Podcast appearances and mentions of Basil Rathbone

Sherlock Holmes hat schon viele Darsteller gehabt: Den elegant Pfeife rauchenden Basil Rathbone im Schlafrock, den grüblerisch brillanten Benedict Cumberbatch oder den schlagkräftig verlotterten Robert Downey Jr. Es handelt sich um eine der meistverfilmten literarischen Figuren. Jetzt kommt noch eine Serie hinzu. Es geht es um den jungen Sherlock Holmes, der noch weit entfernt ist vom Dasein als Meisterdetektiv.

What happens when a childhood dream refuses to let go? In this episode, I sit down with cartoonist and Lum and Abner historian Donnie Pitchford to explore how old-time radio, comic strips, and a love for storytelling shaped his life. Donnie shares how he grew up inspired by classic radio shows like Lum and Abner, pursued art despite setbacks, and eventually brought the beloved Pine Ridge characters back to life through a modern comic strip and audio adaptations. We talk about creativity, persistence, radio history, and why imagination still matters in a visual world. If you care about classic radio, cartooning, or staying true to your calling, I believe you will find this conversation both inspiring and practical. Highlights: 00:10 Discover how a childhood love of Lum and Abner sparked a lifelong dream of becoming a cartoonist. 08:00 Hear how college radio and classic broadcasts deepened a passion for old time radio storytelling. 14:33 Understand how years of teaching broadcast journalism built the skills that later fueled creative success. 23:17 Learn how the Lum and Abner comic strip was revived with family approval and brought to modern audiences. 30:07 Explore how two actors created an entire town through voice and imagination alone. 1:00:16 Hear the vision for keeping Lum and Abner alive for new generations through comics and audio. Top of Form Bottom of Form About the Guest: Donnie Pitchford of Texas is a graduate of Kilgore College, Art Instruction Schools, Stephen F. Austin State University and the University of Texas at Tyler. He has worked in the graphic arts industry and in education, teaching at Hawkins High School, Panola College, and Carthage High School at which he spent 25 years directing CHS-TV, where student teams earned state honors, including state championships, for 20 consecutive years. In 2010, Donnie returned to the endeavor he began at age five: being a cartoonist! The weekly “Lum and Abner" comic strip began in 2011. It is available online and in print and includes an audio production for the blind which features the talents of actors and musicians who donate their time. Donnie has created comic book stories and art for Argo Press of Austin, illustrated children's books, written scripts for the "Dick Tracy" newspaper strip, and produced the science fiction comedy strip "Tib the Rocket Frog." He has collaborated with award-winning writers and cartoonists George Wildman, Nicola Cuti, John Rose, Mike Curtis, Joe Staton, and others. In 2017, Donnie began assisting renowned sculptor Bob Harness and currently sculpts the portraits for the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame plaques. Awards include the 1978 Kilgore College "Who's Who" in Art, an Outstanding Educator Award from the East Texas Chapter of the Texas Society of CPAs in 1993, the CHS "Pine Burr" Dedicatee honor in 2010, and a Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2018 from Spring Hill High School. In 2024, Donnie was inducted into the City of Carthage Main Street Arts Walk of Fame which included the placement of a bronze plaque in the sidewalk and the Key to the City. Donnie and his best friend/wife, Laura, are members of First Methodist Church Carthage, Texas. Donnie is a founding officer of the National Lum and Abner Society and a member of Texas Cartoonists, Ark-La-Tex Cartoonists, Christian Comic Arts Society, and the National Cartoonists Society. Ways to connect with Michaela**:** https://www.facebook.com/groups/220795254627542 https://lumandabnercomics.com/ About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us. Michael Hingson  01:21 Well, hi everyone, and welcome to another episode of unstoppable mindset. I've been looking forward to this one for a while. We have Donny Pitchford as our guest today. You're probably going, who's Donnie Pitchford? Well, let me tell you. So years ago, I started collecting old radio shows. And one of the first shows that I got was a half hour episode of a show called Lum and Abner, which is about a couple of characters, if you will, in Pine Ridge, Arkansas. And I had only heard the half hour show sponsored by frigid air. But then in 1971 when ksi, out here in Los Angeles, the 50,000 watt Clear Channel station, started celebrating its 50 year history, they started broadcasting as part of what they did, 15 minute episodes of lemon Abner. And I became very riveted to listening to lemon Abner every night, and that went on for quite a while. And so I've kept up with the boys, as it were. Well, a several years ago, some people formed a new Lum and Abner society, and Donnie Pitchford is part of that. I met Donnie through radio enthusiast of Puget Sound, and yesterday, USA. And so we clearly being interested in old radio and all that, had to have Donnie come on and and talk with us. So Donnie, or whatever character you're representing today, welcome to unstoppable mindset. Donnie Pitchford  02:58 Huh? I'm glad to be here. Michael Hingson  03:00 He does that very well, doesn't he? It's a Donnie Pitchford  03:04 little tough sometimes. Well, I'm really glad to be here. Thank you. Michael Hingson  03:10 Well, I appreciate the audio parts of lemon Abner that you you all create every week, and just the whole society. It's great to keep that whole thing going it's kind of fun. We're glad that that it is. But let's, let's talk about you a little bit. Why don't you start by telling us about the early Donnie, growing up and all that. I'm assuming you were born, and so we won't worry about that. But beyond that, think so, yeah. Well, there you are. Tell us about tell us about you and growing up and all that, and we'll go from there. Donnie Pitchford  03:42 Well, I was born in East Texas and left for a little while. We lived in my family lived in Memphis, Tennessee for about seven years, and then moved back to Texas in 1970 but ever since I was a kid this I hear this from cartoonists everywhere. Most of them say I wanted to be a cartoonist when I was five years old. So that's in fact, I had to do a speech for the Texas cartoonist chapter of the National Cartoonist Society. And that was my start. I was going to say the same thing, and the President said, Whatever you do, don't do that old bit about wanting to be a cartoonist at age five. Everybody does that, so I left that part out, but that's really what I wanted to do as a kid. And I would see animated cartoons. I would read the Sunday comics in the Memphis Commercial Appeal, and then at some point, my dad would talk about radio, and my mother would talk about listening to radio. We would have the reruns of the Lone Ranger television show and things like Sky King and other programs along those lines, and my parents would all. Way say, Well, I used to listen to that on the radio, or I would hear Superman on the radio, or Amos and Andy or whatever was being rerun at that time, and that fascinated me. And I had these vague memories of hearing what I thought were television programs coming over the radio when I was about two years old. I remember gunshots. I remember, you know, like a woman crying and just these little oddball things. I was about two years old, and I kept thinking, Well, why are we picking up television programs on my mother's radio? Turns out it was the dying gasps of what we now call old time radio. And so at least I remembered that. But when I was about, I guess eight or nine we were, my dad took me to lunch at alums restaurant in Memphis, and I saw that name, and I thought, What in the world? So what kind of name is that? And my dad told me about London Abner, and he said it reminds me. It reminded him of the Andy Griffith Show or the Beverly Hillbillies. I said, I'd love to hear that. He said, Ah, you'll never hear it. He said, those were live they don't exist, but years later, I got to hear them. So yeah, but that's how I grew up wanting to be a cartoonist and coming up with my own characters and drawing all the time and writing stories and that sort of thing. Michael Hingson  06:24 So when did you move back from Memphis to Texas? Donnie Pitchford  06:28 July 2, 1970 I just happened to look that up the other day. How old were you then? I was 12 when we came back. All right, so got into, I was in junior high, and trying to, I was trying to find an audience for these comic strips I was drawing on notebook paper. And finally, you know, some of the kids got into them, and I just continued with that goal. And I just, I knew that soon as possible, you know, I was going to start drawing comics professionally. So I thought, but kept, you know, I kept trying. Michael Hingson  07:06 So you, you went on into college. What did you do in college? Donnie Pitchford  07:11 Well, more of the same. I started listening to some old time radio shows even as far back as as high school. And I was interested in that went to college, first at a college called Kill Gore College, here in East Texas, and then to Stephen F Austin State University. And I was majoring in, first commercial art, and then art education. And I thought, well, if I can't go right into comics, you know, maybe I can just teach for a while. I thought I'll do that for a couple of years. I thought it wouldn't be that long. But while I was at Stephen F Austin State University, the campus radio station, I was so pleased to find out ran old time radio shows. This was in 1980 there was a professor named Dr Joe Oliver, who had a nightly program called theater of the air. And I would hear this voice come over the radio. He would run, he Well, one of the first, the very first 15 minute lemon Abner show I ever heard was played by Dr Oliver. He played Jack Benny. He played the whistler suspense, just a variety of them that he got from a syndicated package. And I would hear this voice afterwards, come on and say, It's jazz time. I'm Joe Oliver. And I thought, Where have I heard that voice? It was, it's just a magnificent radio voice. Years later, I found out, well, I heard that voice in Memphis when I was about 10 years old on W, R, E, C, radio and television. He was working there. He lived in Memphis about the same time we did. Heard him on the campus station at Nacogdoches, Texas. Didn't meet him in person until the late 90s, and it was just an amazing collection of coincidences. And now, of course, we're good friends. Now he's now the announcer for our audio comic strip. So it's amazing how all that came about. Well, I Michael Hingson  09:16 I remember listening to sort of the last few years of oval radio. I think it was, I don't remember the date now, whether it's 57 or 50 I think it's 57 the Kingston Trio had come out with the song Tom Dooley, and one day I was listening to K and X radio in Los Angeles. We lived in Palmdale, and I heard something about a show called suspense that was going to play the story of Tom Dooley. And I went, sounds interesting, and I wanted to know more about it, so I listened. And that started a weekly tradition with me every Sunday, listening to yours truly Johnny dollar and suspense, and they had a little bit of the FBI and peace and war. Then it's went into half and that that went off and Have Gun Will Travel came on, and then at 630 was Gun Smoke. So I listened to radio for a couple of hours every week, not every Sunday night, and thoroughly enjoyed it. And so that's how I really started getting interested in it. Then after radio went off the air a few stations out in California and on the LA area started playing old radio shows somebody started doing because they got the syndicated versions of the shadow and Sherlock Holmes with Sir John Gielgud and Sir Ralph Richardson. And I still maintain to this day that John Gielgud is the best Sherlock Holmes. No matter what people say about Basil Rathbone and I still think Sir John Gielgud was the best Sherlock Holmes. He was very, very good. Yeah, he was and so listen to those. But you know, radio offers so much. And even with, with, with what the whole lemon Abner shows today. My only problem with the lemon Abner shows today is they don't last nearly long enough. But that's another story. Donnie Pitchford  11:11 Are you talking about the comic strip adaptation? Okay, you know how long, how much art I would have to 11:21 do every week. Michael Hingson  11:25 Oh, I know, but they're, they're fun, and, you know, we, we enjoy them, but so you So you met Joe, and as you said, He's the announcer. Now, which is, which is great, but what were you doing then when you met him? What kind of work were you doing at the time? Donnie Pitchford  11:45 Well, of course, there was a gap there of about, I guess, 15 years after college, before I met him. And what ended up happening my first teaching job was an art job, a teaching art and graphic arts at a small high school in Hawkins, Texas, and that was a disaster. Wasn't a wasn't a very good year for me. And so I left that, and I had worked in the printing industry, I went back to that, and that was all during the time that the National London Abner society was being formed. And so I printed their earliest newsletters, which came out every other month. And we started having conventions in MENA, Arkansas and in the real Pine Ridge and the my fellow ossifers As we we call ourselves, and you hear these guys every week on the lemon Abner comic strip. Sam Brown, who lives in Illinois, Tim Hollis, from Alabama. Tim is now quite a published author who would might be a good guest for you one day, sure. And just two great guys. We had a third officer early on named Rex riffle, who had to leave due to various illnesses about 1991 but we started having our conventions every year, starting in 1985 we had some great guests. We brought in everybody we could find who worked with lemon Abner or who knew lemon Abner. We had their their head writer, Roswell Rogers. We had actors, I'm sure you've heard of Clarence Hartzell. He was Ben withers, of course, on the Old Vic and Sade show. He was Uncle Fletcher. We had Willard Waterman, parley Bayer, some of their announcers, Wendell Niles. And my memory is going to start failing me, because there were so many, but we had Bob's, Watson, Louise curry, who were in their first two movies. We had Kay Lineker, who was in their third movie. The list goes on and on, but we had some amazing when did Chester lock pass away? He passed away? Well, Tuffy passed away first, 1978, 78 and Chet died in 1980 sad. Neither of them, yeah, we didn't get to media. Yeah, we didn't meet either one of them. I've met Mrs. Lock I've met all of chet's children, several grandchildren. We spoke to Mrs. Goff on the phone a time or two, and also, tuffy's got toughie's daughter didn't get to meet them in person, but we met as many of the family as we could. Michael Hingson  14:32 Still quite an accomplishment all the way around. And so you you taught. You didn't have success. You felt really much at first, but then what you taught for quite a while, though, Donnie Pitchford  14:45 didn't you? Yes, I went back to the printing industry for about a year, and in the summer of 85 about two weeks before school started, I had got a call that they needed someone to teach Broadcast Journalism at. Carthage High School, and we had a department called CHS TV. I ran that for 25 years. I taught classes. We produced a weekly television program, weekly radio program. We did all kinds of broadcasts for the school district and promotional video. And then in the last I think it was the last 10 years or so that I worked there, we started an old time radio show, and we were trying to come up with a title for it, and just as a temporary placeholder, we called it the golden age of radio. Finally, we said, well, let's just use that, and I think it's been used by other people since, but, but that was the title we came up with. I think in 19 I think it was in 93 or 9495 somewhere in there. We started out. We just ran Old Time Radio, and the students, I would have them research and introduce, like, maybe 45 minutes of songs, of music, you know, from the 30s, 40s, maybe early 50s, big band and Sinatra and Judy Garland and you name it. Then, when the classes would change, we would always start some type of radio program that was pre recorded that would fill that time, so the next class could come in and get in place and and everybody participated, and they went out live over our cable television channel, and we would just run a graphic of a radio and maybe have some announcements or listing of what we were playing. And we did that for several years, usually maybe two or three times a year. And then in I think it was 2004 or so, we had an offer from a low power FM station, which was another another county over, and we started doing a Sunday night, one hour program each week. And I think we ended up doing close to 300 of those before I left. And so we got old time radio in there, one way or the other. Michael Hingson  17:03 Well, I remember. I remember, for me, I went to UC Irvine in the fall of 1968 and by the spring the last quarter of my freshman year, I had started getting some old radio shows. So started playing shows, and then in the fall, I started doing a three hour show on Sunday night called the Radio Hall of Fame, and we did radio every night. And what I didn't know until, actually, fairly recently, was our mutual friend Walden Hughes actually listened to my show on Sunday, and so did the gas means actually, but, but we had a low power station as well, but it made it up, and so people listened to it. And I've always been proud of the fact that during the fact that during the time I ran the Radio Hall of Fame, I'd heard of this show called 60 minutes with a guy named Mike Wallace, but never got to see it. And then it was only much later that I actually ended up starting to watch 60 Minutes. Course, I always loved to say I would have loved to have met, met Mike Wallace and never got to do it, but I always said he had criminal tendencies. I mean, my gosh, what do you think he was the announcer on radio for the Green Hornet, a criminal show, right? Sky King, a lot of criminals. Clearly the guy. Anyway, I would have been fun to meet him, but, Donnie Pitchford  18:31 and his name was Myron. Myron Wallach at the time. Wallach, you're right. I think that's right. Michael Hingson  18:37 But it was, it was fun and and so I've actually got some Sky King shows and green Hornets with him. So it's, it's kind of cool, but Right? You know, I still really do believe that the value of radio is it makes you imagine more. I've seen some movies that I really like for that the original Invasion of the Body Snatchers with Kevin McCarthy back in 1955 I thought was such a good movie because they didn't show the plants taking over the humans. It was all left to your