Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

In Fear And Trembling - February 16, 1943

Step into the world of suspense and psychological drama with "In Fear And Trembling," an intense episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on February 16, 1943. This gripping story explores the depths of fear and paranoia as a woman becomes convinced that her husband and his lover are plotting to kill her.
The setting is a grey stone mansion perched on the edge of a cliff, battered by decades of storms. Four years ago, Gilbert Durant brought his wife, Lucia, to this isolated home. Their happiness was shattered a year ago when Lucia's half-sister moved in. Since then, an insidious horror has gnawed at Lucia's mind. She notices her husband’s growing detachment and his increasing absorption in his writing. Fear grips her, a fear of something unspoken and inexplicable.
As Lucia's paranoia intensifies, she becomes certain that Gilbert and his lover are conspiring against her. In a desperate bid to protect herself, she decides to act first. This tale of psychological tension and impending doom is masterfully brought to life by a stellar cast including Mary Astor, Verna Felton, and Joseph Kearns ("The Man In Black").
Directed by Ted Bliss and produced by William Spier, "In Fear And Trembling" delves into the dark corners of the human psyche, exploring themes of betrayal, fear, and the fragile nature of sanity.
Join us for a chilling journey into the mind of a woman on the edge, where every shadow hides a threat and every whisper fuels the fire of paranoia. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers, classic radio dramas, or tales of suspense, "In Fear And Trembling" promises to captivate and unsettle.
Keywords: "In Fear And Trembling podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "psychological thriller," "February 16, 1943 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "Mary Astor performance," "Ted Bliss director," "William Spier producer," "paranoia and fear story," "Suspense episode recap."
Click to listen and uncover the chilling story of Lucia Durant, where fear and suspicion drive her to desperate measures in this haunting episode of "Suspense!"

The Doctor Prescribed Death - February 2, 1943

Uncover the unsettling world of psychological manipulation with "The Doctor Prescribed Death," an intriguing episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on February 2, 1943. This captivating story delves into a chilling experiment conducted by Professor Antonio Bastille, a psychologist with a dark theory about the human mind.
Professor Bastille posits that a person on the brink of suicide can be easily redirected towards committing murder. Determined to prove his theory, the professor embarks on a dangerous experiment that blurs the line between science and morality.
The script, originally used on "The Whistler" on June 11, 1944, is masterfully adapted for "Suspense!" by Ted Bliss and brought to life by an exceptional cast including Geraldine Fitzgerald and the legendary Bela Lugosi. Their performances add depth and intensity to this psychological thriller, making it a standout episode in the series.
Join us as we delve into the dark recesses of the human psyche and explore the lengths to which one man will go to validate his disturbing hypothesis. "The Doctor Prescribed Death" is a gripping tale of manipulation, desperation, and the fine line between life and death.
Keywords: "The Doctor Prescribed Death podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "psychological thriller," "February 2, 1943 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "Professor Antonio Bastille," "Bela Lugosi performance," "Geraldine Fitzgerald actress," "Ted Bliss director," "crime and psychology."
Click to listen and witness the unsettling experiment that challenges the boundaries of psychology and morality, only on "Suspense!"

The Devil’s Saint - January 19, 1943

Step into a world of intrigue and horror with "The Devil's Saint," a captivating episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on January 19, 1943. Introduced by "The Man In Black," this episode features the legendary Peter Lorre as a sinister nobleman who sets the stage for a night of terror.
The story begins on St. Catherine’s Day in 1927, at a masquerade ball at the Opera House in Paris. Amidst the revelry, a young couple, Eleanor and Edward, decide to marry after only four days of knowing each other. However, Eleanor's uncle, the sinister Count Stefan Caharey of Hungary, would never permit the union.
Determined to test Edward's resolve, the Count invites him to stay at his castle for a week. If Edward remains infatuated with Eleanor after the stay, the Count will bless their marriage. But there is a catch: Edward must sleep in the infamous Tapestry Room, a place shrouded in mystery and fear. Eleanor is terrified, for everyone who has ever slept in that room has met a mysterious and untimely death.
As Edward accepts the challenge, the episode weaves a tale of suspense, love, and supernatural dread. The gripping narrative, penned by John Dickson Carr and directed by John Dietz, is brought to life by Peter Lorre's chilling performance as Count Stefan Caharey.
Join us for a night of terror and intrigue in "The Devil's Saint," where love is tested by sinister forces, and the past haunts the present with a terrible vengeance. Whether you're a fan of gothic tales, suspenseful dramas, or classic radio horror, this episode promises to enthrall and unsettle.
Keywords: "The Devil's Saint podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "Peter Lorre performance," "January 19, 1943 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "John Dickson Carr writer," "John Dietz director," "gothic horror story," "haunted room mystery," "Suspense episode recap."
Click to listen and discover the terrifying fate that awaits in "The Devil's Saint," where a night in the Tapestry Room could mean the difference between life and death.

