Vintage Classic Radio

Saturday Matinee - Our Miss Brooks (Exchanging Christmas Gifts), Bob Hope New Year’s Skit, Great Gildersleeve (New Year’s Costume Ball), Jack Benny (A...

This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio, our "Saturday Matinee" celebrates the holiday season with a lineup of festive episodes.
We kick off with the "Our Miss Brooks" episode titled “Exchanging Christmas Gifts,” where the ever-entertaining Miss Brooks, played by Eve Arden, navigates the complexities of gift exchanges among colleagues. The cast also features Gale Gordon as the blustery Principal Osgood Conklin, and Richard Crenna as the endearing student Walter Denton.
Following that, we lighten the mood with a "New Year's Skit" by Bob Hope. In this episode, Bob Hope delivers his trademark quick-witted humor in a series of comic sketches and monologues that reflect on the passing year and the one to come, featuring guest appearances by his regular ensemble including Les Brown and his Band of Renown.
The festivities continue with an episode from "The Great Gildersleeve" titled "New Year's Costume Ball." Harold Peary stars as the lovable Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, wrestling with the hilarious mishaps of organizing a costume ball to ring in the new year. The episode also features Walter Tetley as his nephew Leroy and Lillian Randolph as their housekeeper, Birdie.
The laughter carries on with the "Jack Benny Show," where Jack Benny and his cast, including Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, and Rochester, engage in a whimsical adventure in "A New Year's Fantasy." This episode takes listeners on a humorous journey through time with Benny’s vaudevillian antics.
The grand finale features the legendary Count Basie Orchestra in CBS's "The Anniversary Dancing Party" New Year's special. Broadcast originally on December 31, 1967, this special brings the vibrant sounds of Count Basie and his orchestra to life, filling the airwaves with energetic jazz that's perfect for welcoming the new year.
Together, these episodes create a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and music, encapsulating the spirit and excitement of the holiday season just before New Year’s Eve.

Friday Night Noir - Suspense (Holiday Story), Lights Out (Lord Marley’s Ghost) & Murder at Midnight (Murder is a Lonely Business)

Step back in time this Friday with Vintage Classic Radio’s “Friday Night Noir,” a special Christmas week celebration featuring three captivating radio shows from the golden age of radio.
Tune in to "Suspense" for the chilling episode "Holiday Story," originally aired on December 23, 1948. This episode weaves a thrilling tale of a quaint Christmas in a snowy town that takes a sinister turn when a mysterious stranger arrives, bringing unexpected danger and suspense to the holiday cheer. The stellar cast includes Agnes Moorehead as the resilient protagonist, Ellen Harper, William Conrad as the enigmatic stranger, Joseph Kearns as the cautious Sheriff Bradley, and Lurene Tuttle as the warm-hearted neighbor, Mrs. Jennings.
Following "Suspense," the evening continues with "Lights Out" and the eerie episode "Lord Marley's Ghost," which first haunted the airwaves on July 14, 1937. In this ghostly narrative, the spirit of Lord Marley returns to his ancestral home on the eve of its demolition, seeking vengeance and closure. This atmospheric tale is sure to send shivers down your spine, performed by a dedicated cast featuring Boris Karloff as the tormented Lord Marley and Mercedes McCambridge as the skeptical historian, Helen Ashcroft.
Concluding the night is "Murder at Midnight" with the episode "Murder is a Lonely Business," broadcasted on December 12, 1946. In this gripping story, a reclusive author finds his quiet seaside retreat turned into a deadly trap when he discovers a body on the beach, leading him into a web of intrigue and suspicion. The episode features Raymond Edward Johnson in the lead role of Charles Manner, with Elspeth Eric as his suspicious neighbor, Mrs. Ellis, and Berry Kroeger as the determined Detective Larson.
Don’t miss this thrilling trip down memory lane with Vintage Classic Radio’s “Friday Night Noir,” where suspense, mystery, and the supernatural come alive through the voices of some of the era’s most iconic actors. Tune in this Friday and join us for a night filled with intrigue and nostalgia.

