictions, this Tarzan is more articulate and prefers the jungle to civilization, functioning more like a Robin Hood of the jungle. Rather than directly adapting Burroughs' stories, this series features unique narratives with Tarzan solving various mysteries involving slave traders, uranium hunters, gold thieves, ivory poachers, and cannibals.
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+Despite being no. 8 in the Nielsen ratings and airing 64 shows, CBS ultimately took Tarzan off the air permanently after a summer hiatus in 1953. Nonetheless, the show remains an entertaining and captivating part of radio history that explored Africa's enchantments, mysteries, and violence through its legendary protagonist.
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 - Tarzan of the Apes [tarzan-of-the-apes]
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+Tarzan of the Apes, a radio show based on the popular character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, debuted on September 10, 1932. The show, which aired nightly for two years, featured 15-minute episodes, showcasing the thrilling adventures of Tarzan in the African jungles. Pre-recorded on phonograph records, this show stood out for its state-of-the-art recording technology and vivid sound effects, complementing the listener's imagination. Edgar Rice Burroughs' daughter, Joan Burroughs, played Jane, and her husband, Jim Pierce, portrayed Tarzan in this unique and entertaining adaptation of the beloved series.
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+Unfortunately only 77 of the nearly 300 episodes of the show still exist today.
+
 - The Adventures of Ellery Queen [the-adventures-of-ellery-queen]
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+The Adventures of Ellery Queen is an Old Time Radio detective program that aired from June 18, 1939, to May 27, 1948. The show was a result of the collaboration between producer-director George Zachary and writers Frederic Dannay and Manfred Lee. It features the character Ellery Queen, a private detective who solves mysteries in his spare time and then writes about them. Ellery was often joined by his father, police inspector Richard Queen.
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+The show's format was unique, as it invited a panel of armchair detectives to try to solve the case during the broadcast. The episodes followed a consistent structure where the mystery was presented, the panelists shared their theories, and Ellery Queen revealed the correct solution.
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+Over the years, the show featured numerous actors, including Hugh Marlowe, Carleton Young, and Sydney Smith, who played Ellery Queen. Additionally, the show had over 750 different panelists. Ellery Queen proved to be a popular show and even received the Best Radio Drama Edgar Award in 1946 alongside Mr. and Mrs. North.
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+The radio program successfully carried over the "Challenge to the Reader" concept from the Ellery Queen franchise, giving the audience a chance to solve the mystery alongside the characters in the show.
+
 - The Adventures of Frank Race [the-adventures-of-frank-race]
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+The Adventures of Frank Race was a syndicated American radio adventure series that aired between May 1, 1949, and February 19, 1950, on the East Coast, and between June 5, 1951, and March 25, 1952, on the West Coast. Produced by Bruce Eells Productions, the show followed Frank Race, who traded his career as an attorney for the cloak-and-dagger of the OSS during WWII. After the war, adventure became his business, as he investigated international insurance scams with his sidekick Mark Donovan in exotic locations around the world.
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+Tom Collins originally portrayed Frank Race, but Paul Dubov later took over the role (from episode 23 to the end), while Tony Barrett played Mark Donovan. The series was written and directed by Joel Murcott and Buckley Angel, with organ music provided by Ivan Ditmars. Featuring a blend of intrigue, action, and romance, The Adventures of Frank Race was often seen as a "Johnny Dollar meets James Bond" type of show.
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 - The Adventures of Marco Polo [the-adventures-of-marco-polo]
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+"The Adventures of Marco Polo" is an Australian BBC radio show produced by George Edwards, first aired in 1940. The 52-episode serial, told in 15-minute episodes, follows the journey of Marco Polo, one of three explorers who reached Mongolia and interacted with Kublai Khan. The show's riveting narrative and suspenseful cliffhangers captivated audiences.