The Pit and The Pendulum - January 12, 1943

Enter the dark and terrifying world of Edgar Allan Poe with "The Pit and The Pendulum," a spine-chilling episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on January 12, 1943. Introduced by "The Man In Black," this famous horror tale plunges listeners into the dreadful tortures of the Spanish Inquisition.
Adapted for "Suspense" by the talented John Dickson Carr, the story follows a French officer who finds himself a prisoner of the Inquisition, condemned to death. As he sits in his cell, he is tormented by the sound of inquisitorial voices merging into an indistinct hum, signaling the beginning of his long agony. He faces the impending doom of a pit—his personal —and is left alone with the torment of his own mind, awaiting the inevitable torture.
The episode masterfully captures the essence of Poe's original work, immersing listeners in an atmosphere of dread and despair. The gripping narrative, combined with the evocative direction of John Dietz and the haunting performance by Henry Hull, makes this episode an unforgettable experience.
"The Pit and The Pendulum" was subsequently produced on "Suspense" on November 28, 1947, November 10, 1957, and June 7, 1959, each time bringing new life to Poe's classic tale of terror.
Join us as we journey into the depths of human fear and endurance, where the boundaries of sanity are tested by the relentless horrors of the Inquisition. Whether you're a fan of gothic literature, horror stories, or classic radio dramas, "The Pit and The Pendulum" promises to captivate and horrify.
Keywords: "The Pit and The Pendulum podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "Edgar Allan Poe horror story," "Spanish Inquisition torture," "January 12, 1943 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "John Dickson Carr adaptation," "Henry Hull performance," "gothic horror tale," "Suspense episode recap."
Click to listen and experience the harrowing tale of "The Pit and The Pendulum," where fear and despair intertwine in a timeless story of survival and terror.

Nothing Up My Sleeve - January 5, 1943

Nothing Up My Sleeve: A Gripping Tale of Deception and Intrigue
Enter the world of high-stakes robbery and cunning deception with "Nothing Up My Sleeve," a riveting episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on January 5, 1943. This enthralling narrative takes listeners into the heart of a bank heist mystery that revolves around a locked room and missing money.
The story centers on Dorothy Dale, a determined young woman set on clearing her fiancé Jerry Winton's name. Jerry, a bank employee, finds himself under suspicion after $88,000 is stolen from the bank where he works. Dorothy is convinced that Mr. Rolse, her employer's intelligent lawyer nephew, orchestrated the entire robbery. However, without the stolen money, she has no proof to exonerate Jerry and implicate Rolse.
Written by the masterful John Dickson Carr and directed by John Dietz, this episode features a stellar performance by Elissa Landi. "Nothing Up My Sleeve" weaves a complex web of intrigue, suspense, and clever plot twists that keep listeners on the edge of their seats.
As Dorothy digs deeper into the mystery, she faces numerous challenges and risks in her quest to uncover the truth. The episode explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones.
Join us for this suspenseful tale of robbery, missing money, and a young woman's relentless pursuit of justice. Whether you're a fan of classic mysteries, thrilling dramas, or the golden age of radio, "Nothing Up My Sleeve" promises to captivate and entertain.
Keywords: "Nothing Up My Sleeve podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "bank robbery mystery," "locked room intrigue," "January 5, 1943 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "John Dickson Carr writer," "Elissa Landi actress," "John Dietz director," "Suspense episode recap."
Click to listen and follow Dorothy Dale's thrilling quest to uncover the truth behind the stolen money and clear her fiancé's name in this captivating episode of "Suspense!"

