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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 455: Man in the Storm

    Apr 14, 2025 · 29 min

    During a raging storm in Groves Landing, the town faces imminent danger as the river threatens to flood and destroy the recreation center. City treasurer, Reed Gordon, is determined to prevent this at all costs, even at the risk of his own life. As the storm comes to an end, Reed's desperation leads to questionable decisions, and he finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal. After a series of events, including a daring escape and a shocking revelation, the aftermath of the storm brings unexpected consequences that will alter Reed's fate. This gripping tale unfolds with twists and turns, leaving Reed at a precarious crossroads with a daunting choice ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Episode 454: Spell in Green

    Apr 13, 2025 · 29 min

    Nola Norton, a newspaper writer, brings a bottle of liquor to her colleague Chuck to coax him into finishing a column on time. After a heated exchange, Chuck accuses Nola of inserting scandalous content into his articles, leading to a confrontation that turns deadly. Six months later, Nola attends a party and encounters suspicions from her peers. When her colleague Paul reveals a shocking truth, Nola's carefully constructed facade begins to crumble, leading to a tragic and unexpected end. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Episode 453: Murder over Burma

    Apr 12, 2025 · 30 min

    Cliff Benton, a pilot for the Far East Importing Company, finds himself in trouble when he owes gambling boss Burma Charlie $5,000 and also becomes entangled in a dangerous situation involving the casino's featured vocalist, Lila. As the pressure mounts, Cliff devises a plan to pay off his debt and escape with Lila. However, his actions take a dark turn as he resorts to treacherous tactics to resolve his financial and personal dilemmas, leading to a fatal outcome. Ultimately, his devious actions are revealed by a determined witness, resulting in a dramatic and costly end to his twisted scheme. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Episode 452: Trade Mark

    Apr 11, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode, Martha Collins, a partner in Cecile Dumas' cosmetics firm, finds herself in a desperate situation when her theft from the company is discovered. After a confrontation with Cecile, Martha resorts to a cunning plan to frame the caretaker, old Sam, for Cecile's murder. She carefully orchestrates an alibi and stages the crime scene, confident that she has committed the perfect murder. However, Martha's plan unravels when a private detective, Ned Fuller, exposes her as the true culprit using a rare lipstick trademark as evidence. In the end, Martha's attempt to escape justice fails, as she is confronted by the sheriff and ultimately faces the consequences of her actions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Episode 449: Hit and Run

    Apr 10, 2025 · 30 min

    Hillary Gaines and Mildred plan to leave her husband, but their lives take a dark turn when they accidentally hit and kill him while driving. Feeling trapped and desperate, Hillary resorts to drastic measures, leading to unexpected consequences and a deadly blackmail scheme. As the truth unravels, a murder investigation unfolds with shocking revelations about the tangled web of deceit and betrayal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Episode 448: The Big Jump

    Apr 9, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled "The Big Jump" a man named Dave Leonard finds himself in a frightening situation when an old acquaintance from his past tracks him down. Despite attempting to leave town, he is unable to escape the threat. Eventually, he and his wife make a decision to go to the police and put an end to the danger they face. However, before they can take action, they receive surprising news that resolves their problem in an unexpected way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Episode 445: Clock on the Tower

    Apr 8, 2025 · 29 min

    The episode follows Joe Brill, a man sentenced to death for the murder of his wife, as he awaits his execution. His attorney brings him news that a witness, Fred Barnes, may be able to provide evidence to clear him. As Joe and his attorney race against time to gather evidence and seek a stay of execution, a shocking revelation unfolds, leaving Joe facing tough decisions in the final hours before his scheduled execution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Episode 444: The Lady With the Knife

    Apr 7, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode, Morley Carr encounters a portly gentleman named Sam Wilson in a hotel cocktail lounge in Omaha, who claims to have the key to a quarter million dollars in his pocket. However, their encounter takes a dark turn when Sam is found dead with a knife in his back and his pocket emptied. Morley then embarks on a journey to track down the mysterious lady with the knife, Lucille Lacey, and unravel the mystery surrounding Sam's fortune through a series of dangerous encounters and deceptive tactics, ultimately leading to a shocking discovery of smuggled diamonds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. Episode 443: Till Death Do Us Part

