Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: "Broadway is My Beat: The Frank Conway Murder Case"
Release Date: June 18, 2025

Introduction

In the thrilling episode titled "Broadway is My Beat: The Frank Conway Murder Case," listeners are immersed in the gritty underbelly of Broadway through the eyes of Detective Danny Clover, portrayed by Larry Thor. Set against the vibrant and often perilous backdrop of New York's most famous street, this episode delves into a complex murder investigation that intertwines deceit, greed, and unexpected alliances.

The Murder at Olympian Hotel

The story kicks off on a silent Broadway morning, with the tranquility shattered by the discovery of Frank Conroy, a wealthy Texan, dead in room 312 of the Olympian Hotel. Detective Clover is promptly summoned to the scene.

Narrator [02:13]: "In the morning, a kind of silence touches Broadway... And Broadway is awake now. It's starting a new day at the Olympian Hotel."

Upon arrival, Clover inspects the room, noting suspicious elements like a roulette wheel—a forbidden item at the hotel.

Matthew Porter [03:43]: "They wear those things. Died with his boots on, eh? Classic."

The investigation reveals that Frank Conroy was not a guest but somehow accessed the room undetected, raising immediate red flags about possible internal involvement.

Interrogating the Hotel Management

Clover engages with Henry Sherwood, the hotel’s manager, uncovering that Conroy was unfamiliar to the hotel staff, further deepening the mystery.

Matthew Porter [04:22]: "You're registering at the Olympian Hotel, room 312."

Sherwood's evasive behavior and the peculiar telegram addressed to Eddie Donald ignite suspicions. The telegram hints at a connection between the deceased and Donald, propelling Detective Clover to seek further leads.

The Search for Eddie Donald

Clover's investigation leads him to Mrs. Tolby, the hotel’s proprietor, who provides cryptic remarks about Eddie Donald but remains conspicuously unhelpful.

Mrs. Tolby [06:39]: "What's the matter? You got monkeys in your ears?"

Undeterred, Clover discovers a photograph of Liz Nelson, a singer associated with Eddie, marked "forever and ever," suggesting a significant relationship.

Narrator [07:18]: "You ever seen the girl before? Only in shop windows and on counters and magazines all over the country."

Encounter with Mark Oslo

The plot thickens as Clover meets Mark Oslo, a known figure in the gambling scene, who reveals a convoluted backstory involving Rigged roulette games and personal vendettas.

Mark Oslo [23:04]: "It was like this, Danny. I took a rap in Dannemora."

Oslo confesses to orchestrating a confrontation that led to Conroy's death, indicating that the game was manipulated to frame another party, thereby complicating the investigation.

The Turn of Events

As Clover pieces together the puzzle, he faces betrayal and unexpected turns. Eddie Donald becomes a suspect, but his connections with Liz Nelson introduce new layers to the case.

Eddie Donald [25:03]: "I love her."

In a dramatic confrontation, Liz Nelson reveals her true motives, highlighting themes of greed and manipulation.

Liz Nelson [25:58]: "Shut up, Eddie. Make him shut up."

Climax and Resolution

The climax unfolds with Liz Nelson confronting both Clover and Donald, leading to a tense standoff that exposes her as the true murderer. Her actions stem from a desire to secure the ill-gotten gains, manipulating those around her to cover her tracks.

Matthew Porter [26:04]: "You could have had the money. Don't you understand? You could have had it."

Clover's perseverance and keen detective work ultimately unravel the web of deceit, bringing justice to Frank Conroy and resolving the complex case.

Conclusion

"Broadway is My Beat: The Frank Conway Murder Case" masterfully blends suspense, intricate character dynamics, and the vibrant atmosphere of Broadway to deliver a captivating detective story. Detective Danny Clover's journey through deception and revelation underscores the timeless appeal of classic detective narratives, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating his next case.

Larry Thor [28:18]: "We invite you to join us next week at this same time when Detective Danny Clover returns again with Broadway's My Beat."

Produced and directed by Elliot Lewis, with music by Alexander Courage, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of old-time radio detective dramas.

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