Mystery Is My Hobby

Mystery Is My Hobby was an American radio mystery program that captivated audiences with its blend of detective fiction and literary intrigue. The show centered around Barton Drake, a wealthy mystery writer who collaborated with the police to solve perplexing crimes. This unique premise allowed listeners to experience the thrill of both crafting and unraveling mysteries alongside the protagonist.

Originally debuting as Murder Is My Hobby on October 14, 1945, the series quickly found its footing on the Mutual Broadcasting System. The show’s initial run lasted until July 14, 1946, but its popularity led to a revival and rebranding as Mystery Is My Hobby, which continued to entertain audiences well into the early 1950s.

The program’s format cleverly framed each episode as a case from Drake’s book, also titled “Mystery Is My Hobby.” This narrative device added an extra layer of intrigue, as listeners were treated to Drake’s firsthand accounts of his adventures in crime-solving. A typical episode would open with Drake introducing the case number and title, immediately drawing the audience into the world of mystery and detection.

Glenn Langan, known for his work in film and television, brought the character of Barton Drake to life with his charismatic performance. Langan’s portrayal of Drake as both an accomplished author and an amateur sleuth added depth to the character, making him relatable to listeners who might have harbored their own dreams of literary success or detective work.

The Stars

Glenn Langan was the cornerstone of Mystery Is My Hobby, portraying the lead character Barton Drake throughout the show’s run. His smooth delivery and ability to convey both the analytical mind of a detective and the creative spirit of a writer made Drake a compelling protagonist for the series.

Supporting Langan was a cast of talented actors who brought the various suspects, victims, and law enforcement officials to life. Ken Christy and Norman Field alternated in the role of Inspector Danton, Drake’s primary contact within the police force. Their performances provided a grounding presence to contrast with Drake’s more unorthodox methods of investigation.

Charles Lung added a touch of domesticity to the show as Mike, Drake’s houseboy. This character often served as a sounding board for Drake’s theories and provided moments of levity amidst the tense mysteries.

The show also featured a rotating cast of guest stars, allowing for fresh voices and characters in each episode. This approach kept the series dynamic and unpredictable, as listeners never knew what new personalities might become entangled in the week’s mystery.

Key Dates

• October 14, 1945: The series debuts on the Mutual Broadcasting System under the title Murder Is My Hobby.
• July 14, 1946: The initial run of the show concludes.
• 1949: The series is revived and rebranded as Mystery Is My Hobby, entering syndication.
• 1951: The syndicated run of Mystery Is My Hobby comes to an end.
• February 17, 1950: A television adaptation of the series, titled Mystery Is My Hobby, premieres on WNBT-TV in New York City.

Other Information

Sponsorship: The radio series saw changes in sponsorship throughout its run. Initially, when broadcast on six Don Lee Pacific stations in April 1945, the show was sponsored by Cystex. Later, during its national run on Mutual, Mendaco became the primary sponsor.

Television Adaptation: In 1950, Reynolds Productions created a television version of Mystery Is My Hobby, also starring Glenn Langan as Barton Drake. This adaptation debuted on February 17, 1950, on WNBT-TV in New York City. Interestingly, the TV show was sponsored by Polaroid TV Filters and was recorded via kinescope at KNBH-TV in Hollywood, showcasing the evolving technology of the time.

Production Team: Behind the scenes, Mystery Is My Hobby boasted a talented production team. Dave Titus served as the director, bringing each script to life through skilled audio direction. Raymond R. Morgan took on the role of producer, overseeing the show’s overall quality and consistency. The writing, crucial for any mystery series, was handled by Richard Wilkinson, who crafted the intricate plots and engaging dialogue that kept listeners tuning in week after week.

Narrative Structure: One of the most intriguing aspects of Mystery Is My Hobby was its narrative framework. Each episode was presented as a case from Drake’s book, complete with a case number and title. This structure not only added authenticity to the fictional world but also allowed for easy reference and recall for dedicated listeners. It was common for Drake to end each episode by teasing the next week’s case, building anticipation and ensuring audience retention.

Audio Presentation: The show’s audio production was a key element in creating the atmosphere of mystery and suspense. Len Salvo provided the music, which set the tone for each episode and heightened dramatic moments. The announcers, including Rod O’Connor in the early run and Bruce Buell in the syndicated version, played a crucial role in framing the stories and delivering sponsor messages.

Cultural Context: Mystery Is My Hobby aired during a golden age of radio mystery programs. It was part of a trend that saw numerous detective and mystery shows populating the airwaves. A 1946 article in Billboard magazine noted the glut of mystery segments on the air, claiming that “42 Killed Every Week” in these programs, highlighting the genre’s popularity and the competition Mystery Is My Hobby faced.

Legacy: While Mystery Is My Hobby may not have achieved the long-running status of some of its contemporaries, it left an indelible mark on the radio mystery genre. Its unique premise of a mystery writer solving real crimes blended the worlds of literature and detective work in a way that appealed to a broad audience. The show’s revival and adaptation for television speak to its enduring appeal and the versatility of its concept.

Today, Mystery Is My Hobby stands as a fascinating example of mid-20th century radio entertainment. Its blend of writerly insight and detective work continues to intrigue old-time radio enthusiasts and mystery lovers alike.

The series serves as a time capsule of post-war American entertainment, reflecting the values, interests, and storytelling techniques of its era while still offering engaging narratives that can captivate modern listeners.