Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

Marry for Murder: A Tale of Deception and Danger

In this chilling episode of Suspense!, a sinister plot unfolds in the fog-shrouded Cape as a woman named Lettie Hawthorne, portrayed by Lillian Gish, finds herself ensnared in a web of deceit and danger. Newly married to the younger and mysterious Mark Taylor, Lettie’s attempts to adapt to her life by the sea are shadowed by fear and suspicion. As her nerves unravel amid the constant sound of foghorns, she becomes increasingly wary of Mark’s intentions.
With only three key characters, including a lawyer named Philip Alden, played by Ray Collins, who narrates the story, Marry for Murder builds tension through its eerie atmosphere and unsettling developments. As Lettie’s dread intensifies, secrets from the past and hidden motives come to light, leading to a dramatic confrontation that leaves listeners questioning who is truly the predator and who is the prey.
This episode showcases the talents of Lillian Gish as a woman on the brink, Ray Collins as the perceptive lawyer, and Bramwell Fletcher as the enigmatic husband, all brought together under the direction of Ted Bliss. Marry for Murder weaves a tale of slow terror and swift death, keeping listeners in suspense until the final twist.
Tags: suspense, thriller, LillianGish, CapeCod, foghorns, eerie, psychologicaldrama, classicradio, murderplot, radiohistory, TedBliss, BramwellFletcher, RayCollins, suspensefulstory, vintagebroadcast, crime, mystery, dramaticperformance, classicthriller, oldtimeradio

The King’s Birthday: Vengeance in Nazi-Occupied Denmark

In this gripping episode of “Suspense,” Dolores Costello stars as Countess Elsa in a tale set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Denmark. The story follows the people of Denmark who face oppression from their Nazi rulers but find strange and effective ways to deal with their enemies and those who betray them.
The episode begins with the arrival of Nazi Gauleiter Herr Reichmann, played by Martin Kozlek, at the Danish castle of Kronwald, where Countess Elsa resides. As Reichmann questions Elsa and others, he discovers a mysterious series of notes predicting the death of Count Victor on the night of the King’s birthday. Despite Reichmann’s attempts to intimidate Elsa and Dr. Erickson (George Zuko), the people of Kronwald have plans of their own.
As the tension builds, the truth about Count Victor’s death is revealed, uncovering the lengths to which the Danish people will go to protect their country’s honor and fight against Nazi tyranny.
The episode is brought to life with excellent performances by Costello, Kozlek, Zuko, and Ian Wolfe, creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere that culminates in a shocking finale.
Keywords: “The King’s Birthday Suspense,” “Dolores Costello radio drama,” “August 28, 1943 Suspense,” “Nazi-occupied Denmark story,” “classic radio mystery,” “Louis Pelletier writer,” “George Zuko Suspense episode.”
Tune in to “The King’s Birthday” and experience the haunting tale of courage, rebellion, and the unbreakable spirit of a nation under occupation in this classic episode of “Suspense.”

The Fountain Plays: A Delightfully British Murder

In this classic episode of “Suspense,” originally aired on August 10, 1943, listeners are treated to a delightfully British tale of murder and intrigue. The story stars the distinguished British actor Edmund Gwenn as Mr. Archibald Spiller, a conservative man who has recently come into a bit of luck. Spiller resides on a country estate, enjoying a comfortable lifestyle with a cook, a manservant, and his most treasured possession—a fountain in the garden.
What seems like an ordinary evening takes a dark and unexpected turn, as Spiller discovers that the fountain, which he finds so fascinating, is destined to play a more significant role than he ever anticipated. As events unfold, Spiller becomes entangled in a situation that tests his resolve and pushes him to the edge.
Featuring the talented performances of Edmund Gwenn, Wendy Barrie, and Dennis Hoey, “The Fountain Plays” is a masterfully crafted episode that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. With direction from Ted Bliss and an adaptation by Robert L. Richards based on Dorothy L. Sayers’ work, this episode remains a memorable entry in the “Suspense” anthology series.
Keywords: “The Fountain Plays Suspense,” “August 10, 1943 episode,” “Edmund Gwenn Suspense,” “British murder mystery radio,” “Dorothy L. Sayers adaptation,” “classic radio drama,” “1940s Suspense series,” “Ted Bliss director.”
Experience “The Fountain Plays,” a suspenseful story that blends British charm with gripping drama, proving once again why “Suspense” was one of radio’s most beloved series.

