Academy Award Theater was a CBS radio anthology series that aired from March 30, 1946, to December 18, 1946. It featured 30-minute adaptations of plays, novels, or films starring at least one Oscar-nominated performer. Contrary to the title's implication, the show didn't only adapt Oscar-winning films but offered a wide range of pieces from Hollywood's finest actors, actresses, and technicians.
The episodes featured some of the biggest stars of the time, such as Bette Davis, Ginger Rogers, Paul Muni, Victor McLaglen, Humphrey Bogart, and Cary Grant. Occasionally, actors would recreate their original Oscar-winning roles. The series was produced by Dee Englebach, with scripts written by Frank Wilson and music composed by Leith Stevens. The sound effects crew included Gene Twombly, Jay Roth, Clark Casey, and Berne Surrey.
The show began with high production costs, sponsored by E.R. Squibb & Sons, a pharmaceutical company. However, due to the expense, the sponsorship eventually ended, leading to the cancellation of the series after only 39 weeks. Despite its short run, Academy Award Theater was lauded for its high-quality productions and top-tier Hollywood talent.