Lux Redux: Hollywood's Timeless Theater

In Lux Radio Theater’s sparkling adaptation of The Last of Mrs. Cheney, Norma Shearer, Walter Pidgeon, and Adolphe Menjou shine in a tale of deception, wit, and unexpected romance. When the elegant and mysterious Mrs. Fay Cheney charms her way into London high society, she seems to be the perfect guest—until a string of secrets, stolen pearls, and unexpected affection threaten to unravel everything. What begins as a sophisticated heist quickly turns into a sharp social satire, exploring honor among thieves and the gray lines between crooks and aristocrats. With polished dialogue, delightful performances, and a twist of heart, this episode is a dazzling example of vintage radio drama at its cleverest. Cast Members: Norma Shearer, Walter Pidgeon, Adolphe Menjou, Frederick Warlock, Keith Hitchcock, Winifred Harris, Jill Esmond, Claire Verdera, John Abbott, Eric Snowden, Pat Walker, Charles Seel, Anne James, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Irene Castle (ballroom dancer and actress)

In Lux Radio Theater’s uproarious presentation of George Kelly’s celebrated play The Show-Off, Irene Castle joins Harold Peary—best known as the Great Gildersleeve—in a comic tale of bluster, blunders, and unexpected redemption. When Aubrey Piper, a loud, boastful clerk with grand illusions, sweeps Amy Fisher off her feet, her family’s world is turned upside down by his relentless bragging and absurd claims. Despite Aubrey’s bumbling interference—from derailing his brother-in-law’s invention deal to colliding with a police car—his misguided antics accidentally lead to unexpected fortune. Blending slapstick and sincerity, this episode is a hilarious yet tender examination of how even the most frustrating personalities can bring about surprising joy. Cast Members: Harold Peary, Una Merkel, Beulah Bondi, Paula Winslowe, Jeff Corey, Eddie Marr, Norman Field, Leo Cleary, Charles Cane, Arthur Q. Bryan, Ken Christy, Sharon Douglas, Fred MacKaye, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Irene Castle (ballroom dancer and actress)

Originally Aired: June 15, 1936, on "Lux Radio Theatre" In this captivating episode of "Lux Radio Theatre," we dive into the glitzy and tumultuous world of "Burlesque," a story that weaves together themes of love, ambition, and the harsh realities of show business. Set backstage at a small-town Midwestern burlesque show, we follow the journey of successful comedian and singer Skid Brown, played by the legendary Al Jolson, as he faces the challenges of pursuing fame while trying to hold onto the love of his life, Bonny Smith, portrayed by Ruby Keeler. As Skid's career takes him to the dazzling stages of New York City, his personal life begins to unravel. Meanwhile, Bonny is faced with her own difficult choice: stay loyal to the man she loves or take a chance on a better life with a wealthy rancher. The drama, heartbreak, and moments of tenderness in this episode paint a vivid picture of the highs and lows of a life in show business. The broadcast includes special intermission interviews with 85-year-old theatrical producer Daniel Frohman, as well as Al Jolson and Ruby Keeler themselves, adding depth and authenticity to this theatrical masterpiece. Jolson even performs timeless classics such as "A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody," "Is It True What They Say About Dixie?" and "Toot, Toot Tootsie."

In Lux Radio Theater’s emotionally charged drama “Confession: A Past Unveiled, A Mother's Secret,” Miriam Hopkins and Claude Rains deliver riveting performances in a tale of passion, loss, and redemption. When a glamorous cabaret singer is arrested for the murder of a famed pianist, the courtroom becomes the stage for a gripping story that spans decades—and hides a secret that could destroy an innocent life. As the trial unfolds, a web of past betrayals and maternal sacrifice is slowly revealed, with a daughter unknowingly caught in the crossfire of a tragic love triangle. Adapted from the 1937 Warner Bros. film, “Confession” is a poignant exploration of justice, identity, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. Cast Members: Miriam Hopkins, Claude Rains, Richard Greene, Anne Shirley, Sy Kendall, Margaret Brayton, Ted Osborne, Arthur Van Slyke, Myra Marsh, Ethel Sykes, Edwin Max, David Kerman, Elia Braca, Jerry Gale, Justina Wayne, Teresa Carmo, James Eagles, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Dr. Herman Lissauer (Head of Warner Brothers' Research Department)

