The Top CBS Radio Mystery Theater Episodes That Will Keep You On the Edge of Your Seat

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CBS Radio Mystery Theater is a legendary radio program that aired from 1974 to 1982, captivating audiences with its thrilling and suspenseful stories. The show was hosted by E.G. Marshall and featured a variety of actors who brought the tales to life. With over 1,400 episodes produced, it can be difficult to determine which ones are the best. However, there are a few standout episodes that truly showcase the program's excellence.

One of the most memorable episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater is The Thing in the Window. This chilling tale follows a woman who moves into a new apartment and begins to see a strange figure in the window across the way. As she investigates, she uncovers a horrifying truth that will leave listeners on the edge of their seats.

The House on Cypress Canyon is another classic episode that is sure to send shivers down your spine. In this story, a man moves into a new home only to discover that it has a dark and haunting history. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he realizes that he may never escape the horrors that lurk within.

For those who enjoy a good murder mystery, The Death Wish is an episode not to be missed. When a wealthy businessman is found dead, his wife becomes the prime suspect. As the investigation unfolds, the truth behind the murder is revealed in a shocking twist that will leave you guessing until the very end.

Another standout episode is The Ghost Plane, which tells the story of a commercial airline flight that disappears without a trace. As investigators search for answers, they uncover a supernatural explanation that will leave you questioning what really lies beyond our world.

If you're a fan of science fiction, The Time Machine is an episode that will transport you to another world. In this story, a man invents a time machine and travels to the future, only to discover a terrifying truth about the fate of humanity.

One of the most gripping episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater is The Final Limit. When a group of astronauts are sent on a mission to explore a distant planet, they encounter an unexpected danger that threatens their very survival. As they fight for their lives, they must also confront their deepest fears and regrets.

The Curse of the Bronze Lamp is another episode that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. In this story, a man discovers a cursed lamp that brings him wealth and success, but at a terrible cost. As he becomes consumed by greed, he realizes that he may have made a deal with the devil himself.

For a more lighthearted episode, The Man Who Asked for Yesterday is a charming tale about a man who travels back in time to relive his youth. As he navigates the pitfalls of adolescence, he learns valuable lessons about the importance of living in the present.

The Devil's Boutique is a haunting episode that explores the consequences of making a deal with the devil. When a struggling artist is offered a chance at fame and fortune, he must decide whether the price is worth paying.

Finally, The Hand is an episode that will leave you with goosebumps. In this story, a man receives a mysterious package containing a severed hand. As he investigates the origins of the package, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens his very life.

Overall, these episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater showcase the show's ability to captivate audiences with its thrilling and suspenseful stories. Whether you're a fan of horror, mystery, science fiction, or simply enjoy a good story, there's something for everyone in this legendary radio program.


CBS Radio Mystery Theater Best Episodes

If you are a fan of mystery, suspense, and drama, then you must have heard about CBS Radio Mystery Theater. This radio show ran from 1974 to 1982 and produced over 1,400 episodes. It was hosted by E.G. Marshall, who played the role of the mysterious host every night. The show features some of the best writers, actors, and directors of that era.

The Hitchhiker

One of the most popular episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater is The Hitchhiker. It aired on January 17, 1975, and it was written by Lucille Fletcher. The story is about a woman who keeps seeing the same hitchhiker on her journey across the country. She becomes increasingly paranoid and tries to escape from him, only to find out that he was a harbinger of death.

The Doll

The Doll is another great episode from CBS Radio Mystery Theater. It aired on February 7, 1975, and it was written by Sam Dann. The story is about a lonely woman who finds a doll in an antique shop. The doll seems to have a mind of its own and begins to terrorize her. As the woman tries to get rid of the doll, she realizes that it has an eerie connection to her past.

The Devil's Boutique

The Devil's Boutique is a fascinating episode that aired on June 10, 1975. It was written by Fredric Brown. The story is about a man who stumbles upon a mysterious shop that sells peculiar items. The shopkeeper offers him a deal that he cannot refuse, but as he uses the item, he realizes that everything comes at a price.

