I Fly Anything

I Fly Anything was an American old-time radio adventure drama that aired on ABC from November 29, 1950, to July 19, 1951. The series followed the exploits of Dockery Crane, a freelance pilot who would take on any legal job that paid well, using his Douglas DC-4 aircraft for various missions and adventures.

The show stood out for its unique blend of aviation excitement and dramatic storytelling, offering listeners a thrilling escape into the world of a daring pilot-for-hire. Dockery Crane’s willingness to fly “anything” set the stage for a diverse range of storylines, from cargo deliveries to rescue missions, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with each new episode.

What made I Fly Anything particularly noteworthy was its casting choices. The show featured Dick Haymes in the lead role of Dockery Crane, marking Haymes’ debut in a straight dramatic role. Previously known primarily for his singing career, Haymes took on the challenge of bringing the adventurous pilot to life, adding a fresh dimension to his artistic repertoire.

Supporting Dockery Crane in his airborne escapades were co-pilot Buzz and secretary June, creating a tight-knit team that faced each new challenge together. This dynamic allowed for a mix of action in the skies and interpersonal drama on the ground, providing a well-rounded entertainment experience for radio listeners of the early 1950s.

The Stars

The star power of I Fly Anything was a significant draw for audiences. Dick Haymes, already a household name for his singing talents, took center stage as Dockery Crane. This casting choice was a bold move, as it presented Haymes in a completely new light to his fans and radio listeners. His transition from crooner to dramatic actor added an intriguing layer to the show’s appeal.

George Fenneman joined the cast as co-pilot Buzz, bringing his distinctive voice and presence to the role. Fenneman was an interesting choice, as he was primarily known for his work as an announcer on both radio and television. His inclusion in the main cast of I Fly Anything showcased his versatility as a performer.

Completing the core team was Georgia Ellis, who portrayed Crane’s secretary, June. Ellis joined the cast alongside Fenneman in the January 23, 1951 episode, injecting new energy into the show’s dynamic. Her character likely provided a grounding presence to the high-flying adventures of Crane and Buzz.

The combination of these talents - a singing star turned actor, a well-known announcer in a dramatic role, and an experienced radio actress - created a unique ensemble that set I Fly Anything apart from other adventure dramas of its time.

Key Dates

• November 29, 1950: I Fly Anything made its debut on ABC, introducing listeners to the world of Dockery Crane and his aerial adventures.
• January 23, 1951: This date marked a significant change in the show’s cast. George Fenneman joined the series as co-pilot Buzz, and Georgia Ellis made her first appearance as secretary June. These additions to the cast brought new dimensions to the show’s character dynamics.
• July 19, 1951: The final episode of I Fly Anything aired, bringing the series to a close after less than a year on the air.

Other Information

Production Team: Behind the scenes, I Fly Anything boasted a talented group of professionals. The show was produced by Frank Cooper and Sy Fisher, ensuring high-quality content for each episode. Direction duties were shared between Dwight Hauser and Clark Andrews, who likely brought different strengths to the production.

Writing Talent: The engaging scripts that brought Dockery Crane’s adventures to life were crafted by a team of skilled writers. Arnold Perl, Abe Ginniss, and Les Crutchfield were responsible for creating the thrilling scenarios and compelling dialogue that kept listeners tuning in week after week.

Announcer Duo: Adding to the show’s professional polish were announcers Jay Arlen and Lou Cook. Their voices would have been familiar to radio listeners, guiding them in and out of each episode and likely handling sponsor messages.

Unique Casting Choices: The decision to cast Dick Haymes, primarily known as a singer, in the lead dramatic role was considered unusual for the time. This bold move demonstrated the producers’ willingness to take risks and think outside the box in their quest to create compelling radio entertainment.

Technical Details: Each episode of I Fly Anything ran for 30 minutes, providing a compact yet satisfying dose of adventure for its audience. The show was broadcast in English, targeting the American market through the ABC network.

Cultural Context: The post-World War II era saw a surge in interest in aviation and adventure stories. I Fly Anything capitalized on this trend, offering listeners a taste of globe-trotting excitement from the comfort of their homes. The show’s premise of a freelance pilot taking on various jobs likely resonated with the spirit of entrepreneurship and adventure that characterized much of American culture in the early 1950s.

Legacy: While I Fly Anything had a brief run, it remains a noteworthy entry in the annals of old-time radio. The show’s unique premise, coupled with its star power and quality production, ensures its place in the history of radio dramas. For enthusiasts of aviation-themed entertainment or fans of Dick Haymes looking to explore his less-known work, I Fly Anything offers a fascinating glimpse into a specific moment in radio history.

The series serves as an excellent example of how radio dramas in the mid-20th century were willing to experiment with casting and themes to create fresh, engaging content for their audiences.

Despite its short lifespan, I Fly Anything embodies the spirit of adventure and innovation that characterized the golden age of radio broadcasting.