In Lux Radio Theatre’s swashbuckling adventure “The Buccaneer: Pirates, Patriotism, and the Price of Honor”, Clark Gable stars as the legendary Jean Lafitte, a pirate torn between infamy and integrity. Joined by Olympe Bradna, Akim Tamiroff, and Gertrude Michael, this dramatic retelling of Lafitte’s role in the War of 1812 explores loyalty, love, and redemption. As British forces threaten New Orleans, Lafitte must choose between a lucrative alliance with the enemy or risking everything to aid General Andrew Jackson and defend the city he once preyed upon. Romance, betrayal, and gripping naval drama unfold in this thrilling tale inspired by history and brought vividly to life on the Lux stage. Cast Members: Clark Gable, Olympe Bradna, Akim Tamiroff, Gertrude Michael, Clara Blandick, Frank Nelson, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Rupert Hughes (Author and Historian) Air Date: November 14, 1938

In Lux Radio Theatre’s stirring adaptation of That Certain Woman, Carole Lombard and Basil Rathbone deliver deeply affecting performances in this tale of love, loss, and redemption. Lombard stars as Mary Donnell, a resilient woman trying to escape the shadows of her gangster husband’s past, while Rathbone portrays the compassionate lawyer who helps guide her path forward. Caught between societal judgment and personal sacrifice, Mary fights for dignity, love, and her child’s future. As Mary’s journey unfolds—from tragedy to quiet triumph—this emotionally charged drama asks what it truly means to love selflessly. Adapted from Edmund Goulding’s screenplay and previously filmed by Warner Brothers, this episode blends melodrama with heartfelt realism in a story about finding hope after heartbreak. Cast Members: Carole Lombard, Basil Rathbone, Geoffrey Lynn, Montague Shaw, Elizabeth Wilbur, Lorene Tuttle, George Pembroke, Galen Galt, Bobby Larson, Frank Nelson, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Edmund Goulding (Hollywood director and writer)

In Lux Radio Theatre’s madcap mystery-comedy Seven Keys to Baldpate, Jack Benny and Mary Livingston trade wisecracks, bullets, and ghost stories in a snowbound house with more “one-of-a-kind” keys than anyone expected. When Benny wagers he can write an original drama in 24 hours at Cecil B. DeMille’s remote mountain lodge, he finds himself tangled in a whirlwind of shady characters, hidden treasure, and a possibly homicidal hermit. Adapted from George M. Cohan’s stage hit (itself based on Earl Derr Biggers’ novel), this riotous romp turns suspense inside out as crooks, heirs, and alleged ghosts parade through the front door—each with their own key and their own scheme. With rapid-fire banter, self-deprecating jabs, and a violin interlude courtesy of special guest Ephraim Zimbalist, the evening’s “thriller” proves to be as much a send-up of melodrama as it is a love letter to it. Cast Members: Jack Benny, Mary Livingston, Cecil B. DeMille, Margaret Brayton, Ted Osborne, Ross Forrester, Gail Gordon, Lou Merrill, John Fee, Martha Wentworth, Eddie Waller, Joe Kearns, Victor Rodman, Mary Lansing, Frank Nelson, Dorothy Griewatz, Katherine Carlton, Louis Silvers Special Guest: Ephraim Zimbalist (violinist)

In Lux Radio Theatre’s sparkling adaptation of “Theodora Goes Wild,” Irene Dunne and Cary Grant light up the airwaves in a breezy comedy of secrets, scandal, and small-town rebellion. Dunne plays Theodora Lynn, a seemingly prim Sunday school teacher whose sensational novels, penned under a pseudonym, scandalize her quiet Connecticut town. But when a dashing illustrator (Grant) uncovers her double life, Theodora’s world unravels—and then explodes into color. As identities are revealed and reputations tested, Theodora must choose between the safety of conformity and the thrill of authenticity. Adapted from the hit Columbia Pictures film, this clever romantic comedy brims with charm, witty banter, and a touch of rebellion against societal expectations. Cast Members: Irene Dunne, Cary Grant, Kathleen Lockhart, Sarah Hayden, Lou Merrill, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Gwen Dew (Hollywood writer and globe-trotting journalist) Air Date: June 13, 1938