The House of Death

The House of Death is a creepy episode that aired on June 22, 1976. It was written by Robert Newman. The story is about a man who inherits a house from his uncle. However, the house has a dark history and is haunted by the ghosts of its past occupants. As the man tries to uncover the truth, he realizes that he may be the next victim.

The Ghost Plane

The Ghost Plane is an exciting episode that aired on July 20, 1977. It was written by James Agate Jr. The story is about a pilot who crashes his plane in a remote location. He soon realizes that he is not alone and that there is something sinister lurking in the shadows. As he tries to survive, he discovers the truth about the ghost plane.

The Curse of the Bronze Lamp

The Curse of the Bronze Lamp is an intriguing episode that aired on September 19, 1977. It was written by Ian Martin. The story is about a woman who buys an antique lamp from a bazaar. However, the lamp has a dark curse that brings misfortune and death to anyone who possesses it. As she tries to break the curse, she discovers the truth about its origin.

The Girl in the Grave

The Girl in the Grave is a heart-wrenching episode that aired on December 13, 1977. It was written by William N. Robson. The story is about a detective who investigates the murder of a young girl. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of lies and corruption that leads him to the killer.

The Devil's Fingers

The Devil's Fingers is a spine-chilling episode that aired on March 22, 1978. It was written by Ian Martin. The story is about a man who finds a strange plant in his garden. As he touches the plant, he begins to experience terrifying hallucinations. He soon realizes that the plant has a sinister agenda and that he may be its next victim.

The Phantom Stop

The Phantom Stop is a mysterious episode that aired on June 14, 1978. It was written by Henry Slesar. The story is about a man who boards a bus that stops at a strange location. As he tries to leave, he realizes that he cannot escape and that the stop has a supernatural force that keeps him trapped.

The Man Who Died Twice

The Man Who Died Twice is a thrilling episode that aired on June 29, 1979. It was written by James Agate Jr. The story is about a man who fakes his death to escape from his enemies. However, as he tries to start a new life, he realizes that his past has caught up with him and that he may not survive this time.

Conclusion

CBS Radio Mystery Theater produced some of the best episodes of radio drama during its eight-year run. With its talented writers, actors, and directors, it brought the world of mystery and suspense to life. These ten episodes are just a small sample of what the show had to offer. If you haven't listened to CBS Radio Mystery Theater yet, then you are missing out on some of the best entertainment from the golden age of radio.


Introduction to CBS Radio Mystery Theater

CBS Radio Mystery Theater, also known as CBSRMT, is a radio drama series that aired on CBS Radio from 1974 to 1982. The show was created by Himan Brown, who was also the executive producer. Each episode was approximately one hour long and featured a unique story in the genres of mystery, horror, suspense, and drama. The show's popularity grew quickly, and it became one of the most successful radio dramas of all time.The show's format was similar to that of classic radio dramas like Suspense and The Whistler, with each episode featuring a different cast of actors and a unique storyline. The show also had a distinctive opening theme, which featured an ominous voiceover and eerie music.

The Best Episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Over the course of its eight-year run, CBS Radio Mystery Theater produced over 1,400 episodes. While each episode was unique and engaging in its own way, some stood out as particularly memorable and well-crafted. Here are ten of the best episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, in no particular order.

The Suspenseful Plot of The House on Chimney Pot Lane

The House on Chimney Pot Lane is one of the most suspenseful and thrilling episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater. The episode tells the story of a young couple who move into a new home, only to discover that it is haunted by the ghost of a woman who was murdered there years ago. As the couple tries to uncover the truth behind the murder, they begin to experience terrifying encounters with the ghostly presence in their home.The episode features a gripping plot, excellent sound effects, and strong performances from the cast. It also has a surprising ending that will leave listeners on the edge of their seats.

