Lux Redux: Hollywood's Timeless Theater

The Letter: Passion and Justice in the Malay Night

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

The Girl from Tenth Avenue: Love Across the Divide

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

My Man Godfrey: Forgotten Men and Manhattan Madcaps

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

The Prisoner of Shark Island: Justice on Trial

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

Dangerous: A Jinxed Heart, A Daring Redemption

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

Mad About Music: A Daughter’s Dream, A Stranger’s Role

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

Mary Burns, Fugitive: A Love on the Run

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

Dark Victory: A Love Beyond the Horizon

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

Naughty Marietta: Casquette Maids, Captains, and the Call of Romance

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

The Man Who Played God: Silence, Sacrifice, and the Echo of Grace

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