Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio) Episode 396 - Ruth Hussey Release Date: November 25, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 396 of Stars on Suspense, hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts, listeners are treated to a captivating showcase of Ruth Hussey’s remarkable talents. Renowned for her Oscar-nominated role in The Philadelphia Story, Hussey delivers stellar performances in two distinct segments: the suspense-filled “Firing Run” and a recreated radio broadcast of The Philadelphia Story. This episode not only highlights her versatility as an actress but also immerses listeners in the thrilling atmosphere of old-time radio drama.

1. "Firing Run" on Suspense

Plot Summary: “Firing Run” is a gripping tale that places Ruth Hussey in the role of the wife of an Air Force test pilot. The narrative unfolds with her husband, Mark, preparing to execute a precarious mission to shoot down a drone. Unbeknownst to him, his young son Petey and another child have clandestinely boarded the drone, turning what seems like a routine test flight into a life-and-death scenario.

Key Points:

• Tense Preparations: The episode begins with the family interacting over breakfast, subtly hinting at underlying tensions and the high stakes of Mark’s mission.

• Discovery of the Stowaways: As Mark heads to the flight line for the final firing run, Petey’s curiosity leads him and his friend Hap to explore the drone, inadvertently placing themselves in the crosshairs.

• Climactic Confrontation: Ruth Hussey’s character, Sue, desperately tries to communicate with Mark to abort the mission, leading to a heart-pounding sequence where the perilous situation reaches its peak.

Notable Quotes:

• Sue (Ruth Hussey):
  [12:20] "Enemy planes don't fly straight and levelly twist and turn and evade. We don't prove the rocket. If I shoot down a sitting duck just to look good."

• Mark:
  [17:27] "I could see the vapor trails now, high over the desert. The white track of the ancient bomber crawling across the sky."

• Petey:
  [22:38] "I want my father. I want my father. It's gonna be all right, Kathy."

• Climactic Decision:
  [26:31] Mark urges Sue to let him make an emotional decision to prevent the tragedy:
  "If I could find the courage."

Conclusion: The suspense reaches its zenith as Sue and Mark work against time to save the children. Ruth Hussey’s portrayal of a mother torn between duty and family adds profound emotional depth to the narrative, making “Firing Run” a standout episode that exemplifies the true essence of radio suspense.

2. Recreated Radio Broadcast of "The Philadelphia Story"

Plot Summary: The second segment of the episode transports listeners back to 1942 with a recreated radio theater broadcast of The Philadelphia Story. Directed by the legendary Cecil B. DeMille, this adaptation features Ruth Hussey alongside Hollywood icons Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, and James Stewart. The narrative centers around high society, matrimonial tensions, and personal redemption, mirroring the complexities of the original film.

Key Points:

• Wedding Day Drama: The story unfolds on the eve of Tracy Lord’s wedding, where past relationships and misunderstandings threaten to overshadow the impending nuptials.

• Character Interactions: Ruth Hussey’s character, Elizabeth Embry, navigates familial pressures and romantic entanglements, providing a nuanced performance that captures the intricacies of high society relationships.

• Climactic Resolution: As tensions escalate, revelations and heartfelt conversations lead to a resolution that emphasizes forgiveness, understanding, and the true meaning of love.

Notable Quotes:

• Hap (Tracy’s Mother):
  [36:34] "Wait till you see your fiance. He's all shiny. What are you talking about? Brand new riding britches."

• William N. Robeson (Dexter Haven):
  [43:35] "I never considered you as that, nor myself."

• Hap:
  [51:02] "I told you, I never had the slightest recollection of doing any such thing."

• Final Affirmation:
  [84:05] "I love you, Father."
  [84:07] "I love you too, Tracy."

Conclusion: Ruth Hussey’s performance in The Philadelphia Story’s radio adaptation showcases her ability to embody complex characters with grace and depth. The expertly directed broadcast by Cecil B. DeMille seamlessly blends classic storytelling with emotional resonance, offering listeners a nostalgic yet fresh experience of this beloved narrative.

Insights and Reflections

Episode 396 masterfully intertwines Ruth Hussey’s dramatic prowess with the timeless appeal of old-time radio. Through “Firing Run” and The Philadelphia Story, listeners are immersed in narratives that highlight themes of heroism, familial bonds, societal expectations, and personal growth. Notably, Hussey’s ability to convey profound emotional layers in both suspense and romantic drama underscores her enduring legacy in Hollywood.

The inclusion of notable quotes at precise timestamps allows listeners to revisit pivotal moments, enhancing the episode's engagement and providing memorable highlights that illustrate the essence of each story.

Conclusion

Episode 396 of Stars on Suspense serves as a tribute to Ruth Hussey’s exceptional talent and her significant contributions to both film and radio. By presenting two distinct yet equally compelling narratives, Mean Streets Podcasts delivers an episode that is not only entertaining but also rich in historical and emotional depth. Whether you are a longtime fan of old-time radio or new to the genre, this episode promises to keep you enthralled with its blend of suspense, drama, and stellar performances.

Notable Quote Example:

• Sue (Ruth Hussey):
  [12:20] "Enemy planes don't fly straight and levelly twist and turn and evade. We don't prove the rocket. If I shoot down a sitting duck just to look good."