Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio)
Episode 403: Lee Bowman (Part 2)
Hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts
Release Date: February 20, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 403 of Stars on Suspense, hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts, listeners are treated to the riveting performances of Hollywood legend Lee Bowman. This episode marks Bowman's second and final appearance on the podcast, showcasing his roles in two classic episodes of the iconic radio series "Suspense", as well as his portrayal of the famed detective Alan Pinkerton in "Cavalcade of America." The episode delves into Bowman's brief yet bright Hollywood career, transitioning into his successful endeavors in political and business consulting.

Recap of Lee Bowman's Contributions

The host begins by acknowledging Lee Bowman's impactful yet succinct presence in Hollywood during the early 1940s. Bowman's foray into radio was marked by four notable appearances on "Suspense." The previous episode had covered two of these performances, and today, listeners will experience the remaining two Suspense stories, followed by Bowman's portrayal of Alan Pinkerton.

1. "Dead Sleep Lightly" (00:00 - 04:19)

First Appearance on Suspense

• Air Date: March 30, 1943
• Writer: John Dixon Carr
• Cast: Lee Bowman, Walter Hampton, Susan Hayward

Plot Summary: In "Dead Sleep Lightly," Lee Bowman stars alongside Walter Hampton and Susan Hayward in a tale that intertwines mystery and the supernatural. Hampton portrays a wealthy and solitary widower who, on a spontaneous whim, dials the number of his late wife's grave at Meadow Vale Cemetery. To his astonishment, she answers his call.

Key Themes:

• The intersection of grief and the supernatural
• The psychological tension of communicating with the deceased
• The efficacy of early Suspense episodes in blending dialogue-heavy narratives with intriguing premises

Host's Insight: The host remarks, “Like some other shows from early in the run of Suspense, and particularly episodes written by John Dixon Carr, this is a little talky and overly stagey, but the premise of the story is interesting enough that I think the show is mostly a success.”

Notable Quote:

"She always liked it. Mary Ellen Cleaver."
– Lee Bowman as Henry Templeton [07:15]

2. "I Won't Take a Minute" (04:19 - 95:30)

Final Appearance on Suspense

• Air Date: December 6, 1945
• Adaptation: Cornell Woolrich’s "Finger of Doom"
• Cast: Lee Bowman, Kathy Lewis, Bill Johnstone, Joseph Kearns, Wally Mayer

Plot Summary: In "I Won't Take a Minute," Bowman embodies Kenny, a man eager to enjoy a night out with his fiancée, Steffi (played by Kathy Lewis). However, Steffi's unexpected errand leads her into an abandoned brownstone where she never returns. Kenny's quest to find her becomes a classic thriller scenario, as he battles both the absence of Steffi and the skepticism of strangers about her whereabouts.

Key Themes:

• The desperation and determination of a lover searching for his missing fiancée
• The interplay between reality and perception in a suspenseful investigation
• The utilization of tension and pacing to maintain listener engagement

Host's Commentary:

The host explains, “I Won't Take a Minute is adapted from a Cornell Woolrich story called Finger of Doom, and Woolrich's stories usually made for strong episodes of suspense. That's certainly the case with this show as well.”

Notable Quotes:

"I thought I'd play a little hurt. When she arrived. I could see it was her all right, walking toward me."
– Lee Bowman as Kenny [52:30]

"No one can touch me. Not since my mother died."
– Lee Bowman as Kenny [60:45]

3. "The Pinkerton Man" (95:30 - End)

Feature on Cavalcade of America

• Air Date: November 18, 1946
• Character: Alan Pinkerton, America's renowned private detective

Plot Summary: In "The Pinkerton Man," Bowman portrays Alan Pinkerton, delving into his methods and contributions to American law enforcement. Set in 1859, the story follows Pinkerton as he takes on a cold case involving a bank robbery and murder in Columbia, Tennessee. Partnered with Collins (played by William Johnstone), Pinkerton employs psychological tactics to unravel the mystery, ultimately honing in on Samuel Arthur, whose actions are driven by a tormented conscience.

Key Themes:

• The evolution of detective work and psychological profiling
• Persistence and ingenuity in solving seemingly unsolvable cases
• The moral complexities faced by detectives in pursuit of justice

Host's Analysis: The host reflects, “We just heard Lee Bowman in the Dead Sleep Lightly, I Won't Take a Minute, and the Cavalcade of America. That will do it for this week's show.”

Notable Quotes:

"Ingenuity was the birthright of every American."
– Lee Bowman as Alan Pinkerton [120:45]

"We’ve got to work on him. You know that, Chief."
– Lee Bowman as Alan Pinkerton [150:10]

Conclusion

Episode 403 presents a comprehensive showcase of Lee Bowman's versatility as an actor within the realm of old-time radio drama. From heartfelt supernatural encounters to gripping thrillers and methodical detective work, Bowman’s performances are highlighted as significant contributions to the "Suspense" series and beyond. The host wraps up by teasing future episodes, ensuring listeners remain intrigued by the legacy of Suspense and its stars.

Host's Closing Remarks:

“I hope you'll be back next week when our star on screen suspense will be Torin Thatcher. And I hope you'll stay tuned in the weeks to come when we'll hear Vanessa Brown, Francis Lederer, Barry Kroger and some best of shows featuring past stars William Bendix, Ronald Coleman and John Lund.”

This structured and detailed summary captures the essence of Episode 403, providing listeners with a vivid account of Lee Bowman's memorable performances and the enduring allure of old-time radio dramas.