Podcast Summary: Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio) Episode 417 - Favorites from 1946 Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 417 of Stars on Suspense, hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts, listeners are transported back to the thrilling world of 1946 radio suspense dramas. The host curates a selection of standout episodes from that year, highlighting iconic performances from Hollywood's legendary actors. This episode not only revisits classic tales of suspense but also delves into narratives that venture into the supernatural, offering a diverse listening experience for enthusiasts of old-time radio.
1. Crime Without Passion
Featuring: Joseph Cotton as Lou Hendrix
Original Air Date: May 2, 1946
Source: Adaptation of the 1934 film by Charles MacArthur and Ben Hecht
Broadcasted On: CBS
Summary:
"Crime Without Passion" introduces us to Lou Hendrix, a cold and unscrupulous attorney portrayed masterfully by Joseph Cotton. Hendrix's affair with a showgirl takes a deadly turn, forcing him to meticulously craft an alibi to conceal his involvement in her violent demise. Cotton's portrayal captures Hendrix's detached and villainous nature, showcasing his methodical approach to evading justice.
Notable Quotes:
- Joseph Cotton (Lou Hendrix) [07:05]: "I needed to establish simply and conclusively that I was not there at the time of Common Brown's murder."
- Narrator [05:25]: "Very few people could play coldly detached villains as well as Joseph Cotton."
2. Commuter's Ticket
Featuring: J. Carol Nash
Original Air Date: August 1, 1946
Previously Featured: 1945 Favorites Episode
Summary:
In "Commuter's Ticket," J. Carol Nash takes center stage in a gripping tale of deceit and suspense. The story revolves around a killer who meticulously plans the perfect alibi by blending into the daily commuter crowd after murdering his wife. However, his hope to remain unnoticed backfires as the very act of trying to disappear makes him more conspicuous. The narrative underscores the universal truth that when one strives not to be seen, they often become the most noticeable.
Notable Quotes:
- J. Carol Nash [08:03]: "How could I have ever considered her charming or desirable?"
- Narrator [00:50]: "But he discovers a universal truth. The time you don't want to be noticed is always the time you're the most noticeable."
3. You'll Never See Me Again
Featuring: Robert Young
Original Air Date: September 5, 1946
Source: Adaptation from Cornell Woolrich's story
Summary:
Robert Young breaks away from his familiar roles in "Father Knows Best" and "Marcus Welby, M.D." to portray a man entangled in a mysterious disappearance. After his wife abruptly leaves following an argument, evidence mounts against him, suggesting foul play. Teaming up with a sympathetic police officer, Young's character embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his wife's vanishing. The episode is rich with eerie twists and maintains a suspenseful atmosphere throughout.
Notable Quotes:
- Narrator [05:25]: "Young's wife storms out of the house after an argument, and she promptly disappears."
- Robert Young [46:45]: "Nobody ever questioned him about me. The train lurches. I started down the aisle of the next smoker."
4. Lazarus Walks
Featuring: Brian Donlevy as Dr. Robert Winsley Graham
Original Air Date: Halloween 1946
Summary:
"Lazarus Walks" ventures into the supernatural, featuring Brian Donlevy as Dr. Robert Winsley Graham, a psychiatrist confronted with an extraordinary patient who was revived after dying on the operating table. This patient, imbued with the uncanny ability to detect lies instantly, introduces tension into Dr. Graham's household. The narrative explores themes of trust, deceit, and the ethical dilemmas that arise when endowed with such a potent gift.
Notable Quotes:
- Brian Donlevy (Dr. Graham) [95:40]: "She'll never see me again as long as you live."
- Narrator [00:50]: "Hans Conreid... is terrific in Lazarus Walks as the frustrated man who hates his gift but can't escape it."
5. The House in Cypress Canyon
Featuring: Robert Taylor and Kathy Lewis
Original Air Date: December 5, 1946
Source: Original suspense drama
Summary:
Concluding the episode is "The House in Cypress Canyon," one of the most chilling and memorable stories in the Suspense series. Robert Taylor and Kathy Lewis play a couple who, after finding their dream house in Cypress Canyon, uncover a horrifying secret behind a locked door. As they delve deeper, the house reveals its dark mysteries, creating an atmosphere of relentless fear and tension. This episode is lauded as one of the best and scariest productions ever aired on Suspense, known for its ability to deeply unsettle listeners.
Notable Quotes:
- Kathy Lewis [66:27]: "You will never see me again as long as you live."
- Narrator [00:50]: "It's one of the all time best and scariest shows ever produced on Suspense."
Bonus Segment: Upcoming Episodes and Advertisements
Throughout the episode, the host intersperses introductions to dramatized stories with promotional segments for Roma Wines, highlighting their various offerings such as Grand Estate wines and Roma Wine Lemonade. These segments, while commercial in nature, are seamlessly integrated into the narrative flow of the podcast, maintaining listener engagement without detracting from the suspenseful content.
Additionally, the host provides teasers for future episodes, featuring upcoming stars like Jackie Cooper, Vincent Price, Lloyd Nolan, and more, ensuring a continuous thread of anticipation for the audience.
Notable Prompts:
- Host [35:25]: "Joseph Cotton will soon be seen in the David O. Selznick Technicolor production Duel in the Sun."
- Host [65:49]: "Next Thursday, same time, listen to Vincent Price and Lloyd Nolan on Suspense."
Conclusion
Episode 417 of Stars on Suspense offers a rich tapestry of suspenseful narratives from 1946, brought to life by some of Hollywood's most esteemed actors. From courtroom dramas and commuter mysteries to supernatural encounters and chilling house secrets, this episode encapsulates the essence of old-time radio suspense. The seamless blend of storytelling and engaging promotions ensures an immersive experience for both new listeners and long-time fans alike.
Listeners are encouraged to revisit these classic tales and look forward to upcoming episodes that promise to deliver even more thrilling stories, maintaining Stars on Suspense as a cornerstone of vintage radio entertainment.
End of Summary