Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater Of Thrills podcast

#True Crime #OTR.FM Network

23:28

My guest today has been keeping us up to date with the current state of hiring for marketers on a quarterly basis, which has taken us on quite a roller coaster ride. Today we’re going to look at how marketing and communication execs are responding to the latest developments in the world while still needing to get their work done. To take a look at the latest here, I’d like to welcome back to the show Sue Keith, Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. About Sue Keith Sue Keith is Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. With deep expertise in navigating complex labor markets, Sue has a front-row seat to the evolving dynamics of marketing roles, hiring trends, and the broader implications of AI and economic uncertainty. RESOURCES Landrum Talent Solutions: https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com This episode is brought to you by Landrum Talent Solutions, a national recruiting firm specializing in marketing and HR positions. https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Online Scrum Master Summit is happening June 17-19. This 3-day virtual event is open for registration. Visit www.osms25.com and get a 25% discount off Premium All-Access Passes with the code osms25agilebrand Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Unravel the Mystery with Suspense! - The Classic Radio Thriller Series Step back in time to the golden age of radio with ”Suspense!” - the iconic series that captivated audiences from 1942 to 1962 with its thrilling tales and unforgettable performances. Featuring over 900 broadcasts penned by renowned authors and directors, ”Suspense!” brought the finest in thriller and mystery genres to the airwaves. Broadcast on the CBS Radio Network, ”Suspense!” showcased Hollywood’s brightest stars, including Cary Grant, Humphrey Bogart, Orson Welles, and Marlene Dietrich. Under the masterful direction of William Spier, known as the ”Hitchcock of the airwaves,” the series delivered gripping human dramas that kept listeners on the edge of their seats. From the eerie introductions by the ”Man in Black” to the evocative scores by Bernard Hermann and Lucian Moraweck, ”Suspense!” was a paragon of radio production excellence. The show’s unique formula of minimal rehearsal and genuine unease created authe...

85 episodes

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

updated 8 days ago

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85 episodes

#True Crime #OTR.FM Network

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Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
The Beast Must Die: A Hunter’s Revenge 29:47

8 days ago29:47

29:47

In Suspense #100, “The Beast Must Die,” a grieving crime writer named Frank Hargrove embarks on a chilling journey of vengeance after the hit-and-run death of his young son. Determined to find the killer, Frank assumes a false identity and infiltrates the suspect’s circle, meticulously documenting his intentions in a diary. As he plays a dangerous game of deception, the lines between justice and obsession blur, culminating in a deadly confrontation. This psychological thriller explores grief, guilt, and the human capacity for retribution. Originally aired: July 13, 1944. Cast: Herbert Marshall, Lurene Tuttle, William Johnstone, Wally Maher, Joseph Kearns Tags: Suspense, thriller, revenge, drama, crime, mystery, psychological, noir, radio, 1940s, detective, HerbertMarshall, oldtimeradio, hitandrun, grief, murder, identity, deception, retribution, classic…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Search for Henri Lefebvre: A Melody from the Mind’s Abyss 30:03

18 days ago30:03

30:03

Originally Aired: July 6, 1944 The Search for Henri Lefebvre: A Melody from the Mind’s Abyss A composer named Adolphus Flynn finishes a new orchestral work—only to hear it broadcast over the radio that very evening, credited to a long-dead composer he’s never heard of. Convinced he’s being plagiarized or haunted, Flynn launches a desperate investigation to find the mysterious Henri Lefebvre. But the truth is far more disturbing: the music is real, the composer is real, and Flynn may not be who he thinks he is. As memories of a past life unravel, the lines blur between genius and madness in this haunting psychological mystery. Keywords: “Suspense Henri Lefebvre episode,” “Paul Muni radio drama,” “Lucille Fletcher suspense play,” “composer psychological thriller,” “July 1944 Suspense CBS,” “Roma Wines mystery episode,” “musical identity mystery” Cast: Paul Muni (Adolphus Flynn / Henri Lefebvre), with supporting cast from the Suspense radio company. Written by Lucille Fletcher. Produced and directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Walls Came Tumbling Down: Bibles, Blood, and a Buried Masterpiece 29:50

24 days ago29:50

29:50

Originally Aired: June 29, 1944 The Walls Came Tumbling Down: Bibles, Blood, and a Buried Masterpiece When gossip columnist Patrick Darcy receives a cryptic visit from an old priest, he’s drawn into a deadly mystery involving a pair of Bibles marked “E.B.,” a murdered clergyman, and the long-lost final mural of a forgotten artist. With the help of a frightened young woman and a trail of coded scripture, Darcy uncovers the truth hidden beneath layers of lies, greed, and betrayal. From a graveyard clue to a Greenwich Village tenement, the search for the “walls of Jericho” becomes a race against time—and a murderer who will kill again to possess the priceless secret. Keywords: “Suspense The Walls Came Tumbling Down,” “June 29 1944 Suspense episode,” “Keenan Wynn Suspense radio,” “lost mural mystery thriller,” “Father Walsh murder story,” “rare Bibles radio drama,” “Roma Wines classic broadcast” Cast: Keenan Wynn (Patrick Darcy), with supporting performances by the Suspense radio company. Directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Ten Grand: A Chorus Girl's Close Call 29:42

