suspense

Known as "Radio's Outstanding Theater of Thrills," Suspense debuted on CBS on June 17, 1942. During its two-decade run, the show utilized classic literature, stage and screen plays, and innovative original works, all designed "to present you with a precarious situation and then withhold the solution until the last possible moment."

The Peabody Award-winning Suspense drew some of Hollywood's biggest names, including Cary Grant, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Rosalind Russell, James Stewart, and Bela Lugosi.

Suspense producer-director William Spier was one of many creative helmsmen who encouraged innovation at all levels (including music and sound effects). Spier kept rehearsal time to a minimum, believing it would make everyone more alert during the live broadcast. The show's penchant for casting against type allowed for dramatic turns from comedians and singers, including Jack Benny, Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne and Jim and Marian Jordan (a.k.a Fibber McGee and Molly).

Suspense was the last surviving "Golden Age" network radio drama when it ended its run on September 30, 1962.

Suspense was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2011.