Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

Last Night: Secrets, Lies, and a Corpse in the Rumble Seat

In "Last Night," a tense and twisting episode of "Suspense!" originally aired on June 15, 1943, a desperate couple running a debt-ridden dude ranch find themselves embroiled in a mystery involving a businessman, his secretary, and a corpse that unexpectedly turns up in the rumble seat of a car.
The owners of the ranch are in dire financial straits, needing $2,500 to keep their business afloat. Hope arrives in the form of a wealthy businessman and his male secretary, potential investors who could save the ranch. But when the businessman suddenly changes his plans and departs in the middle of the night, things take a sinister turn.
As the mystery unfolds, it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems. The businessman’s sudden departure, the discovery of a body, and the strange behavior of those involved lead to a web of deceit and danger. The woman at the heart of the story must piece together the truth and confront the possibility that her husband might have resorted to murder to save their livelihood.
Based on the short story "The Red Tide" by Cornell Woolrich, this episode is a masterclass in suspense, featuring strong performances by Kent Smith and Margo. Directed with a focus on building tension, "Last Night" keeps listeners guessing until the very end.
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Click to listen and experience the intrigue and twists of "Last Night," where desperation leads to a deadly mystery in this gripping episode of "Suspense!"

Five Canaries in the Room: A Bachelor Party Gone Deadly

"Five Canaries in the Room" is an intriguing and mysterious episode of "Suspense!" that originally aired on June 8, 1943. What starts as a fun-filled bachelor party quickly spirals into a night of confusion, danger, and a vanishing crime scene.
Ronald Denham is just two weeks away from marrying the love of his life, Anita. His friend Jimmy Westlake decides to celebrate with a bachelor party, but things take a bizarre turn when Ronald, after only a couple of drinks, begins to feel like something is terribly wrong. Disoriented and confused, he stumbles back to what he believes is his apartment, only to find himself in a strange room with five canaries in cages, all lined up in a row.
But that’s not the most disturbing part—Ronald also discovers a dead body in the room. Before he can make sense of what’s happening, he is struck from behind, and everything goes black. When he awakens, the entire apartment, along with the body, has vanished without a trace.
With his wedding day fast approaching, Ronald is plunged into a deadly mystery where nothing is as it seems. Directed by Ted Bliss and written by the master of suspense, John Dickson Carr, this episode features a gripping performance by Lee Bowman, supported by Osa Massen and Ona Munson.
"Five Canaries in the Room" is a classic example of how "Suspense!" blends the mundane with the macabre, turning an ordinary event into a chilling mystery. This episode will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the strange events alongside Ronald Denham.
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Click to listen and dive into the puzzling world of "Five Canaries in the Room," where a bachelor party leads to a baffling mystery in this suspenseful episode of "Suspense!"

The A.B.C. Murders: A British Chiller with a Twist

Step into the mind of a possible homicidal maniac with "The A.B.C. Murders," a suspenseful episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" originally aired on May 18, 1943. Based on a story by the legendary Agatha Christie, this British chiller unravels the dark mystery of a meek little man whose seemingly ordinary life takes a sinister turn.
The story begins with Alexander Bonaparte Custer, a quiet, unassuming man who spends his days in the public library. As the closing bell rings, Custer picks up his battered briefcase, marked with the fated initials "ABC," and shuffles over to the librarian's desk. This seemingly mundane action sets the stage for a mystery that grows more chilling with every minute.
As the narrative unfolds, the tension builds, leading to a surprising and unforgettable conclusion. Is Custer truly a homicidal maniac, or is there more to the story than meets the eye?
Directed by Ted Bliss and produced by William Spier, with a script written by Robert Tallman, this episode features stellar performances by Bramwell Fletcher, Joseph Kearns, and the unmistakable touch of Agatha Christie's storytelling genius.
Join us for this gripping tale where appearances are deceiving, and the line between sanity and madness blurs. Whether you're a fan of Agatha Christie, classic radio dramas, or psychological thrillers, "The A.B.C. Murders" promises to captivate and keep you guessing until the very end.
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Click to listen and delve into the mysterious world of "The A.B.C. Murders," where a meek man’s dark secrets lead to a chilling and unexpected climax in this thrilling episode of "Suspense!"

