Strange Wills

Strange Wills is a captivating radio series that delves into the peculiar and often bizarre world of wills and probate law. Produced and syndicated by Teleways Radio Productions of Hollywood, the show premiered in 1946 and starred the distinguished Hollywood actor Warren William as probate attorney John Francis O’Connell.

Each week, the series tells the story of a strange will made by strange people - “men and women who defy and defile every moral law of respectability and decency to satisfy a mad desire.” The tales venture into a variety of genres, including suspense, romance, psychological drama, comedy, love, intrigue, and even horror. Based on actual wills gathered from courts around the world, the stories explore the deadly sins that “cry out from the depths of the grave for vengeance.”

With a talented cast that also featured actors Carlton Young and Howard Culver, as well as the original music of Del Castilio, Strange Wills offered listeners a unique and captivating listening experience unlike anything else on the air at the time. From a Broadway producer who willed an actress to a rival out of love, to an heiress who gave her son a choice between inheriting her financial empire or $5,000 and a plane ticket to Paris, the series delved into the darkest corners of human nature and the lengths people will go to satisfy their desires, even from beyond the grave.

The Stars

As the lead actor, Warren William portrayed the role of probate attorney John Francis O’Connell, who serves as the narrator and guide through each week’s peculiar tale. O’Connell is described as a kind and caring lawyer who is often drawn into the emotional turmoil of his clients’ strange bequests, sometimes going beyond the scope of his duties to become personally invested in the outcomes.

The supporting cast featured a rotating ensemble of actors, including Lurene Tuttle, Marvin Miller, Carleton Young, and Howard Culver, who brought the diverse array of characters to life.

Key Dates

• Strange Wills premiered on June 8, 1946 with the episode “Mad Concerto” and ran for 35 episodes.
• It concluding on December 21, 1946 with “Portsmouth Square.”
• The series was originally syndicated by Teleways Radio Productions, with the episodes airing on various radio stations across the country.

Other Information

In addition to its original run in the United States, Strange Wills was also broadcast in Australia. The series was expertly restored from original transcription discs, ensuring high-quality audio for modern listeners.

While the series was not based on any specific literary works, the stories were compiled by attorney Ken Krippene over a ten-year period, with names and details changed to protect the identities of the real-life individuals involved. The unique and often bizarre nature of the wills featured in the series has led to it being considered a pioneering work in the realm of old-time radio drama.