Romance, also known as Theater of Romance, was a radio show that focused on romantic drama and served as a filler for various programs. With a captivating mix of tender love stories from today and memorable love stories from the past, the storylines often revolved around historical fiction and were bound to the films featuring the Hollywood stars who appeared on the show. As the series progressed, the writing and stories improved, and despite its status as a filler, the show gained a faithful listening audience that helped it become almost as popular as Lux Radio Theatre. The show was characterized by its live audience and captivating performances, offering a unique and engaging listening experience.
Broadcasted on the CBS network between 1943 and 1957, Romance substituted for such shows as Gunsmoke, Life with Luigi, and Lux Radio Theater. Over the course of its 12-year run, the show underwent significant changes in content, producers, directors, and performers. Some of the notable actors who appeared on the show included Henry Fonda, Humphrey Bogart, Shirley Temple, Gregory Peck, and other famous Hollywood stars. The show began in New York and moved to Los Angeles in 1945, further solidifying its ties to the movie industry. Theater of Romance was initially sponsored by Colgate Tooth Powder from 1944 to 1946, bringing on an array of movie stars to boost its presence.
Sources: archive.org, otrcat.com