Mr. Markham, Antique Dealer: A Tale of Murder and Mystique

Mr. Markham, Antique Dealer: A Tale of Murder and Mystique
Enter the shadowy world of deceit and supernatural suspense with "Mr. Markham, Antique Dealer," an episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" originally aired on May 11, 1943. This gripping story centers on a cunning antique dealer who doubles as a blackmailer and finds himself ensnared in a deadly game.
Paul Lukas stars as Mr. Markham, an antique dealer whose lucrative sideline in blackmail leads him to target a desperate couple. When the couple visits his shop to pay him off, they realize the only way to end his hold over them is to murder him. Markham, however, warns them that if they do, he will return to haunt them within half an hour... and he does!
The narrative unfolds in a room full of clocks, one of which mysteriously talks, adding to the eerie atmosphere. This tale of murder, blackmail, and supernatural retribution keeps listeners on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Written by John Dickson Carr and directed by Ted Bliss, this episode features a stellar cast including Heather Angel, Bramwell Fletcher, and Paul Lukas. The story was so compelling that it was adapted for the second issue of the "Suspense" comic book under the title “The Man Who Lived Again” and was later re-broadcast in 1945 as “The Dealings of Mr. Markham.”
Join us for this chilling episode where the lines between the living and the dead blur, and the past returns with a vengeance. Whether you're a fan of supernatural tales, classic radio dramas, or stories of crime and retribution, "Mr. Markham, Antique Dealer" promises to captivate and haunt you.
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Click to listen and delve into the eerie and suspenseful world of "Mr. Markham, Antique Dealer," where murder leads to an unforgettable supernatural encounter in this thrilling episode of "Suspense!"

Death Flies Blind: A High-Flying Tale of Espionage

Prepare for a high-stakes adventure with "Death Flies Blind," an episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" originally aired on May 4, 1943. This thrilling story unfolds in the skies, as a Nazi spy hijacks a plane carrying an American millionaire with valuable plans for submarine freighters.
The episode stars Richard Dix as a United States naval officer who finds himself in a remarkable predicament during what should have been an uneventful flight from New York to Philadelphia. Alongside him are Gale Page, portraying a girl named Monica, and Montague Love, playing the aged and domineering millionaire, Stylus Naylor.
As the flight progresses, the tension rises when the true nature of one of the passengers is revealed. The Nazi spy's mission to obtain the plans sets off a series of dramatic events, turning the flight into a perilous journey where trust is shattered, and survival becomes paramount.
Directed by Ted Bliss and written by John Dickson Carr, "Death Flies Blind" masterfully blends suspense and action, creating an edge-of-your-seat experience for listeners. The stellar cast, including Richard Dix, Montague Love, and Gale Page, delivers compelling performances that bring this airborne thriller to life.
Join us for this captivating episode where espionage, danger, and heroism take to the skies. Whether you're a fan of wartime dramas, classic radio thrillers, or stories of daring adventure, "Death Flies Blind" promises to captivate and entertain.
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Click to listen and soar into the suspenseful world of "Death Flies Blind," where a routine flight turns into a deadly game of espionage in this thrilling episode of "Suspense!"

The Diary of Sophronia Winters - April 27, 1943

The Diary of Sophronia Winters: A Tale of Love and Madness
Delve into a spine-chilling episode of "Suspense!" with "The Diary of Sophronia Winters," originally aired on April 27, 1943. This gripping horror story revolves around a new bride, a madman, and a hotel with 125 deserted rooms, weaving a narrative that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Sophronia Moorhead is enjoying a holiday in Florida when she meets H. Johnson, a man who seems too good to be true. Strong, generous, poetic, deep, and handsome, Johnson quickly wins Sophronia's heart. He treats her like a queen throughout her holiday, and their marriage seems inevitable. However, as Sophronia steps into her new life, she begins to question whether her perfect bridegroom is hiding a sinister secret.
The episode explores the eerie and unsettling events that unfold as Sophronia discovers the true nature of her husband and the haunting secrets of their hotel. The tension builds as the story progresses, leading to a shocking and suspenseful climax.
Directed by Ted Bliss, with music by Lud Gluskin, and featuring performances by Ray Collins and Agnes Moorehead, "The Diary of Sophronia Winters" masterfully combines elements of horror and psychological thriller. The episode was so compelling that it was subsequently produced on "Suspense!" again on August 17, 1944, and August 10, 1958.
Join us for this haunting tale where love turns to terror, and the past reveals dark secrets. Whether you're a fan of horror, classic radio dramas, or psychological thrillers, "The Diary of Sophronia Winters" promises to captivate and unsettle.
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Click to listen and uncover the chilling story of "The Diary of Sophronia Winters," where love and madness intertwine in this unforgettable episode of "Suspense!"

Moment of Darkness - April 20, 1943

Moment of Darkness: A Seance of Murder
Immerse yourself in the eerie world of "Moment of Darkness," an episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on April 20, 1943. This chilling tale revolves around a murder that occurs during a séance led by a phony medium, George Ravel.
When Marjorie’s Uncle Paul dies, her Aunt Hester, overcome with grief, employs the services of George Ravel, who claims to be in touch with the spirits. Concerned for her aunt, Marjorie, along with her aunt's solicitor, Mr. Toby Stevens, sets out to prove that Ravel is an impostor.
During a séance, a man is mysteriously murdered. However, it seems impossible for any of the participants to have committed the crime as everyone was holding hands at the time. As the story unfolds, listeners are kept in suspense until the very last minute, wondering who could have committed the murder and how.
Directed by Ted Bliss and written by John Dickson Carr, this episode features a stellar cast including Wendy Barrie and Peter Lorre. The narrative weaves a web of intrigue, deception, and supernatural elements, ensuring that "Moment of Darkness" remains an unforgettable experience for its audience.
Join us for this spine-tingling journey where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs, and every moment is filled with suspense and mystery. Whether you're a fan of horror, classic radio dramas, or psychological thrillers, "Moment of Darkness" promises to captivate and unsettle.
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Click to listen and unravel the mystery behind the séance murder in "Moment of Darkness," where suspense and the supernatural intertwine in this thrilling episode of "Suspense!"