imagination, which was so cool, and they changed all that in the later remake of it with Leonard Nimoy, which I didn't think was nearly as good, not nearly as suspenseful. But anyway, that's just my opinion. But radio, for me was always a and continues to be a part of what I like to do. And so I've been collecting shows and and enjoying and, of course, listening to lemon Abner, So what made you decide to finally end teaching? Donnie Pitchford  19:38 Well, you know, I could only do that so long. I was getting I was getting very tired, getting kind of burned out, and I had to have a change. There's something had to change. And I was able to take a few years early and retire, and I still the whole time I had a. That it was like a haunting feeling. I, you know, I wanted to be a cartoonist. I would pray, you know, you know, Lord, is there some way can I, can I get out of this? And can I do what I really want to do? And I had some mentors that was finally able to meet people that I would write letters to as a kid, a cartoonist and comic book editor named George Wildman was one of them. He was nice enough to answer my letters when I was a kid, and I'd send him drawings, and he would encourage me, or he would send little corrections on there, you know. And another one was a gentleman named high Eisemann, who passed away recently at age 98 on his birthday, but men like this inspired me, and that it kept at me through the years. I finally met George in 1994 at a convention of the the international Popeye fan club. And I'm I'm at high the same way, and also a writer named Nicola Cuddy, who wrote some Popeye comics. I met him the same way, same event, we all became friends, and I had a good friend named Michael Ambrose of Austin, Texas, who published a magazine devoted to the Charlton Comics company. Sadly, he's deceased now, but Mike and I were talking before I retired, and finally I got out of it. And he said, now that you're out of that job, how would you like to do some art? I said, That's what I want to do. So he gave me the opportunity to do my first published work, which was a portrait of artist George Wildman. It was on the cover of a magazine called Charlton spotlight, then I did some work for Ben Omar, who is bear Manor media publisher for some books that he was doing. One was Mel Blanc biography that Noel blank wrote, did some illustrations for that. This was all happening in 2010 and after that. So I was getting it was getting rolling, doing the kind of work I really wanted to do. And there's a gentleman named Ethan nobles in Benton, Arkansas, who wanted to interview me. I'd gotten, I don't know how he I forgot how he got in touch with me. Maybe he heard me on yesterday USA could be wanted to interview me about London Abner. And so he was starting a website called first Arkansas news. And somewhere in early 2011 we were talking, and I said, you know, you want this to be an online newspaper, right? He said, Yes. I said, What about comics? He said, I hadn't thought about that. So I said, Well, you know, you're a big Lum and Abner fan. What if we could we do a Lum and Abner comic strip? He said, Well, who would Where would I get? Who would do? And I said, Me. So I drew up some proposals, I drew some model sheets, and we did about four weeks of strips, and got approval from Chester lock Jr, and he suggested there's some things he didn't like. He said, The lum looks too sinister. He looks mean. Well, he's mad. He said he's mad at Abner. This won't happen every week. He said, Okay, I don't want LOM to be I said, Well, you know, they get mad at each other. That's part of the that's the conflict and the comedy Michael Hingson  23:30 at each other. Yeah. Donnie Pitchford  23:33 So we, we ironed it all out, and we came up with a financial agreement, and had to pay royalties and one thing and another, and we started publishing online in June 2011, and about six weeks later, the MENA newspaper, the MENA star in MENA, Arkansas, which was the birthplace of Lyman, Abner, Chet Locke and Norris Goff, they picked it up, and then we had a few other newspapers pick it up. And you know, we're not, we're not worldwide, syndicated in print, but we're getting it out there. And of course, we're always online, but and the first Arkansas news went under three or four years later, and so now we have our own website, which is Lum and Abner comics.com so that's where you can find us Michael Hingson  24:24 online. So where's Pine Ridge? Donnie Pitchford  24:28 Pine Ridge is about 18 miles from Mena, Arkansas. MENA is in western Arkansas, and Pine Ridge is about 18 miles east, I believe I'm trying to picture it in my mind, but it's it's down the road, and it actually exists. It was a little community originally named for a postmaster. It was named waters, waters, Arkansas, and in 1936 the real. At cuddleston. He was a real person who owned a store there in waters, and was friends with the locks and the golfs with their parents, as well as Chet and Tuffy. But he proposed a publicity stunt and an actual change of name to name the community Pine Ridge. So that's how that happened. Michael Hingson  25:24 Now, in the original 15 minute episodes, who is the narrator? Donnie Pitchford  25:28 Well, it depends what era their first one trying to remember. Now, Gene Hamilton was an early announcer in the Ford days, which was the early 30s. We don't have anything recorded before that. Charles Lyon was one of the early announcers, possibly for for Quaker Oats. I don't have any notes on this in front of me. I'm just going on memory here. Memory at the end of a long week. Gene Hamilton was their Ford announcer. Carlton brickert announced the Horlicks malt and milk did the commercials when they 1934 to 38 or so. Lou Crosby took over when they were sponsored by General Foods, by post them, the post them commercials, and Lou stayed with them on into the Alka Seltzer era. And his daughter, the celebrity daughter, is Kathie Lee Crosby, you may remember, right, and she and her sister Linda, Lou were a couple of our guests at the National lemon Avenue society convention in 1996 I think let's see. Crosby was Gene Baker came after Crosby, and then in the 30 minute days, was Wendell Niles. Wendell Niles, yeah, in the CBS the 30 minute series and Wendell. We also had him in Mina, super nice guy when it came, when it got into the later ones, 1953 54 I don't remember that announcer's name. That's when they got into the habit of having Dick Huddleston do the opening narration, which is why we now have Sam Brown as Dick Huddleston doing that every week. Michael Hingson  27:27 So was it actually Dick Huddleston? No, it Donnie Pitchford  27:30 was North golf, tough. He always played the part of Dick Huddleston. Okay, the only, the only time that, as far as I know, the only time the real dick Huddleston was on network radio, was at that ceremony in Little Rock Arkansas, when they changed the name of the town that the real dick Huddleston spoke at that event. And we actually, we discovered a recording of that. I was just gonna ask if there's a recording of that there is. Yeah, it's on 12 inch, 78 RPM discs. Wow. And they were probably the personal discs of lock and golf, and they weren't even labeled. And I remember spinning that thing when Sam Brown and I after we found it, it was down in Houston, and we brought them a batch of discs back, and I remember spinning that thing and hearing the theme song being played, I said, this sounds like a high school band. And suddenly we both got chills because we had heard that. I don't know if it was the Little Rock High School band or something, but it's like, Can this be? Yes, it was. It was. We thought it was long lost, but it was that ceremony. Wow. So that was a great find. Michael Hingson  28:45 Well, hopefully you'll, you'll play that sometime, or love to get a copy, but, Donnie Pitchford  28:50 yeah, we've, we have we played it on yesterday, USA. Oh, okay, so it's out there. Michael Hingson  28:57 Well, that's cool. Well, yeah, I wondered if Dick Huddleston actually ever was directly involved, but, but I can, can appreciate that. As you said, Tuffy Goff was the person who played him, which was, that's still that was pretty cool. They were very talented. Go ahead, Donnie Pitchford  29:19 I was gonna say that's basically tough. He's natural speaking voice, yeah, when you hear him as Dick Huddleston, Michael Hingson  29:24 they're very talented people. They played so many characters on the show. They did and and if you really listen, you could tell, but mostly the voices sounded enough different that they really sounded like different people all the time. Donnie Pitchford  29:41 Well, the fun thing are the episodes where, and it's carefully written, but they will, they will do an episode where there may be seven or eight people in the room and they get into an argument, or they're trying to all talk at the same time, and you completely forget that it's only two guys, because they will overlap. Those voices are just so perfectly overlapped and so different, and then you stop and you listen. So wait a minute, I'm only hearing two people at a time, but the effect is tremendous, the fact that they were able to pull that off and fool the audience. Michael Hingson  30:15 I don't know whether I'd say fool, but certainly entertained. Well, yeah, but they also did have other characters come on the show. I remember, yes, Diogenes was that was a lot of fun listening to those. Oh yeah, yeah, that was Frank Graham. Frank Graham, right, right, but, but definitely a lot of fun. So you eventually left teaching. You decided you accepted jobs, starting to do cartoons. What were some of the other or what, well, what were some of the first and early characters that you cartooned, or cartoons that you created, Donnie Pitchford  30:50 just, you mean, by myself or Well, or with people, either way, I did some things that were not published, you know, just just personal characters that I came up with it would mean nothing to anybody, but a little bit later on, I did a little bit of I did a cover for a Popeye comic book. Maybe 10 years ago, I finally got a chance to work with George Wildman, who was the fellow I talked about earlier, and it was some of the last work he did, and this was with Michael Ambrose of Argo press out of Austin, Texas. And we did some early characters that had been published by Charlton Comics. They had, they had characters, they were, they were rip offs. Let's be honest. You know Harvey had Casper the Friendly Ghost. Well, Charlton had Timmy, the timid ghost. There, there was Mighty Mouse. Well, Charlton Comics had atomic mouse, so and there was an atomic rabbit. And Warner Brothers had Porky Pig. Charlton had pudgy pig, but that was some of George's earliest work in the 1950s was drawing these characters, and George was just he was a master Bigfoot cartoonist. I mean, he was outstanding. And so Mike said, let's bring those characters back. They're public domain. We can use them. So I wrote the scripts. George did the pencil art. Well, he inked the first few, but Mike had me do hand lettering, which I don't do that much. So it was that was a challenge. And my friend high Iseman taught lettering for years and years, and so I was thinking, high is going to see this? This has to be good. So I probably re lettered it three times to get it right, but we did the very last story we did was atomic rabbit and pudgy pig was a guest star, and then George's character named brother George, who was a little monk who didn't speak, who lived, lived in a monastery, and did good deeds and all that sort of thing. He was in there, and this was the last thing we did together. And George said, you know, since I've got these other projects, he said, Do you think you can, you can ink this? So that was a great honor to actually apply the inks over George's pencil work. And I also did digital color, but those were some things I worked on, and, oh, at one point we even had Lum and Abner in the Dick Tracy Sunday comic strip, and that was because of a gentleman named Mike Curtis, who was the writer who lived in Arkansas, was very familiar with Lum and Abner, and he got in touch with me and asked, this was in 2014 said, Would it be possible for me to use Lum and Abner in a Sunday cameo? So I contacted the locks. First thing they first thing Chet said was how much I said, I don't think they're going to pay us. I felt like, Cedric, we hunt, no mom, you know. And I felt like he was squire skimp at the time, yeah, but I said, it's just going to be really good publicity. So he finally went for it, and Lum and Abner had a cameo in a Sunday Dick Tracy comic strip, and about four years later, they honored me. This was Mike Curtis, the writer, and Joe Staton, the artist, who was another guy that I grew up reading from as a teenager, just a tremendous artist, asked if they could base a character on me. And I thought, what kind of murderer is he going to be? You know, it was going to be idiot face or what's his name, you know. So no, he was going to be a cartoonist, and the name was Peter pitchblende. Off, and he was, he said his job was to illustrate a comic strip about a pair of old comedians. So, I mean, who couldn't be honored by that? Yeah, so I don't remember how long that story lasted, but it was an honor. I mean, it was just great fun. And then then I had a chance to write two weeks of Dick Tracy, which was fun. I wrote the scripts for it and and then there's some other things. I was able to work with John rose, a tremendously nice guy who is the current artist on Barney Google and Snuffy Smith. We did a story, a comic book story, on Barney Google on Snuffy Smith in a magazine called Charleton spotlight, and I did the colors, digital coloring for that. So just these are just great honors to me to get to work with people like that. And Nick Cuddy, I did some inking, lettering coloring on some of his work. So just great experience, and Michael Hingson  36:02 great people, going back to atomic rabbit and pudgy pig, no one ever got in trouble with, from Warner Brothers with that, huh? Donnie Pitchford  36:09 Well, not, not on atomic rabbit, however, pudgy pig created a problem because George was doing some art, and I think somebody from Warner Brothers said he looks too much like Porky, so the editor at the time said, make one of his ears hang down, make him look a little different. But pudgy didn't last long. Pudgy was only around maybe two or three issues of the comic book, so, but yeah, that's George. Said they did have some trouble with that. Michael Hingson  36:44 Oh, people, what do you do? Yeah, well, I know you sent us a bunch of photos, and we have some of the Dick Tracy ones and others that people can go see. But what? What finally got you all to start the whole lemon Abner society. Donnie Pitchford  37:07 Oh, well, that goes back to 1983 right, and I'll go back even farther than that. I told you that my dad had mentioned lemon Abner to me as a kid. Dr Joe Oliver played a 15 minute lemon Abner show on KSA you at Stephen F Austin State University. That got me. I was already into old time radio, but it was the next summer 1981 there's a radio station, an am station in Gilmer, Texas Christian radio station that started running Lum and Abner every day. First it was 530 in the evening, and then I think they switched it to 1215 or so. And I started listening, started setting up my recorder, recording it every day. And a friend of mine named David Miller, who was also a radio show collector, lived in the Dallas area, I would send them to him, and at first he wasn't impressed, but then suddenly he got hooked. And when he got hooked, he got enthusiastic. He started making phone calls. He called Mrs. Lock chet's widow and talked to her. He spoke to a fellow who had written a number of articles, George Lily, who was an early proponent or an early promoter of lemon Abner, as far as reruns in the 1960s and it was through George Lilly that I was put in touch with Sam Brown in Dongola, Illinois, and because he had contacted Mr. Lilly as well. And before long, we were talking, heard about this guy named Tim Hollis. Sam and I met in Pine Ridge for lemon Abner day in 1982 for the first time, and hit it off like long lost friends and became very good friends. And then in 84 I believe it was Sam and Tim and Rex riffle met again, or met for the first time together, I guess in Pine Ridge. And I wasn't there that time. But somehow, in all of that confusion, it was proposed to start the national lemon Abner society, and we started publishing the Jot them down journal in the summer of 1984 Michael Hingson  39:43 and for those who don't know the Jotham down journal, because the store that lemon Abner ran was the Jotham down store anyway, right? Donnie Pitchford  39:50 Go ahead, yes. And that was Tim's title. Tim created the title The Jotham down journal, and we started publishing and started seeking information. And it started as just a simple photocopy on paper publication. It became a very slick publication. In 1990 or 91 Sam started recording cassettes, reading the journals, because we were hearing from Blind fans that said, you know, I enjoy the journal. I have to have somebody read it to me. This is before screen readers. And of course, you know this technology better than I do, but before any type of technology was available, and Sam said, Well, I'll tell you. I'll just start reading it on tape and I'll make copies. Just started very simply, and from then on, until the last issue in in 2007 Sam would record a cassette every other month, or when we went quarterly, four times a year, and he would mail those to the the blind members, who would listen to those. And sometimes they would keep them, and sometimes they would return them for Sam to recycle. But incidentally, those are all online now, Michael Hingson  41:03 yeah, I've actually looked at a few of those. Those are kind of fun. So the London Avenue society got formed, and then you started having conventions. Donnie Pitchford  41:14 Yes, yes. First convention was in 1985 and we did a lot of things with we would do recreations. We would do a lot of new scripts, where, if we had someone that we got to the point where we would have people that hadn't worked with lemon Abner. So we would have lemon Abner meet the great Gildersleeve. Actually, Willard had worked on the lumen Abner half hour show at some point. I believe les Tremain had never worked directly with them, but he was well, he was in some Horlicks malted milk commercials in the 1930s and of course, the Lone Ranger was never on the London Abner show and vice versa, until we got hold of it. So we had Fred Foy in 1999 and he agreed to be the announcer, narrator and play the part of the Lone Ranger. So we did Lum and Abner meet the Lone Ranger, which was a lot of fun. We had parley bear, so Lum and Abner met Chester of Gun Smoke. And those were just a lot of fun to do. And Tim, Tim would write some of them, I would write some of them, or we would collaborate back and forth to come up with these scripts. Did love and amner, ever meet Superman? No, we never got to that. That would have been