5 weeks ago29:42

29:42

Episode Title: The Ten Grand: A Chorus Girl's Close Call Originally Aired: June 22, 1944 The Ten Grand: A Chorus Girl's Close Call Down-on-her-luck dancer Gigi Lewis is scrounging for a meal when fate hands her a mysterious bankroll—possibly $10,000 in cash—stuffed into her returned purse after a snatching attempt. But with the money comes danger, cryptic messages, and suspicious strangers following her through the New York City subway. As she navigates the late-night shadows, she's not sure who to trust: the strange man who returned her purse, the kindly old lady with secrets of her own, or the pair of ominous men on her trail. With danger closing in, Gigi is forced to decide whether to run, fight, or place her trust in a cause much bigger than herself. Keywords: "Lucille Ball Suspense radio," "The Ten Grand 1944 episode," "Suspense CBS noir drama," "chorus girl thriller," "Roma Wines suspense stories," "New York subway mystery," "Lucille Ball thriller radio episode" Cast: Lucille Ball (Gigi Lewis), supporting cast uncredited.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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A Friend to Alexander: A Duel Beyond the Grave 26:40

6 weeks ago26:40

26:40

Originally Aired: June 15, 1944 A Friend to Alexander: A Duel Beyond the Grave In this haunting and psychologically rich episode of Suspense , based on the short story by James Thurber, Geraldine Fitzgerald and Richard Whorf star in a tale where history, dreams, and reality fatally collide. Harry Andrews is a happy, easygoing man—until he starts having recurring dreams about Aaron Burr. Night after night, Harry sees Burr insult, provoke, and ultimately murder Alexander Hamilton in a dreamscape that feels chillingly real. The dreams begin to take over Harry’s waking life, infecting his work, his marriage, and his peace of mind. Though his wife Bess tries desperately to save him—urging him to leave town, seek medical help, and even take a vacation—the ghost of Burr follows Harry wherever he goes. In the countryside, during target practice, Harry rehearses for a duel he believes he must fight. In the middle of the night, he marches off the paces, reenacting the fatal confrontation at Weehawken. Finally, in the early morning hours, Harry faces his imaginary adversary. With a steady hand and a determined heart, he "duels" Aaron Burr—and collapses, dead, as though shot through the heart. A chilling meditation on obsession, honor, and the deadly grip of unresolved grudges, A Friend to Alexander is a masterpiece of psychological suspense that leaves listeners questioning where dreams end and destiny begins. Keywords: "Suspense A Friend to Alexander episode," "June 1944 Suspense radio drama," "James Thurber psychological story," "Aaron Burr duel dream," "Alexander Hamilton radio thriller," "Geraldine Fitzgerald Suspense," "Richard Whorf radio performance." Cast: Geraldine Fitzgerald (Bess Andrews), Richard Whorf (Harry Andrews), produced and directed by William Spier, adapted from the story by James Thurber.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Case History on Edgar Lowndes: The Train That Never Stopped 29:42

6 weeks ago29:42

29:42

Originally Aired: June 8, 1944 Case History on Edgar Lowndes: The Train That Never Stopped In this darkly psychological episode of Suspense , two of Hollywood’s most iconic actors—Thomas Mitchell and Donald Crisp—deliver powerhouse performances in a tale that unravels the twisted mind of a man haunted by death, guilt, and memory. Edgar Lowndes is a powerful railroad tycoon tormented by debilitating headaches. Seeking help from psychiatrist Dr. Aronson, Lowndes confesses a series of troubling events: the accidental death of his ailing wife due to a medicine mix-up, and a childhood friend lost in a train wreck. But as Dr. Aronson probes deeper, it becomes clear these events are linked not by misfortune, but by motive. As memories flood back, Lowndes recounts a chilling childhood trauma—watching his paralyzed father die on train tracks, a death he could have prevented but chose not to. His subconscious guilt has spiraled into a need to relive and repeat the act of killing. With each victim—a friend, a wife, a stranger on a train—Lowndes is symbolically murdering his father all over again. When the truth surfaces, so does the danger. Lowndes pulls a gun, ready to silence the man who knows too much. But Dr. Aronson turns Lowndes’ mind against itself—using a recorded voice from a previous session to replay the cries of his dying father. The mental break is instant. Lowndes flees—and leaps to his death, believing he’s boarding the train that haunted his dreams. A chilling masterpiece of psychological drama, Case History on Edgar Lowndes explores inherited trauma, subconscious vengeance, and the fragile boundary between guilt and madness. Keywords: "Suspense Case History Edgar Lowndes," "Thomas Mitchell Donald Crisp radio drama," "June 1944 Suspense episode," "psychological murder radio story," "Roma Wines suspense classic," "railroad symbolism murder plot," "train trauma and subconscious guilt." Cast: Thomas Mitchell (Edgar Lowndes), Donald Crisp (Dr. Aronson), with supporting performances by the Suspense radio company. Written by Robert Tallman. Produced and directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Fugue in C Minor: The Pipes That Whispered Murder 29:34

8 weeks ago29:34

29:34

Originally Aired: June 1, 1944 Fugue in C Minor: The Pipes That Whispered Murder In one of the most haunting and elegantly chilling episodes of Suspense , screen legends Ida Lupino and Vincent Price star in a Victorian tale of madness, music, and murder. Amanda Peabody arrives in the quiet town of Pilotsville to visit her sister, only to become enchanted by Theodore Evans—a cultured widower, music enthusiast, and pipe organ fanatic. Evans lives in a vast mansion outfitted with a cathedral-sized pipe organ, its pipes installed through every room in the house, echoing with thunderous classical music and eerie mechanical groans. But as Amanda is courted by the charming Theodore, she senses something is terribly wrong. His two traumatized children believe their dead mother isn’t in heaven—she’s trapped in the organ pipes, crying out for help. What begins as an odd courtship soon becomes a psychological horror story. Amanda learns that Theodore's first wife, and perhaps other women, may have met their deaths within the labyrinth of pipes beneath the home. When Amanda discovers the truth, she nearly becomes the next victim—locked in the echo chamber with the organ thundering above her. But fate intervenes, and Evans dies of fright, overcome by his own delusions and the weight of his crimes. Written by Lucille Fletcher ( Sorry, Wrong Number ), Fugue in C Minor is a masterpiece of atmosphere and mounting dread, with unforgettable performances by Lupino and Price. Keywords: "Suspense Fugue in C Minor episode," "Vincent Price Ida Lupino Suspense," "Lucille Fletcher organ pipe horror," "June 1 1944 CBS radio drama," "Victorian murder mystery radio," "ghostly pipe organ suspense story," "Roma Wines classic Suspense." Cast: Ida Lupino (Amanda Peabody), Vincent Price (Theodore Evans), with supporting performances by child actors portraying Daphne and David Evans. Written by Lucille Fletcher. Produced and directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Donovan’s Brain, Part Two: The Final Host 29:18