In Lux Radio Theatre’s gripping production of “A Doll’s House: Secrets, Sacrifices, and Selfhood,” Joan Crawford and Basil Rathbone deliver powerful performances in Henrik Ibsen’s revolutionary play. This compelling drama explores the quiet struggles and internal awakenings of Nora Helmer, a devoted wife whose world is upended when a long-concealed secret threatens to destroy her carefully constructed domestic life. As Nora’s inner conflict grows, so does the tension between duty, identity, and independence. With stakes that challenge the very foundations of marriage and selfhood, Ibsen’s masterpiece is brought to life with emotional depth and period authenticity. A moving examination of freedom, truth, and the cost of silence, this adaptation captures the enduring relevance of one woman’s quest to discover who she truly is. Cast Members: Joan Crawford, Basil Rathbone, Sam Jaffe, Nedda Harrigan, Vernon Steele, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Frances Manson (Head of the Story Department, Samuel Goldwyn Productions)

In Lux Radio Theatre’s poignant romantic drama “I Met My Love Again: Lost Time, Rekindled Hearts,” Joan Bennett and Henry Fonda reunite in a touching tale of youthful love, heartbreak, and second chances. Set in the serene college town of Linborough, Vermont, the story follows Julie and Ives—two souls torn apart by a decade of missteps, misjudgments, and missed opportunities. When Julie returns home with her young daughter after years abroad, a chance encounter with her former fiancé reopens old wounds—and reignites a love that refuses to be forgotten. As emotions swell and past decisions haunt the present, Julie and Ives must face whether love can truly be reborn after so much time. With tender performances and stirring dialogue, this adaptation of the screen hit explores forgiveness, resilience, and the power of enduring affection. Cast Members: Joan Bennett, Henry Fonda, Mae Robeson, Margaret Hamilton, Louise Platt, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Jimmy Starr (Hollywood columnist)

In Lux Radio Theatre’s stirring adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham’s “The Letter,” Merle Oberon and Walter Houston lead a powerful cast through a haunting tale of love, betrayal, and courtroom drama. Set in the steamy colonial world of Singapore and the Malay Peninsula, the story centers on Leslie Crosby, the refined wife of a British plantation owner, who is arrested for murder under suspicious circumstances. As the mystery unfolds, secrets from her past emerge—threatening her marriage, her freedom, and her sanity. This unforgettable broadcast delves into the psychology of a woman torn between passion and duty, as a gripping legal battle determines her fate. Cast Members: Merle Oberon, Walter Houston, Ralph Forbes, Eric Snowden, Lou Merrill, Leonard Mudie, Raymond Lawrence, Celeste Rush, Sybil Harris, Frank Nelson, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Carbeth Wells (explorer and author)

In this heartfelt and dramatic episode of Lux Radio Theatre, “The Girl from Tenth Avenue: Love Across the Divide,” Hollywood luminaries Loretta Young and George Brent star in a compelling story of romance, social boundaries, and redemption. Adapted from the 1935 Warner Bros. film, the episode follows Miriam Brady, a hardworking girl from the wrong side of the tracks, and Geoffrey Sherwood, a wealthy man reeling from heartbreak. A chance meeting leads to a whirlwind marriage, thrusting Miriam into a world of privilege and scrutiny. As the couple navigates class differences, meddling friends, and old flames, they must decide if love can truly conquer all. With sharp dialogue, emotional performances, and an insightful interlude on etiquette from special guest Mrs. Emily Post, this episode delivers both drama and charm. Don’t miss the uplifting conclusion as hope and understanding bring two worlds together. Cast Members: Loretta Young, George Brent, Beulah Bondi, Mona Barry, Eric Snowden, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Mrs. Emily Post (World-famous etiquette authority) Original Airdate: May 16, 1938