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+The series was adapted for radio by Maurice Francis, based on the original book, and starred well-known Australian radio personnel such as Edwards and his wife Nell Stirling, along with Tom Farley, Warren Barry, and Eric Scott. Known for its excellent storytelling that prioritized action over dialogue, the show gained rave reviews and was repeatedly syndicated throughout the 1940s and 1950s, becoming popular not only in Australia, but also in international markets.
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 - The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet [the-adventures-of-ozzie-and-harriet]
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+The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet was a popular American radio and television sitcom that aired from 1944 to 1966, featuring the real-life Nelson family - Ozzie, Harriet, and their sons David and Ricky. Starting as a radio show and later transitioning to television, it holds the record for the longest-running live-action sitcom on U.S. television in terms of total episodes produced: 435. The premise of the show revolved around the Nelson family's everyday life, their interactions, and their relationships with friends and neighbors. Ozzie and Harriet initially gained national network radio exposure as a musical act in the 1930s and later got married during their radio career. They joined the cast of The Red Skelton Show in 1941, which led to the creation of their own family situation comedy in 1944. David and Ricky joined the cast in 1949 after previously being portrayed by professional actors.
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 - The Adventures of Sam Spade [the-adventures-of-sam-spade]
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+The Adventures of Sam Spade, created by Dashiell Hammett, was a radio series based on the private detective character from The Maltese Falcon. It aired for 13 episodes on ABC in 1946, 157 episodes on CBS in 1946-1949, and 75 episodes on NBC in 1949-1951. The show starred Howard Duff (and later Steve Dunne) as Sam Spade, Lurene Tuttle as his secretary Effie, and was announced by Dick Joy. Known for its tongue-in-cheek approach, the series received an Edgar Award for Best Radio Drama in 1947. Dashiell Hammett's name was later removed due to his involvement with the Communist Party, and Howard Duff was replaced when his name appeared in the Red Channels book. The show's contemporary popularity is attributed to its unique action, drama, witty approach, and strong acting.
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 - The Aldrich Family [the-aldrich-family]
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+"The Aldrich Family" is a classic radio teenage sitcom that aired from July 2, 1939 to April 19, 1953. Created by playwright Clifford Goldsmith, the show featured the humorous exploits of the clumsy teenager, Henry Aldrich. With its catchy "Hen-reeeeeeeeeeeee! Hen-ree Al-drich!" opening, the show became widely popular and even transitioned into films, television, and comic books.
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+Originally a minor character in Goldsmith's play "What a Life," Henry Aldrich sprang to life on Broadway before finding success on radio, with Ezra Stone embodying the character. After Stone entered the Army for World War II, actors Norman Tokar, Dickie Jones, Raymond Ives, and Bobby Ellis also played the lovable character. The Aldrich Family included Henry's parents, Sam and Alice, his sister Mary, and his best friend, Homer Brown, supported by a cast of talented actors.
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+Situated at 117 Elm Street in Centerville, USA, the family experienced relatable adventures, with Henry often at the center of comedic misunderstandings. The success of the show set the stage for future family sitcoms and garnered widespread recognition, including radio's outstanding father award for the Sam Aldrich character in 1942. A timeless work enjoyed by audiences of all ages, "The Aldrich Family" gave humor and heart to the American landscape of radio and beyond.
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 - The Baby Snooks Show [the-baby-snooks-show]
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+The Baby Snooks Show was an American radio sitcom that aired from September 17, 1944, to May 22, 1951. Fanny Brice, a comedian and Ziegfeld Follies alumna, starred as Baby Snooks, a mischievous young girl. The character, first introduced in Brice's 1912 vaudeville act, was inspired by popular juvenile actress Baby Peggy. The show began on CBS as Post Toasties Time and changed its title to The Baby Snooks Show shortly thereafter.
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+Throughout the 1940s, the show became a nationwide favorite, featuring various sponsors and a talented ensemble cast. Hanley Stafford played Snooks' often-cranky father, Lancelot “Daddy” Higgins, and the show had numerous writers, including Jess Oppenheimer, the future producer and head writer of I Love Lucy.