9 weeks ago29:18

29:18

Originally Aired: May 25, 1944 Donovan’s Brain, Part Two: The Final Host In the chilling conclusion to Suspense 's two-part science fiction saga, Orson Welles returns as Dr. Patrick Cory—a man now fully under the growing influence of the disembodied brain he has kept alive in his laboratory. What began as an ambitious experiment to preserve thought has devolved into a psychological and spiritual nightmare. As the brain of ruthless financier William H. Donovan continues to grow in power, it manipulates Cory’s thoughts, voice, and memories. His family grows suspicious—especially when Cory can no longer recall what happened to his wife, Janice, or when he begins mimicking Donovan’s infamous phrase: “Sure, sure, sure.” As the horrifying truth unfolds, Janice returns, revealing that Cory committed her to a psychiatric clinic under Donovan’s influence. Cory, desperate to break free, tries one last desperate act: using a blood transfusion with an incompatible blood type, he attempts to destroy the brain. But Donovan anticipates every move. The story builds to its devastating climax: Cory performs fatal surgery on his own son, David, intending to use his body to house Donovan’s mind. But in sacrificing his son, Cory finally breaks free of the brain’s control and finds the strength to destroy it—though at the cost of his own life. In a final narration, we learn that both Cory and David are dead, and Janice has been committed once again. The brain, found rotting in the lab, appears to have been dead for months—leaving the chilling question: what was truly controlling Patrick Cory? An unforgettable blend of science fiction and psychological horror, Donovan’s Brain, Part Two is a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition, obsession, and the price of playing God. Keywords: "Donovan’s Brain Part Two Suspense," "Orson Welles brain experiment story," "May 1944 Suspense radio," "disembodied brain horror," "William H. Donovan science fiction," "Patrick Cory mind control," "Roma Wines classic Suspense." Cast: Orson Welles (Dr. Patrick Cory), with supporting performances by Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns, and the Suspense radio company. Produced and directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Donovan’s Brain, Part One: The Living Thought 29:27

10 weeks ago29:27

29:27

In one of the most celebrated episodes of Suspense , Orson Welles stars as Dr. Patrick Cory in a chilling adaptation of Curt Siodmak’s science fiction thriller Donovan’s Brain . This is the first of a two-part drama that explores the terrifying consequences of science without limits—and thought without a body. When a private plane crashes in the mountains, the only survivor is millionaire William H. Donovan—barely clinging to life. Dr. Cory attempts emergency surgery, but it’s already too late to save the man. Or is it? Driven by ambition and scientific obsession, Cory removes Donovan’s brain and keeps it alive in a laboratory tank. At first, Cory insists his motives are purely scientific, studying how long a human brain can survive and function outside the body. But the experiment spirals into something far more disturbing when the brain begins to respond—first with electrical pulses, then with influence over Cory’s thoughts and actions. Soon, Donovan’s ruthless personality begins to assert itself, manipulating Cory while leaving behind cryptic clues—“Sure, sure, sure”—and signatures in Cory’s own left-handed handwriting. As Cory’s mind slips further from his own control, even his wife and colleagues fear he is becoming something... other. Part one ends with Cory fully under the influence of the powerful and malevolent brain. In part two, the full horror of Donovan’s posthumous intentions will be revealed. Keywords: "Donovan’s Brain part one radio," "Orson Welles Suspense 1944," "William H. Donovan brain experiment," "Curt Siodmak adaptation radio," "sci-fi horror brain in a jar," "May 1944 Suspense CBS," "Roma Wines suspense classic." Cast: Orson Welles (Dr. Patrick Cory), with supporting performances by Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns, and the Suspense radio company. Directed by William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Visitor: A Stranger Comes Home 29:35

10 weeks ago29:35

29:35

Originally Aired: May 11, 1944 The Visitor: A Stranger Comes Home In this emotionally haunting episode of Suspense , Eddie Bracken stars as Bud Owen, a man returning to the hometown he left twelve years earlier under the shadow of suspicion and heartbreak. Bud isn't just back for nostalgia—he’s come to confront the truth and reclaim his identity. But there’s one problem: no one remembers him. When he visits the house he grew up in, the people inside don't recognize his name—or his face. His mother, his old friend Joe, and even his childhood sweetheart, Ellen, deny ever knowing him. Instead, they insist his name is Bill Duncan. Bud begins to question his own sanity. Has he imagined his former life, or is something far more sinister at play? As the mystery deepens, Bud discovers a dark conspiracy rooted in betrayal and guilt. He’s not delusional—he's the victim of a desperate lie meant to erase him from existence. The people he once trusted have buried the past and replaced him with a ghost. Taut, psychological, and filled with eerie tension, The Visitor plays with themes of memory, identity, and the pain of being forgotten. With a quiet, tragic ending that lingers long after the final line, this episode is a standout entry in the golden age of radio suspense. Keywords: "Suspense The Visitor episode," "May 1944 Suspense radio," "Eddie Bracken identity mystery," "radio psychological thriller," "homecoming suspense drama," "William Spier production," "classic Roma Wines suspense story." Cast: Eddie Bracken, with supporting performances by the Suspense radio company including William Spier (producer/director).…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Dark Tower: A Role to Kill For 29:50