great. Yeah, if we could have come up with somebody who had played Superman, that would have been a lot of fun. We had lemon Abner meet Kathie Lee Crosby as herself. Yeah, they met Frank brazzi One time. That must be fun. It was a lot of fun. We had some people would recreate the characters. We had the lady who had played Abner's daughter, Mary Lee Rob replay. She played that character again, 50 years later, coming back home to see, you know, to see family. Several other things, we had London Abner meet Gumby one time. Of all things, we had Dow McKinnon as a guest. And we had Kay Lineker come back and reprise one of her roles, the role she played in the London Abner movie. Bob's Watson did that as well. Some years we didn't have a script, which I regret, but we had other things going on. We had anniversaries of London Abner movies that we would play. So whatever we did, we tailored it around our guest stars, like Dick Beals, Sam Edwards, Roby Lester, gee whiz. I know I'm leaving people out. Michael Hingson  43:52 Well, that's okay, but, but certainly a lot of fun. What? Yes, what? Cartoonist really influenced you as a child? Donnie Pitchford  44:01 Oh, wow. I would say the first thing I saw that got my attention was the Flintstones on on prime time television, you know, the Hanna Barbera prime time things certainly Walt Disney, the animation that they would run, that he would show, and the behind the scenes, things that would be on the Disney show, things like almost almost anything animated as a kid, got my attention. But Walter Lance, you know, on the Woody Woodpecker show used to have, he'd have little features about how animation was done, and that that inspired me, that that just thrilled me. And I read Fred lachel's Snuffy Smith Chester Gould's Dick Tracy. Tracy, which that was a that's why the Dick Tracy connection, later was such a big deal for me. Almost anything in the Sunday comics that was big. Foot. In other words, the cartoony, exaggerated characters are called, sometimes called Bigfoot, Bigfoot cartooning, or Bigfoot characters. Those were always the things I looked for, Bugs Bunny, any of the people that worked on those some were anonymous. And years later, I started learning the names of who drew Popeye, you know, like LZ seagar, the originator, or bud sagendorf or George Wildman, and later high eysman. But people like that were my heroes. Later on, I was interested in I would read the Batman comics, or I would see Tarzan in the newspaper. I admired the work of Russ Manning. Michael Hingson  45:49 Do you know the name Tom Hatton? Yes, I do. Yeah. Yes. Tom did Popeye shows on KTLA Channel Five when I was growing up, and he was famous for, as he described it, squiggles. He would make a squiggle and he would turn it into something. And he was right on TV, which was so much fun. Donnie Pitchford  46:09 We had a guy in Memphis who did the same thing. His name was, he's known as Captain Bill, C, A, P, you know, Captain Bill. And he did very much the same thing. He'd have a child come up, I think some, in some cases, they're called drools. Is one word for them. There was a yeah, in Tim hollis's area, there was cousin Cliff Holman who did that. And would he might have a kid draw a squiggle, and then he would create something from it right there on the spot, a very similar type of thing, or a letter of the alphabet, or your initials, that sort Michael Hingson  46:43 of thing. Yeah. Tom did that for years. It was fun. Of course, I couldn't see them, but he talked enough that I knew what was going on. It's kind of fun. My brother loved them, yeah? So later on, when you got to be a teenager and beyond what cartoonist maybe influenced you more? Donnie Pitchford  47:03 Well, I would have to say George, probably because I was corresponding with him, right? Also, I would see the work of Carl Barks, who created Uncle Scrooge McDuck and the Donald Duck comics and all that. His stuff was all in reprint at that time, he was still living, but I didn't know he could be contacted. I didn't try to write to it, right? Years later, years later, I did get an autograph, which was, was very nice. But those people, a lot of people, Neil Adams, who did Batman, the guys at Charlton Comics, Steve Ditko, who was the CO creator of spider man, but he had a disagreement with Stan Lee, and went back to Charlton Comics and just turned out 1000s of pages, but his work was was inspirational. Another was Joe Staton, who was working at Charleton comics, who I got to work with on several projects later on, and I would say just all of those guys that I was reading at the time. Pat Boyette was another Charlton artist. I tend to gravitate toward the Charlton company because their artists weren't contained in a house style. They were allowed to do their own style. They didn't pay as much. But a lot of them were either older guys that said, I'm tired of this, of the DC Marvel system. I want to just, you know, have creative freedom. Charlton said, come on. And so they would work there and less stress, less money, probably one guy named Don Newton started there and became a legend in the industry at other companies. So I found all of those guys inspiring, and I felt I could learn from all of them. Michael Hingson  48:59 Well, you always wanted to be a cartoonist. Did you have any other real career goals, like, was teaching a goal that you wanted to do, or was it just cartooning it? Donnie Pitchford  49:07 Well, it was just a secondary, you know, as I said, when I started, I thought, I'll just do that for a few years. You know, I didn't know it was going to be like 27 but I we had a lot of success. We had, I had some student groups that would enter video competitions. And for 20 straight years, we placed either first, second or third in state competition with one Summit, one entry, another or another every year. And that was notable. I mean, I give the kids the credit for that. But then about five or six of those years, we had what we call state championship wins, you know, we were like the number one project in the state of Texas. So, you know, we had some great success, I think, in that so a lot of years there, I really, you know, that was a blessing to me. Was that career, you. Well, it just, it just got to be too much time for change. After a while, Michael Hingson  50:05 was art just a talent that you had, and cartoon drawing a talent you had, or, I don't remember how much you said about did you have any real special training as such? Donnie Pitchford  50:14 Well, all of my training was, I just couldn't afford to go to a specialized school. You know, at one time, the Joe Kubert School opened just about the time I graduated high school, it was in New Jersey. I just couldn't make that happen, so I went to state colleges and universities and did the best I could. I took commercial art classes, drawing classes, design classes, even ceramics, which came in very handy when I did some sculpting here in the last eight or nine years and worked as an assistant to a sculptor named Bob harness who lives here in Carthage, but I never had any actual comic strip slash comic book training, so I learned as much of that as I could from guys like George wild. And then after I started the lemon Avenue comic strip, an artist named Joe, named Jim Amish, who worked for Marvel, did a lot of work for the Archie Comics. And tremendous anchor is his. He's really a tremendous anchor, and does a lot of ink work over other artists pencils. Jim would call and say, he said, I want to give you some advice. I'm like, okay, at 3am he's still giving me advice. So I'd go around for two or three days feeling like a failure, but then I would, I would think about all the lessons, you know, that he had told me. And so I learned a lot from Jim and tremendous, tremendous guy. And I would listen to what high, sometimes high would call up and say, Why did you use that purple beg your pardon. So it was fun. I mean, those fellows would share with me, and I learned a great deal from those guys. Michael Hingson  52:11 Are you in any way passing that knowledge on to others today? Donnie Pitchford  52:16 I don't know that I am. I've had an offer or two to do some teaching. I just don't know if I'm if I'm going to get back into that or not. Yeah, I'm so at this point, focused on, quote, unquote, being a cartoonist and trying to make that, that age five dream, a reality, that I'm not sure I'm ready to do that again. And you know, I'm not, I'm not 21 anymore. Michael Hingson  52:45 I didn't know whether you were giving advice to people and just sort of informally doing it, as opposed to doing formal teaching. Donnie Pitchford  52:51 Well, informally, yes, I mean, if anybody asks, you know, I'll be glad to share whatever I can. But yeah, I'm not teaching any classes at this point. Michael Hingson  53:01 Well, you have certainly taken lemon Abner to interesting places in New Heights. One, one thing that attracted me and we talked about it before, was in 2019, lemon Abner in Oz. That was fun. Donnie Pitchford  53:17 Well, the credit for that goes to Tim Hollis. Tim wrote that as a short story years ago when he was first interested in lemon Abner. And I don't know if he ever had that published through the International oz society or not. I don't remember, but Tim later turned that into a radio script when we had a batch of guests. This was in 2001 we had, let's see Sam Edwards, Dick Beals, Roby Lester and Rhoda Williams. And each of them had done something related to Oz, either the children's records or storybook records or animation or something. They were involved somewhere in some type of Oz adaptation. So Tim turned his short story into a radio script that we performed there at the convention. So that was a lot of fun. And then he suggested, Why don't I turn that into a comic strip story? So that's what we did. But that was fun, yeah, and we used the recordings of those people because they had given us permission, you know, to use a recording however we saw fit. The only problem is we had a mistake. The fellow that was running the sound had a dead mic and didn't know it. Oh, gosh. So some of them are bit Off mic in that audio, but we did the best. I did the best I could Michael Hingson  54:40 with it's it sounded good. I certainly have no complaints. 54:45 Thank you for that. Michael Hingson  54:47 I I said no complaints at all. I think it was really fun and very creative. And it's kind of really neat to see so much creativity in terms of all the stuff that that you do. As a cartoonist, me having never seen cartoons, but I learned intellectually to appreciate the talent that goes into it. And of course, you guys do put the scripts together every week, which is a lot of fun to be able to listen to them well. Donnie Pitchford  55:17 And that's what that was, the audience I hoped that we would would tap into right there and it, it was guys like you that would would talk to me and say, What am I going to do? You know, I can't see it. So that's why the audio idea came about. And it's taken on a life of its own, really. And we've got Mark Ridgway, who has created a lot of musical cues for us that we use and Michael Hingson  55:45 who plays the organ? Donnie Pitchford  55:47 That's Mark Ridgway. It is Mark, okay, yes, yes. And it's actually digital, I'm sure. I think it's a digital keyboard, Michael Hingson  55:55 yeah, but it is. It's a, it's a really good sounding one, though. Donnie Pitchford  55:59 Yes, yes. There are a few cues that I did, which probably are the ones that don't sound so good, like if we ever need really bad music. If you remember the story we did, and I don't remember the name of it, what do we call it anyway? Lum tries to start a soap opera. Think this was about a year ago. Yeah, and Cedric is going to play, I don't remember it was an organ or a piano, and I don't remember what he played, but whatever it was, I think was Mary Had Michael Hingson  56:32 a Little Lamb, Mary's, Mary Had a Little Lamb on the piano. Sort of kind played. Donnie Pitchford  56:35 It was played very badly, well that, yes, it was on purpose. When mom plays lum tries to play the saxophone. That was me, and I hadn't played this. I used to play the sax. In fact, I played in a swing orchestra here in Carthage, Texas for about five years back in from the early 90s. And so I had this idea, and I hadn't played the horn probably since, probably in 20 years, and his. So I got it out, and I thought, you know, it's gonna sound terrible because it needs maintenance, but it doesn't matter. It's lump playing it, so I got to play really badly. Michael Hingson  57:14 It was perfect. It was perfect, Donnie Pitchford  57:16 yeah, because it had to sound bad. Michael Hingson  57:19 How do y'all create all these different plots. I remember so many, like the buzzard, you know, and, oh yeah, that was fun. And so many. How do you come up with those? Donnie Pitchford  57:28 Well, I used to get some really good ideas while mowing the yard. Don't ask me, why? Or I get ideas. I get ideas in the weirdest thing, weirdest places. Sometimes I have ideas in the shower. You know, I said, I better write this down. Sometimes I'll wake up in the middle of the night with an idea, but there the ideas just come to me. Yeah? The buzzard was fun. I'd had that one. Pretty creative. Yeah, the one about, the one about, let me see. Oh, there was one we did, where wasn't the buzzard? What was that other one? I called the Whisper? Yeah, there was a strange voice that was coming lum thought it was coming from his radio. And he turns his radio off, and He still hears it, and it was a villain who had somehow hypnotized everyone so that they wouldn't see him and he would use his voice only. And then there's a character I came up with, and let me see Larry Gasman played it, and I called him Larry John Walden, and he was the only guy he was blind. He was the only guy that wasn't hypnotized because he couldn't see the you know, I use the old thing about the watch in front of the eyes. I mean, he was the only guy that wasn't hypnotized, so he wasn't fooled by the whisper, and he could track him, because his hearing was so acute that he was able to find him. In fact, I think he could hear his watch ticking or something like that. So he was the hero of that piece. But, well, I just, I just think up ideas and write them down. Tim Hollis has written some of the scripts, maybe three or four for me, I've adapted some scripts that London Abner did that were never broadcast or that were never recorded. Rather, I've adapted a few, written several, and I keep saying, Well, when I completely run out of ideas, I'll just have to quit. Michael Hingson  59:32 Well, hopefully that never happens. What? What are your future plans? Donnie Pitchford  59:38 Well, right now, there's nothing major in the works other than just maintaining the strip, trying to continue it, trying to make it entertaining, and hopefully doing a little work on the website and getting it into the hands of more people. And I'd like to increase. Least newspaper coverage, if at all possible. And because this thing doesn't, you know, it's got to pay for itself somehow. So you know, I'm not getting rich by any means. But you know, I want to keep it fun. I want to keep having fun with it. Hopefully people will enjoy it. Hopefully we can reach younger readers, listeners, and hopefully lemon Abner can appeal to even younger audiences yet, so that we can keep those characters going. Michael Hingson  1:00:29 Yeah, there's so much entertainment there. I hope that happens now in the the life of Donnie Pitchford. Is there a wife and kids? Donnie Pitchford  1:00:40 Yes, there's a wife of almost 40 years. We unfortunately don't have any children. We've almost feel like we adopted several children all the years we were teaching. We we've adopted several cats along the way. And so, you know, we've had cats as pets for almost ever, since we were married. But that's she's, she's great, you know, she's, she's been my best friend and supporter all these years. And we were members of first Methodist Church here in Carthage, Texas, and doing some volunteer work there, and helping to teach Sunday school, and very involved and active in that church. Michael Hingson  1:01:19 So I have a cat, and I hear her outside, not outside the house, but outside the the office here, she wants me to go feed her, and we, we shaved her yesterday because her hair gets long and Matt's very easily. So she got shaved yesterday. So she's probably seeking a little vengeance from that too, but, but my wife and I were married 40 years. She passed away in November of 2022 so it's me and stitch the cat and Alamo the dog, and Karen is monitoring us somewhere. And as I tell everyone, I've got to continue to be a good kid, because if I'm not, I'm going to hear about it. So I got to be good. But it's a lot of fun. Well, I want to thank you for being with us today. This has been a lot of fun. I've learned a lot, but it's just been great to have another podcast talking about old radio shows. And you said again, if people want to reach out, they can go to lemon Abner comics.com if people want to talk to you about doing any kind of cartooning or anything like that. What's the best way they can do that? Donnie Pitchford  1:02:24 Well, they can go to the London Abner dot lumen, Abner comics.com website, and there's a contact a link right there at the top of the page. So yeah, they can contact me through that. Probably that's the easiest way to do it. Michael Hingson  1:02:37 Okay, well, I want to thank you again for being here, and I want to thank all y'all out there. That's how they talk in Texas, right? It's all y'all for everybody. Donnie Pitchford  1:02:46 Well, some of them do, and some of them in Arkansas do too. Well, yeah. Michael Hingson  1:02:49 And then there's some who don't, yeah, y'all means everything, and it Speaker 1  1:02:54 don't, yeah, I don't think squire skimp says it that way. Michael Hingson  1:02:58 Well, Squire, you know, whatever it takes. But I want to thank you all for being here, and please give us a five star rating wherever you're listening or watching the podcast. Donnie would appreciate it. I would appreciate it, and also give us a review. We'd love to get your reviews, so please do that. If you can think of anyone else who ought to be a guest, and I think Donnie has already suggested a few. So Donnie as well, anyone else who ought to come on the podcast, we'd love it. Appreciate you introducing us, and you know, we'll go from there. And I know at some point in the future, the Michael hingson Group Inc is going to be a sponsor, because we've started that process for lemon. Abner, yes, thank you. Thank you. So I want to, I want to thank love and Squire for that 1:03:45 years. Well, it's been my pleasure. Michael Hingson  1:03:50 Well, thank you all and again, really, seriously, Donnie, I really appreciate you being here. This has been a lot of fun. So thank you for coming. Donnie Pitchford  1:03:58 Thank you. It's been a great honor. I've appreciated it very much. Michael Hingson  1:04:06 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

