Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast | Episode: "My Son Must Die" | Have Gun Will Travel
Original Air Date: July 31, 1960
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Have Gun Will Travel, titled "My Son Must Die," listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of 1875 San Francisco and the untamed Santa Lucia Mountains. Hosted by Andrew Rhynes, the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast brings this classic Western drama to life with enhanced audio quality, preserving the essence of the original while enriching the listening experience.

Setting the Scene

The story begins at the Carlton Hotel in San Francisco, the headquarters of the enigmatic Paladin, portrayed masterfully by John Dana. Paladin is a sophisticated gunslinger with a moral compass, often finding himself embroiled in complex and emotionally charged conflicts.

Notable Quote:

Paladin [01:29]: "I'm sorry our fishing trip turned out this way, hey boy. But we can't go back to San Francisco until we know this girl is safe."

Characters Introduction

• Paladin (John Dana): The protagonist, a skilled and principled gunslinger.
• Hey Boy (Ben Wright): Paladin's loyal companion, often providing a blend of humor and practicality.
• Toleda (Ann Whitfield): A strong-willed Mexican woman co-running a ranch with Marlene.
• Marlene Carter (Virginia Greg): Toleda's companion, a nurturing figure with a mysterious past.
• Carlos Martinez: A troubled figure whose transformation sets the central conflict in motion.

The Conflict Unfolds

Paladin and Hey Boy embark on a fishing trip deep into the Santa Lucia Mountains, seeking peace and a good catch. However, their serene excursion takes a dark turn when they encounter Marlene Carter being attacked by an assailant wielding a knife.

Key Moments:

• Initial Attack: Carlos Martinez confronts and threatens Marlene, leading to a tense standoff.

  Notable Quote:

  Carlos [07:31]: "You will die, gringo."

• Encounter with Toleda: After the attack, Marlene introduces Paladin and Hey Boy to Toleda, who reveals the deep-seated issues plaguing their ranch.

• Revelation of Carlos's Identity: Toleda discloses a heartbreaking truth—Carlos is her son, whose accident two years prior has left him mentally unstable.

  Notable Quote:

  Toleda [13:18]: "There is nothing to hide. Senor Paladin should know that Carlos Martinez is my son."

Heightened Tensions and Emotional Struggles

As Paladin delves deeper into the situation, he uncovers Carlos's tragic transformation from a gentle soul to a vengeful figure. The narrative explores themes of loss, mental health, and the struggle between duty and compassion.

• Carlos's Transformation: An accident left Carlos with a fractured skull, drastically altering his demeanor and leading to violent outbursts.

  Notable Quote:

  Toleda [11:45]: "Well, there was an accident. He was breaking a horse. The horse threw him. Carlos fractured his skull."

• Paladin's Moral Dilemma: Faced with the threat Carlos poses, Paladin grapples with the decision to protect Marlene and potentially take a life he feels sympathy for.

Climactic Confrontation

Under the light of a full moon, tensions reach their peak. Paladin confronts Carlos, leading to a heart-wrenching showdown where familial bonds and survival instincts collide.

Notable Dialogues:

Carlos [19:09]: "I have no mother."

Paladin [19:36]: "Carlos. Carlos."

The emotional intensity culminates in a tragic resolution where Carlos's internal conflict manifests in violence, leaving both Marlene and Toleda devastated.

Resolution and Aftermath

In the aftermath of the confrontation, Paladin tends to his wounds and reflects on the moral complexities of his actions. The community's response highlights the enduring impact of tragedy on individuals and relationships.

Notable Quote:

Paladin [21:43]: "This fishing trip was a little unusual."

Conclusion

"My Son Must Die" serves as a poignant exploration of human frailty, the consequences of trauma, and the enduring quest for redemption. Through rich character development and emotionally charged narratives, this episode encapsulates the essence of Western dramas, presenting listeners with a tale that resonates long after the final scene.

Production Credits

Have Gun Will Travel was created by Herb Meadow and Sam Rolf, produced and directed in Hollywood by Frank Paris. The episode features:

• John Dana as Paladin
• Ben Wright as Hey Boy
• Virginia Greg as Ms. Wong
• Ann Whitfield, Vic Paron, and Lillian Byeth in supporting roles

Special writing credits go to Ray Kennedy Emperor, ensuring the story's depth and emotional resonance.

Final Thoughts

Andrew Rhynes concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast through ratings, follows, and social media interactions. The Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast continues to honor the legacy of classic Westerns, delivering timeless stories with modern clarity and depth.

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