Sorry, Wrong Number: A Chilling Call for Help

In this gripping episode of "Suspense," one of radio's most iconic thrillers, an invalid woman named Mrs. Stevenson becomes entangled in a terrifying murder plot when she accidentally overhears a chilling conversation over the telephone. Alone in her home, Mrs. Stevenson frantically tries to contact her husband but is met with frustration and indifference from the telephone operators. As the night progresses, she becomes increasingly desperate, trying to convince the authorities that a life is at stake.
The tension builds as Mrs. Stevenson realizes that the murder she overheard might be closer to her than she thinks. Her helplessness and mounting fear create an atmosphere of dread, making "Sorry, Wrong Number" one of the most memorable and suspenseful episodes in old-time radio history.
Starring the incomparable Agnes Moorehead, who delivers a powerhouse performance as the frantic and desperate Mrs. Stevenson, this episode is a masterclass in suspense, demonstrating the terrifying possibilities of isolation and vulnerability.
Keywords: "Sorry Wrong Number radio drama," "Suspense episode September 6, 1945," "Agnes Moorehead performance," "classic radio thriller," "Suspense radio show," "Lucille Fletcher writer," "Mrs. Stevenson murder plot."
Tune in to experience the suspenseful and haunting tale of "Sorry, Wrong Number," where an innocent phone call becomes a chilling descent into fear and danger.

The Singing Walls: A Melody of Mystery and Murder

In this chilling episode of Suspense, a young man, Tom Cochran, finds himself in a desperate situation after waking up from what he thought was a nightmare. The only problem is, the strange events that unfolded in his dream might have been real—and now he's in a serious jam. Was there a murder? And why does that eerie music seem to follow him wherever he goes?
Tom, played by Dane Clark, seeks help from his friend Danny Sullivan, a San Francisco homicide detective, played by Preston Foster. Sullivan is willing to lend a hand, but his loyalty has limits. If Cochran is guilty, Sullivan will have no choice but to arrest him.
As they work to unravel the mystery, clues emerge in the most bizarre ways—a man with a frog-like voice, the haunting sound of the "singing walls," and a strange location known as Joe's Place. With each revelation, the tension mounts, leading to the discovery of a body and evidence that increasingly points to Tom.
Adapted from a story by Cornell Woolrich, The Singing Walls expertly weaves suspense, guilt, and the supernatural into an unforgettable tale. Directed by Ted Bliss, with Bernard Herrmann providing a haunting musical score, this episode will leave listeners questioning what is real and what is imagined.
Keywords: "The Singing Walls Suspense episode," "September 2, 1943 broadcast," "Dane Clark and Preston Foster Suspense," "Cornell Woolrich radio drama," "Suspense radio show murder mystery."
Don’t miss The Singing Walls, a classic episode of Suspense that keeps you guessing until the very end. What is the truth behind the music, and can Tom escape the fate that seems to be closing in on him?

A Friend to Alexander: Haunted by History

In this captivating episode of Suspense, Harry Andrews finds himself haunted by unsettling dreams that blur the line between his reality and the infamous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. The story, based on the classic short tale by James Thurber, delves into the psychological torment that arises from Harry’s personal connection to Hamilton’s tragic fate.
Harry, an architect by profession, experiences recurring dreams where he converses with Alexander Hamilton—only to witness Aaron Burr, Hamilton's historical adversary, taunt and ultimately kill him in a duel. But in these dreams, the conflict becomes more personal, with Hamilton occasionally taking on the visage of Harry’s own deceased brother, intensifying the emotional and psychological strain. Even after the fatal duel, Aaron Burr continues to haunt Harry’s dreams, refusing to let go of his grip on Harry’s subconscious.
First aired on August 3, 1943, and again on June 15, 1944, this version from 1956 features the skilled direction of Antony Ellis and standout performances by John Dehner and Joseph Kearns. "A Friend to Alexander" weaves a tale of historical obsession, where past events echo through time to affect the living in deeply personal and mysterious ways.
Keywords: "A Friend to Alexander Suspense episode," "August 15, 1956 broadcast," "Alexander Hamilton Aaron Burr duel," "James Thurber story radio adaptation," "John Dehner Suspense actor," "classic psychological thriller."
Tune in to A Friend to Alexander and follow Harry Andrews as his dreams become a nightmarish connection to one of the most famous duels in American history, blurring the lines between the past and his present reality.

The Last Letter of Dr. Bronson: A Descent into Madness

In this chilling episode of Suspense, Dr. Bronson, a brilliant but increasingly unstable physician, embarks on a dangerous experiment that teeters on the brink of insanity. Convinced that he has devised an unbreakable method to prevent himself from being murdered, Dr. Bronson sets out to prove his theory by giving five men the motive and opportunity to kill him. His objective? To demonstrate that his safeguards will prevent the inevitable act of violence.
However, as each attempt to murder him fails, Dr. Bronson's confidence grows—until a final, unforeseen twist threatens to shatter his carefully constructed experiment and unravel his mind. The episode explores the dark recesses of human psychology, paranoia, and the dangerous consequences of playing with life and death.
Featuring a gripping performance by John Dehner, alongside Parley Baer, Virginia Gregg, and William Johnstone, The Last Letter of Dr. Bronson is a tale of suspense, manipulation, and the fine line between genius and madness.
Keywords: "The Last Letter of Dr. Bronson Suspense episode," "August 15, 1946 broadcast," "John Dehner Suspense radio," "psychological thriller radio drama," "Roma Wines sponsor," "murder experiment gone wrong."
Tune in to The Last Letter of Dr. Bronson and experience the harrowing story of a man whose quest to cheat death becomes a terrifying descent into madness in this unforgettable episode of Suspense.