Explore the fascinating differences between the 1939 and 1959 adaptations of The Hound of the Baskervilles, where Basil Rathbone's stage-influenced Holmes contrasts with Peter Cushing's naturalistic portrayal. Discover how each film's unique visual style and cultural context shape the iconic detective story, offering fresh insights into Sherlock Holmes' enduring appeal. This episode is a must-listen for fans eager to see how creativity and era influence storytelling.

In this episode of Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson recounts an adventure involving Mycroft Holmes and a dangerous female spy. The story unfolds with a magician's act, leading to a murder mystery that Holmes and Watson must solve. As they investigate, they uncover the complexities of espionage and deception, ultimately revealing the true identity of the spy and the tragic fate of her twin sister.Most mysteries are solved with clues, but this case hinges on a brilliant illusion—and the one thing that could unravel the greatest magician in the world. Sherlock Holmes cracks the code behind a deadly stage trick that's more than just a gimmick—it's a potential spy hiding in plain sight. If you think you understand magic, think again—Holmes exposes the extraordinary deception that makes espionage possible on the stage.In The Great Gandolfo adventure, you'll discover how duplicate cabinets, twin actresses, and fingerprint analysis combine to reveal the identity of a dangerous spy. Holmes and Watson navigate a labyrinth of stage illusions, murder, and international secrets, revealing that even the most dazzling tricks can conceal deadly truths. You'll break down the scientific fingerprint comparison that cracks the case, witness Holmes's uncanny deduction skills applied to theatrical deception, and learn how spies exploit stagecraft to hide their identities.We break down: how Holmes uses fingerprint evidence to identify the assassin, the secret twin actresses behind the illusion, and the deadly rigged magic show that transforms into a murder scene. You'll hear how Holmes's keen eye uncovers the hidden clues in a stage act, turning illusion into incontrovertible evidence—showcasing his mastery of deduction and forensic investigation. This isn't just a story about magic; it's a lesson in how innovation and attention to detail can reveal truths others overlook.Ignoring these techniques means risking missed clues, wrongful accusations, or worse—failing to stop a killer who manipulates appearances to hide behind a curtain of deception. In a world where secrets can be hidden in plain sight, Holmes's methods offer a blueprint for thinking differently about clues, deception, and danger. This case proves that even in entertainment, truth is often stranger and more dangerous than fiction—and understanding this opens new avenues for solving complex mysteries.Perfect for true crime enthusiasts, magic fans, or anyone fascinated by detective ingenuity—this episode will change how you view illusions and secrets. Whether you're a Sherlock devotee or new to his mysteries, you'll walk away with a new appreciation for the art of deduction and forensic science. Tune in to unlock the secrets behind The Great Gandolfo, where stage tricks become deadly clues in the ultimate battle of wit versus deception.Sherlock Holmes, portrayed by Basil Rathbone, brings over a century of legend to life, utilizing his unrivaled powers of observation to expose the truth hidden beneath layers of illusion. This episode isn't just an adventure—it's a masterclass in detective thinking, perfect for believers in the extraordinary and those eager to see how science and sleight of hand collide to solve crimes. Make no mistake—what looks like magic is often just careful planning, and Holmes shows us how to see through the deception.TakeawaysSherlock Holmes often relies on his brother Mycroft for insights.The character of Mycroft is portrayed as both lazy and brilliant.The investigation revolves around a female spy linked to a magician.Holmes uses deductive reasoning to solve the case.The performance of The Great Gandolfo serves as a crucial plot point.Fingerprint analysis plays a key role in the investigation.Holmes's methods often clash with local law enforcement.The narrative emphasizes the importance of observation and deduction.Sherlock Holmes, Mycroft Holmes, mystery, detective, espionage, Gandolfo, adventure, crime, radio drama, classic stories

