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The Whistler: Classic Radio Drama

Presented by OTR.FM

Welcome to The Whistler: Classic Radio Drama, featuring the complete collection of this iconic suspense series that captivated audiences from 1942 to 1955. The Whistler was a unique radio series where a mysterious narrator, known only as "The Whistler," would introduce stories of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. Each episode began with his haunting 13-note whistle and the chilling words: "I am the Whistler, and I know many things, for I walk by night." These tales of suspense, murder, and psychological drama featured stories of greed, jealousy, revenge, and the dark corners of the human psyche. What made The Whistler special was its focus on the criminal's perspective, often revealing the perpetrator's thoughts and motivations as their carefully laid plans inevitably unraveled. Join us for this comprehensive collection of classic radio drama, meticulously restored and presented for modern listeners who appreciate timeless storytelling and masterful suspense.

507 episodes

  1. Episode 592: Girl in Black

    Jul 2, 2025 · 22 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Margaret Thale, a struggling actress, faces the disappointment of her failed career in the big city. Desperate to return home, she accepts a strange job offer from Sam Walker to accompany a casket to a distant town. However, her journey takes a terrifying turn when she discovers a convict, Mace Murdoch, hiding in the casket. Forced to accompany him, Margaret finds herself in a dangerous situation with a desperate fugitive, unsure of her fate as the ordeal unfolds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Episode 591: Ticket to Nowhere

    Jul 1, 2025 · 23 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, a car driver named Lee Corby picks up a talkative passenger who claims to have the key to a fortune. After the passenger is shot and killed, a woman named Elaine Brant enters the car carrying the same briefcase. Lee and Elaine become entangled in a dangerous game involving a valuable diary and a criminal syndicate. As the plot unfolds, betrayals and hidden motives come to light, leading to a tense showdown with unexpected consequences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Episode 590: Death Claim

    Jun 30, 2025 · 24 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'Death Claim,' a chance encounter at a Panama City cantina puts the unsuspecting Vic Adams in the middle of a dangerous game involving a man believed to be dead and his wife, Nora. As Vic gets increasingly entangled in a complex web of deceit and greed, he must navigate the dangerous intentions of those around him and make a difficult decision that ultimately leads to a surprising turn of events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Episode 579: Silver Service

    Jun 29, 2025 · 25 min

    In this episode, Ella is faced with a dire situation when she finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and desperation. As her financial troubles mount, she becomes increasingly embroiled in a dangerous game of deception. Faced with the threat of losing everything, Ella devises a dubious plan to salvage her situation. Little does she know that her actions will lead to unexpected consequences and a shocking turn of events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Episode 577: Glass Dime

    Jun 28, 2025 · 26 min

    Wally Layton, a theatrical agent, encounters a series of events after witnessing a murder at a coin dealer's office. Despite attempts on his life and pressures from the killer, Wally gets involved in a plan to duplicate a rare glass dime for profit. The situation becomes increasingly dangerous as the killer pursues Wally and Edith Martin, Rentworth's secretary, while they seek refuge in a hamburger hut. With no immediate help in sight, Wally and Edith must find a way to secure their safety and protect the valuable glass dime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Episode 568: The Disappearing Woman

    Jun 27, 2025 · 25 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, magician Grafton returns from South America and finds himself embroiled in trouble due to counterfeit money. His assistant, Anita, becomes a complication to his plans, leading to Grafton's attempt to dispose of her. However, when Grafton tries to orchestrate Anita's disappearance during a performance, things take an unexpected turn as a Treasury Department agent arrives, revealing the counterfeit money and implicating both Grafton and his new assistant, Connie. Grafton's attempt to evade the situation ultimately leads to his downfall as the truth is revealed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Episode 551: Christmas Bonus

    Jun 26, 2025 · 24 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'Christmas Bonus,' a man named Michael Cobb, who is trying to stay on the straight and narrow after a troubled past, finds himself dismissed from his job at a department store, leading him to consider a desperate act. He decides to return to the store with the intention of stealing, but a chance encounter with the police and a unique turn of events ultimately clears his name and reveals the true culprit behind the thefts. The episode explores themes of redemption, integrity, and the complex nature of human behavior, presenting a unique holiday twist on a classic moral tale. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Episode 548: So Soon