In this sparkling episode of Lux Radio Theatre, “My Man Godfrey: Forgotten Men and Manhattan Madcaps,” Hollywood legends William Powell and Carole Lombard lead an all-star cast through a whirlwind of wit, romance, and social satire. When the eccentric Bullock family plucks a mysterious “forgotten man” from a city dump to win a high-society scavenger hunt, they never expect their new butler, Godfrey, to turn their world upside down—or to capture their hearts in the process. Adapted from Eric Hatch’s beloved screwball comedy, this rollicking tale dives beneath the glitter of Manhattan’s elite to reveal the true meaning of kindness, purpose, and love. With plenty of wisecracks, misadventures, and poignant moments, “My Man Godfrey” delivers laughter and warmth from its opening lines to its fairy-tale ending. Cast Members: William Powell, Carole Lombard, Gail Patrick, Mischa Auer, David Niven, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guests: Madeline Fields (Carol Lombard’s friend and business manager), Eric Hatch (author of the original story) Aired: May 9, 1938

In this powerful episode of Lux Radio Theatre, “The Prisoner of Shark Island: Justice on Trial,” Hollywood legends Gary Cooper, Fay Wray, and Walter Connolly lead a gripping dramatization based on one of the most dramatic chapters in American history. The story follows Dr. Samuel A. Mudd, a physician condemned to life imprisonment after treating John Wilkes Booth—the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. Adapted from the acclaimed 20th Century Fox film, this stirring tale explores the boundaries of justice, loyalty, and the redemptive power of courage. With breathtaking performances and the rare appearance of Mrs. Nettie Mudd-Monroe, Dr. Mudd’s own daughter, as the special guest, this episode brings to life the tragic ordeal, unwavering hope, and eventual triumph of a man who maintained his innocence against all odds. As Dr. Mudd battles through accusation, imprisonment on the infamous Dry Tortugas, and a devastating yellow fever outbreak, listeners are reminded of the enduring human spirit and the possibility of redemption. Cast Members: Gary Cooper, Fay Wray, Walter Connolly, John Carradine, Ernest Whitman, Joan Carroll, Francis MacDonald, Ted Osborne, Albert Van Dekker, John Deering, Victor Rodman, Lee Malar, Frank Shannon, Lou Merrill, Earl Gunn, Warren McCullum, Frank Nelson, Cracker Henderson, Libby Taylor, Jester Hairston, Clarence Hargrave, Jack Carr, Louis Silvers (orchestra), Cecil B. DeMille (host) Special Guest: Mrs. Nettie Mudd-Monroe (daughter of Dr. Samuel A. Mudd) Hollywood Radio Editors (audience guests) Date: May 2, 1938

In Lux Radio Theatre’s riveting drama “Dangerous: A Jinxed Heart, A Daring Redemption,” Madeline Carroll and Don Ameche star alongside Heather Angel in a story of luck, love, and second chances. Carroll shines as Joyce Heath, a gifted but ill-fated actress believed to bring disaster to those around her. When Don Bellows, a successful young architect, stumbles into her troubled world, he’s determined to help her reclaim her life—and her career—despite the dark legend that surrounds her. As their lives entwine in a swirl of ambition, romance, and sacrifice, the shadow of Joyce’s past threatens their future. Adapted from the acclaimed Warner Brothers film, this episode explores whether love can overcome superstition, and if a “jinxed” woman can finally find happiness. With witty banter, heartfelt confessions, and a touch of Hollywood glamour, “Dangerous” is a moving testament to resilience and the power of redemption. Cast Members: Madeline Carroll, Don Ameche, Heather Angel, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Thelma Saxton (Hollywood hand double artist) Original Air Date: April 25, 1938

In Lux Radio Theatre’s heartfelt comedy “Mad About Music: A Daughter’s Dream, A Stranger’s Role,” Deanna Durbin shines as a spirited schoolgirl who concocts a fantastic tale about her nonexistent globe-trotting father—only to rope a bewildered composer, played by Herbert Marshall, into playing the part. Set in the picturesque Swiss countryside, this tale of imagination, identity, and unexpected connection unfolds with warmth, wit, and gentle poignancy. As the web of fibs tightens, Gloria’s invented world collides with reality, revealing her deep yearning for family and belonging. Aided by Gayle Patrick and William Frawley, this delightful radio adaptation blends youthful fantasy with grown-up charm, echoing the golden spirit of classic Hollywood storytelling. Cast Members: Deanna Durbin, Herbert Marshall, Gayle Patrick, William Frawley, Jackie Moran, Christian Rubb, Helen Parrish, Marcia Mae Jones, Edgar Norton, Margaret Brayton, Marie Hammond, Joanne Ransom, Suzanne Ransom, Jerry Gale, Louis Silvers, Walter Houston Special Guest: Mrs. Kellefine Morrison (Los Angeles Public School educator)