Murder Goes For A Swim: The Lone Wolf's Deadly Dive

In this thrilling episode of Suspense!, Michael Lanyard, also known as "The Lone Wolf," takes center stage in his first radio appearance. What starts as a high-society treasure hunt at a glamorous party soon turns dark when a beautiful swimmer turns up dead, and a gossip columnist meets the same grim fate. Michael Lanyard, portrayed by Warren William, is quickly drawn into the mystery, with his sharp wit and investigative prowess tested by a series of deadly turns.
The episode captures the suspense of the beloved Lone Wolf film series, with Warren William reprising his iconic role alongside Eric Blore as Jamison, Lanyard's trusted valet. Together, they navigate a sea of intrigue, secrets, and danger as the clues point toward a chilling conspiracy.
Under the direction of Robert Lewis Shayon, the episode weaves a tightly plotted mystery, elevated by Bernard Herrmann’s evocative musical score. Introduced by "The Man In Black," Murder Goes For A Swim is a classic example of the tension and thrills that made Suspense! one of radio’s finest dramatic series.
Keywords: "Murder Goes For A Swim Suspense episode," "July 20, 1943 broadcast," "Michael Lanyard Lone Wolf radio debut," "Warren William and Eric Blore," "classic crime radio drama," "Suspense treasure hunt murder mystery."
Click to listen and dive into the mystery as Michael Lanyard unravels the deadly events in Murder Goes For A Swim, a captivating episode of Suspense! that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The White Rose Murders: A Maniacal Killer's Calling Card

In this chilling episode of "Suspense!", a deranged murderer prowls the dimly lit streets, leaving behind a trail of terror and a single white rose as his grisly signature. The story follows the sinister figure as he waits in the shadows outside a second-rate dance hall, targeting young girls for his next gruesome act.
The tension builds as the episode unfolds, with each moment bringing the listener closer to the horrifying realization of the killer's intentions. With a surprise ending that will leave you breathless, "The White Rose Murders" is a masterful blend of suspense and psychological horror, showcasing the dark talents of writer Cornell Woolrich.
Directed by Ted Bliss and produced by William Spier, this episode features a stellar performance by Maureen O'Hara, whose portrayal adds depth and emotion to the terrifying tale. The atmospheric direction and haunting narrative make this a standout episode in the "Suspense!" series, reminding listeners why the show remains a classic in the annals of radio drama.
Keywords: "The White Rose Murders Suspense episode," "July 6, 1943 broadcast," "Maureen O'Hara Suspense," "Cornell Woolrich suspenseful story," "classic radio drama thriller," "white rose killer mystery."
Tune in to "The White Rose Murders" and experience the fear and intrigue of a maniacal killer's twisted game, brought to life in this unforgettable episode of "Suspense!"

Uncle Henry's Rosebush: Secrets Beneath the Surface

In this eerie and unsettling episode of "Suspense!", the Lindens set out for a seemingly innocent vacation that takes a dark and mysterious turn. Carol Linden, eager to surprise her Aunt Julie and Uncle Henry, brings her husband Paul along to visit the family farm. But what begins as a pleasant trip quickly descends into suspicion and fear.
Upon arrival, the Lindens are puzzled by the strange behavior of Aunt Julie, who seems intent on keeping them at arm's length. The immaculate condition of Uncle Henry's room and the meticulous care given to his prized rosebush stand in stark contrast to the otherwise neglected state of the farm. As Carol and Paul dig deeper, they begin to wonder if Aunt Julie’s odd demeanor hides a sinister secret—could she have done away with Uncle Henry?
Written by Larry Roman, a new talent at the time who later became a prominent figure in radio, television, and film, "Uncle Henry's Rosebush" is a chilling tale of suspicion and paranoia. Agnes Moorehead, known for her commanding roles, stars as Aunt Julie, bringing an unsettling edge to this suspenseful narrative.
Keywords: "Uncle Henry's Rosebush Suspense episode," "June 29, 1943 broadcast," "Larry Roman writer," "Agnes Moorehead radio performance," "classic radio suspense drama."
Dive into this classic episode of "Suspense!" and discover the secrets buried beneath the surface of Uncle Henry's rosebush.