RAS #703 – Shadow Of A Doubt

This time on Ron’s Amazing Stories, we’re diving into one of Alfred Hitchcock’s most celebrated thrillers—Shadow of a Doubt. Originally released as a film in 1943 and starring Joseph Cotten and Teresa Wright, the story gets a radio makeover in the Screen Director’s Playhouse adaptation from November 1950. This time, none other than Cary Grant steps into the role of Uncle Charlie, bringing his trademark charm with an unsettling twist.

What makes Shadow of a Doubt stand out in Hitchcock’s catalog is its unique suspense style. We, the audience, know from the beginning that Uncle Charlie has a dark secret. The real tension comes from watching his niece slowly uncover the horrifying truth about the man she once adored. It’s a masterclass in slow-burn suspense, set against the deceptively cozy backdrop of small-town America.

On the podcast today, you’ll hear:

Background on Alfred Hitchcock’s 1943 masterpiece.
Cary Grant’s turn as Uncle Charlie in the 1950 radio adaptation.
A full presentation of the Screen Director’s Playhouse episode of Shadow of a Doubt.

So, grab your headphones, settle into your favorite chair, and prepare for a suspenseful ride into Hitchcock territory. As always, stay tuned after the play for my thoughts and a few laughs to lighten the mood.

Helpful Links:

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you’re from. I will read it if I can. Links are below.

Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron’s Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin.

Program Info: Ron’s Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link.

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RAS #689 – The Legacy of The Virginian

In this episode, Ron investigates one of his favorite TV shows from childhood—The Virginian. Saddle up as he explores the story’s origins, and its transformation through literature, film, and radio. The Virginian’s evolution from novel to screen shaped a genre. Gary Cooper’s portrayal of the character remains a benchmark in Western cinema.

What You’ll Hear:

Ron’s memories of The Virginian TV show starring James Drury, and favorite character, Trampus.
The History of The Virginian. A literary journey beginning with Owen Wister’s 1902 novel, its role in defining the Western genre, and its adaptation into films—highlighting Gary Cooper’s iconic performance and his famous line, “When you call me that, smile.”
Listen to the 1936 Lux Radio Theater’s adaptation of The Virginian, featuring Gary Cooper reprising his role.
Learn about one of Hollywood’s first gossip columnist, his influence on Tinseltown, and the origin of the term “Oscar.”
Ron investigates the Virginian’s real name—and why it remains a mystery to this day.

Thank you for listening to Ron’s Amazing Stories—where history, mystery, and classic tales come alive.

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

Social Links:
Main Podcast Site by LibSyn
The Blog Site by WordPress
Facebook Link
Twitter Link

Contact Links:
Email
Story Submissions
Contact Ron

RAS #680 – Guadalcanal Diary

On Ron’s Amazing Stories, we bring history to life through the power of audio storytelling. In this episode, we delve into a pivotal chapter of World War II—the Battle of Guadalcanal. This significant clash between Allied forces and Japanese troops marked a turning point in the Pacific theater.

Ron will explore “Guadalcanal Diary,” a memoir by war correspondent Richard Tregaskis. His firsthand account offers a vivid portrayal of the challenges and heroism experienced during the early weeks of the campaign. The memoir’s compelling narrative led to its adaptation into a successful film and a Lux Radio Theater adaptation. Prepare to embark on an engaging journey back in time, where you can gain inspiration and valuable lessons from these historic events.

So, what can you expect to hear? Lux Radio Theater had a talent for adapting popular films of the time for radio. You’ll hear a captivating chapter from “Guadalcanal Diary” that skillfully retells history. This adaptation features most of the original cast from the film and first aired on February 28, 1944.

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.