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+Fanny Brice was committed to her character, even dressing in a baby-doll outfit for the studio audience and making public appearances in costume. She felt the character was a representation of her own childhood. The show made a single television appearance on CBS-TV's Popsicle Parade of Stars, but Brice felt Baby Snooks didn't translate well to the screen. On May 29, 1951, Fanny Brice passed away, and the radio show ended with her death.
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 - The Bickersons [the-bickersons]
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+The Bickersons was a radio comedy sketch series that aired from September 8, 1946, to August 28, 1951, first on NBC and later on CBS. The show focused on the relentless verbal war between married protagonists John and Blanche Bickerson, played by Don Ameche (later Lew Parker) and Frances Langford. Creator Philip Rapp was also known for his work on the Baby Snooks series and Fanny Brice skits. The Bickersons sketches were part of the Drene Time variety show starring Ameche, Langford, and Danny Thomas, and included big band-style music numbers and comedy routines. Announcer Marvin Miller set the scene, which often exposed the couple's arguments about jobs, family issues, and each other's shortcomings. The show featured additional performers like Pinky Lee in supporting roles. The Bickersons were known for their feisty exchanges and continued spats, famously dubbed "The Bickering Bickersons" by critic John Crosby.
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 - The Big Show [the-big-show]
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+The Big Show was a sophisticated radio variety program that aired on NBC from November 5, 1950, to April 20, 1952. It featured 90 minutes of comic, stage, screen, and music talent and was hosted by stage actress Tallulah Bankhead. The show aimed to keep radio competitive against the growing television industry by attracting an impressive lineup of famous guests and investing a considerable budget into each episode. The Big Show featured top talents of the time such as Fred Allen, Jimmy Durante, Groucho Marx, Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Louis Armstrong, and Frank Sinatra, among many others. Yet despite the show's high quality, NBC canceled it after two seasons due to financial losses and difficulties in attracting more advertisers.
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 - The Big Story [the-big-story]
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+The Big Story was an American radio crime drama that aired between April 2, 1947, and March 23, 1955, on NBC. The show dramatized real-life stories of newspaper reporters and their heroic deeds. Sponsored by Pall Mall cigarettes, each episode featured a different reporter, with the only continuing character being the narrator, Bob Sloane. The series was produced by Bernard J. Prockter, with scripts by Gail Ingram, Arnold Pearl, and Max Ehrlich. Tom Vietor and Harry Ingram directed the show.
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+The show's unique format awarded the real news reporter whose story was featured on each episode with $500 and an on-air interview. During its run, The Big Story was a major success, at times surpassing the ratings of Bing Crosby's Philco Radio Time. The show's theme music was derived from Ein Heldenleben ("A Hero's Life"), a tone poem by Richard Strauss.
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 - The Bing Crosby - Rosemary Clooney Show [the-bing-crosby-rosemary-clooney-show]
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+The Bing Crosby - Rosemary Clooney Show was a 20-minute talk radio program on CBS that aired daily at 11:40 a.m. from February 29, 1960, to September 28, 1962. The show, aimed at female listeners, featured daytime music and conversation from Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney. The dialogue was taped weeks in advance, and the songs included solos and duets from the pair. Produced by Murdo MacKenzie, the series highlighted the close friendship between the two stars and was made possible by the use of magnetic tape recording technology. The show attracted a diverse range of sponsors and ended Crosby's 31-year association with radio.
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 - The Blue Beetle [the-blue-beetle]
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+The Blue Beetle was an old time radio show that aired from May 15 to September 13, 1940, featuring the superhero character from Fox Features comic books. Created by Charles Nicholas, the series follows Dan Garrett, a rookie patrolman who becomes the Blue Beetle by donning bullet-proof blue chain mail. With the help of his friend and mentor, Dr. Franz, Garrett fights crime, leaving behind beetle-shaped markers as his calling card.