11 weeks ago29:50

29:50

Originally Aired: May 4, 1944 The Dark Tower: A Role to Kill For: In this richly layered psychological thriller from Suspense , Orson Welles delivers a mesmerizing performance as Damon Wellington, an aging stage actor drawn into a murder mystery that threatens to destroy his family—and career. When Jessica Wellington, Damon’s sister and co-star, begins rehearsals for her return to the stage after a mental breakdown, her former husband, the manipulative and sinister Stanley Vance, unexpectedly returns from the dead. Claiming to have been merely "ill," Vance wastes no time regaining psychological control over Jessica, casting a dark shadow over the production of The Dark Tower . As the cast gathers in the Wellington home to rehearse, tensions flare and secrets emerge—including Jessica’s belief that she may have murdered Vance during her breakdown. But when Vance turns up truly dead—murdered this time for real—the finger once again points toward Jessica… until a stranger named Max Hartsfeld arrives, eager to invest in the play. In one of radio’s most unforgettable twists, Hartsfeld reveals his true purpose: revenge. He is no investor, but a calculated executioner—with Damon Wellington behind the disguise. Cleverly plotted, brilliantly performed, and steeped in theatrical satire, The Dark Tower delivers suspense, misdirection, and one of the most satisfying endings in the Suspense catalog. Keywords: "Suspense The Dark Tower episode," "Orson Welles dual role radio," "May 1944 Suspense radio drama," "Jessica Wellington murder mystery," "Max Hartsfeld twist ending," "Roma Wines suspense series," "stage play thriller radio classic." Cast: Orson Welles, Hans Conried, George Coulouris, Joseph Kearns, Agnes Moorehead, William Spier (producer/director).…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Death Went Along for the Ride: No Such Thing as Coincidence 29:37

11 weeks ago29:37

29:37

In this gripping road thriller from Suspense , Gene Kelly plays George Javery, a man trying to make a quiet cross-country drive from California to New York—but fate has other plans. It begins with a strange bellhop warning about a one-armed man, an uninvited hitchhiker with an eerie familiarity, and a series of unsettling “coincidences” that unravel into something far more sinister. Every mile brings a new encounter—a staged accident, a mysterious photograph, an anonymous phone call—all pointing to one chilling truth: someone wants George dead. But who? And why? The danger escalates across the country, from bullet-shattered dinner plates in a Chicago nightclub to a near-death confrontation on Bear Mountain Bridge. But it’s not until George reaches a New York hotel—where he supposedly already has a reservation—that the mystery finally unravels. The man behind the curtain is Bill “Scarface” Malone, a gangster who’s had plastic surgery and has been using George’s identity as a decoy, drawing enemy fire away from himself. In a pulse-pounding final confrontation, George turns the tables, exposing Malone’s plan and narrowly escaping death. What began as a quiet drive ends as a taut psychological thriller, where identity, paranoia, and survival collide. Keywords: "Suspense Death Went Along for the Ride episode," "Gene Kelly suspense thriller," "April 1944 Suspense radio," "Scarface Malone mistaken identity plot," "one-armed hitchhiker mystery," "Roma Wines radio drama," "cross-country noir suspense story." Cast: Gene Kelly, William Spier (producer/director), Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Palmer Method: Signed in Blood 29:52

11 weeks ago29:52

29:52

Originally Aired: April 20, 1944 The Palmer Method: Signed in Blood: In this darkly clever episode of Suspense , Ed Gardner sheds his comedic persona to deliver a dramatic performance as Joe Palmer—a small-time con man and expert forger who finds himself in way over his head. Down on his luck in New York, Palmer joins the Spanish Loyalist army under the name "George Padway" to escape both poverty and prosecution. But what starts as a clever dodge quickly spirals into a deadly case of mistaken identity and espionage. During a bombing on a troop train en route to Madrid, Palmer survives—while the real Padway does not. Seizing the opportunity, Palmer switches their identities. But his con turns deadly when he unwittingly walks into a trap meant for a fascist spy. Posing as Padway, he’s contacted by Elena Villancos, a seductive agent who quickly draws him into a supposed sabotage ring—offering him a fortune for future sabotage missions. But Palmer’s final forged note seals his fate. When Elena returns with a suitcase—not full of money but containing a tommy gun and a firing squad—Palmer learns too late that she’s no fascist conspirator but a Republican spy. A grim tale of deception, identity, and poetic justice, The Palmer Method is a taut, ironic thriller that explores how even the most skilled forger can’t rewrite his own fate. Keywords: "Suspense The Palmer Method episode," "April 1944 Suspense radio," "Ed Gardner dramatic performance," "Joe Palmer forgery plot twist," "Spanish Civil War radio drama," "Roma Wines suspense classic," "identity theft and espionage story." Cast: Ed Gardner, Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns, William Spier (producer/director).…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Marvelous Barastro: A Duel of Illusions 29:41

