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The Marlowe Files

Hurdy Gurdy Murder

Posted August 3, 2026 · 27 min

About this episode

Originally Aired: May 24, 1949 Philo Vance #46, "Hurdy Gurdy Murder," In this tense episode, nightclub singer Josie finds herself in a dangerous confrontation with her boss Joe Tanner after insulting the customers during her performance. When Joe threatens her for her behavior, Josie fires back with her own threat, claiming she has enough information to put him away for fifty years. The heated exchange reveals a volatile relationship built on mutual leverage and fear, with Josie confident that her damaging knowledge about Joe makes her untouchable. The situation escalates when head waiter Angel is caught eavesdropping on their argument, adding another layer of tension to an already explosive confrontation. Joe's menacing response to Josie's defiance suggests that her blackmail protection may not be as secure as she believes. When he clarifies that being "through" doesn't mean simply being fired, the implication is clear and deadly. What begins as a backstage dispute over a poor performance quickly transforms into a dangerous game where the stakes are life and death.

From The Marlowe Files by OTRPODS. Visit the show’s website.

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