Actor, director, producer, Robert Montgomery would have celebrated a birthday today. Montgomery, the handsome New York native, often played the role of the sophisticate in movies, many of which I’ve yet to see. Of Montgomery’s work I am much more familiar with radio appearances with his Suspense outings among my favorites. Mr. Montgomery had a rich, clear, resonant voice, which made him a natural behind the microphone. As you’ll hear, dramatic encounters are heightened by his presence. I hope you enjoy these shows as much as I will revisiting them for his birthday.
- We begin with the final show of the Lux Radio Theatre‘s third season, from July 5, 1937. Here’s “Beau Brummel” in which Montgomery stars opposite Madge Evans and an all-star cast.
- Next is the Lux production of “The 39 Steps” starring Robert Montgomery, Ida Lupino. Isabel Jewell, and Gene Lockhart
- Also from Lux Radio Theatre from 1937, “A Star is Born” co-starring with Janet Gaynor, Lionel Stander, May Robson, and Lou Merrill.
- From 1939, Montgomery stars alongside Bette Davis, Basil Rathbone, George Murphy, and Louise Beavers in The Gulf Screen Guild Show presentation of “Can We Forget.”
- From 1947 here’s the Lux presentation of “Rue Madeleine” missing the introduction and post-show commentary with the stars, but still worthy of a listen. Here Montgomery stars with Lloyd Nolan, Richard Conte, and Vanessa Brown.
Following are Suspense episodes on which Robert Montgomery acted as producer, host and sometimes star.
- On Suspense as host and star of “The Black Curtain.”
- On Suspense as host of “The Khandy Tooth” starring Howard Duff as Sam Spade.
- On Suspense as host of “Love’s Lovely Counterfeit” starring James Cagney.
- On Suspense as host and star of “The Lodger.”
- On Suspense as host of “Beyond Reason” starring Robert Ryan and Ruth Warrick.
- On Suspense as host and star of “In a Lonely Place.”
- On Suspense as host of “Nightmare” starring Eddie Bracken and William Conrad.
- Finally, on Suspense as host and star of “Night Must Fall” alongside Dame May Whitty and an all-star cast.
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Robert Montgomery (May 21, 1904 – September 27, 1981)