Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Jack Benny Program 33-06-09 (092) Who Killed Mr. X

Release Date: June 5, 2025

Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Overview: In this captivating episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with the Jack Benny Program. Titled "Who Killed Mr. X," the episode masterfully blends comedy, suspense, and mystery, featuring beloved characters and engaging plots that keep the audience enthralled from start to finish.

1. Promotional Segments and Humorous Ads

[00:00] McCrispy Strips Promotion: The episode kicks off with Jack Benny humorously promoting McDonald's new McCrispy strips. He quips, “Dip it in all the sauces. Dip it in that hot sauce in your bag. Dip it in your McFlurry” ([00:15]), setting a lighthearted tone.

Chevrolet Advertisement: Frank Black introduces an elaborate Chevrolet commercial parody. Jack humorously inflates Chevrolet's sales figures, exclaiming, “since the Chevrolet poster was prepared... it should be every 40 seconds someone buys Chevrolet” ([02:30]). The exaggerated statistics and playful tone highlight Jack Benny's comedic flair.

2. The Smelling Bear vs. Fox Schmeling Boxing Match

[10:45] Pre-Fight Commentary: Frank Black narrates the much-anticipated fight between the fictional characters Smelling Bear and Fox Schmeling at Yankee Stadium. He humorously notes the fluctuating crowd numbers: “60,000 people, 30 vacant seats... Carnera walks in and the 30 seats are filled” ([11:05]).

[15:20] First Round: The fight begins with both contenders exchanging comedic blows. Jack Benny provides witty commentary: “Smelling's jaw seemed surprised as it didn't even know that Bear was in town” ([16:45]).

[22:10] Mid-Fight Antics: As the fight progresses, unexpected events unfold. Jack humorously interjects with lines like, “When Bear sends a wicked right to the tailor... sends a wicked note to his lawyer for a triple play” ([21:50]).

[30:00] Decisive Moment: In a climactic finish, Bear overpowers Smelling, leading to a humorous declaration of victory: “You're hurt, smelling? Nine. He gets up at the count of nine, but it's too weak to carry on” ([29:30]).

3. The Mystery of Mr. X

[35:00] Introduction to the Mystery: Jack Benny transitions to the central mystery plot, introducing the case of Mr. X’s mysterious death. He narrates, “Mr. X was found dead in his penthouse. He was discovered hanging in midair from a chandelier” ([35:15]).

[40:50] Sherlock Holmes and Watson’s Investigation: The legendary detective duo embarks on their investigation. Holmes questions a quirky informant, portrayed humorously as a school pigeon: “I saw a fella flying over the penthouse less than a week ago... he was flying over 200 miles an hour” ([42:30]).

[50:25] Aerial Chase and Confrontation: Holmes and Watson pursue the suspect in a comedic aerial chase. Jack Benny injects humor with lines like, “It’s a tri motor plane” ([48:10]), highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

[1:00:00] Culmination of the Chase: The pursuit leads to a humorous dead-end as the suspected aviator denies involvement. Holmes remarks, “Jimmy Matter?” to which the suspect responds, “Oh, I'm Jimmy Mountain” ([59:45]).

4. Integrating Comedy with Mystery

[1:10:30] Interruption by Advertisers: The narrative cleverly incorporates mock advertisements, maintaining the comedic essence. Characters humorously reference Chevrolet’s reliability amidst the chaos: “This couldn't happen in the Chevrolet as it just faints dependable and does everything but fly” ([1:05:50]).

[1:15:20] Climactic Twist: As the chase falters due to mechanical failures, Jack Benny delivers a humorous conclusion: “We’re in terrible danger. Botswana. I can’t control the stick” ([1:14:00]). The absurdity underscores the show’s blend of humor and suspense.

5. Conclusion and Teasers for Next Episode

[1:20:00] Closing Remarks: Jack Benny wraps up the episode by teasing the continuation of the mystery: “Next week... we will continue our mystery. Who killed Mr. X and what happened to Holmes, Botson and Mary and smelling right” ([1:19:30]).

Final Commercial Parody: The episode concludes with a final Chevrolet promotion, maintaining the seamless integration of humor and storytelling: “Chevrolet has stolen the whole show... the highest of all the high spots in three miles and a half of thrills” ([1:19:50]).

Key Takeaways and Highlights

• Humorous Advertising Integration: The episode adeptly blends comedic advertisements, enhancing the nostalgic feel of old-time radio while providing levity to the narrative.

• Engaging Storytelling: The dual plotlines of the boxing match and the mystery of Mr. X create a dynamic and entertaining listening experience.

• Character Dynamics: The interactions between Jack Benny, Frank Black, and the fictional characters add depth and humor, making the episode memorable.

• Suspense and Comedy Balance: The seamless mix of suspenseful mystery with comedic elements showcases the versatility of old-time radio storytelling.

Notable Quotes:

• “Dip it in all the sauces. Dip it in that hot sauce in your bag. Dip it in your McFlurry.” — Jack Benny ([00:15])

• “Every minute someone buys a Chevrolet... it should be every 40 seconds someone buys Chevrolet.” — Jack Benny ([02:30])

• “Smelling's jaw seemed surprised as it didn't even know that Bear was in town.” — Jack Benny ([16:45])

• “I saw a fella flying over the penthouse less than a week ago... he was flying over 200 miles an hour.” — Informant, School Pigeon ([42:30])

• “We’re in terrible danger. Botswana. I can’t control the stick.” — Jack Benny ([1:14:00])

• “Chevrolet has stolen the whole show... the highest of all the high spots in three miles and a half of thrills.” — Jack Benny ([1:19:50])

Conclusion: This episode of Jack Benny Program is a delightful homage to the charm and wit of the Golden Age of Radio. Through its clever blending of humor, suspense, and engaging storytelling, it offers both nostalgic pleasure for long-time fans and an entertaining introduction for new listeners. Whether you're tuning in for the witty banter, the thrilling mystery, or the comedic advertisements, "Who Killed Mr. X" delivers a memorable auditory experience that stands the test of time.