As a belated Valentine's Day treat, we've got four radio mysteries where our detectives are entangled in matrimonial mishaps. As Sherlock Holmes, Basil Rathbone investigates a black widow in "The Book of Tobit" (originally aired on Mutual on March 26, 1945). Philip Marlowe trails a missing wife in "The Persian Slippers" (originally aired on CBS on October 3, 1948), and Sam Spade is accused of eloping in "The Love Letter Caper" (an Armed Forces Radio Service rebroadcast from March 27, 1949). Finally, a wife wants Richard Diamond to protect her husband in "The Simpson Case" (originally aired on ABC on January 18, 1952).

Nathan and Ryan don their masks and capes to talk about The Mark of Zorro (1940), the definitive cinematic version of the legendary masked avenger. Starring Tyrone Power in one of classic Hollywood's most iconic dual performances, the film blends romance, humor, and razor-sharp swordplay into a near-perfect swashbuckler. The hosts discuss Rouben Mamoulian's energetic direction, Basil Rathbone's unforgettable villain turn (and fencing skills), and why this film remains the gold standard for heroic adventure nearly a century later.

Unraveling Mysteries in Limehouse: The Eyes of Mr. LaytonThis story delves into the world of Sherlock Holmes, focusing on the dynamic between Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce as they portray Holmes and Watson. The narrative unfolds in the atmospheric setting of Limehouse, where a search for a missing friend leads to an opium den and a complex web of rivalry and murder. The story highlights the intricacies of character portrayals, the unfolding mystery, and the eventual resolution that ties back to a crucial clue from a dying man.In the atmospheric alleyways of Limehouse, the legendary detective duo, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, embark on a thrilling adventure in "The Eyes of Mr. Layton." This radio drama, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, immerses listeners in a world filled with suspense, opium dens, and intricate disguises.As the story unfolds, Holmes and Watson navigate the dark and dangerous streets, unraveling a murder mystery involving a businessman named Wayne Layton. The narrative is rich with classic Holmesian deduction, leading to a gripping resolution that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.Join Holmes and Watson as they delve into the depths of Limehouse, where every shadow holds a secret, and every clue brings them closer to the truth. This captivating tale is a testament to the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes and the timeless allure of a well-crafted mystery.Subscribe now to explore more adventures with the world's most famous detective and his loyal companion.TakeawaysThe atmosphere of Limehouse is vividly described.Basil Rathbone's range as an actor is often underestimated.Nigel Bruce's portrayal of Dr. Watson is beloved by the public.The dynamic between Holmes and Watson mirrors their real-life friendship.The opium den serves as a critical setting for the mystery.The rivalry between Layton and Chumley drives the plot forward.Holmes's disguises are a key element of his detective work.The clue from Layton's dying words is pivotal to solving the case.The story reflects the classic elements of a Sherlock Holmes adventure.Next week's story promises another intriguing mystery.Sherlock Holmes, Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Limehouse, opium den, mystery, detective, radio drama, crime, adventure

In the first episode of the year we embark on another journey through the golden age of radio, beginning with Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce in The Reluctant Tobacconist.    Friday Number Five | Episode 20 January 30 | 2026   HOST Owen Kelly COMMENTARY On months that have a fifth Friday we break from our normal schedule and produce something else related tangentially to questions of cultural democracy. In 2026 we dive once more into the golden age of radio to bring back some historical examples of serials and comedies that let us hear unfiltered aspects of the world as it seemed to our grandparents. We begin with a fine example of the ways in which motion pictures and radio worked together. Many movies became radio series, either as adaptations or as sequels or extensions. Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce had made a series of succesful movies as Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson, and they turned this into an equally successful radio series: The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.  Here we listen to The Reluctant Tobacconist, first broadcast on April 30, 1945.     REFERENCES Wikipedia: the New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Archive.org Old Radio World

