Suspense was a radio drama series broadcast on CBS Radio from 1940 to 1962. It was one of the most popular and critically acclaimed radio shows of the Golden Age of Radio, and is still remembered today for its suspenseful stories, excellent production values, and star-studded cast. The show was created and produced by Norman Macdonnell, and was known for its dark and atmospheric stories, which often featured elements of mystery, thriller, and horror. Suspense episodes were typically written by top Hollywood screenwriters and dramatists, and starred some of the biggest names in acting, including Orson Welles, Agnes Moorehead, Cary Grant, Bette Davis, and Boris Karloff. The show's signature opening and closing theme music, composed by Bernard Herrmann, is still instantly recognizable today. Suspense episodes were also known for their innovative use of sound effects and music to create a sense of suspense and excitement. Some of the most famous Suspense episodes include:
- "Sorry, Wrong Number" (1943), starring Agnes Moorehead as a woman who accidentally overhears a murder plot on the phone.
- "The Hitchhiker" (1945), starring Orson Welles as a man who is stalked by a mysterious hitchhiker.
- "On a Country Road" (1954), starring Cary Grant as a man who is stranded on a deserted road with a woman who may be trying to kill him.
- "The Yellow Wallpaper" (1956), starring Agnes Moorehead as a woman who descends into madness while confined to a room by her doctor husband.
Suspense was a groundbreaking radio show that helped to define the suspense thriller genre. It was also a major influence on early television and film noir. The show's legacy continues to this day, and its episodes are still enjoyed by listeners all over the world.