Uncovering the Dark Secrets of The Curse of the Bronze Lamp

The Curse of the Bronze Lamp is a haunting and atmospheric episode that explores the dark side of human nature. The episode tells the story of a man who inherits an old lamp from his grandfather, only to discover that it is cursed and brings death and destruction to those who possess it.As the man tries to uncover the truth behind the curse, he begins to unravel a web of lies and deceit that has been hidden for generations. The episode features strong performances from the cast and a chilling atmosphere that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

The Thrilling Story of Death's Worshipper

Death's Worshipper is a thrilling and suspenseful episode that explores the dangers of obsession and fanaticism. The episode tells the story of a young woman who becomes obsessed with a charismatic cult leader and joins his group, only to discover that they are planning a mass suicide.As the woman tries to escape the cult and warn others of its danger, she finds herself hunted by the cult's leader and his followers. The episode features a gripping plot, strong performances from the cast, and a thrilling climax that will leave listeners breathless.

The Mysterious Disappearance in The Ghost Plane

The Ghost Plane is a mysterious and eerie episode that explores the unexplained phenomena of the Bermuda Triangle. The episode tells the story of a commercial airplane that disappears without a trace in the infamous region, only to reappear years later with all of its passengers and crew missing.As investigators try to uncover the truth behind the disappearance, they find themselves drawn into a world of supernatural forces and unexplainable events. The episode features a haunting atmosphere, strong performances from the cast, and a chilling ending that will leave listeners wondering what really happened to the passengers and crew of the ghost plane.

The Haunting Tale of The Haunted Hotel

The Haunted Hotel is a classic ghost story that is both spooky and atmospheric. The episode tells the story of a man who checks into a hotel that is rumored to be haunted, only to find himself trapped in a nightmare of supernatural terror.As the man tries to escape the hotel and its vengeful ghostly inhabitants, he discovers that the only way to break the curse is to solve a mystery that has plagued the hotel for generations. The episode features strong performances from the cast, a creepy atmosphere, and a satisfying resolution that will leave listeners feeling both scared and satisfied.

The Spine-Tingling Mystery of The Return of the Moresbys

The Return of the Moresbys is a spine-tingling mystery that explores the dark side of family secrets and hidden agendas. The episode tells the story of a wealthy family who gather at their ancestral home for a reunion, only to find themselves targeted by a mysterious and malevolent force.As the family members try to uncover the truth behind the haunting, they discover that the past is not as it seems and that the sins of their ancestors are coming back to haunt them. The episode features a complex plot, strong performances from the cast, and a shocking twist ending that will leave listeners reeling.

The Supernatural Happenings of The Headless Hessian

The Headless Hessian is a supernatural episode that explores the legends and myths of Halloween. The episode tells the story of a group of teenagers who dare each other to spend the night in a haunted graveyard, only to be confronted by the terrifying ghost of a headless horseman.As the teenagers try to escape the ghostly apparition and its curse, they discover that the only way to break the spell is to solve a mystery that has been hidden for centuries. The episode features strong performances from the cast, a spooky atmosphere, and a satisfying conclusion that will leave listeners feeling both scared and entertained.

The Unexplained Phenomena of The Devil's Boutique

The Devil's Boutique is an eerie and unsettling episode that explores the dangers of temptation and greed. The episode tells the story of a struggling artist who visits a mysterious antique shop and discovers a painting that is too good to be true.As the artist becomes more obsessed with the painting and its dark powers, he finds himself drawn into a world of supernatural forces and unexplainable events. The episode features a haunting atmosphere, strong performances from the cast, and a shocking ending that will leave listeners wondering what really happened to the artist and his soul.

Conclusion

CBS Radio Mystery Theater was a groundbreaking radio drama series that captured the imagination of millions of listeners. Its unique blend of mystery, horror, suspense, and drama created a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans. These ten episodes are just a small sample of the many great stories that CBSRMT produced over its eight-year run. If you're a fan of classic radio dramas or just love a good story, be sure to check out CBS Radio Mystery Theater and experience the thrill of the unknown.