Two Sharp Knives - December 22, 1942

Two Sharp Knives: A Tale of Deception and a Surprise Twist
Step into the seemingly quiet world of a small town with "Two Sharp Knives," a riveting episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on December 22, 1942. This engaging story follows the adventures of a bumbling assistant police chief who proves to be much sharper than he appears.
The episode begins with the capture of a wanted man, a significant triumph for the small-town police force. However, the victory is short-lived as the captured man is later found hanging in his cell under mysterious circumstances. As the investigation unfolds, the assistant police chief's true cleverness comes to light, revealing a web of deception and intrigue.
Written by the renowned John Dickson Carr and directed by John Dietz, this episode features a talented cast including Stu Erwin and the legendary Dashiell Hammett. The combination of Carr's masterful storytelling and Hammett's influence brings a unique depth to the narrative, culminating in a surprise ending that will leave listeners astounded.
"Two Sharp Knives" is a perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and dark humor, showcasing the classic elements that make "Suspense!" a beloved radio series. The story's unexpected twists and turns keep listeners on the edge of their seats, making it a standout episode in the series.
Join us as we delve into the mystery of "Two Sharp Knives," where nothing is as it seems and every clue leads to a deeper enigma. Whether you're a fan of classic detective stories, thrilling mysteries, or suspenseful dramas, this episode promises to captivate and surprise you.
Keywords: "Two Sharp Knives podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "small town mystery," "assistant police chief story," "December 22, 1942 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "John Dickson Carr writer," "Dashiell Hammett influence," "unexpected twist ending," "Suspense episode recap."
Click to listen and uncover the clever twists and turns in the tale of "Two Sharp Knives," where appearances are deceiving and the truth is far more complex than it seems. 

Til Death Do Us Part - December 15, 1942

Til Death Do Us Part: A Chilling Tale of Betrayal and Desperation
Step into the desolate English countryside with "Til Death Do Us Part," a haunting episode from the classic radio series that aired on December 15, 1942. This suspenseful narrative weaves a gripping tale of jealousy, betrayal, and the dark lengths one man will go to seek vengeance.
The story centers around Professor Craft and his wife, Cynthia, who reside in a secluded country cottage, miles away from the nearest neighbor. The lack of modern conveniences such as electricity, central heating, or a telephone adds to the isolation and tension that permeate their lives. Convinced that Cynthia is having an affair with a young doctor from the village, Professor Craft devises a sinister plan to eliminate them both.
As the plot unfolds, we learn about Paul, a man who once loved his wife more deeply than anyone could imagine. But after seven years of marriage, his love has turned to a burning hatred. Ten months ago, during his time of illness and need, Cynthia abandoned him. When she returned two months later, as if nothing had happened, Paul's feelings of love had transformed into a murderous rage. Driven by his intense loathing, he meticulously plans to end her life.
"Til Death Do Us Part" is a masterfully written tale of suspense and psychological drama. The episode, penned by Ben Kagen and produced and directed by Bruno Zarroto Jr., features a talented cast including Jim Boles, Herb Duncan, Carl Frank, Alice Frost, David Gothard, Sam Gray, Bill Lipton, Mercedes McCambridge, and Elaine Rost. The atmospheric storytelling, combined with the eerie setting and complex characters, makes this episode an unforgettable journey into the darker side of human emotions.
Join us as we delve into this chilling story of love turned to hate, and the desperate acts of a man pushed to his limits. Whether you're a fan of suspenseful dramas, classic radio thrillers, or psychological mysteries, "Til Death Do Us Part" promises to captivate and unsettle you.
Keywords: "Til Death Do Us Part podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "English countryside murder mystery," "Professor Craft story," "December 15, 1942 broadcast," "classic radio drama," "psychological thriller," "John Dickson Carr writer," "Bruno Zarroto Jr. director," "murder and betrayal tale."
Click to listen and immerse yourself in the chilling narrative of "Til Death Do Us Part," where love, hate, and desperation collide in a desolate English setting.

The Bride Vanishes - December 1, 1942

The Bride Vanishes: A Haunting Tale of Mystery and Madness
Step into the eerie and atmospheric world of "The Bride Vanishes," a chilling episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!" which originally aired on December 1, 1942. This gripping story transports listeners to an Italian villa, where a haunted balcony becomes the backdrop for a spine-tingling tale of murder and madness.
The episode unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of a bride, setting the stage for a tale of suspense and supernatural intrigue. A madman, driven by dark forces and the sinister influence of the villa's haunted balcony, is compelled to attempt a second murder. As the tension builds, listeners are drawn into a web of deception, fear, and eerie occurrences.
Penned by the renowned writer John Dickson Carr, directed by John Dietz, and brought to life by the haunting compositions of Alexander Semmler, "The Bride Vanishes" is a masterful blend of mystery and horror. The stellar cast, featuring Hanley Stafford and Lesley Woods, delivers a performance that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, capturing the essence of classic radio drama.
Join us for a journey into the heart of an Italian villa, where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs, and where a madman's sinister intentions threaten to unleash chaos. Whether you're a fan of ghost stories, classic mysteries, or thrilling dramas, "The Bride Vanishes" promises to captivate and terrify.
Keywords: "The Bride Vanishes podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "haunted Italian villa," "John Dickson Carr writer," "December 1, 1942 broadcast," "classic radio mystery," "supernatural murder tale," "madman murder plot," "Lesley Woods actress," "Hanley Stafford actor."
Click to listen and uncover the chilling mystery of "The Bride Vanishes," where a haunted balcony and a madman's dark desires collide in a tale that will leave you breathless.