Christmas Day Special Broadcast - It’s a Wonderful Life (Jimmy Stewart), Christmas Sing with Bing, Carols & Comedy

On Christmas Day, Vintage Classic Radio invites you to join us for a special broadcast filled with timeless holiday entertainment.
We begin with the "Dinah Shore Show" sponsored by Chevrolet, featuring the episode "Sleigh Ride Together With You," which originally aired on December 24th, 1954.
showcasing Dinah’s melodic vocals alongside The Skylarks and the deft orchestration of Frank DeVol, celebrates the festive season with music and stories, evoking the warm spirit of Christmas Eve.
Following Dinah, we'll transport our listeners back to 1947,
Lux Radio Theatre offers its beloved rendition of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” from March 10th, 1947, starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, joined by Donna Reed as Mary Hatch and Victor Moore in a heartwarming adaptation of Frank Capra’s timeless tale.This poignant drama captures the heartwarming tale of George Bailey and his realization of life’s true value, making it a perfect reflection for Christmas.
Our celebration continues with a musical interlude, "Christmas Hymns," performed by harpist Francis J. Lapitino in 1917, bringing serene and classic sounds to your holiday.
Adding a touch of magic for our younger audience, we will hear Ernest Hare's narration of "The Night Before Christmas." This enchanting 1920 recording of Clement Clarke Moore’s famous poem promises to transport children and adults alike to a starlit Christmas Eve.
The festivities wouldn’t be complete without "Christmas Sing with Bing" from December 24th, 1961. Bing Crosby’s iconic voice fills the air with holiday classics, creating a cozy, sing-along atmosphere.
For a dose of humor, we visit December 25th, 1945, with "Fibber McGee and Molly" in the episode "Doc Gamble's Present." The comedic duo’s holiday escapades are sure to bring laughter to your celebration.
Next, Gordon McRae stars in the "Railroad Hour's" "Christmas Show" from December 25th, 1950. This musical story blends heartwarming narratives with festive songs, enhancing the holiday cheer.
Then comes a moment of reflection courtesy of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s December 24th, 1940, Fireside Chat, delivered at the lighting of the Christmas Tree with a heartfelt message of hope and resolve.
We bring our Christmas Day Special to a glorious close with the Victor Mixed Chorus performing selections from “Messiah,” including the triumphant “Glory of the Lord,” ensuring an unforgettable finale to your festive day wrapping up our broadcast with soul-stirring chorales that embody the spirit of Christmas.
Gather ’round your radio set on Christmas Day, as Vintage Classic Radio presents an extraordinary lineup to celebrate the season with nostalgia and joy.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Broadway Is My Beat (Buddy Malpaugh), Candy Matson (Jack Frost) & Nero Wolfe (The Slaughtered Santas)

This week’s “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio brings a festive twist with three thrilling holiday specials from the golden age of radio. In "Broadway is My Beat" from December 22, 1951, Detective Danny Clover, portrayed by Larry Thor, unravels the mystery of "Buddy Malpaugh and the Jeweled Scimitar." As snow blankets the streets of New York, Clover tracks the elusive Buddy Malpaugh who has stolen a precious scimitar sword, adorned with jewels. Charles Calvert voices Sgt. Tartaglia and Jack Kruschen plays Muggavan in this chilling winter tale.
Next up is "Candy Matson" from December 10, 1949, featuring Natalie Masters as the sharp-witted private eye in "Jack Frost." This episode sees Matson investigating a suspicious accident in a chilly San Francisco, accompanied by her loyal sidekick Rembrandt Watson, voiced by Jack Thomas. The twist comes when they discover a plot that could ice over the Christmas cheer, making it a thrilling holiday investigation.
Wrapping up the trio of tales, we revisit "The New Adventures of Nero Wolfe" from December 22, 1950, in "The Slaughtered Santas." With Sidney Greenstreet playing the iconic armchair detective Nero Wolfe, and his assistant Archie Goodwin played by Larry Dobkin, the duo solves the sinister slaying of men dressed as Santa Claus. This chilling mystery dives into the darker side of the festive season, presenting a high-stakes puzzle for Wolfe and his sharp instincts.
These episodes blend intrigue with holiday spirit, offering listeners an evocative throwback to yesteryear’s Christmases, filled with suspense and festive adventure. Whether it’s following footprints in the snow in New York, untangling a frosty mystery in San Francisco, or solving a series of Santa Claus murders, each story promises to keep you guessing and entertained during the holiday season.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Holiday Inn (Bing Crosby) & I’ll Be Seeing You (Joseph Cotten)