    Apr 6, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Roy Layton finds himself in desperate need of money and is approached by a woman named Linda McKelvey with an unusual proposal. Linda offers Roy $5,000 to marry her before her 25th birthday in order to inherit a large sum of money from her late uncle. As the plan unfolds, Roy realizes that making Linda fall in love with him may be the key to accessing her inheritance. But when his attempts at winning her affection are unsuccessful, Roy begins to contemplate darker means of securing the money, ultimately leading to a shocking turn of events and an unexpected confession. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. Episode 442: Warm Reception

    Apr 5, 2025 · 29 min

    Greg Fallon's chance visit to his hometown after an accidental killing leads to a surprising welcome from old acquaintances. As events unfold, Greg finds himself embroiled in a series of mysterious incidents, including an attempt on his life, unexpected revelations about a past murder, and a confrontation with an old flame. Things take a dark turn as Greg decides to take matters into his own hands, leading to unexpected and tragic consequences that leave the town in shock. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. Episode 441: A Friendly Case of Blackmail

    Apr 4, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode, George approaches his old friend Albert for a loan to get married, but Albert refuses, expressing his belief that George needs to set higher goals and work towards them. However, George decides to blackmail Albert after realizing that he has a criminal past that he's been hiding. As the blackmail plot unfolds, George becomes increasingly fearful as Albert starts to unravel the truth and ultimately figures out George's involvement. In a twisted turn of events, Albert reveals that he has actually poisoned himself, intending to end his life rather than let George ruin him. George is left to face the consequences of his actions as Albert's final act of revenge, leaving him with an unexpected inheritance and a guilty conscience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. Episode 440: Just Like a Man

    Apr 3, 2025 · 30 min

    Sandra Haynes, Gordon Haynes, and their friend Peter Lacey are at the airport, and it's clear that there's tension between them. Sandra is flying east alone, much to Peter's concern. Gordon seems preoccupied as he makes plans to meet someone named Vicki, and Peter warns him to stay away from her. Later, back at the beach house, Sandra unexpectedly returns and confronts Gordon about his relationship with Vicki. After an accident involving Peter's car and Sandra's death, the police suspect foul play, leading to a surprising twist in the investigation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. Episode 439: The Intruder

    Apr 2, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'The Intruder,' Eve Trahearne embarks on a scheme to win over and marry Philip Trahearne, a history professor. As her devious plan unfolds, she navigates a series of manipulative twists and turns to secure her position in Litchfield. However, her success is short-lived as a shocking turn of events ultimately unravels her deceit and reveals unforeseen consequences. The episode delves into themes of manipulation, love, betrayal, and the unexpected repercussions of one's actions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. Episode 438: The Wall

    Apr 1, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode, Jeffrey Channing wrestles with a dark family secret as he navigates the complexities of his aging aunt's constant house remodeling. When a young artist captures his heart, Jeffrey becomes increasingly desperate to protect the secret hidden within the Channing House wall. As events unfold, an accidental death and the discovery of a large sum of hidden money lead to unexpected accusations, leaving Jeffrey's fate hanging in the balance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. Episode 437: Smart Boy

    Mar 31, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Karl Maxson, a collection man for Marty Randall, begins to ponder his future and the potential for making easy money. After a profitable trip to the racetrack, Karl seizes the opportunity and flees with the winnings, changing his identity and settling in a secluded town. However, his past catches up with him when a former associate, Joe Roach, appears and demands a significant amount of money to keep quiet about Karl's past. Amidst the blackmail, a startling revelation emerges when the local police chief shares details about a murder, leaving Karl in a precarious situation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. Episode 436: Fatal Action

    Mar 30, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Captain Ernie Hill finds himself embroiled in a dangerous plan involving a shipwreck, a cargo smuggling scheme, and a complicated web of relationships. When events take a deadly turn, Captain Hill must navigate treacherous waters to protect himself and his illicit activities, all while facing unexpected confrontations and ominous threats. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. Episode 435: Dear Diary

    Mar 29, 2025 · 27 min

    In this gripping episode of The Whistler, Mike Jordan finds himself in a desperate situation after a botched theft of a payroll job. With Len and Monty on his trail, he meets Anne Wilson, a naive young woman who works for an elderly man rumored to have a lot of money. Mike sees an opportunity in Anne and begins a scheme to get close to her in order to secure the money he desperately needs. However, as the situation escalates, Mike becomes entwined in a web of deceit and murder that leads to a chilling discovery from Anne's diary. Unforeseen consequences force Mike to come to terms with the gravity of his actions in a chilling conclusion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. Episode 434: That Hemsley Affair