    Jun 25, 2025 · 24 min

    In this episode, the successful songwriting partnership between Ted Gray and Al Wilson becomes strained when Ted's envy and obsession with Corinne Mitchell lead him to contemplate murder. Ted meticulously plans and executes the murder, believing he has a foolproof alibi. However, when Corinne unknowingly reveals a key detail about the lyrics of their latest song, it becomes clear that Ted was the only one with the opportunity to commit the crime. At the height of Marsha Wallace's performance of their new song, Ted is arrested for the murder of Al Wilson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. Episode 547: The Calculator

    Jun 24, 2025 · 24 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, set in San Francisco, Glenn Tillman experiences a night of terror as his partner, Max Linder, is caught in a building explosion. As events unfold, it becomes clear that there are suspicions and tensions between the two partners, with Glenn attempting to secure valuable blueprints related to a groundbreaking invention. The story escalates as Glenn finds himself implicated in a dangerous situation, eventually leading to an unexpected turn of events at the airport, where an unexpected revelation occurs during a conversation with Johanna Drexler. This mystery investigates the dark and treacherous actions of the characters involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. Episode 542: The Prosecutor

    Jun 23, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'The Prosecutor,' Assistant District Attorney Philip Graham secures a conviction against Thomas Anderson, despite knowing in his heart that Anderson is innocent. Embracing his newfound success as district attorney, Graham gets involved in an affair with Corinne Scott. However, their secret relationship takes a dark turn when Graham, consumed with jealousy and fear of exposure, commits a desperate and violent act. As the truth unravels, Graham is faced with a choice between freeing Anderson or facing trial for murder, ultimately leading to an unexpected twist in the case. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. Episode 541: One Dark Night

    Jun 22, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Frank Jason becomes a suspect in the disappearance of his wife, Cora. Suspicion mounts as the police find a suspicious stain in their living room carpet, and later, a body resembling Cora's is found in the bay. Frank becomes increasingly nervous as he tries to avoid suspicion. In a surprise twist, it is revealed that Doris, the next-door neighbor, knows about Cora's plans to run away with a large sum of money. The situation intensifies as Harry, Cora's brother, becomes involved and suspicions of foul play arise. The tension climaxes as a plan to eliminate Harry goes awry, leading to a shocking turn of events. The episode ends with a dramatic revelation and an unexpected confrontation with the police. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. Episode 536: The Secret of Chalk Point

    Jun 21, 2025 · 25 min

    In this episode, Kay Fallon, a young and attractive secretary companion, encounters a man staggering from the sea who claims to be a survivor of a shipwreck. However, bewildering events unfold as it becomes evident that the man's story is intertwined with the haunting history of a shipwreck that occurred 25 years ago and the mysterious figure of Captain Yeager. As the tale unravels, Kay finds herself drawn into a web of deception, smuggling, and treachery, ultimately leading to a life-threatening confrontation with the ominous Captain Norton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. Episode 534: Final Papers

    Jun 20, 2025 · 24 min

    An immigrant named Anna Craig plans to divorce her American husband in order to bring her sweetheart into the country, but her scheme is threatened when a woman from her past, Lisa Felder, seeks her help using questionable means. Anna takes drastic measures to ensure her plans proceed without interference, ultimately leading to a deadly outcome. However, a surprising revelation puts her in a perilous position as the truth about her actions may come to light. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. Episode 531: Dark Island

    Jun 19, 2025 · 24 min

    The episode follows Ernie Regan, who narrowly escapes a shooting on Dark Island, leading to suspicions about the islanders and their involvement in the attempt on his life. He meets Julie Vinson, who is also interested in the buried Stoffer money. As they form a tentative partnership, Ernie becomes wary of Julie's intentions. With a plan to test Julie's loyalty, Ernie sets off a chain of events that ultimately unravels the truth behind the pursuit of the hidden money and the sinister motives of those involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. Episode 530: You Cant Trust a Stranger

    Jun 18, 2025 · 30 min

    Frank Malloy, recently released on bail, plans to jump bail and escape the country with his girlfriend, Vivian. However, before they can leave, Frank feels the need to confront his wife, Martha, to find out if she was the one who betrayed him to the authorities. As he executes his plan to fake his own death and escape, he encounters unexpected betrayals, leading to a shocking conclusion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. Episode 527: Triple Play

    Jun 17, 2025 · 27 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Daniel Cobbs, a powerful political boss and newspaper publisher, makes a play for the mayor's office, maneuvering to ensure his election and marriage to the mayor's attractive secretary, Patricia. However, his underhanded tactics and ruthless ambition backfire when a scandal involving his past and the revelation of his own deceitful actions come to light. As events unfold, it becomes clear that his plans have led to his ruin, ultimately uncovering the true mastermind behind the political intrigue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. Episode 526: Night Flight