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+The radio serial aired as a CBS 30-minute syndicated series, with actor Frank Lovejoy providing the voice of the Blue Beetle for the first thirteen episodes. Known for his crime-fighting reputation, the Blue Beetle's arsenal included a revolver, a "Beetle-Mobile" car, a "BeetleBird" airplane, and a magic ray machine. While the show had a short run, it was exciting and action-packed, and the Blue Beetle character has continued to evolve in comic books to the present day.
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 - The Burns and Allen Show [the-burns-and-allen-show]
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+The Burns and Allen Show was a popular comedy program featuring the dynamic duo of George Burns and Gracie Allen. Originating from their vaudeville days, the couple entertained audiences on radio, film, and television for over four decades. They first met in 1922, married in 1926, and crafted a classic comedic partnership, with George playing the straight man to Gracie's delightfully illogical character. Their radio show, which debuted in 1934 and later transitioned to television in 1950, had various formats and sponsors, but always showcased Gracie's unique "illogical logic." The Burns and Allen Show was widely celebrated, earning a place in the National Radio Hall of Fame and the Television Hall of Fame, as well as numerous Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
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 - The Chase [the-chase]
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+The Chase is an action-packed Old Time Radio show featuring a thrilling mix of adventure, crime, and science fiction, from 1952-1953. The series follows hunters and the hunted in adrenaline-pumping chase scenes, with a frequent use of the shotgun sound effect. Directed by Fred Weihe, known for directing X Minus One, and created by Lawrence Klee of Mr. Keen, this captivating show boasts top-notch production and performances, featuring many actors from X Minus One. Additionally, Fred Collins serves as the announcer, further adding to the show's distinction. From pulse-racing pursuits to intense storylines, The Chase is a rollercoaster ride filled with unparalleled excitement that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat.
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 - The Clock [the-clock]
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+The Clock was a suspenseful and psychological radio anthology series that aired from 1946 to 1948, with its stories narrated by a deep-voiced "Father Time" figure. Created and written by Lawrence Klee, the show was originally broadcast from New York with East Coast radio actors, but in 1947 it moved to Hollywood, where it featured prominent talents like Jeanette Nolan, Cathy and Elliott Lewis. The Clock's stories revolved around the themes of time, retribution, and the manipulation of our lives, often with thrilling and thought-provoking results. Despite its well-written scripts and well-known actors, the show struggled to find a sponsor and was ultimately cancelled in 1948. However, the series was later revived in 1955 in Australia, where it gained popularity with new material and most of the original American scripts.
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 - The Clyde Beatty Show [the-clyde-beatty-show]
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+The Clyde Beatty Radio Show (1950-1952) followed the adventures of Clyde Beatty, one of the world's most renowned animal trainers and a prominent figure in the mid-20th century. Beatty enjoyed a celebrity status that spanned across circus, books, motion pictures, comic books, television, and radio.
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+The show was produced in Los Angeles and centered around Beatty's life and career, as he constantly risked his life to train wild animals for his circus. It featured exciting adventures that took place behind the scenes of the circus, as well as Beatty's journeys to Africa and India to hunt down exotic animals in their native jungles. The episodes ranged from fairly realistic to wildly imaginative, with some plots inspired by Beatty's books and other famous animal trainers like Frank Buck.
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+The Clyde Beatty Radio Show, sponsored by Kellogg's, aired three times a week on the Mutual radio network from December 11, 1950, to January 18, 1952. With first-rate production values, good acting, sound effects, and music, the show remains family-friendly and interesting even in today's world.
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 - The Crime Club [the-crime-club]
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+Crime Club was a popular old-time radio show that aired on the Mutual Broadcasting System from December 2, 1946, to October 16, 1947, for a total of 47 episodes. The show was based on the Crime Club book imprint from Doubleday publishing company, which produced many classic detective and mystery fiction titles, including all 50 books of The Saint by Leslie Charteris and Sax Rohmer's Fu Manchu series. The series featured murder and mystery dramas, with a new Crime Club book made available to the public each week.
