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Calling All Detectives

Calling All Detectives

By: Entertainment Radio
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"Calling All Detectives" was a unique old-time radio mystery and quiz show that aired from 1945 to 1950.Here are some key details about the series:
  • Format: It was a 15-minute show that combined a mystery drama with a quiz element.
  • Star: The show was primarily voiced by Paul Barnes, known as "The Man of 1,000 Voices," who played all the characters, including the lead, Detective Jerry Browning, and even the female roles. The only other person involved in the production was a sound effects man.
  • Interactive Element: What made the show stand out was its interactive nature. After a short drama, there would be a commercial break. During this break, Paul Barnes would call a listener (who had sent in their phone number on a card) and ask them to solve the mystery. After the call, Barnes would conclude the drama, revealing the solution.
  • Broadcast History: It ran weekly on Mutual Radio from April 7, 1945, to August 25, 1945, and then in syndication from approximately 1947 to 1950.
  • Characters: In the network version, Vincent Pelletier played "Robin," while Paul Barnes took on "Detective Jerry Browning" in the syndicated run.
"Calling All Detectives" is considered one of the earliest examples of a mystery-based quiz show in radio history. Many episodes are available today through old-time radio archives and streaming platforms.

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Episodes
  • Calling All Detectives 48-12-28 (342) The Necktie

    Calling All Detectives 48-12-28 (342) The Necktie
    May 29 2022
    Calling All Detectives is said to be the earliest form of mystery-based quiz shows. Mutual Radio (Weekly): 4/7/1945 – 8/25/1945 Syndication: 1947? – 1950? Vincent Pelletier as "Robin" (Network Run) Paul Barnes as "Dectective Jerry Browning" (Syndicated Run) In the network version, listeners were selected from cards that they sent to the show. When the mystery reached its climax, local announcers would call their listeners, and listeners who solved the mystery received prizes.
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    9 mins
  • Calling All Detectives 48-12-02 (324) Embezzled Money Mysteriously Disappears

    Calling All Detectives 48-12-02 (324) Embezzled Money Mysteriously Disappears
    May 29 2022
    Calling All Detectives is said to be the earliest form of mystery-based quiz shows. Mutual Radio (Weekly): 4/7/1945 – 8/25/1945 Syndication: 1947? – 1950? Vincent Pelletier as "Robin" (Network Run) Paul Barnes as "Dectective Jerry Browning" (Syndicated Run) In the network version, listeners were selected from cards that they sent to the show. When the mystery reached its climax, local announcers would call their listeners, and listeners who solved the mystery received prizes.
    Show More Show Less
    8 mins
  • Calling All Detectives 48-12-01 (323) Killer Who Keeps Appointment With Death

    Calling All Detectives 48-12-01 (323) Killer Who Keeps Appointment With Death
    May 29 2022
    Calling All Detectives is said to be the earliest form of mystery-based quiz shows. Mutual Radio (Weekly): 4/7/1945 – 8/25/1945 Syndication: 1947? – 1950? Vincent Pelletier as "Robin" (Network Run) Paul Barnes as "Dectective Jerry Browning" (Syndicated Run) In the network version, listeners were selected from cards that they sent to the show. When the mystery reached its climax, local announcers would call their listeners, and listeners who solved the mystery received prizes.
    Show More Show Less
    8 mins
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