    Jun 16, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, a struggling pilot named Kelly Owen encounters a mysterious stranger, Sam Ledford, in a hotel cocktail lounge. Sam tantalizes Kelly with the promise of a private deal involving an important passenger and a payment of $25,000. Kelly decides to take advantage of the opportunity by assuming Sam's identity to claim the payment. His plan takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a woman named Thela Martin, leading to a series of double-crosses, blackmail, and a murder plot. As Kelly embarks on a journey to South America with the promise of a substantial payoff, he is suddenly confronted by the authorities, throwing his plans into turmoil. The episode ends with a revelation of the consequences of his actions, leaving his fate uncertain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. Episode 524: Last Message

    Jun 15, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Dave Leonard's life in San Francisco becomes complicated when a man from his past, Tommy Prentice, reappears and threatens to expose his true identity. Desperate to escape the menacing influence of Prentice and unable to confide in his wife, Dave considers drastic measures until an unexpected twist results in a resolution beyond his control. The tension and suspense build as Dave and his wife grapple with the dangerous presence of Prentice and the ominous shadow of their past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. Episode 523: Man in the Way

    Jun 14, 2025 · 30 min

    Private detective Max Tyler takes on a case from Mrs. Townsend to investigate her husband's infidelity. However, things take a turn when Max finds himself entangled in a web of deception, jealousy, and murder. As the case unfolds, Max becomes a prime suspect in the investigation, leading to a tense confrontation with Lieutenant Carter of Homicide. The truth, as well as Max's involvement, becomes increasingly uncertain as the case takes a series of unexpected twists and turns, ultimately revealing the complexities of human nature and the consequences of one's actions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. Episode 520: Determined Traveler

    Jun 12, 2025 · 29 min

    Clara Marshall, a fugitive wanted for fraudulent stock transactions, finds herself in Italy with wealthy traveler Harriet Wilson. Meeting Raymond Hungate leads Clara into a partnership involving valuable jewels, but when plans to exchange the jewels in Naples turn sour, Clara is suspected of murder. Her attempt to outsmart the police and betraying ex-lover Raymond backfires as her employer inadvertently tips off the police, leading to her arrest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. Episode 519: A Matter of Odds

    Jun 11, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'A Matter of Odds,' we follow the story of Danny Atkins, a man living by the odds and embroiled in a series of risky decisions and unexpected events. When a chance encounter with sailor Keller leads to a series of dangerous gambles and criminal activities, Danny finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and desperate choices. As the story unfolds, the odds become increasingly stacked against him, leading to a fateful and dramatic conclusion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. Episode 518: Lady in Waiting

    Jun 10, 2025 · 30 min

    Gene Collins seeks the help of attorney John Bradley to stop receiving mysterious money from her former acquaintance, Frank Hodgson. As the situation escalates, Bradley takes matters into his own hands, leading to unexpected and dire consequences. Ultimately, the truth comes to light as Gene uncovers the connections between Bradley, Hodgson, and the murders that unfold in this tangled web of mystery and deception. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. Episode 517: Saturday Night

    Jun 9, 2025 · 32 min

    Dr. Neil Layton, an intern at a small hospital, is haunted by a past mistake involving his friend Charles Bennett that cost him his career and the love of Cynthia Walker. When Charles is admitted to the hospital following a car crash, Neil is faced with the opportunity for revenge, but ultimately realizes the gravity of his actions and chooses to do the right thing, saving Cynthia's life and finding closure in the process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. Episode 514: Element X

    Jun 8, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Grant Forbes, an attorney, finds himself caught in a dangerous web of deceit and murder after being witness to a robbery. When he is called to a meeting by a potential client, Floyd Markham, he unknowingly walks into a murder scene. As the plot unfolds, Grant manipulates Mrs. Markham into a dangerous situation, leading to a fatal encounter. With unexpected twists and turns, Grant's life takes a surprising turn that ultimately leads to a fatal encounter with Element X, the unforeseen and unpredictable force at play in this tale of crime and consequences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. Episode 513: Homecoming

    Jun 7, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, John Aaron anxiously waits in his dark farmhouse for the return of his stepbrother Robert, who has escaped from prison. John is tormented by guilt and fear as he recalls the events that led to Robert's wrongful imprisonment. When Robert finally arrives, a tragic accident occurs, leading to a shocking turn of events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.