Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Academy Award 03-30-46 (01) Jezebel"

Introduction "Academy Award 03-30-46 (01) Jezebel," an episode from Harold's Old Time Radio, transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. Released on April 28, 2025, this episode showcases a dramatic adaptation of the classic story "Jezebel," featuring the acclaimed performances of Bette Davis and Ann Revere. Hosted by Hugh Brundage, the episode intertwines gripping narrative storytelling with compelling character portrayals, embodying the essence of pre-television family entertainment.

Setting The narrative unfolds in 1851 New Orleans amidst a devastating yellow fever epidemic. The city is shrouded in fear and sorrow, with fever cannons discharging to combat the spreading disease. This tumultuous backdrop serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama among the characters.

Characters

• Julie Marsden (Bette Davis): A bold and spirited woman who defies societal norms by wearing a striking red dress to the Olympus Ball, labeling her as a modern-day "Jezebel."
• Preston Dillard (Press): Julie's suitor, struggling with her independent nature and his own sense of propriety.
• Aunt Belle (Ann Revere): Preston's supportive and wise aunt, offering counsel amidst familial tensions.
• General Bogardus: Julie's concerned father, apprehensive about his daughter's rebellious actions.
• Buck Cantrell: A dignified and honorable friend who becomes entangled in the central conflict.

Plot Summary The episode begins with Hugh Brundage introducing the protagonists and setting the stage for the dramatic events to follow. Julie Marsden's audacious choice to wear a red dress to the Olympus Ball sparks controversy and tension. Her actions challenge the conservative norms of the time, leading to confrontations with Preston Dillard and disapproval from the community.

As tensions escalate, Julie's relationship with Press becomes strained. Despite their mutual affection, Julie's defiance leads Press to question her intentions and suitability as a future wife. The strained relationship is further complicated by the yellow fever outbreak, intensifying the stakes for all characters involved.

Amidst the chaos, Julie seeks reconciliation with Press, only to reveal that she is married to Amy, introducing a complex love triangle. This revelation leads to a tragic confrontation where Buck Cantrell is killed, highlighting the devastating impact of societal pressures and personal conflicts.

In the climax, Julie makes a profound sacrifice, choosing to accompany Press to the leper island, thereby absolving Amy and demonstrating her unwavering commitment. This act of selflessness underscores the themes of love, honor, and redemption central to the narrative.

Key Conflicts and Resolutions

• Julie vs. Societal Norms: Julie's bold fashion choice symbolizes her resistance against restrictive societal expectations, creating a rift between her and Press.
• Julie vs. Press: Their conflicted relationship reaches a breaking point as underlying tensions surface, leading to profound emotional confrontations.
• Julie vs. Fate: The encroaching yellow fever epidemic serves as an external force exacerbating existing tensions and propelling Julie towards her ultimate sacrifice.

Notable Quotes

• Julie Marsden (Bette Davis) at [04:21]: "Can't I? This is 1850, Dumplin. 1850, not the dark ages. Girls don't have to simp around in white just because they're not married."

  Julie asserts her independence and challenges traditional gender norms, highlighting her rebellious spirit.

• Preston Dillard at [07:00]: "Well, let me go then. There it is."

  Press confronts Julie about her actions, indicating a pivotal moment in their strained relationship.

• Julie Marsden at [25:14]: "I must go with him. Listen, Amy. They're coming. Coming for him."

  Julie declares her intent to sacrifice herself for Press, underscoring her deep commitment and love.

• Ann Revere as Aunt Belle at [15:13]: "Theophilus, you must understand. She didn't know about Press. After all, he was away for over a year."

  Aunt Belle provides context to Julie's actions, revealing the complexities of the characters' relationships.

Critical Moments

• The Olympus Ball Incident ([04:21] - [07:30]): Julie's decision to wear a red dress becomes the focal point of conflict, challenging societal expectations and igniting tensions with Press.

• Revelation of Marriage ([19:08] - [19:33]): Julie's admission of her marriage to Amy introduces a dramatic twist, deepening the emotional stakes and complicating her relationship with Press.

• Buck Cantrell's Death ([24:07] - [24:15]): The tragic demise of Buck serves as a turning point, heightening the narrative's sense of loss and consequence.

• Julie's Sacrifice ([25:14] - [26:20]): In the face of impending doom, Julie's selfless decision to accompany Press to the leper island encapsulates the story's themes of love and redemption.

Conclusion "Academy Award 03-30-46 (01) Jezebel" delivers a poignant and immersive experience, encapsulating the dramatic flair of old-time radio. Through its rich character development, evocative dialogue, and emotionally charged plot, the episode honors the legacy of classic radio storytelling. Bette Davis's compelling portrayal of Julie Marsden and Ann Revere's nuanced performance as Aunt Belle bring depth and authenticity to this timeless narrative, making it a memorable installment in Harold's Old Time Radio series.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Julie Marsden (Bette Davis) – [04:21]:

   "Can't I? This is 1850, Dumplin. 1850, not the dark ages. Girls don't have to simp around in white just because they're not married."

2. Preston Dillard – [07:00]:

   "Well, let me go then. There it is."

3. Julie Marsden (Bette Davis) – [25:14]:

   "I must go with him. Listen, Amy. They're coming. Coming for him."

4. Aunt Belle (Ann Revere) – [15:13]:

   "Theophilus, you must understand. She didn't know about Press. After all, he was away for over a year."

5. Julie Marsden (Bette Davis) – [12:26]:

   "It'd be interesting, but utterly useless."

6. Preston Dillard – [19:59]:

   "We'd better join the others."

Final Thoughts This episode masterfully blends drama, romance, and societal commentary, reflecting the intricate narratives typical of the Golden Age of Radio. Listeners are treated to an evocative portrayal of love and sacrifice set against the challenging backdrop of 19th-century New Orleans, making "Jezebel" a standout presentation in Harold's Old Time Radio collection.