The Timeless Appeal of Sherlock Holmes: Unraveling "The Out-of-Date Murder"In this episode of the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes, we delve into the intriguing case of the 'Out-of-Date Murder.' The story begins with Dr. Watson recounting a visit to a museum where they meet Professor Evan Whittle, who has made a remarkable discovery of mummified specimens in underground caves. The plot thickens when Lady Clavering arrives, seeking Holmes's advice about her missing husband, Sir George Clavering, who has been absent for five years. As the narrative unfolds, Holmes and Watson explore the caves, uncovering a perfectly preserved body that leads them to a shocking revelation about the past and present of the Clavering family. The episode masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, human emotion, and the complexities of relationships, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that reveals the true nature of the crime.In the shadowy depths of Eastbourne, a tale of mystery and intrigue unfolds as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson embark on a much-needed respite, only to be drawn into a perplexing case. The story begins with a visit to Professor Evan Whittle, whose recent archaeological discoveries have made him a figure of renown. However, the tranquility of their visit is shattered by the arrival of Lady Clavering, whose husband, Sir George Clavering, vanished five years prior under mysterious circumstances.Holmes, ever the astute detective, is drawn into the enigma of Sir George's disappearance, a case that echoes the historical vanishing of Sir Nigel Clavering in 1777. As the investigation deepens, Holmes and Watson find themselves exploring the eerie lime caves, uncovering mummified remains and ancient artifacts. The discovery of a body dressed in 18th-century attire, complete with a diary, sets the stage for a revelation that challenges the boundaries of time and deception.The narrative crescendos with a dramatic confrontation, revealing a plot of jealousy and betrayal orchestrated by none other than Professor Whittle. His love for Lady Clavering and envy of her affections for another drive him to conceal Sir George's body, crafting an elaborate hoax that nearly eludes even Holmes' keen intellect.As the case concludes, Holmes reflects on the complexities of human nature and the bittersweet satisfaction of justice served. The story closes with a poignant glimpse into Holmes' future, hinting at his eventual retirement to a bee farm in Sussex, a serene contrast to the tumultuous adventures that defined his career.This captivating episode not only showcases the brilliance of Holmes' deductive prowess but also enriches the canon with its imaginative storytelling, leaving audiences both old and new enthralled by the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes.TakeawaysHolmes is a man of contradictions, brilliant yet deeply human.Lady Clavering's charm masks her true intentions.The discovery of the mummified body reveals a historical murder.Holmes's methods may be unorthodox, but his integrity remains intact.The case reflects the complexities of human relationships and jealousy.Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, Out-of-Date Murder, mystery, crime detection, Basil Rathbone, Anthony Boucher, Dennis Green, classic radio drama

La cartelera murciana ofrece este fin de semana una mezcla de innovación técnica y profundidad dramática, destacando el estreno de "Sin Piedad", un thriller de acción dirigido por Timur Bekmambetov donde Chris Pratt interpreta a un diseñador de inteligencia artificial que debe demostrar su inocencia en solo 90 minutos sin levantarse de una silla.En una vertiente más emocional, la directora Chloé Zhao presenta "Hamnet", un desgarrador drama familiar ambientado en la época isabelina que explora la pérdida del hijo de William Shakespeare, con una actuación de Jessie Buckley que ya suena con fuerza para los premios Óscar.Por su parte, la Filmoteca Regional complementa la oferta con ciclos especializados: desde la reflexión vecinal de Votamos en el ciclo "Arquitectura del Desamor", hasta el terror de culto de John Carpenter con Christine y la elegancia clásica de Basil Rathbone interpretando a Sherlock Holmes.La propuesta comercial se cierra con la adrenalina de "Ídolos", la película oficial de MotoGP protagonizada por Óscar Casas y Ana Mena, y el regreso a la atmósfera de pesadilla del videojuego "Return to Silent Hill"

The Timeless Appeal of "In Flanders Fields": A Sherlock Holmes AdventureThis radio drama, set during World War I, follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they navigate a tense situation at the front lines. The story unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of a Shakespearean actor, leading to a series of events that reveal espionage, betrayal, and the importance of morale during wartime. Holmes takes the stage to deliver a performance, risking his life while uncovering a plot that could jeopardize the upcoming battle. The narrative highlights themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the impact of war on individuals and society.In the midst of the First World War, the radio play "In Flanders Fields" brings together the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusted companion Dr. Watson in a thrilling wartime mystery. Set against the backdrop of an impending battle, the story unfolds with Holmes stepping into the spotlight to perform in place of a missing Shakespearean actor. This play, part of a war bond rally, underscores the importance of morale and support during the war years.The narrative weaves themes of loyalty, patriotism, and the enduring spirit of the theater, as Holmes and Watson navigate espionage and intrigue. The play not only entertains but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage required in times of conflict. As Holmes takes the stage, the audience is transported to a time when the power of performance could uplift spirits and unite people in a common cause.The clever writing of Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher ensures that the essence of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's characters is preserved, while also adapting them to the unique challenges of wartime. "In Flanders Fields" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes and the timeless nature of storytelling that transcends generations.Subscribe now to explore more adventures of Sherlock Holmes and discover how these classic tales continue to resonate in today's world.TakeawaysThe radio drama was a morale booster during wartime.Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are timeless characters.The story is set against the backdrop of World War I.The importance of art and performance in difficult times.Holmes's deductive reasoning is central to the plot.The tension between personal loyalty and national duty is explored.The narrative reflects on the impact of war on society.The character of Maitland Morris symbolizes the conflict of loyalty.The show must go on, even in the face of danger.The story concludes with a poignant reflection on war and its consequences.Sherlock Holmes, radio drama, World War II, Flanders Fields, Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, wartime morale, mystery, adventure, classic literature

 "All good comradeship and friendship" [ABBE]  Bob Sharfman's first impression of Sherlock Holmes came from Basil Rathbone's movies. Bob read Watson's cases later in life, and met others who shared his interest almost accidentally, when he came to a meeting of Hugo's Companions, a Chicago group then led by the legendary Vincent Starrett. Although Bob became a serious player of the "Great Game" just a few years ago, his gifts for storytelling, research, and writing  earned him the investiture of Killer Evans in 2024. His ideas about the canon and its events have made him a popular speaker, and dozens of Sherlockians have embraced him as a fast friend. Join us as we explore his essays, note his upcoming 90th birthday, and discuss his new book, … but I digress, the Musings of a Sherlockian Motormouth. Then it's on to Sherlockian society activities in the second half of March in "The Learned Societies" segment, and the Canonical Couplet quiz tests your Sherlock Holmes knowledge, with a prize from the IHOSE vaults for the winner. Send your answer to comment @ihearofsherlock.com by January 29, 2026 at 11:59 a.m. EST. All listeners are eligible to play. As a reminder, our supporters can listen to the show ad-free and have access to occasional bonus material. Join us on the platform of your choice (Patreon | Substack). And if you need some show swag or gift ideas, or if you want to show off your good taste to other Sherlockians, check out our Merch Store, with mugs, notepads and more.   Leave I Hear of Sherlock Everywhere a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify; listen to us wherever you listen to podcasts.   Links ...but I digress: The Musings of a Sherlockian Motormouth by Bob Sharfman (Amazon) Happy 172nd Birthday, Sherlock Holmes! Sherlock Holmes's Birthday Is NOT January 6 After All Related episodes: Episode 61: The Private Life of Vincent Starrett Episode 169: Studies in Starrett Episode 272: Legends of the BSJ - Christopher Morley Other links: The Learned Societies: Sherlockian Calendar I Hear of Sherlock Everywhere / Trifles Merch Store     Explore more here. Find all of our relevant links and social accounts at linktr.ee/ihearofsherlock.   And would you consider leaving us a rating and or a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Goodpods? It would help other Sherlockians find us. Your thoughts on the show? Leave a comment below, send us an email (comment AT ihearofsherlock DOT com), call us at 5-1895-221B-5. That's (518) 952-2125.  

A holiday gift for my beloved listeners. In the past year I have done Countermelody episodes featuring both soprano April Cantelo and mezzo-soprano Maureen Lehane. Cantelo in particular sang roles in numerous operas by the Australian composer Malcolm Williamson, On a sojourn to New York in 2024, I was lucky to pick up a rare copy of Williamson's 1965 children's opera The Happy Prince, based on the Oscar Wilde fairy tale, a recording which features both Cantelo and Lehane. As I am not normally enamored of children's operas of any kind, I did not have high hopes for this short opera, so imagine my surprise and delight when I encountered a work of real vision, poignancy, and humor. It's my delight to present the recording to you, prefaced by the classic 1959 recording of Basil Rathbone reading the Wilde original and by Williamson's Robert Louis Stevenson song cycle From a Child's Garden, as sung by Cantelo. Countermelody is the podcast devoted to the glory and the power of the human voice raised in song. Singer and vocal aficionado Daniel Gundlach explores great singers of the past and present focusing in particular on those who are less well-remembered today than they should be. Daniel's lifetime in music as a professional countertenor, pianist, vocal coach, voice teacher, and author yields an exciting array of anecdotes, impressions, and “inside stories.” At Countermelody's core is the celebration of great singers of all stripes, their instruments, and the connection they make to the words they sing. By clicking on the following link (https://linktr.ee/CountermelodyPodcast) you can find the dedicated Countermelody website which contains additional content including artist photos and episode setlists. The link will also take you to Countermelody's Patreon page, where you can pledge your monthly or yearly support at whatever level you can afford.

Celebrate the season with the world's greatest detective as Jay and Shua unwrap a sleigh-full of Sherlockian fun. This week they explore the legacy, the films, and the lasting cultural footprint of the master of deduction. From classic portrayals to comedic twists, enjoy a festive look at Holmes history mixed with plenty of Enjoy Stuff merriment. Facebook friends, gather your clues and join the holiday investigation!   News The First Snow of Fraggle Rock now streaming on Apple TV+, as of December 5.   My Arcade launches the Pac-Man 45th Anniversary Collection of retro gaming devices.   Build Vecna's Mind Lair with the new Stranger Things Creel House LEGO set.   Check out our TeePublic store for some enjoyable swag and all the latest fashion trends What we're Enjoying Shua returns to the bustling metropolis of anthropomorphic animals with Disney's newest sequel. He digs into the expanded world-building, the humor, and the surprisingly heartfelt story moments that continue to bring Zootopia to life. Jay experienced Tarantino's full, unified cut of Kill Bill in glorious cinematic style. He enjoyed the atmosphere of seeing both volumes melded together as originally intended, soaking in the action, music, and stylized storytelling.     Sci-Fi Saturdays -  This week on Sci-Fi Saturdays Jay revisits Tomorrowland (2015), Brad Bird's optimistic sci-fi adventure exploring imagination, futurism, and the power of dreamers. He reflects on how the film balances retro-futuristic charm with modern storytelling while celebrating the cultural legacy of Tomorrowland itself. Read his article on RetroZap.com. And make sure to play around with the interactive map on MCULocationScout.com. Plus, you can tune in to SHIELD: Case Files where Jay and Shua talk about great stuff in the MCU.   Enjoy Detecting!  This week, Jay and Shua slip on the deerstalker cap and head down Baker Street for a holiday celebration of Sherlock Holmes. They explore the character's origins, his evolution across literature, comics, radio, and film, and what has made Holmes an enduring cultural force for nearly 140 years.   The discussion highlights major adaptations ranging from Basil Rathbone and Christopher Lee to Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downey Jr., with detours into comedic versions, animated favorites, and even Max Headroom himself—Matt Frewer—who portrayed the detective in multiple TV movies. They also honor the anniversaries of The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother and Young Sherlock Holmes, celebrating the creativity and influence of these beloved films.   Who's your go-to Sherlock Holmes? Are you good at solving mysteries? Let us know! First person that emails me with the subject line, "Elementary my dear Earbuds!" will get a special mention on the show.  Let us know. Come talk to us in the Discord channel or send us an email to EnjoyStuff@RetroZap.com 

In the first part of a sort of crossover with the Advent Calendar House podcast, Mike Westfall joins Michael and Rob to talk about an unusual version of A Christmas Carol. From CBS's 1954 anthology variety show, Shower of Stars, it features Fredric March as Scrooge, Basil Rathbone as Marley, and bunch of questionable songs. And be sure to tune in next Sunday to ACH for Part Two in which Michael and Rob will join Mike to discuss another musical Christmas Carol, 2004's A Christmas Carol: The Musical starring Kelsey Grammer, Jason Alexander, Jane Krakowski, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jesse L Martin, and Geraldine Chaplin.