    Mar 28, 2025 · 29 min

    In the small village of Hemsley, Sarah Bolton finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and danger after a notorious bandit is traced to the area. When a burly man with a rifle shows up, Sarah must navigate through a series of suspicious events, including the arrival of a boarder named Mr. Pembroke. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, Sarah finds herself entangled in a twisted plot involving stolen money, hidden identities, and a dangerous partner. In a mesmerizing turn of events, Sarah's sly actions lead to a thrilling and unexpected resolution, leaving a trail of mystery and uncertainty in the small English village. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. Episode 433: Deadly Rumor

    Mar 27, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, titled 'Deadly Rumor', a nurse named Lillian schemes to marry her employer, Ralph Holbrooke, by orchestrating the death of his wife, Frances. However, when Ralph shows no interest in marrying her, Lillian seeks revenge by spreading rumors about Ralph's involvement in his wife's death. The situation escalates when Lillian shoots Ralph at her home, only to be discovered by a police officer who was already suspicious of her due to the rumors she spread. In the end, Lillian's plan backfires, and she is caught by the police for the murder of Ralph. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. Episode 432: Golden Penny

    Mar 26, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Bertram Lowen arrives at the Tremont mansion in search of a job running the Golden Penny yacht. He is hired by Rodney Tremont, but soon realizes that Tremont's wife, Delia, and secretary, are plotting something sinister. Lowen orchestrates a plan to deceive Tremont and secure the yacht and money from the safe. After successfully framing Tremont and setting sail with Delia, a sudden storm hits, and Lowen discovers that he has been double-crossed by Delia, who has sabotaged the yacht. As the storm intensifies, he realizes that they are in grave danger. The episode ends with a note from Delia, stating that she has taken the money and abandoned Lowen, leaving him to face the storm alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. Episode 431: Whirlwind

    Mar 25, 2025 · 30 min

    Lionel James, a columnist, leads a double life of nighttime activities while his wife, Edith, recuperates at home. He becomes involved with an aspiring singer, Shelly, and her husband, Jim. When his professional and personal lives collide, Lionel takes drastic measures to eliminate the problem, only to be thwarted by an unexpected intervention. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. Episode 430: Undercurrent

    Mar 24, 2025 · 30 min

    During a voyage from Vancouver to San Francisco, a passenger on the SS Java Queen becomes suspicious of a man posing as another passenger, Mr. Ashcroft. After overhearing a conversation, it's revealed that the ship's captain and crew are involved in smuggling aliens into the US. Following a plan to cover up a murder and claim an inheritance, the passenger orchestrates a hit-and-run to fake the death of Ashcroft. However, the passenger's scheme is foiled when they are confronted by an investigator, who was trailing them from the ship. The truth behind the murder and the smuggling operation is uncovered, leaving the passenger's plans in shambles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. Episode 429: Finale

    Mar 23, 2025 · 29 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Broadway star Christine Courtney's past catches up with her when a woman from her hometown threatens to expose her criminal history unless Christine agrees to make her an understudy. Desperate to protect her career and reputation, Christine takes drastic measures, leading to a shocking turn of events that ultimately reveals her true identity and past crimes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. Episode 427: Double Exposure

    Mar 22, 2025 · 30 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Clint Harwell, a famed architect, is unnerved when he discovers a startling surprise in the photos he developed from a recent cruise along the coast. He confronts the drugstore proprietor, Doc Ainsley, who reveals that he was in love with Clint's late wife, Corinne. In a fit of rage and panic, Clint murders Doc Ainsley. Later, realizing that his photo will implicate him in the murder, he attempts to stop its publication and ultimately ends up killing O.B. Willis, a witness who had allegedly seen Doc's killer. However, the sheriff arrives and reveals that O.B. Willis was the real arsonist and a liar, thereby clearing Clint's name of any wrongdoing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. Episode 426: With My Own Eyes

    Mar 21, 2025 · 27 min

    In this episode of The Whistler, Christine McKay arrives in Crescent Bay for a rest and quickly finds a place to stay at a big house with a mysterious owner, Mrs. Drake. However, her peaceful stay takes a chilling turn when she witnesses a murder with her own eyes. Convinced of what she saw, Christine attempts to seek justice by involving the police, only to find herself caught in a web of disbelief and confusion as the accused man claims innocence and the supposed victim is proven to be alive. The intense psychological drama unfolds as Christine battles to make the truth known, facing skepticism and disbelief from the authorities and the people involved in the perplexing case. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.