In this thrilling episode of Lux Radio Theatre, “Mary Burns, Fugitive,” screen legends Miriam Hopkins and Henry Fonda star in a riveting tale of love, betrayal, and redemption. Mary Burns, a small-town girl with a quiet life, finds herself swept up in a dangerous romance with a man who isn’t what he seems. As her world collapses around her, Mary becomes a fugitive—caught between the law and a gangster’s vengeance. With the law on her heels and her heart torn between loyalty and truth, Mary faces impossible choices that test her courage and character. Adapted from the Paramount film, this suspenseful drama explores the endurance of love in the shadow of crime, and the strength it takes to seek justice and a second chance at life. Cast Members: Miriam Hopkins, Henry Fonda, Mary Astor, Paul Guilfoyle, Louis Silvers, Edward Arnold (guest producer), Melville Ruick (announcer) Special Guest: Travis Banton (Hollywood stylist)

In Dark Victory: A Love Beyond the Horizon, Lux Radio Theatre presents a heart-rending drama of mortality, courage, and transcendent love, starring Barbara Stanwyck and Melvyn Douglas. Judith Traherne, a spirited young woman, lives for the thrill of the moment—until a mysterious illness threatens everything. Diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor, she must face an unthinkable reality with grace and dignity. As Dr. Frederick Steele, the brilliant but emotionally guarded surgeon, navigates his feelings for Judith, they are drawn together by fate and an undeniable bond. Adapted from the Broadway play by George Brewer Jr. and Bertram Bloch, this production explores the redemptive power of love and the quiet heroism in accepting one’s destiny. A luminous story brought to life by a stellar cast and moving performances. Cast Members: Barbara Stanwyck, Melvyn Douglas, Elizabeth Risdon, Frank Nelson, Lou Merrill, Louis Silvers, Edward Arnold Special Guest: Nina Roberts (Hollywood hairstylist to the stars)

In Naughty Marietta: Casquette Maids, Captains, and the Call of Romance, Lux Radio Theatre brings Victor Herbert’s timeless operetta to life with the powerful voices of Lawrence Tibbett and Helen Jepson. Set in 18th-century France and colonial Louisiana, this musical tale follows the rebellious Countess Marietta, who flees an arranged marriage by joining a group of casquette maids bound for the New World in search of husbands. Disguised and determined to live life on her own terms, Marietta soon crosses paths with the dashing Captain Richard Warrington. Their journey brims with pirates, mistaken identities, forbidden love, and enchanting melodies—including the immortal “Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life.” A spirited celebration of independence and true love, this episode showcases operatic splendor and romantic adventure in perfect harmony. Cast Members: Lawrence Tibbett, Helen Jepson, Ian McLaren, Ralph Kellard, Ferdinand Meunier, Otis Holland, Richard Abbott, Edwin Max, Gacy Brooke, Margaret McKay, Grace Kern, James Eagles, Lou Merrill, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: A.B. Oldfield (Film critic and motion picture fan)

In The Man Who Played God: Silence, Sacrifice, and the Echo of Grace, Lux Radio Theatre delivers a moving portrait of loss and redemption, starring the legendary George Arliss alongside Florence Arliss and Dolores Costello. When celebrated pianist Montgomery Royal is struck deaf at the height of his fame, his life spirals into despair—until he discovers a new purpose in a most unexpected way. Reading lips from his penthouse overlooking Central Park, Monty begins to help those in need with anonymous gifts, transforming from a recluse into a silent guardian. As he navigates heartbreak, spiritual doubt, and ultimate selflessness, this adaptation of the Jules Eckert Goodman play captures the essence of human dignity and divine compassion. A timeless tale of a man who learns that the greatest music is found in acts of kindness. Cast Members: George Arliss, Florence Arliss, Dolores Costello, Elizabeth Risdon, Ivan Simpson, Frank Nelson, Lou Merrill, Louis Silvers, Cecil B. DeMille Special Guest: Leo McCarey (Academy Award-winning director)