This week on Tuesday Night Detectives, we open with The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in "The Great Gandolfo" starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce. Watson and Holmes square off against a master of deception whose illusions hide a far deadlier game, one that only the world's greatest detective can unravel. Then we turn up the pace with a double helping with Episodes 5 and 6 of Dick Barton, Special Agent. Barton plunges deeper into a high-stakes investigation packed with coded clues, shadowy villains, and the trademark cliffhangers that made this British thriller a sensation. Settle in for sharp wits, crackling suspense, and classic detective storytelling at its best here on Vintage Classic Radio.

The Case of the Retired Colourman: A Sherlock Holmes AdventureIn this captivating radio drama, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson embark on a thrilling adventure involving a retired color man, Josiah P. Amberley, who claims to have been robbed of both his wife and his securities. As the investigation unfolds, the duo uncovers a sinister plot that leads to a tragic conclusion, revealing the dark side of human nature and the consequences of jealousy and greed.In the heart of a dreary April, Sherlock Holmes finds himself in a melancholic mood, yearning for a case to invigorate his sharp mind. Enter Josiah P. Amberley, a retired colourman whose life has been turned upside down. His young wife and his life's savings have vanished, leaving him a broken man. Holmes, with his trusted companion Dr. Watson, embarks on a journey to unravel the mystery.Amberley's tale is one of betrayal and loss. Married to a woman thirty years his junior, his life seemed idyllic until the arrival of Dr. Ray Ernest, a young man who played chess with Amberley and ultimately stole his wife and securities. The case takes a sinister turn as Holmes and Watson delve deeper into the mystery, uncovering a plot more twisted than they could have imagined.Holmes's keen observation and Watson's steadfast support lead them to a chilling discovery. The smell of fresh paint and the peculiarities of Amberley's home reveal a dark secret. The retired colourman, driven by jealousy and madness, had orchestrated a heinous crime, sealing his fate in the annals of criminal history.This gripping tale, adapted by Edith Meiser from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story, showcases the brilliance of Holmes and the enduring appeal of his adventures. As the series concludes, we are reminded of the timeless nature of these stories and the genius of their creator.Subscribe now to stay updated on more thrilling adventures from the world of Sherlock Holmes.TakeawaysThe importance of prompt action when feeling unwell.The character of Sherlock Holmes is timeless and captivating.Human emotions can lead to tragic outcomes.The setting plays a crucial role in the atmosphere of the story.Trust and betrayal are central themes in the narrative.The investigation process is methodical and detailed.Holmes' deductive reasoning is key to solving the case.The relationship between Holmes and Watson adds depth to the story.The use of gas as a murder weapon highlights the era's dangers.The conclusion serves as a reminder of the consequences of madness.Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, mystery, adventure, crime, Bromoquinine, radio drama, classic literature, Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce

The Screen Guild Theater || (19) Variety || (20) A Review | May 14, 1939; May 21, 193900:57 -- Variety -- Jack Benny really wants to be on the show but this season Screen Guild are doing a dramatic series and he just wouldn't fit in. However when Jack found out that film director Ernst Lubitsch was going to direct Claudette Colbert and Basil Rathbone in a dramatic sketch right away he wanted to muscle in on it so he calls up Edward Arnold president of the Screen Actors Guild. || Starring: Jack Benny; Claudette Colbert; Ernst Lubitsch; Basil Rathbone32:00 -- A Review : : : : :My other podcast channels include: MYSTERY x SUSPENSE -- SCI FI x HORROR -- COMEDY x FUNNY HA HA -- VARIETY X ARMED FORCES -- THE COMPLETE ORSON WELLESSubscribing is free and you'll receive new post notifications. Also, if you have a moment, please give a 4-5 star rating and/or write a 1-2 sentence positive review on your preferred service -- that would help me a lot.Thank you for your support.https://otr.duane.media | Instagram @duane.otr#dramaclassics #oldtimeradio #otr #radiotheater #radioclassics #luxradio #cecilbdemille #gunsmoke #oldtimeradioclassics #classicradio #crimeclassics #duaneotr:::: :

Cultists, five years after the previous entry in the series, and three years since they'd made a horror movie at all, Universal convinced Karloff to sit in Jack Pierce's make-up chair for one last outing as the iconic monster. Minus director James Whale's subversive edge but with Dracula star Bela Lugosi and future Sherlock Holmes star Basil Rathbone, Son Of Frankenstein marked a turning point in the Universal Horror Series. Please join us for the Dissection.  Dissection Topic https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0031951/?ref_=ext_shr  Son of Frankenstein https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B005EYG0HO/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r  Unholy Sacrament  Oktoberfresh, Fresh Hopped Marzen, Zoiglhaus Brewing Co https://untp.beer/NXgKA  Vault Of Darkness  Altered Carbon (Kalogridis, 2018) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2261227/?ref_=ext_shr   https://www.netflix.com/title/80097140  https://www.richardkmorgan.com/writing/altered-carbon/  Young Frankenstein (Brooks, 1974) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/?ref_=ext_shr  Young Frankenstein [Blu-ray] https://a.co/d/4Dd5Myj  #sonoffrankenstein, #frankenstein, #brideoffrankenstein, #youngfrankenstein, #rowlandvlee, #boriskarloff, #belalugosi, #basilrathbone, #jackpierce, #kennethstrickfaden, #ygor, #igor, #drfrankenstein,  #henryfrankenstein, #wolffrankenstein, #inspectorkrogh, #universalmonsters, #universalhorror, #classicmonsters, #classichorror

Unraveling the Mystery: Sherlock Holmes and the Missing Submarine PlansThis episode of Sherlock Holmes features the investigation of the mysterious death of Cadogan West, a clerk at Woolwich Arsenal, who was found dead with important submarine plans in his possession. Sherlock Holmes, with the help of Dr. Watson and Mycroft, delves into the case, uncovering layers of intrigue involving espionage, betrayal, and the quest for national security. The narrative unfolds through a series of dramatic encounters and deductions, leading to a thrilling conclusion that highlights Holmes's unparalleled detective skills.In the fog-laden streets of London, a mystery unfolds that challenges even the sharpest minds. Join Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they delve into the perplexing case of the missing submarine plans, a tale that intertwines espionage, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth.The Case Begins: It all starts with a dense fog and a seemingly mundane day at 221B Baker Street. Holmes, restless and eager for a challenge, finds himself drawn into a case involving the death of a young clerk, Cadogan West, whose body is discovered on the tracks of the London Underground. The stakes are high, as the plans for a revolutionary submarine are missing, and the peace of Europe hangs in the balance.A Web of Intrigue: As Holmes and Watson navigate the murky waters of espionage, they encounter a cast of characters, each with their own secrets. From the enigmatic Mycroft Holmes, whose involvement hints at the gravity of the situation, to the distraught fiancée of the deceased, the plot thickens with every revelation. The duo's investigation takes them from the underground tunnels to the opulent halls of government, piecing together clues that lead to a shocking conclusion.In a tale that showcases the brilliance of Sherlock Holmes, the mystery of the missing submarine plans is a testament to the enduring appeal of Arthur Conan Doyle's creation. As the fog lifts and the truth is revealed, readers are left with a story that captivates and entertains, reminding us of the timeless allure of a good detective story.Subscribe Now: Stay tuned for more thrilling adventures with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Subscribe to our blog for the latest updates and insights into the world of mystery and intrigue.TakeawaysA cold can be a serious issue.Foggy weather is ideal for crime.Mycroft plays a crucial role in national security.The missing submarine plans are vital for Europe.Cadogan West's death raises many questions.The investigation leads to the underground.Miss Westbury believes in Cadogan's innocence.Colonel Walker's involvement complicates the case.Holmes's deductions reveal the truth behind the murder.The story ends with a teaser for the next adventure.Sherlock Holmes, mystery, adventure, Mycroft, Cadogan West, Bruce Partington Plans, underground investigation, crime, detective, Basil Rathbone

GGACP squeezes a few extra scares out of spooky season with this ENCORE of a 2016 interview with the “King of Splatter,” makeup effects wizard Tom Savini. In this episode, Tom reveals the secret of onscreen suspense, shares his admiration for legendary makeup artists Dick Smith and Jack Pierce and explains how “Midnight Cowboy” changed his life. Also, Tom praises George Clooney, defends Jerry Lewis, laughs it up with Tony Curtis and shakes hands with the Three Stooges. PLUS: Joe Spinell! “Dr. Terror's House of Horrors”! Christoper Lee makes an entrance! Tyrone Power battles Basil Rathbone! And the Cary Grant movie that brings Tom to tears! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Halloween! We're celebrating with a spooky collection of some of the big screen's most famous monsters in old time radio thrillers. Orson Welles is the count who never drinks...wine in "Dracula," presented by the Mercury Theatre On the Air (originally aired on CBS on July 11, 1938), and Suspense presents its own version of the horror classic "Frankenstein" (originally aired on CBS on June 6, 1955). Robert Louis Stevenson's "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" walk the streets in a syndicated story from The Weird Circle, and a group of climbers hunt for the legendary beast of the Himalayas in "The Abominable Snowman" from Escape (originally aired on CBS on September 13, 1953). A mysterious island is home to a creature that's howling mad in "W is for Werewolf" from Dark Fantasy (originally aired on NBC on February 13, 1942). Finally, Basil Rathbone dons the mask of "The Phantom of the Opera" on The Lux Radio Theatre (originally aired on CBS on September 13, 1943).

