The CBS Radio Mystery Theater: An Episode Guide and Handbook to Nine Years of Broadcasting, 1974-1982

by Gordon Payton, Martin Grams Jr.

Almost every evening for nine years during the late 1970s and early 1980s, the CBS Radio Mystery Theatre brought monsters, murderers and mayhem together for an hour. Created, produced and directed by Himan Brown, the series remains a landmark in radio drama. This book is a detailed history and episode guide to the show. Descriptive information includes exact titles, airdates and rebroadcast dates, episode numbers, cast lists, writer and adapter credits, and a storyline synopsis. This material comes directly from CBS press releases in order to insure complete accuracy. Also included wherever possible are information about the actors and actresses, quotes from performers and writers (many from personal interviews), anecdotes about various scripts and sound effects, and other notes of interest.

Genres: Reference

485 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1999

Reviews

[Sharon Dorival · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gordon Payton and Martin Grams Jr.'s "The CBS Radio Mystery Theater: An Episode Guide and Handbook to Nine Years of Broadcasting, 1974-1982" stands as an indispensable resource for anyone with a fondness for Himan Brown's revival of radio drama. This comprehensive volume meticulously catalogs the nearly 3,000 broadcasts of the iconic series, offering an unparalleled level of detail and insight.

What sets this book apart is its commitment to thoroughness. Drawing directly from CBS press releases, Payton and Grams Jr. provide accurate information on exact titles, original air dates, rebroadcast dates, episode numbers, full cast lists, and writer and adapter credits for every single episode. This level of granular detail is a treasure trove for researchers and casual listeners alike, making it easy to identify specific episodes or explore the creative teams behind their favorites.

Beyond the raw data, the authors enrich the guide with valuable supplementary material. Readers will find fascinating biographical information about the actors and actresses who lent their voices to the chilling tales, alongside quotes from performers and writers – many gleaned from personal interviews. Anecdotes about script development, sound effects, and behind-the-scenes production offer a captivating glimpse into the creation of this landmark series.

"The CBS Radio Mystery Theater" was a unique phenomenon, bringing "monsters, murderers, and mayhem" to the airwaves nightly, and often expanding its scope to include science fiction, historical drama, and even comedy. Payton and Grams Jr. effectively capture the breadth and impact of this ambitious undertaking, providing context for its place in radio history.

While some critics of the original broadcasts may have had reservations about script quality, this handbook serves not as a critique of the show's artistic merits, but as an exhaustive and accurate record. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of "The CBS Radio Mystery Theater" and a must-have for collectors, historians, and anyone who wishes to delve deeper into the "fear you can hear" of the 1970s and 80s radio landscape. For fans, it's more than just an episode guide; it's a meticulously crafted tribute to a beloved cultural artifact.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gordon Payton and Martin Grams do a really nice job of chronicling the most successful revival of Old Time Radio. Great information about this show that is now a lot easier to hear online, which makes this book very essential!