Case Closed! Episode Summary: "Jeff Regan and Pat Novak"
Podcast Title: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio)
Host: RelicRadio.com
Episode: Jeff Regan and Pat Novak
Release Date: June 4, 2025
Description: Dive into gripping crime stories from the golden age of radio. This episode reunites listeners with detectives Jeff Regan and Pat Novak as they unravel a complex case involving blackmail, murder, and deceit.
Introduction
The episode opens with Jeff Regan narrating his role as "The Lion's Eye," a seasoned investigator at the International Detective Bureau run by Anthony J. Lyon. The setting is introduced as Oscar Street, near a prominent cosmopolitan building housing the detective bureau.
"[00:10] Jeff Regan: ...They call me the Lion's Eye."
The Case Unfolds
Regan is approached by Ms. Cara, an associate of the enigmatic Prince Nemo, a psychic consultant. Mr. Lyon assigns Regan to meet with Prince Nemo in Ocean Town accompanied by Ms. Cara to discuss a "very delicate matter."
"[02:15] Ms. Cara: ...Prince Nemo never appears in public."
Upon arrival, Prince Nemo reveals that his life is under threat. He believes a woman named Doris Patrick is blackmailing him, threatening his safety unless paid. Nemo implores Regan to act as his bodyguard to resolve the situation amicably.
"[05:40] Prince Nemo: ...I want you to save my life."
Investigative Challenges
Regan's investigation leads him to Doris Patrick, an actress with a tumultuous past, believed to be entangled with her fears and threats towards Prince Nemo. Despite initial setbacks in contacting her, Regan persists, uncovering that Doris possesses a .25 caliber automatic weapon linked to recent murders.
"[15:30] Doris Patrick: ...I bought it for $30."
Twists and Turns
As Regan delves deeper, another layer unfolds involving Pat Novak, who intersects with Regan's case as a private investigator with his own set of challenges. The narrative thickens when Jesse, a former associate of Prince Nemo and Regan's old friend, becomes a suspect linked to the murders.
"[45:20] Jesse: ...I blackmailed him."
Simultaneously, Reuben Calloway, a photographer who unintentionally captures incriminating images, becomes a pivotal figure whose death further complicates the mystery. The discovery of a .38 caliber gun at Prince Nemo's residence contradicts Doris's claims, suggesting another perpetrator.
"[70:45] Regan: ...The .38 was the gun for the job."
Climactic Confrontations
The climax builds as Regan confronts Turk Spaniel, an ex-gangster linked to the murders. Spaniel's cryptic meddling with photographs leads Regan and Novak into a tense showdown. Alma Biggs, a femme fatale connected to Spaniel, attempts to manipulate events to her advantage, culminating in a dramatic standoff.
"[120:10] Alma Biggs: ...You’re gonna be tagged for his murder, Angel."
Resolution
Through meticulous investigation and strategic maneuvering, Regan and Novak piece together the intricate web of deceit. They uncover that Spaniel orchestrated the murders to cover his tracks related to past crimes in Detroit. Doris becomes an unwitting accomplice, and Prince Nemo's blackmail scheme unravels, revealing deeper conspiracies.
"[165:30] Regan: ...Nemo sent George Leggett after the pictures, but Leggett double-crossed him."
Conclusion
In the final moments, Regan reflects on the complexities of the case, the intertwining motives of those involved, and the relentless pursuit of truth that defines his role as a detective. The episode closes with Regan and Novak poised for their next adventure, embodying the enduring spirit of golden-age radio crime dramas.
"[200:55] Jeff Regan: ...This is the story of the man who lived by the sea."
Notable Quotes
-
Jeff Regan:
"[00:10] ...They call me the Lion's Eye." -
Ms. Cara:
"[02:15] ...Prince Nemo never appears in public." -
Prince Nemo:
"[05:40] ...I want you to save my life." -
Doris Patrick:
"[15:30] ...I bought it for $30." -
Jesse:
"[45:20] ...I blackmailed him." -
Alma Biggs:
"[120:10] ...You’re gonna be tagged for his murder, Angel." -
Jeff Regan:
"[200:55] ...This is the story of the man who lived by the sea."
Cast and Crew
- Jeff Regan: Jack Webb
- Anthony J. Lyon: Herb Butterfield
- Doris Patrick: Yvonne Petey
- Pat Novak: Bob Stevenson
- Inspector Hellman: Raymond Burr
- Jocko Madigan: Tudor Owen
Written by: E. Jack Newman
Produced by: Sterling Tracy
Music by: Milton Charles, Basil Adlam
Final Thoughts
"Jeff Regan and Pat Novak" delivers a classic detective narrative filled with suspense, clever dialogue, and intricate plotting. Listeners are treated to a meticulous unraveling of a noir-style mystery that echoes the charm of old-time radio. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this episode promises an engaging journey through deception and detective prowess.