Fear Paints A Picture - April 13, 1943

Fear Paints A Picture: Inheritance of Madness
Step into a world of eerie inheritance and creeping dread with "Fear Paints A Picture," a haunting episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on April 13, 1943. This chilling tale follows Julia Powell, a young woman on the brink of inheriting a vast fortune, as she battles the onset of madness.
The story begins with the death of Benjamin Powell, a wealthy and enigmatic man with a dark past. Whispers surround the Powell family, especially about the mysterious death of Benjamin's wife years ago. Benjamin's daughter, Julia, a high-strung and neurotic girl, is set to inherit his considerable fortune under certain conditions.
In Julia's room hangs an extraordinary painting, skillfully rendered with fine brushstrokes and superb colors. However, the subject matter is bizarre—a portrait of a man that seems to come closer and closer to her with each passing day. As Julia's mental state deteriorates, the painting becomes a symbol of her encroaching madness and the sinister secrets of the Powell family.
Directed by Ted Bliss and featuring stellar performances by Nancy Coleman and Edwin Maxwell, with a script by Sigmund Miller, "Fear Paints A Picture" masterfully weaves suspense and psychological horror. The narrative grips listeners with its slow-building tension and the eerie atmosphere surrounding Julia's inheritance and sanity.
Join us for this spine-tingling journey where art, madness, and family secrets collide. Whether you're a fan of horror, classic radio dramas, or psychological thrillers, "Fear Paints A Picture" promises to captivate and haunt you.
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Click to listen and unravel the terrifying mystery of "Fear Paints A Picture," where a young woman's inheritance brings with it a legacy of fear and insanity in this unforgettable episode of "Suspense!"

Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble - April 6, 1943

Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble: A Shakespearean Mystery
Prepare for a spine-tingling journey into the world of Shakespearean drama with "Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble," an intriguing episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on April 6, 1943. This episode, introduced by "The Man In Black" (Ted Osborne), stars Paul Lukas in a tale that intertwines the eerie elements of Macbeth with a modern-day murder mystery.
The story centers around a famous actress who meets a gruesome end—a long blade through her eye—while watching a performance of Macbeth. The chilling murder, executed with precision and surrounded by the dark themes of the play, creates a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Written by John Dickson Carr and directed by John Dietz, "Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble" is designed to intrigue and stir your nerves. The narrative masterfully sets up a precarious situation and withholds the solution until the last possible moment, ensuring a gripping experience from start to finish. Robert Simmons' performance adds depth to this captivating mystery, making it a standout episode in the series.
Join us as we delve into this Shakespearean-inspired tale of murder and mystery, where the lines between performance and reality blur, and the final reveal will leave you breathless. Whether you're a fan of classic literature, suspenseful dramas, or thrilling radio plays, "Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble" promises to deliver a haunting and memorable experience.
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Click to listen and uncover the suspenseful story of "Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble," where a Shakespearean tragedy becomes the backdrop for a modern-day murder mystery.

The Dead Sleep Lightly - March 30, 1943

The Dead Sleep Lightly: A Haunting Tale of Love and Revenge
Immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere of "The Dead Sleep Lightly," a spine-tingling ghost story from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on March 30, 1943. This chilling episode explores the haunting presence of a long-forgotten wife who returns to torment her wealthy husband.
Set against the gloomy backdrop of Meadow Vale Cemetery near New York, the story opens on a dim, grey morning in early April. Rain forms a mist across the leafless trees and white gravestones. A group of silk-hatted gentlemen, each sheltered by a protective umbrella, gathers around an open grave. As the freshly dug clay soil is prepared to receive its new occupant, the clergyman's droning voice recites the solemn words of the burial service.
In this eerie setting, we meet a rich old man who is soon haunted by the ghost of his long-deceased wife. The narrative, penned by John Dickson Carr and directed by John Dietz, masterfully blends elements of the supernatural with human drama. With the talented performances of Walter Hampton and Susan Hayward, "The Dead Sleep Lightly" delivers a story that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Produced by Lee Bowman, this episode captures the essence of "Suspense!" with its atmospheric storytelling and compelling characters. As the plot unfolds, the rich old man's past and the reasons for his haunting are gradually revealed, leading to a climax that will leave you breathless.
Join us as we delve into this haunting tale of love, revenge, and the supernatural. Whether you're a fan of ghost stories, classic mysteries, or thrilling radio dramas, "The Dead Sleep Lightly" promises to captivate and unsettle.
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Click to listen and experience the chilling story of "The Dead Sleep Lightly," where love and revenge transcend the grave in this unforgettable episode of "Suspense!"