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+Each episode was introduced by the series host, The Librarian, portrayed by Barry Thomson and Raymond Edward Johnson. The Librarian would set the scene and begin reading the prologue of each week's book, launching into another thrilling Crime Club tale. The show was produced and directed by Roger Bower, and the episodes were mainly scripted by Stedman Coles and Wyllis Cooper.
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+In addition to its radio success, Crime Club spawned a 1937-1939 film series by Universal Pictures, with 11 films produced during that time.
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 - The Damon Runyon Theatre [the-damon-runyon-theatre]
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+The Damon Runyon Theatre was an American radio show produced by Alan Ladd's Mayfair Transcription Company. Originally featuring Pat O'Brien, it was later voiced by John Brown as the recurring character 'Broadway'. The show aired between November 1948 and December 1951, adapting Damon Runyon's famous short stories about the colorful world of New York City. These tales were characterized by unique vernacular speech, blending overly formal language with slang, and focused on gamblers, hustlers, actors, and gangsters. The radio show became part of popular culture and played a role in shaping the world's image of 20th-century New York City. The show featured notable voice actors such as Gerald Mohr, Herb Vigran, Sheldon Leonard, Luis Van Rooten, Alan Reed, and Lionel Stander. The Damon Runyon Theatre is considered one of the finest contributions to the Golden Age of Radio and a valuable addition to any collector's library.
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 - The Danny Kaye Show [the-danny-kaye-show]
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+The Danny Kaye Show was an American old-time radio comedy-variety program that aired on the CBS radio network from January 6, 1945, to May 31, 1946. Starring legendary entertainer Danny Kaye, the show entertained children and adults alike with a mixture of comedy sketches and musical acts. The cast included well-known actors like Eve Arden, Lionel Stander, and Frank Nelson, with music directed by Harry James and others. The show had a tumultuous run, facing staffing and management issues, but it didn't impede Kaye's career in the long run. Kaye's wife, Sylvia Fine, had a strong influence on the show, helping to write and produce it. Although The Danny Kaye Show didn't take off as expected, it remains an interesting part of radio history that showcased the talents of the gifted performer and his talented cast.
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 - The Devil and Mr. O [the-devil-and-mr-o]
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+The Devil and Mr. O is a syndicated horror radio series, created by Arch Oboler as a part of the famous Lights Out series of radio programs. Premiering in 1935, Lights Out was known as "the ultimate in horror," and captivated listeners with its gruesome sound effects and macabre storylines. The show was originally created, written, and produced by Wyllis Cooper, who utilized everyday objects to create horrifying auditory experiences for the audience.
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+In 1936, Arch Oboler took over as the showrunner and further established his reputation as a master of the macabre. Between May 1936 and July 1938, Oboler wrote and directed more than 100 Lights Out plays, with many of them later included in The Devil and Mr. O syndication, aired from 1970-73.
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+As the host of the show, Arch Oboler, also known as Mr. O., introduced the episodes, each one offering a different horror story to draw in and frighten the listener. Episodes such as "Alley Cat" and "Where are You" exemplify the terrifying situations and sound effects that characterize the series, which focused on themes of mayhem, murder, and much more. The Devil and Mr. O promises to captivate listeners with its chilling narratives and unique approach to horror storytelling.
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 - The Falcon [the-falcon]
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+The Falcon, a radio series that aired from April 10, 1943, to November 27, 1954, was based on the character Michael Waring, alias the Falcon, created by Drexel Drake. The show, which featured hard-hitting detective action, was originally inspired by a series of popular detective movies. At first, the character was a free-lance investigator and troubleshooter, but as he appeared in different media, the Falcon's identity changed.
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+The radio series blended danger, romance, and comedy in equal parts, beginning with Michael Waring, the Falcon, answering a phone call from a woman, leading into the week's adventure. As an insurance investigator, he often helped incompetent police solve mysteries. The lead role was played by various actors, including Berry Kroeger, James Meighan, Les Tremayne, Les Damon, and George Petrie.
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+In its later years, the show transitioned the Falcon into a career in espionage, making it an ever-evolving and intriguing detective series for its audience. About 88 episodes from the show's run still survive today.