12 weeks ago29:41

29:41

Originally Aired: April 13, 1944 The Marvelous Barastro: A Duel of Illusions: In this spellbinding episode of Suspense , Orson Welles delivers a haunting dual performance as Barastro and Rico Sansoni—two rival magicians locked in a decades-long psychological and supernatural battle. Barastro, a traveling illusionist, shares his eerie tale with producer William Spier: a love story turned nightmare. Twenty years earlier, Barastro fell in love with Anna, a blind girl whose spirit and vision of the world captivated him. But their idyllic life is shattered by the arrival of Rico Sansoni—an enigmatic and charismatic magician who seduces Anna and ultimately assumes Barastro’s identity using his unmatched skill in mimicry and illusion. What unfolds is a chilling descent into madness as Barastro realizes he is being replaced—his face, his voice, his life—by a man who can become him so completely that even Anna cannot tell the difference. As the rivalry turns deadly, Barastro’s obsession with justice drives him to the edge of sanity. With hypnotic storytelling, eerie tension, and Welles’ unforgettable portrayal of two indistinguishable enemies, The Marvelous Barastro is a tour-de-force of dramatic radio and one of Suspense ’s most psychologically complex episodes. Keywords: "Suspense The Marvelous Barastro episode," "Orson Welles dual role magician story," "April 1944 Suspense radio drama," "Rico Sansoni identity theft plot," "radio illusionist psychological thriller," "Ben Hecht story Suspense," "Roma Wines classic radio series." Cast: Orson Welles (as Barastro and Rico Sansoni), William Spier (Narrator), with additional voices by Hans Conried and Joseph Kearns.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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The Woman in Red: Identity for Sale 29:19

12 weeks ago29:19

29:19

Originally Aired: April 6, 1944 The Woman in Red: Identity for Sale: In this harrowing tale from Suspense , Academy Award-winner Katina Paxinou stars as Miss Crabo, a seemingly kind yet deeply sinister woman who traps a young, vulnerable woman in a deadly scheme of espionage and impersonation. Julia Ross, desperate for work and with no close ties, answers an ad for a secretary and is lured into a luxurious but isolated home by Miss Crabo and her nephew, Carl. What begins as a strange but seemingly benign job offer soon descends into a nightmare. Drugged and manipulated, Julia wakes up to find herself being called “Sheila Campbell” — the identity of Crabo’s former companion who mysteriously disappeared. The sinister pair intend to pass Julia off as Sheila and stage her “suicide,” thereby tying off loose ends in an underground espionage operation. But Julia’s spirit proves stronger than they expect. With her life on the line, she secretly slips a note to a stranger and sets in motion a daring rescue involving British Intelligence. In a thrilling final twist, Carl's guilt becomes the key to unraveling the whole plot—and Julia escapes her captors just in time. The Woman in Red is a taut psychological thriller steeped in identity theft, gaslighting, and wartime paranoia, delivering one of Suspense ’s most gripping and twisted narratives. Keywords: "Suspense The Woman in Red episode," "April 1944 Suspense radio," "Katina Paxinou thriller performance," "identity theft radio drama," "British Intelligence undercover story," "Roma Wines classic radio," "espionage and manipulation story." Cast: Katina Paxinou, Hans Conried, George Coulouris, Joseph Kearns, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Cat and Mouse: A Deadly Game 29:26

13 weeks ago29:26

29:26

Originally Aired: March 30, 1944 Cat and Mouse: A Deadly Game: In this tense episode of Suspense , engineer John Guthrie (Sonny Tufts) finds himself entangled in a deadly game of espionage, deception, and survival. When his friend and research partner, Howard Lockwood, is mysteriously murdered, Guthrie realizes that their top-secret invention—a wartime technological breakthrough—has made them the targets of an unseen enemy. Using shortwave radio, Lockwood sends Guthrie a cryptic message just before his death, warning him of "the man with the cough." As Guthrie follows the trail to Vermont’s snow-covered mountains, he finds himself hunted by unknown forces determined to take his work—by any means necessary. Among the suspicious figures at the Phoenix Hotel is the charming but enigmatic Valentine Ames, who may be friend or foe. With the FBI, Scotland Yard, and a ruthless enemy all closing in, Guthrie must rely on his wits to survive. In a dramatic final confrontation, a former FBI agent turned traitor is unmasked, and a cunning killer is stopped just in time. But even as the danger subsides, Guthrie is left wondering—how much of the game was real, and how much was just another move in a larger, more dangerous war? A thrilling mix of wartime intrigue, coded messages, and paranoia, Cat and Mouse is a suspenseful masterpiece that keeps listeners guessing until the final moment. Keywords: "Suspense Cat and Mouse episode," "March 1944 Suspense radio," "Sonny Tufts mystery thriller," "wartime espionage radio play," "shortwave radio spy drama," "Roma Wines suspense series," "classic noir radio mystery." Cast: Sonny Tufts, Hans Conried, William Spier, George Coulouris.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Sneak Preview: The Reel and the Real 29:45

14 weeks ago29:45

29:45

Originally Aired: March 23, 1944 Sneak Preview: The Reel and the Real: In this suspenseful tale starring Joseph Cotten, reality and fiction blur as Hollywood director Frank Henderson stumbles into a real-life crime more thrilling than any film he's ever made. While in New York preparing for the release of his latest motion picture, Escape to Destiny , Henderson finds himself drawn into the mystery surrounding the murder of notorious criminal Gregory Sarko. After viewing Sarko’s body at police headquarters, Henderson becomes obsessed with the case. His investigation leads him into the shadowy world of spies, drug smugglers, and double agents, where no one is who they seem to be—including a mysterious man named "Edwards," who offers Henderson a lucrative but dangerous deal. As the director pieces together the puzzle, he realizes that the truth behind Sarko’s death is even more bizarre than the twists in his own films. The thrilling climax reveals an unexpected connection between the crime and Henderson’s own storytelling instincts. But when he pitches the entire experience as a movie idea to his studio, they dismiss it outright—too far-fetched, too unrealistic. The irony? Every word of it is true. A brilliantly meta episode, Sneak Preview blends Hollywood satire with classic noir intrigue, proving that sometimes, the wildest stories are the ones that actually happen. Keywords: "Suspense Sneak Preview episode," "March 1944 Suspense radio," "Joseph Cotten Hollywood thriller," "Gregory Sarko murder mystery," "spy and smuggling intrigue," "meta crime drama radio play," "classic Roma Wines suspense show." Cast: Joseph Cotten, William Spier, Hans Conried, George Coulouris.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