The Body Snatchers - November 24, 1942

The Body Snatchers: A Chilling Tale of Medicine and Murder in Old England
Step into the eerie world of 19th-century England with "The Body Snatchers," a spine-tingling episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!," which originally aired on November 24, 1942. This gripping tale delves into the dark practice of body snatching at a time when the demand for cadavers to advance medical science led to sinister and unlawful deeds.
Up to the year 1832, body snatchers terrorized the streets of England, driven by the law that allowed only four bodies per year to be legally supplied to surgeons for anatomical study. Yet, the pursuit of medical knowledge could not be halted, and reputable doctors across the country were forced into the shadows, buying bodies from nefarious sources without question.
The episode recounts the infamous scandal of Burke and Hare in 1828, who found grave robbing too slow and turned to murder to meet the insatiable demand for corpses. These two men killed 16 individuals to supply Dr. Knox of Edinburgh, marking one of the darkest chapters in medical history. From a basic need for scientific progress arose the horrifying practice of body snatching, casting a long shadow over the noble field of surgery.
"The Body Snatchers" masterfully blends historical fact with suspenseful storytelling, transporting listeners to a time when the pursuit of knowledge came at a dreadful cost. With its atmospheric narrative and chilling details, this episode captures the essence of a bygone era fraught with moral dilemmas and macabre events.
Join us as we explore the grim world of 19th-century medical practices, where the line between right and wrong was often blurred in the quest for anatomical enlightenment. Whether you're a fan of historical drama, true crime, or classic radio thrillers, "The Body Snatchers" promises to captivate and haunt you long after the final note.
Keywords: "The Body Snatchers podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "body snatching history," "19th-century England medical practices," "Burke and Hare scandal," "classic radio thriller," "November 24, 1942 broadcast," "anatomical study bodies," "historical true crime," "medical and moral dilemmas."
Click to listen and delve into the dark history of body snatching, where the pursuit of medical knowledge led to chilling and unlawful deeds.

Menace In Wax - November 17, 1942

Menace in Wax: A Thrilling Tale of Espionage and Sabotage
Step into the shadowy world of wartime London with "Menace in Wax," a captivating episode from the classic radio series "Suspense!," which originally aired on November 17, 1942. This thrilling story weaves together historical intrigue and high-stakes espionage, taking listeners on a suspenseful journey through the eerie halls of Madame Tussaud's Waxworks.
The adventure begins at 10:30 P.M., when two intrepid English reporters uncover a secret code hidden within the wax figures of Madame Tussaud's. This discovery sets off a race against time to thwart a sinister plot aimed at sabotaging a crucial bomber factory. The reporters must navigate a labyrinth of deception and danger to prevent a devastating attack.
The episode transports listeners back to the French Revolution of 1793, where a Swiss girl meticulously crafted wax replicas of the severed heads of guillotined victims. This young artist, who later became Madame Tussaud, eventually moved to London and established the famed wax museum. Her legacy lives on, even as the museum faces new threats during the turbulent days of World War II.
As bombs rain down on London in March of 1941, a young man rushes to the grand doors of Madame Tussaud's Waxworks, determined to uncover the truth and stop the impending disaster. The story masterfully blends historical facts with fictional suspense, creating a gripping narrative that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
"Menace in Wax" is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic radio drama, offering a blend of mystery, history, and heart-pounding action. Join us as we delve into a tale where the past and present collide, and where bravery and quick thinking are the keys to survival.
Keywords: "Menace in Wax podcast episode," "Suspense radio show," "Madame Tussaud's secret code," "wartime London espionage," "November 17, 1942 broadcast," "classic radio thriller," "French Revolution wax figures," "historical sabotage plot," "WWII bomber factory," "espionage and intrigue."
Click to listen and experience the thrilling adventure of two reporters as they unravel a deadly conspiracy hidden in the waxworks of Madame Tussaud's.