Relic Radio Thrillers: "Trigger Man" by Murder At Midnight

Episode Information:

• Title: Trigger Man
• Series: Murder At Midnight
• Original Air Date: October 14, 1946
• Released On: July 4, 2025
• Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
• Duration: Approximately 26 minutes and 56 seconds

Introduction

"Trigger Man," a compelling episode from the classic radio series Murder At Midnight, delves deep into the psyche of Charlie Nix, a man grappling with fear, regret, and manipulation. Written by Max Ehrlich and dramatized by director Anton M. Leader, this installment masterfully blends crime, suspense, and psychological intrigue, offering listeners a gripping narrative of transformation and vengeance.

Charlie Nix: From Coward to Killer

The story introduces Charlie Nix, affectionately and derisively known as "Chicken Charlie," portrayed by Bill Quinn. Charlie is characterized by his lack of courage, especially in handling firearms, earning him the nickname that underscores his timid nature.

Charlie Nix (00:45): "Sometimes in my room I'd put my gun on a table and just look at it. I keep thinking if we only had the nerve, I'd be one of Angelo Donelli's trigger men instead of his errand boy."

Charlie's internal struggle is evident as he reflects on his past failures and the disdain he faces from his mob associates for his perceived cowardice.

Angie Donelli's Manipulative Proposition

Enter Angie Donelli, the formidable mob boss who sees potential in Charlie despite his reluctance. Angie approaches Charlie with a tantalizing offer that promises both respect and financial reward.

Angie Donelli (10:15): "You always wanted to be a trigger man, didn't you?"

Charlie Nix: "Yes."

Angie Donelli: "Well, I am hiring you right here and now at 500 a week."

Angie's proposition is laced with psychological manipulation. He convinces Charlie that his newly diagnosed heart condition—prescribed by the mysterious Dr. Leonard—is terminal, leaving Charlie with "nothing to lose."

Dr. Leonard (13:30): "You've got a severe aneurysm there. You haven't got more than six months to live."

This fabricated diagnosis serves as the catalyst for Charlie's transformation, pushing him to embrace the role of a killer he once shunned.

The First Hit: A Step into Darkness

Driven by desperation and the false belief in his impending mortality, Charlie commits his first act as a trigger man by orchestrating the murder of Tom Riley, a cop who betrayed him.

Charlie Nix (08:45): "I had a year in a pen. The day after I got out, I was sitting in the Boulevard Cafe having myself a beer when in walked the Boss. Angie Donelli. 'It's great having you back, Chicken.'"

This pivotal moment marks Charlie's descent from a meek figure to a man capable of lethal actions. The act temporarily alleviates his feelings of inadequacy but simultaneously deepens his internal turmoil.

Revelation: The Heart Condition Was a Hoax

As Charlie continues his life of crime, a twist of fate reveals that his supposed heart condition was a deliberate deception by Angie. After surviving a near-fatal attack, Charlie learns that his heart is perfectly healthy.

Doctor (18:20): "You've got a severe aneurysm there."

Charlie Nix: "Six months to live."

(Later)

Charlie's Realization (22:10): "I felt fine. But I was supposed to croak. Maybe Doc Leonard was wrong."

Determining that Angie orchestrated the heart condition to secure Charlie's loyalty and eliminate him when convenient, Charlie confronts the betrayal.

Charlie Nix (24:00): "I went up to see him. Dr. Leonard? He doesn't live there anymore. You knew I wouldn't be afraid anymore."

This revelation ignites Charlie's resolve to dismantle Angie's control and seek retribution for being manipulated into a life of violence.

Climactic Showdown and Redemption

Armed with the truth and a newfound courage, Charlie confronts Angie in a final showdown. Fueled by anger and a desire to reclaim his life, Charlie eliminates Angie, symbolizing his transformation from "Chicken Charlie" to a decisive and empowered individual.

Charlie Nix (25:45): "Well, it looks like somebody saved the state some dough. Not yet. I've still got enough stuff to stay where you are."

In a dramatic turn, Charlie's actions sever his ties with the mob, but the cost of his transformation is palpable as he succumbs to a self-inflicted injury, leaving fate uncertain.

Narrator (26:50): "Once a chicken, always a chicken."

Conclusion and Reflections

"Trigger Man" serves as a poignant exploration of fear, manipulation, and the quest for identity. Charlie Nix's journey from insecurity to assertiveness, albeit through morally dubious actions, underscores the complexities of human nature and the extent to which one might go to redefine themselves.

Charlie Nix (26:30): "If I'd stayed Chicken Charlie, I wouldn't be here now with a slug in my guts. Like the doc said, I could have lived to be maybe a hundred."

The episode leaves listeners contemplating the thin line between victim and perpetrator, and the profound impact of deception on one's destiny.

Production Notes

• Director: Anton M. Leader
• Music: Charles Paul
• Voice Actor: Bill Quinn as Chicken Charlie Nix

"Trigger Man" stands out in the Murder At Midnight series for its deep character development and intricate plot twists, making it a memorable episode in the annals of Old Time Radio thrillers.

For more thrilling episodes and classic Old Time Radio adventures, visit RelicRadio.com or find Relic Radio Network on Spotify. Support the series through donations at RelicRadio.com and keep the legacy of these timeless stories alive.