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Narrative About Clarence: A Mind Unraveled 29:33

15 weeks ago29:33

29:33

Originally Aired: March 16, 1944 Narrative About Clarence: A Mind Unraveled: This haunting episode of Suspense stars Laird Cregar as Clarence, a man whose eerie presence slowly unravels the mind of his unsuspecting brother-in-law, Bill. When Bill’s wife, Lillian, unexpectedly receives a letter from her estranged half-brother Clarence, she is surprised—he’s been gone for years, living in India, dabbling in what he calls "mental science." But upon his arrival at their home, it becomes clear that Clarence is no ordinary visitor. His hypnotic eyes, cryptic statements, and sinister fascination with Lillian’s daughter Jeannie leave Bill deeply unsettled. As Clarence’s influence grows, Jeannie begins to change, speaking in strange tones and defying her parents. Bill becomes convinced that Clarence is using hypnosis and occult knowledge to manipulate his wife and daughter. But when Bill attempts to remove Clarence from their home, his mind begins to crack. Is Clarence truly an evil hypnotist, or is Bill losing his grip on reality? In a shocking climax, Bill takes matters into his own hands, setting fire to the house with Clarence inside—only to wake up in an asylum, telling his story to a doctor. But the final twist is the most chilling of all: the asylum’s director is none other than Clarence himself, very much alive, and subtly implying that Bill’s descent into madness may have been orchestrated from the very start. This dark psychological thriller is a masterful blend of paranoia, manipulation, and eerie suspense, leaving listeners questioning what was real and what was merely imagined. Keywords: "Suspense Narrative About Clarence episode," "March 1944 Suspense radio," "Laird Cregar psychological thriller," "hypnosis and mind control drama," "Roma Wines suspense series," "occult mystery radio play," "classic radio horror story." Cast: Laird Cregar, Hans Conried, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
The Defense Rests: A Lawyer’s Betrayal 29:55

15 weeks ago29:55

29:55

Originally Aired: March 9, 1944 The Defense Rests: A Lawyer’s Betrayal: In this gripping courtroom drama from Suspense , Alan Ladd stars as Robert Tasker, a young man on trial for murder. But as the evidence unfolds, it becomes clear that the real culprit may be the very man defending him—renowned criminal attorney Max Crager. Tasker, an ex-convict trying to rebuild his life, lands a job in Crager’s law office thanks to the lawyer’s seemingly generous support. But when Tasker stumbles upon a web of corruption involving Crager’s partner, Arthur Hines, his situation turns deadly. After a heated confrontation, Tasker finds Hines murdered—and all evidence points to him. With the trial underway, Crager appears to be Tasker’s last hope, but a shocking twist reveals that the lawyer himself orchestrated the crime to cover up his embezzlement. In a desperate confrontation, Tasker forces a confession from Crager, exposing the betrayal just in time. This episode delivers an unforgettable blend of legal drama, psychological tension, and a stunning twist that leaves listeners on edge until the final moment. Keywords: "Suspense The Defense Rests episode," "March 1944 Suspense radio," "Alan Ladd courtroom thriller," "Max Crager betrayal twist," "wrongfully accused murder case," "Roma Wines suspense series," "classic legal drama radio." Cast: Alan Ladd, John McIntire, William Spier, Joseph Kearns.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Portrait Without a Face: A Painted Confession 29:46

16 weeks ago29:46

29:46

Originally Aired: March 2, 1944 Portrait Without a Face: A Painted Confession: In this gripping episode of Suspense , a mysterious painting serves as both a trap and a confession, drawing a woman back into a deadly past. When Colette, a woman with a shadowy history, arrives at a New York art gallery desperate to see a particular painting, her reaction is one of fear rather than admiration. The painting, titled Portrait Without a Face , was created by Paul Degel, a man who knows far more about Colette than she realizes. As the story unfolds, we learn that years earlier, in pre-war France, General Vauban was assassinated, and the killer was never found. But Paul Degel, through his art, has captured the moment of the crime in chilling detail. The faceless woman in the portrait is no figment of his imagination—she is Colette, and she has just walked straight into the snare. With suspense mounting, Paul’s quiet obsession with justice leads to a dramatic showdown. Colette's manipulative husband, Charles Garveau, will stop at nothing to silence the artist. But the final confrontation reveals a shocking truth about who really pulled the trigger that night in Paris. With its masterful blend of intrigue, psychological tension, and an unforgettable twist, Portrait Without a Face is a prime example of radio noir at its finest. Keywords: "Suspense Portrait Without a Face episode," "March 1944 Suspense radio," "mystery painting assassin story," "Colette Paul Degel Charles Garveau," "murder confession through art," "Roma Wines suspense thriller," "classic radio crime drama." Cast: Michelle Morgan, Philip Dorn, George Coulouris, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Sorry, Wrong Number: A Desperate Call for Help 29:37

16 weeks ago29:37

29:37

Originally Aired: February 24, 1944 Sorry, Wrong Number: A Desperate Call for Help: One of the most famous radio dramas of all time, Sorry, Wrong Number is a chilling masterpiece of suspense starring Agnes Moorehead in a tour-de-force performance. Mrs. Elbert Stevenson, a bedridden woman plagued by nerves, frantically tries to reach her husband’s office but is accidentally connected to a conversation between two men plotting a murder. As she listens in horror, she realizes the crime is set to occur that very night at 11:15—just when a train will be passing to mask the sound. Desperate to prevent the killing, she contacts the operator, the police, and anyone who will listen. But bureaucracy and indifference slow her efforts, leaving her feeling increasingly isolated and powerless. As the tension builds, a terrifying revelation dawns upon her—the intended victim may not be some stranger, but her. Alone in her house, she hears the ominous sound of another phone clicking… an intruder is inside. Her desperate pleas go unheard as the killer closes in, and the episode ends with a chilling final moment of silence. A masterful example of psychological terror, Sorry, Wrong Number remains one of the most iconic broadcasts in radio history, demonstrating how a simple wrong number can spiral into an inescapable nightmare. Keywords: "Suspense Sorry Wrong Number episode," "February 1944 Suspense radio," "Agnes Moorehead thriller," "classic radio horror drama," "Roma Wines suspense series," "psychological suspense radio," "William Spier suspense direction." Cast: Agnes Moorehead, William Spier, Joseph Kearns.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Life Ends at Midnight: A Fatal Deadline 29:48

