Summary of "BONUS - Dollar Days: The McCormack Matter"

Podcast: Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)
Host/Author: Mean Streets Podcasts
Episode: BONUS - Dollar Days: The McCormack Matter
Release Date: February 19, 2025

Introduction

In this bonus episode of Down These Mean Streets, host Vincent Price introduces a special feature titled "Dollar Days," spotlighting the classic Old Time Radio series featuring Johnny Dollar, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. This episode delves into "The McCormack Matter," a gripping story originally aired in the 1955-56 serialized installments on CBS.

Background of the McCormack Matter

Johnny Dollar, portrayed by Bob Bailey, is tasked with investigating a $100,000 jewelry burglary from Julian McCormack's Long Island mansion, a case that has remained unsolved since 1951. Initially airing between 1949 and 1954 with different actors, the show gained renewed vigor in 1955 under the direction of Jack Johnstone, bringing deeper character development and more intricate plotlines.

Vincent Price (00:57):
"The McCormack Matter sets the tone for the Johnny Dollar series, showcasing Johnny's tough yet compassionate nature."

Investigation Begins

Johnny receives a mysterious call from Father Taggart at Sing Sing prison, informing him that Michael Cairn, an inmate Johnny previously put behind bars, is on his deathbed and has crucial information about the stolen jewelry.

Johnny Dollar (06:29):
"Michael tells me if there was some real easy money lying around, would I pick it up for him?"

Johnny's visit reveals that Michael believes Jojo Panney, another inmate, is involved in the heist, hinting at deeper connections and motives.

Key Characters and Clues

• Jojo Panney: A big-time radio actor with a history of petty crimes, suspected of being involved in the heist.
• Frank Porter: An insurance adjuster at Allied Casualty, who appears cooperative but hides darker intentions.
• Iris Carter (Mrs. McCormick): Jojo’s ex-wife, later revealed to be intricately tied to the heist.

Johnny's meticulous investigation leads him to various locations, including the Metropolitan, the Allen Hotel, and Iris Carter's workplace, uncovering inconsistencies and suspicious behaviors among the suspects.

Threats and Danger

As Johnny delves deeper, he encounters threats aimed at halting his progress. A mysterious woman in a mink stole attacks him with a gun, signaling imminent danger.

Johnny Dollar (45:00):
"Right then and there, I decided that Mike Cairn's tip had been pretty good at that."

This confrontation intensifies the stakes, highlighting the peril Johnny faces in pursuit of the truth.

The Confrontation

The investigation culminates in a dramatic showdown with Julian McCormack. Johnny confronts Iris Carter, who reveals her complicity in the heist under duress from her ex-husband. However, the true antagonist emerges as Frank Porter, who orchestrated the original heist and seeks to eliminate Johnny to cover his tracks.

Frank Porter (70:00):
"Every guy has a price. How about you?"

A violent altercation ensues, resulting in Frank Porter attempting to kill Johnny, but the confrontation ultimately exposes Porter's deceit and criminal activities.

Conclusion

Johnny successfully uncovers the truth behind "The McCormack Matter," bringing closure to a long-standing case while navigating threats and uncovering corruption within Allied Casualty. The episode exemplifies Johnny Dollar's unwavering dedication and resourcefulness as an insurance investigator.

Notable Quotes

• Vincent Price (00:57):
  "Each of these bonus shows will feature in order, one of the serialized Johnny Dollar adventures."

• Johnny Dollar (06:29):
  "Michael wants to see you, Mr. Dollar. Could you possibly find the time to come up here?"
  "It's a great mystery and it's a great way to kick off this series."

• Frank Porter (70:00):
  "Every guy has a price. How about you?"
  "I handled this case for the company when it first broke. They wouldn't have solved it without me."

• Johnny Dollar (75:00):
  "I know, if I keep on this, I wouldn't let it go now if my life depended on it."

Cast and Characters

• Bob Bailey as Johnny Dollar: The charismatic and determined insurance investigator.
• Vincent Price: Host and narrator, providing insightful commentary and transitions.
• Mary Jane Croft, Virginia Gregg, Marvin Miller, Forrest Lewis, Frank Gerstel, Herb Butterfield, Herb Ellis, Tony Barrett, Ken Christie, Jack Krushen, Junius Matthews: Supporting cast members portraying various characters involved in the investigation.

Closing Remarks

Vincent Price wraps up the episode, hinting at future "Dollar Days" specials and encouraging listeners to tune in for regular episodes and other Old Time Radio shows. The episode concludes with a strong anti-prejudice message, emphasizing the importance of judging individuals by their character rather than their background.

Vincent Price (76:05):
"Refuse to listen to or spread rumors against any race or religion. Help to stamp out prejudice in our country."

This comprehensive episode of "The McCormack Matter" not only delivers a captivating mystery but also showcases the depth and complexity of Johnny Dollar as a character, making it a standout installment in the Down These Mean Streets podcast series.