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 - The FBI in Peace and War [the-fbi-in-peace-and-war]
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+The FBI in Peace and War is a captivating radio crime drama series that aired on CBS from November 25, 1944 to September 28, 1958, bringing to life the relentless pursuit of criminals by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Inspired by Frederick Lewis Collins' book of the same name, the show presents an innovative narrative approach, as it delves into the minds and actions of wrongdoers while they commit their crimes.
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+The storylines often focus on various non-violent offenses such as robbery and interstate car theft, providing the audience with a unique, gritty perspective on law enforcement. Listeners follow Field Agent Sheppard, portrayed by William Blaine, as he tracks down and apprehends criminals. Over the years, the radio show was sponsored by Lava Soap, Wildroot Cream-Oil, Lucky Strike, Nescafe, and Wrigley's, and was once ranked the eighth most popular show on radio according to Time.
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+Produced and directed by Max Marcin and Betty Mandeville, the show's scripts capture authentic elements of crime-solving, with writing contributions mainly from Louis Pelletier, as well as Jack Finke, Ed Adamson, and Collins. The cast also features Donald Briggs and the voice talents of Lisa Loughlin (from 1952) and Alice Frost. Although the program disclaimed any official Bureau endorsement, it intriguingly claimed that its stories were based on real-life FBI cases.
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 - The Fred Allen Show [the-fred-allen-show]
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+The Fred Allen Show was a popular American radio comedy program that ran for 17 years, starring comedian Fred Allen and his wife Portland Hoffa. The show featured a variety of sponsors such as Linit Bath Soaps, Hellmann's, Ipana, Sal Hepatica, Texaco, Tenderleaf Tea, and Ford Motor Company. One of the most famous segments of the show was "Allen's Alley," where Fred Allen interacted with various comical characters.
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+The show premiered as The Linit Bath Club Revue in 1932 and later went through several iterations such as The Salad Bowl Revue, The Sal Hepatica Revue, The Hour of Smiles, and Town Hall Tonight before becoming The Fred Allen Show. Throughout, it featured numerous guest stars, including Frank Sinatra, Orson Welles, Roy Rogers, Bela Lugosi, Ed Gardner, Norman Corwin, and Edgar Bergen & Charlie McCarthy.
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+The show is especially remembered for the on-air feud between Fred Allen and Jack Benny, which was a playful exchange of insults and parodies on each other's shows, delighting fans for years. The program was successful, with affordable production costs and strong ratings among urban listeners, though the show lagged in ratings among rural audiences.
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 - The Grantland Rice Story [the-grantland-rice-story]
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+The Grantland Rice Story is a radio series based on the autobiography "The Tumult and The Shouting" by Grantland Rice, one of the most important sportswriters in American history. First aired in 1955, the series comprised fifty-two 15-minute installments following the text of Rice's book, narrated by sportswriter and announcer Jimmy Powers. The show provided comprehensive insight into Rice's career during the golden age of American sports in the 1920s, including notable figures like Babe Ruth, Jack Dempsey, Man O' War, and the Notre Dame football team coached by Knute Rockne. Through this series, listeners could learn more about the era's sports legends, the impact of radio, and the importance of sports journalism in the early 20th century.
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 - The Great Gildersleeve [the-great-gildersleeve]
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+The Great Gildersleeve is a classic American radio sitcom that aired from 1941 to 1958. Originally spun off from popular radio show Fibber McGee and Molly, the series stars Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, played by actor Harold Peary. Gildersleeve moves from Wistful Vista to Summerfield, where he takes care of his niece and nephew and becomes the town's water commissioner. The household also includes the intelligent and caring cook, Birdie Lee Coggins (played by Lillian Randolph). Throughout the show, Gildersleeve has several love interests and is known for his comical adventures with friends, neighbors, and various women. The Great Gildersleeve is notable for being one of the earliest spin-off programs in broadcast history and for creating a cast of believable and charming characters.