17 weeks ago29:48

29:48

Originally Aired: February 17, 1944 Life Ends at Midnight: A Fatal Deadline: In this nerve-wracking episode of Suspense , Dane Clark stars as Walter Bates, a desperate man with only a few hours left to raise $1,500—or face certain death. His only hope? His aging mother, Mrs. Bates (Faye Bainter), who has already sacrificed everything for him. As Walter pressures her to come up with the money, he realizes there’s another way: Mr. Chalmers (Ralph Morgan), an elderly lodger with a life insurance policy that would solve all of Walter’s problems… if only he were dead. As the clock ticks toward midnight, Walter sets a sinister plan in motion, rigging a gas heater in Chalmers’ room. But fate has other plans. A simple act of kindness—a quarter placed in the gas meter—turns Walter’s own deadly scheme against him. In a chilling final moment, as the clock strikes twelve, Walter’s own life comes to an end, sealing his fate in the most ironic twist of all. This masterfully written episode of Suspense is a gripping tale of greed, fate, and poetic justice, keeping listeners on edge until the very last second. Keywords: "Suspense Life Ends at Midnight episode," "February 1944 Suspense radio," "Dane Clark Walter Bates story," "murder for insurance money plot," "ironic death suspense thriller," "classic Roma Wines radio drama," "William Spier suspense series." Cast: Dane Clark, Faye Bainter, Ralph Morgan, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Suspicion: A Deadly Houseguest 29:37

17 weeks ago29:37

29:37

In this chilling episode of Suspense , Charles Ruggles delivers a gripping performance as Hubert Mummery, a mild-mannered businessman whose life takes a terrifying turn when he begins to suspect his new housekeeper might be a killer. What begins as casual gossip about a notorious poisoner named Carolyn Andrews soon becomes a waking nightmare when Hubert realizes that his own cook, Sutton, may not be who she claims to be. As mysterious illnesses, missing newspaper clippings, and unsettling coincidences pile up, Hubert’s paranoia grows. When he suddenly falls violently ill after drinking tea prepared by Sutton, he knows he must act fast. A desperate search of the house uncovers a nearly empty bottle of arsenic-laced weed killer and a burning pile of newspaper articles—all evidence pointing to Sutton’s deadly past. With the help of Scotland Yard, Hubert’s fears are confirmed. The woman he and his wife had welcomed into their home is none other than the infamous poisoner herself. But in a final twist, the deception runs even deeper than he imagined. This masterfully woven thriller keeps listeners on edge until the shocking final moments, proving that in the world of Suspense , nothing is ever as it seems. Keywords: "Suspense Suspicion episode," "February 1944 Suspense radio," "Charles Ruggles psychological thriller," "poisoner Carolyn Andrews mystery," "murderous housekeeper radio drama," "Roma Wines Suspense series," "classic radio crime drama." Cast: Charles Ruggles, William Spier, Agnes Moorehead, Joseph Kearns.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
The Sisters: A Deadly Bond 29:57

18 weeks ago29:57

29:57

Originally Aired: February 3, 1944 The Sisters: A Deadly Bond: This eerie episode of Suspense stars Ida Lupino as Lydia Haskell and Agnes Moorehead as her mentally fragile sister, Ellie. When Lydia visits an undertaker to purchase an expensive casket—one she requests be held for three weeks—the request raises suspicions. But when asked who the casket is for, her chilling answer is: “It’s for me.” As Ellie’s paranoia grows, she begins to suspect Lydia has sinister plans—not just for herself, but for Ellie as well. Convinced her sister intends to kill her and take her identity, Ellie’s mind unravels, leading to a harrowing psychological showdown. In a shocking conclusion, Lydia is the one who meets an untimely end, fulfilling her own grim premonition. Blending psychological horror with masterful suspense, The Sisters is a chilling study of manipulation, madness, and the dark secrets that can fester within a family. Keywords: "Suspense The Sisters episode," "Ida Lupino Agnes Moorehead thriller," "February 1944 Suspense radio," "psychological horror radio drama," "murder and mistaken identity," "classic suspense radio show," "Roma Wines radio series." Cast: Ida Lupino, Agnes Moorehead, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
The Locked Room: Secrets and Betrayal 29:38

19 weeks ago29:38

29:38

Originally Aired: January 27, 1944 The Locked Room: Secrets and Betrayal: In this twist-filled episode of Suspense , Virginia Bruce, Alan Jocelyn, and George Zuko star in a tale of murder, greed, and a seemingly impossible crime. When millionaire diamond dealer Francis Seaton is found unconscious in his locked study, the investigation uncovers a web of lies and deception among the four suspects in the house. The discovery of a massive diamond heightens the stakes, with each character hiding motives tied to greed, jealousy, or survival. As tensions escalate, Dr. Charles Woodhall and Harold Mills are drawn into a dangerous game of manipulation, while Iris Lane works to outsmart the real culprit. The final confrontation reveals a shocking twist, with deadly consequences for the perpetrator. Blending classic locked-room mystery elements with psychological suspense, The Locked Room keeps listeners guessing until its climactic resolution. Keywords: "Suspense The Locked Room episode," "January 1944 Suspense radio," "Virginia Bruce mystery drama," "George Zuko diamond heist plot," "classic locked-room radio mystery," "Roma Wines suspense drama," "psychological thriller radio." Cast: Virginia Bruce, Alan Jocelyn, George Zuko, William Spier.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
A World of Darkness: Witness to a Murder 29:52

