Sherlock Holmes

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was a long-running and popular radio drama series that aired in the United States from 1939 to 1950. Based on the iconic detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the series featured the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. John Watson as they solved a wide variety of complex and intriguing cases.

The show captivated audiences with its gripping mysteries, clever deductions, and the dynamic interplay between the brilliant Holmes and the more down-to-earth Watson.

The Stars

For the majority of the show’s run, the roles of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson were portrayed by the acclaimed actors Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, respectively. Rathbone’s portrayal of the brilliant, eccentric detective was widely praised for its nuance and depth, while Bruce’s Watson provided the perfect foil as the amiable, often bewildered companion. The chemistry between the two actors was a key part of the show’s enduring appeal.

In the later seasons, other actors stepped into the roles, including Tom Conway as Holmes and Alfred Shirley, Ian Martin, and Wendell Holmes (credited as “George Spelvin”) as Watson. While these performers brought their own interpretations to the characters, the Rathbone-Bruce duo remains the most iconic pairing in the minds of many listeners.

In addition to the main cast, the series featured a rotating ensemble of supporting actors, including Mary Gordon as the iconic housekeeper Mrs. Hudson and Frederick Worlock as Inspector Lestrade.

Key Dates

• October 2, 1939: The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes debuted.
• October 2nd,1939 - May 27th, 1946: Basil Rathbone as Holmes and Nigel Buce as Watson.
• October 12th, 1946 - July 7th, 1947: Tom Conway as Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Watson.
• September 28th, 1947 - June 6th, 1949: John Stanley as Holmes
• 1947 - 1948: Alfred Shirley as Watson
• 1948 - 1949: Ian Martin as Watson
• September 21st, 1949 - June 14th, 1950: Ben Wright as Holmes and Eric Snowden as Watson
• June 14, 1950: final episode

Other Information

The stories were written by Edith Meiser, a self-confessed Holmes addict. At first she used Arthur Conan Doyles’ original stories, but, after the series outlived the original material, she created her own new stories. These were so well written that she was warmly praised by Arthur Conan Doyle’s widow and son.

In 1943, the show moved to Mutual Broadcasting System. This move coincided with the departure of Edith Meiser, who had been the primary writer for the series since its inception. The show continued with new writers, including Denis Green and Anthony Boucher, until its eventual conclusion in 1950.

The radio series was a significant part of the enduring popularity of Sherlock Holmes, introducing the character to a new generation of listeners. The show’s success also inspired numerous adaptations in other media, including films, television series, and stage productions.

The show’s announcer played an important role, serving as the spokesperson for the various sponsors over the years, including Grove’s Bromo Quinine, Petri Wine, and Clipper Craft Clothing Co.

Despite the loss of many episodes due to the ephemeral nature of radio, the surviving recordings of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes continue to be treasured by fans of old-time radio and classic detective fiction. The series’ enduring legacy is a testament to the timeless appeal of Sherlock Holmes and the enduring power of the medium of radio to captivate and entertain audiences.