This Sunday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," we're excited to present a special holiday double bill. We begin with a throwback to January 11, 1943, for a Christmas episode of "The Screen Guild Players" featuring "Holiday Inn." In this charming episode, Bing Crosby stars as Jim Hardy, a singer who leaves the bright lights of show business to open an inn that celebrates holidays with unique performances. Alongside Crosby, Dinah Shore lends her vocal talents to the role of Linda Mason, who becomes the heart of the inn's festivities and the center of a romantic storyline. This episode captures the spirit of the holidays with its blend of music, romance, and festive cheer.
Following "Holiday Inn," our holiday theme continues with the "Lux Radio Theatre" presentation of "I'll Be Seeing You" from December 24, 1945. Starring Joseph Cotten as Zachary Morgan, a soldier struggling with shell shock, this drama unfolds as he finds companionship and understanding with Mary Marshall, portrayed by Dorothy McGuire, a woman on parole from prison. Their story of seeking normalcy and healing during the Christmas season is further enriched by Shirley Temple in the role of Barbara Marshall, bringing an element of youthful hope and familial connection.
Join us for these classic narratives of love and holiday spirit on "Sunday Night Playhouse," a perfect way to celebrate the season with timeless radio entertainment.

Friday Night Noir - The Whistler (Christmas Bonus) & Lights Out (Uninhabited Christmas Story)

Step back in time this Friday with Vintage Classic Radio’s holiday edition of "Friday Night Noir," featuring two captivating tales of suspense and mystery perfect for the festive season. Our night begins with "The Whistler" in the chilling episode "Christmas Bonus," originally aired on December 21, 1952. In this gripping story, an unexpected holiday bonus becomes the catalyst for a dark plot of deceit and danger, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. The episode stars Bill Forman as the ominous Whistler, with supporting performances by Marvin Miller, Betty Lou Gerson, and William Conrad, who bring this thrilling narrative to life.
Following "The Whistler," we delve into the eerie world of "Lights Out" with the episode "Uninhabited," also known as "Christmas Story 1918," which first aired on December 22, 1937. This haunting tale set during the bleak backdrop of World War I, explores the supernatural occurrences faced by two soldiers stranded in a deserted house on Christmas Eve. The chilling atmosphere is masterfully crafted by Arch Oboler's storytelling, with performances by Frank Martin as the narrator and Bill Johnstone and Charles Seel playing the beleaguered soldiers, delivering a spine-tingling experience that embodies the spirit of holiday ghost stories.
Join us for these classic radio dramas that promise to add a touch of noir to your holiday cheer. Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio this Friday night and immerse yourself in the suspenseful, shadowy corners of "Friday Night Noir."

Tuesday Night Detective - This is Your FBI (Return of St. Nick) & The Saint (Santa Claus is No Saint)

In this week’s holiday-themed episode of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the festive cheer with a touch of mystery. Our first feature is an episode from "This Is Your FBI" titled “Return of St. Nick,” which originally aired on December 24th, 1948. In this gripping story, the FBI tracks a clever burglary ring that uses a Santa Claus disguise to commit their crimes during the Christmas rush. The plot thickens when a former convict, playing the role of Santa in an attempt to reform his life, is framed for the burglaries. Special Agent Jim Taylor, played by Stacy Harris, must unravel the truth in time for Christmas. The episode also features William Conrad and Betty Lou Gerson in pivotal roles, adding depth and suspense to the holiday narrative.
Following that, we delve into "The Saint" with the episode “Santa Claus Is No Saint,” broadcast on December 24th, 1950. Vincent Price stars as the charming and astute Simon Templar, who finds himself embroiled in a holiday mystery when a young woman mistakes him for a real Santa Claus and begs him to retrieve a stolen Christmas gift. The episode becomes a thrilling chase as The Saint confronts a gang of thieves, with the holiday spirit adding a unique twist to his usual adventures. Supporting cast includes Betty Harford and Harry Bartell, who contribute to the festive yet thrilling ambiance.
Join us as we revisit these classic radio mysteries, blending holiday cheer with detective intrigue, capturing the essence of a time when radio was the heart of the home during the festive season. Tune in and rekindle the warmth of vintage radio drama with these captivating stories.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Christmas in Connecticut (Ronald Reagan, Jane Wyman) & Christmas by Injunction (O. Henry)