20 weeks ago29:52

29:52

In this compelling episode of Suspense , Paul Lukas delivers a riveting performance as Anton Rejak, a blind pianist who becomes the key witness in a cold-blooded murder. Despite his blindness, Anton’s heightened senses allow him to hear the events of a brutal stabbing in the rooming house where he lives. As the police investigate, Anton's extraordinary ability to perceive the world through sound leads him to identify the murderer, exposing the shocking truth in a series of tense revelations. The drama crescendos as Anton’s testimony uncovers not only the identity of the killer but also the sinister motives behind the crime, rooted in greed and betrayal. With its intricate plot and masterful acting, A World of Darkness captivates listeners, showcasing the enduring tension and intrigue that defines the golden age of radio. Keywords: "Suspense A World of Darkness episode," "Paul Lukas blind pianist drama," "January 1944 Suspense radio," "rooming house murder mystery," "Roma Wines suspense series," "classic radio drama Suspense," "heightened senses mystery." Cast: Paul Lukas, William Spier, Hans Conried, Bea Benaderet.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Dime a Dance: Murder on the Dance Floor 29:22

20 weeks ago29:22

29:22

In this thrilling episode of Suspense , Lucille Ball stars as Ginger Allen, a red-headed taxi dancer at the Joyland Palace dance hall just off Broadway. When her close friend and fellow dancer Julie is found murdered, Ginger learns she's potentially next on the killer's list - the third victim in a string of murders targeting red-headed dance hall girls. Enter Nick, a mysterious man who claims to be an undercover police officer assigned to protect her. As more details emerge about the killer's signature - including his obsession with the song "Poor Butterfly" and his habit of dancing with his victims post-mortem - Ginger must determine who she can trust before she becomes the next target in this chilling tale of obsession and revenge. Originally Aired: January 13, 1944 Keywords: "Suspense Lucille Ball episode," "Dime a Dance radio drama," "1944 Suspense radio," "Broadway dance hall mystery," "taxi dancer murder mystery," "classic Roma Wines Suspense," "1940s thriller radio" Cast: Lucille Ball (as Ginger Allen), with supporting cast Sponsor: Roma Wines Producer/Director: William Speer Writer: Cornell Woolrich Notable Elements: Features Lucille Ball in a dramatic role during her MGM years, with the episode airing during the theatrical run of "Madame Curie." The story effectively blends elements of Broadway life with noir thriller elements, creating a uniquely atmospheric tale of suspense.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
One-Way Ride to Nowhere: A Fatal Roller Coaster Ride 29:31

21 weeks ago29:31

29:31

This thrilling episode of Suspense stars Alan Ladd as Tom Dwyer, a shrewd private detective who stumbles upon a deadly mystery at Ocean City's amusement park. When a professor's body mysteriously appears on a roller coaster ride - in a seat that was empty when the ride began - Dwyer's instincts tell him something sinister is afoot. The investigation leads him to Sheila Kennedy, a local performer whose photograph was found in the dead man's pocket, and to a suspicious exhibition featuring a bulletproof car from a notorious $400,000 mail robbery. As Dwyer digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy involving corrupt law enforcement, organized crime, and a killer known as "Wires" who has a signature method of disposing of his victims. Racing against time and facing deadly adversaries, Dwyer must expose the truth behind the professor's murder and its connection to the missing robbery money before he becomes the next victim of the "one-way ride to nowhere." Originally Aired: January 6, 1944 Keywords: "Suspense Alan Ladd episode," "One-Way Ride to Nowhere radio drama," "1944 Suspense radio," "Ocean City amusement park mystery," "roller coaster murder mystery," "classic Roma Wines Suspense," "1940s detective thriller radio." Cast: Alan Ladd (as Tom Dwyer), with supporting cast (unnamed in transcript) Sponsor: Roma Wines Producer/Director: William Spear Writer: Robert L. Richards Notable Elements: Features a clever blend of noir detective elements with an amusement park setting, creating a unique atmosphere for this murder mystery. The episode showcases Alan Ladd in his prime, during what the announcer describes as his "sensational rise to stardom."…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Finishing School: Deadly Lessons 29:41

21 weeks ago29:41

29:41

This captivating episode of Suspense features an all-female cast, with Margo, Elsa Lanchester, and Janet Beecher leading the charge in a tale of manipulation, jealousy, and murder at the Nash School for Girls. Caroline Watts begins her new teaching position with excitement, only to uncover sinister undercurrents within the prestigious institution. The formidable Dean Sterling exerts a chilling influence over the school, using seances and eerie predictions to manipulate the grieving Miss Nash, the school’s headmistress. As tensions rise, Miss Melody, the housekeeper, reveals Sterling’s dark ambitions to take over the school by orchestrating “accidents” to eliminate those in her way. When a vulnerable student, Flora Nash, becomes Sterling’s latest victim, Caroline and Miss Melody race to expose the dean’s deadly schemes. The drama crescendos in a series of shocking twists, culminating in a violent showdown that unveils the true mastermind behind the school’s tragedies. Keywords: "Suspense Finishing School episode," "Margo and Elsa Lanchester suspense," "December 1943 Suspense radio," "Nash School for Girls murder mystery," "manipulation and jealousy thriller," "classic Roma Wines Suspense," "1940s radio drama suspense." Cast: Margo, Elsa Lanchester, Janet Beecher.…

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

1
Back for Christmas: A Deadly Surprise 29:11

22 weeks ago29:11