3 hours of old time radio fun!Jack Armstrong, The All American Boy 1940-12-03 e1562 Country of the Head HuntersYoung Love 1949-08-01 e05 Visit by Janet's Mom and Jimmy's DadHeartbeat Theater 1959-05-17 The Ghost of Danton HillThe Adventures Of Sherlock Holmes 1945-09-17 Case Of The Out Of Date Murder with Basil Rathbone And Nigel BrucePete Kelly's Blues 1951-08-22 Gus Trudeaux See On The AirTales Of Tomorrow 1953-01-22 The Other Now

Send us a textAs the last four years, it's time for our annual salute to Scary Season on the pod --- a little film nosh to whet your appetite for the fun of Halloween ahead. Last season we went down one of the paths of the classic Universal Pictures lineup of horror films, with the foundational Dracula. This season, we're headed down another path of classics from the golden days of Universal, but the third in the series of this particular horror group. Not the film Frankenstein, not Bride Of Frankenstein, but the third and a nice addition (and the last that made sense) in the trail of the monster created by scientist Henry Frankenstein, the story of his human progeny. It's Son Of Frankenstein! You knew that was coming next!   Why start with the third in the series? The first two, directed by James Whale, were great and foundational in their own right. But we do dislike Colin Clive chewing the scenery as Henry Frankenstein in the first two films, as well as a thin set of supporting actors. If we're going to have an actor chewing the scenery, how about Basil Rathbone? Or Bela Lugosi? Also, many scenes in Son are immediately recognizable, as Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder mined so much of the story and characterizations for their inimitable film Young Frankenstein. Sure, the blind man played by legendary Gene Hackman in Young rose from a story line in Bride --- credit where credit is due. But most of the rest is Son. It's just fun to watch and mark… Okay, that's settled…Website and blog: www.thosewonderfulpeople.comIG: @thosewonderfulpeopleTwitter: @FilmsInTheDark

EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/efc Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee In a special edition of the Royal Blue podcast, Mick Rathbone is Chris Beesley's guest with the former Everton physio having brought out his new book The Smell Of Football III. The no-nonsense full-back started his playing career at home city club Birmingham before spells at Blackburn Rovers, Preston North End – where he first worked alongside David Moyes – and Halifax Town before swapping his boots for the physio's bag. Nicknamed ‘Baz' after actor Basil Rathbone, who was famous for playing Sherlock Holmes, he shares an array of anecdotes about his two spells at Everton, the first of which lasted from 2002-2010.Mick, 66, recalls how he was initially scared to take up a role at Goodison Park and tried to price himself out of a move, how he won favour with an intimidating Duncan Ferguson when first arriving through the door, how he was often on the receiving end of players' practical jokes and how he made up a story about the manner of his departure that prompted Moyes to get straight on the phone to him.When it comes to his book, the third and final part of the highly acclaimed The Smell Of Football trilogy is told with flair and unique insider insight. Mick concludes his riveting football memoir with a 100-day diary starting in the early 2024/5 season.  Once again, he brings us a unique insight into the world of professional football, this time through his role as a physio. Written with humour and candour, the book demonstrates that incredibly fine line between winning and losing – the width of a goalpost or a referee's decision – and the diametrically opposed emotions they bring.This book is for diehard fans who support their team unconditionally, season after season. It will show them just how much the players and officials really do care and, sadly, just how painful and emotionally draining defeat is.  It is an honest account that draws on the author's incredible 50 years in professional sport, bringing to life the day to day running of a professional football club.Link to the book:https://www.pitchpublishing.co.uk/shop/smell-football-iii Chris Beesley's Book: Spirit of the Blues: https://tinyurl.com/35yrkvdb *Emotional farewell to Goodison Park | 16-page Everton souvenir picture special:*  https://shop.regionalnewspapers.co.uk/liverpool-echo-monday-19th-may-2025-4583-p.asp *Goodbye to Goodison special souvenir edition:*  https://tinyurl.com/GoodbyeGoodisonSouvenir *Gavin Buckland's Book 'The End' | Order your copy here:* https://tinyurl.com/GavinBucklandTheEnd Everton FC podcasts from the Liverpool ECHO's Royal Blue YouTube channel. Get exclusive Everton FC content - including podcasts, live shows and videos - everyday.  Subscribe to the Royal Blue Everton FC YouTube Channel and watch daily live shows HERE: https://bit.ly/3aNfYav Listen and subscribe to the Royal Blue Podcast for all your latest Everton FC content via Apple and Spotify: APPLE: https://bit.ly/3HbiY1E SPOTIFY: https://bit.ly/47xwdnY Visit the Liverpool ECHO website: https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/all-about/everton-fc Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LivEchoEFC Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@royal.blue.evertoFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LiverpoolEchoEFC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1939, Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce were cast as Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson in 20th Century Fox's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', a teaming which led to thirteen more films, and five seasons of a radio show containing over 200 episodes. In this special, feature-length documentary, Adam leads you through their seven year-long tenure as Conan Doyle's famous characters, revealing the workings behind the series, the names responsible for its inception, and the effect of the films on the careers of Rathbone and Bruce. Who got top billing in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', and why? Who was Harry "The Henchman"? What did The Hoxton Creeper have in common with Abraham Lincoln? Who was involved in a notorious sex scandal during the making of 'Sherlock Homes and the Secret Weapon'? For instant access to the remaining episodes of THE GAME IS AFOOT, as well as the movies themselves in the Classic Movie Library, simply sign up now at ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/attaboysecret⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1939, Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce were cast as Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson in 20th Century Fox's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', a teaming which led to thirteen more films, and five seasons of a radio show containing over 200 episodes. In this special, feature-length documentary, Adam leads you through their seven year-long tenure as Conan Doyle's famous characters, revealing the workings behind the series, the names responsible for its inception, and the effect of the films on the careers of Rathbone and Bruce. Who got top billing in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', and why? Who was Harry "The Henchman"? What did The Hoxton Creeper have in common with Abraham Lincoln? Who was involved in a notorious sex scandal during the making of 'Sherlock Homes and the Secret Weapon'? For instant access to the remaining episodes of THE GAME IS AFOOT, as well as the movies themselves in the Classic Movie Library, simply sign up now at ⁠https://www.patreon.com/attaboysecret⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1939, Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce were cast as Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson in 20th Century Fox's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', a teaming which led to thirteen more films, and five seasons of a radio show containing over 200 episodes. In this special, feature-length documentary, Adam leads you through their seven year-long tenure as Conan Doyle's famous characters, revealing the workings behind the series, the names responsible for its inception, and the effect of the films on the careers of Rathbone and Bruce. Who got top billing in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', and why? Who was Harry "The Henchman"? What did The Hoxton Creeper have in common with Abraham Lincoln? Who was involved in a notorious sex scandal during the making of 'Sherlock Homes and the Secret Weapon'? For instant access to the remaining episodes of THE GAME IS AFOOT, as well as the movies themselves in the Classic Movie Library, simply sign up now at https://www.patreon.com/attaboysecret Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Agradece a este podcast tantas horas de entretenimiento y disfruta de episodios exclusivos como éste. ¡Apóyale en iVoox! Se trata del detective más famoso del mundo, astuto y audaz, una persona que ha convertido la capacidad de observación y deducción en un arte; SHERLOCK HOLMES. Acompañado de su fiel ayudante, el doctor Watson, y perseguido por el profesor Moriarty, del detective londinense se pasará por La órbita de Endor para ofrecernos todas sus caras. Desde su visión auténtica y original, creada por Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (de quien también hablaremos), pasando por todas sus versiones cinematográficas clásicas, donde no pocos rostros lo encarnaron, como Basil Rathbone y Peter Cushing, acabando con los nuevos actores que se han prestado para interpretar su papel en la gran y pequeña pantalla, es decir, Benedict Cumberbatch y Robert Downey JR. No olvidaremos algunos títulos singulares, como la serie de animación canina de los años 80. Sherlock Holmes, todo Sherlock Holmes y nada más que Sherlock Holmes, con la ayuda de Dios, aquí, en La órbita de Endor, el programa de la fantasía y la ciencia ficción. Participarán en el extenso monográfico de dos horas y media Abraham Hithorso, recién llegado de Podcinema, Asier Huarte, del podcast La Guarida del Sith y, por supuesto, el General Kurtz, uno de los responsables máximos de la página Lores del Sith. Dirigiendo la tertulia y editando el producto final, Antonio Runa. Sólo cuando toda razón es descartada, lo ilógico, aunque improbable, es invariablemente cierto. Como que tienes que escuchar este programa. ¡Elemental! Escucha el episodio completo en la app de iVoox, o descubre todo el catálogo de iVoox Originals

Sharpen your blade! This week on Enjoy Stuff we duel through the best sword fights in movie history, from Errol Flynn and Basil Rathbone to Luke Skywalker and The Bride. En garde and Enjoy Stuff! Whether you're swinging a wrapping paper tube, a sharp saber, or just a stick, we all love the romanticism of sword fighting. Let's look at the best ones in the movies.  News Discover magical new treats: Harry Potter Krispy Kremes    The new A Book of Dragons by Mike Witwer is now available   Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Hello Kitty at McDonald's? Sounds like a match made in heaven   RIP Terrance Stamp   Check out our TeePublic store for some enjoyable swag and all the latest fashion trends What we're Enjoying Jay celebrates Texas Massacre Day (Aug 18) with a special screening of the 1974 horror classic The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Shua dives into the fascinating world of Disney fandom with AJ Wolf's book Disney Adults     Sci-Fi Saturdays -  This week on Sci-Fi Saturdays Jay takes a look at Coherence (2014), a twisty tale that truly defines the meaning of “coherence,” both in its story and its theme. Read Jay's full breakdown on RetroZap.com. Also check out his latest work on MCULocationScout.com. Plus, you can tune in to SHIELD: Case Files where Jay and Shua talk about great stuff in the MCU. Enjoy Sword Fighting!  Sharpen your blade and tighten your grip! This week Jay and Shua celebrate the art of the sword fight, both in history and on the big screen. From legendary real-world figures like Miyamoto Musashi, Joan of Arc, and Julie d'Aubigny to Hollywood's masters of swashbuckling like Errol Flynn and Basil Rathbone, they slice into the roots of swordsmanship and how it translates into movie magic.   They look at the evolution of sword fights on screen:   Silent Era swashbucklers like The Mark of Zorro (1920) with Douglas Fairbanks   Golden Age Hollywood spectacle in The Adventures of Robin Hood   Post-War Realism in Japanese samurai cinema (Seven Samurai)   Modern Era duels ranging from Star Wars lightsabers to Game of Thrones brutality   Plus, they salute the fight choreographers who make it all possible, Nick Gillard, Bob Anderson, Donnie Yen and break down famous sword fighting techniques like the parry and riposte, feints, disarms, and Iaido precision strikes.   Finally, they take a tour through some of cinema's greatest sword battles:   The Princess Bride's witty duel   Rob Roy's brutal finale   Pirates of the Caribbean's rolling water wheel fight   Kill Bill's unforgettable Crazy 88 showdown   The operatic lightsaber clashes of Star Wars   And many more from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to The Lord of the Rings What makes a sword fight truly great? Choreography? Stakes? Cinematography? First person that emails me with the subject line, “En Garde!” will get a special mention on the show.  Let us know. Come talk to us in the Discord channel or send us an email to EnjoyStuff@RetroZap.com 

Diane and Sean discuss Sherlock Holmes, but if he was a mouse...in a mouse world...and also there's a rat. Episode music is, "Let Me Be Good To You", by Melissa Manchester from the OST.-  Our theme song is by Brushy One String-  Artwork by Marlaine LePage-  Why Do We Own This DVD?  Merch available at Teepublic-  Follow the show on social media:-  BlueSky: WhyDoWeOwnThisDVD-  IG: @whydoweownthisdvd- Tumblr: WhyDoWeOwnThisDVD-  Follow Sean's Plants on IG: @lookitmahplants- Watch Sean be bad at video games on TwitchSupport the show

We're tipping our deerstalker cap to Basil Rathbone in celebration of his June 13th birthday. Of course, we'll hear him as Sherlock Holmes in three old time radio adventures from Baker Street - “Murder in the Casbah” (originally aired on Mutual on December 3, 1945), “The Indiscretion of Mr. Edwards” (originally aired on Mutual on February 4, 1946), and “The Adventure of the Uneasy Easy Chair” (originally aired on Mutual on May 13, 1946). Plus, he plays John Adams in his pre-presidential days as a lawyer defending British soldiers involved in the infamous Boston Massacre. We'll hear Rathbone in “John Yankee” from The Cavalcade of America (originally aired on NBC on August 29, 1950).