This Sunday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," we are thrilled to present a double bill holiday special featuring two cherished radio plays. The evening begins with "Christmas in Connecticut" from NBC Author's Playhouse, originally broadcast on December 21, 1941. Starring Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman, this delightful episode follows a food writer who struggles to live up to her perfect homemaker image when a war hero visits her for a traditional Christmas, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings and romantic complications.
Following that, we'll enjoy "Christmas by Injunction" from CBS Screen Guild Theatre, which originally aired on August 5, 1946. Based on a story by O. Henry, this heartwarming tale is set in the old West and tells the story of a wealthy miner who attempts to orchestrate an elaborate Christmas celebration for his old hometown, only to discover that the true spirit of the season requires more personal sacrifices than he anticipated. Together, these episodes offer a perfect blend of humor, nostalgia, and the timeless joy of the holiday spirit.

Friday Night Noir - Escape (Back for Christmas) & Suspense (Dog Star)

Join us this week on Vintage Classic Radio for a special holiday edition of "Friday Night Noir." We kick off with "Escape," featuring the chilling tale "Back for Christmas," originally aired on December 24, 1947. This suspenseful episode follows Professor Herbert Carpenter as he meticulously plans to murder his overbearing wife before a holiday trip, intending to return home alone, but fate has other plans. The stellar cast includes Paul Frees as Herbert Carpenter, Eleanor Audley as his unsuspecting wife Hermione, and William Conrad lending his voice to the role of a curious contractor.
Continuing the holiday suspense, we delve into "Suspense" and its episode "Dog Star," which first enthralled listeners on December 22, 1957. A heartwarming yet thrilling story unfolds around James Congreve, a scientist whose life is saved by his loyal dog, Rex, during a laboratory accident. However, when a potential disaster looms, Rex's uncanny abilities are put to the test in an unexpected twist. The episode features George Walsh as James Congreve, Jeanette Nolan as his supportive wife Ellen, and Joseph Kearns portraying Dr. Mason, Congreve's skeptical colleague.
Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio this Friday night to experience these captivating stories from the golden age of radio, brought to life by a talented cast that continues to thrill and engage audiences even today.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Richard Diamond, Private Detective (A Christmas Carol) & Yours Truly Johnny Dollar (Missing Mouse Matter)

In this week’s episode of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the festive spirit with a special feature of classic radio detective shows. First up, we have "Richard Diamond, Private Detective" in the episode titled “A Christmas Carol.” Originally aired on December 21, 1951, this episode follows the suave detective Richard Diamond, played by Dick Powell, as he finds himself under the Christmas tree in a rather unusual manner. It's Christmas Eve, and Diamond stumbles upon a plot to rob a charitable mission. With his quick wit and sharp instincts, Diamond turns the tables on the crooks, ensuring a merry Christmas for all. The episode features a stellar cast including Virginia Gregg, Ed Begley, and Wilms Herbert, bringing to life a story filled with holiday cheer and suspense.
Following that, we revisit “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar” in the episode “Missing Mouse,” which first captivated audiences on December 23, 1956. America’s fabulous freelance insurance investigator, Johnny Dollar—portrayed by Bob Bailey—takes on a peculiar case involving the disappearance of a highly insured lab mouse, leading to unexpected turns and intriguing insurance fraud clues. Alongside Bailey, the episode showcases the talents of Virginia Gregg, playing multiple roles, and features performances by John Dehner and Alan Reed. This episode combines elements of mystery and humor, making it a classic in radio detective lore.
Join us as we step back in time and experience the thrilling adventures of two of radio's most beloved detectives, wrapped in the warmth of the holiday season. Whether it’s the charming bravado of Richard Diamond or the meticulous investigations of Johnny Dollar, there’s something in this broadcast for every mystery enthusiast. Tune in and let the intrigue of yesteryears captivate your imagination this Tuesday night.