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 - The Green Hornet [the-green-hornet]
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+Debuting in 1936, The Green Hornet is an American radio adventure series featuring the adventures of Britt Reid, a newspaper publisher who turns into a masked vigilante at night. Originating from WXYZ station in Detroit, the series was broadcast by Mutual Broadcasting System and later by the ABC Network until 1952.
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+The Green Hornet and his chauffeur Kato were known as outlaws, allowing them to infiltrate criminal operations in the city. Notable actors who played the Green Hornet include Al Hodge, Donovan Faust, Bob Hall, and Jack McCarthy, while Kato was played by Tokutaro Hayashi, Rollon Parker, and others.
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+The show used classical music for its theme and bridges between scenes, and its unique storytelling made it "one of radio's best-known and most distinctive juvenile adventure shows." The Green Hornet was related to another popular radio series, The Lone Ranger, making the Green Hornet that character's grandnephew.
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 - The Harold Peary Show [the-harold-peary-show]
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+The Harold Peary Show, also known as Honest Harold or The Hal Peary Show, aired on CBS from September 17, 1950, to June 13, 1951. The radio sitcom featured Harold Peary as "Honest Harold" Hemp, the host of a radio show within the program called "The Happy Homemaker." Hemp's interactions with various characters, including his mother, nephew, marshal, doctor, switchboard operator, and girlfriends, provided the humor for the show.
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+After leaving The Great Gildersleeve on NBC, Peary's new show struggled with ratings, as it was considered too similar to his previous work. The series only lasted one season and was, at times, negatively reviewed. The cast included Gloria Holiday, Joseph Kearns, Mary Jane Croft, Parley Baer, and many others. Despite the show's shortcomings, director Norm MacDonnell went on to create highly successful radio programs like Gunsmoke and Fort Laramie.
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 - The Haunting Hour [the-haunting-hour]
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+The Haunting Hour, an old time radio show from the mid to late 1940s, was known for its psychological mysteries, thrilling "whodunit" tales, and crime stories featuring a cast of network stars. With no credits provided, both the cast and production crews are unknown, but the show remains an enjoyable classic, appreciated for its suspenseful stories accompanied by a creepy organ and dramatic acting. Produced by NBC for the syndication market, the show had an extensive reach across American radio stations.
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+Although the show primarily focused on supernatural horror themes, it also dabbled in mysteries and detective dramas. Announcer Berry Kroeger, actor Bret Morrison, and organist Rosa Rio were some of the known talents involved in the series. The Haunting Hour aired in various locations, including Tucson, Arizona, Winnipeg, and Philadelphia, and continued to be syndicated and rebroadcast for decades, even appearing on 1970s FM Radio stations. Despite the limited information available, the show still captivates its audience as a piece of vintage American radio history.
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 - The Health and Happiness Show [the-health-and-happiness-show]
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+The Health and Happiness Show features eight complete radio shows recorded by Hank Williams in 1949 when his career was just beginning. This collection showcases Williams' energetic and vibrant performances, as well as his engaging stage patter. As an influential American singer, songwriter, and musician, Hank Williams enjoyed great success during his career with 55 singles reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Country & Western Best Sellers chart, including 12 that reached No. 1.
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+Born in Alabama, Williams started his music career in 1937 at a local radio station, forming the Drifting Cowboys backup band. After facing challenges, he married Audrey Sheppard, who managed his career, and signed a contract with MGM Records. In 1947, his hit "Move It on Over" gained him entry into the Louisiana Hayride radio program, followed by the Grand Ole Opry, thanks to his cover of "Lovesick Blues." Some of his hits include "Your Cheatin' Heart," "Hey, Good Lookin'," and "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry." Unfortunately, his struggles with back pain, alcohol, and drugs led to his death at age 29. Despite his short career, Williams has had a lasting impact on country music and has been inducted into multiple halls of fame.
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 - The Hermit's Cave [the-hermits-cave]
 - The Hillbilly Boys [the-hillbilly-boys]
 - The Jack Benny Program [the-jack-benny-program]