CBS Radio Mystery Theater: The Best Episodes

Point of View

As an avid fan of radio dramas, I believe CBS Radio Mystery Theater offers some of the best episodes in the genre. With a wide range of thrilling stories and exceptional voice acting, this series has remained popular for over 40 years.

Pros

1. Variety: CBS Radio Mystery Theater has a diverse collection of stories that range from horror to suspense, making it suitable for different tastes.

2. High-quality production: The show's sound effects and music are well-crafted, adding to the overall immersive experience.

3. Strong voice acting: The actors on the show are able to convey emotion and bring depth to their characters, making the stories more engaging.

Cons

1. Dated references: As the show was produced in the 70s and 80s, some of the references may not be understood by a younger audience.

2. Slow pacing: Some episodes may move at a slower pace than modern audiences are used to, which may make them less appealing.

3. Audio quality: While the show has been remastered, some episodes may still have audio issues due to the age of the recordings.

Table Comparison

Category CBS Radio Mystery Theater The Twilight Zone
Number of Episodes 1,399 156
Genre Mystery, Horror, Suspense Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror
Voice Acting Strong Strong
Sound Design High-quality High-quality
Original Run 1974-1982 1959-1964
Overall, CBS Radio Mystery Theater remains a classic in the world of radio dramas. While some episodes may show their age, the show's strong voice acting and diverse range of stories make it well worth a listen.

CBS Radio Mystery Theater: The Best Episodes

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the history of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, one of the most iconic and beloved radio programs of all time. We hope that this article has provided you with a glimpse into the world of mystery, suspense, and drama that captivated audiences for nearly a decade.

As we conclude our discussion of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, we would like to take a moment to highlight some of the best episodes that are still worth listening to today. These episodes span the entire run of the show and showcase the variety of styles and themes that made it such a success.

One of the standout episodes from the early years of the show is The Ghostly Rival, which tells the story of a young couple who move into a haunted house and are terrorized by the ghost of a former tenant. This episode is a classic example of the gothic horror genre and features some truly chilling moments.

Another must-listen episode is The Death Watcher, which centers around a woman who begins receiving mysterious phone calls from a man who claims to be watching her every move. This episode is a masterclass in building tension and suspense, and the twist ending is sure to leave you breathless.

For those who prefer their mysteries with a touch of humor, The Case of the Laughing Death is a great choice. This episode follows a detective who is tasked with solving the murder of a wealthy businessman, but finds himself stymied by a series of bizarre coincidences and unexpected twists.

Of course, no discussion of CBS Radio Mystery Theater would be complete without mentioning The Thing in the Cellar, one of the most famous episodes of the entire series. This episode tells the story of a young girl who discovers a terrifying creature living in her family's cellar, and features some of the most intense moments of suspense and horror ever heard on radio.

Other notable episodes include The Curse of Kamoshek, which explores the supernatural underbelly of ancient Egypt, and The Devil's Boutique, which follows a young woman who unwittingly becomes entangled in the schemes of a demonic shopkeeper.

Whether you are a longtime fan of CBS Radio Mystery Theater or are just discovering it for the first time, we hope that this list of the best episodes has given you a sense of the incredible range and depth of this iconic program. From gothic horror to supernatural suspense to comedic mystery, there is something for everyone in the world of CBS Radio Mystery Theater.

As we wrap up this article, we want to thank you for taking the time to read about this fascinating piece of radio history. We encourage you to seek out these and other episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater and experience for yourself the magic of this timeless program.

And who knows? Maybe you'll even find yourself transported back to a time when radio was king and the power of imagination ruled the airwaves.

Until next time, happy listening!


People Also Ask About CBS Radio Mystery Theater Best Episodes

What is CBS Radio Mystery Theater?

CBS Radio Mystery Theater was a radio drama series that aired from 1974 to 1982. It featured a variety of genres including horror, mystery, and suspense.

What are the best episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater?

Here are some of the best episodes of CBS Radio Mystery Theater:

  1. The Thing in the Cave

    This episode follows an archeologist who discovers an ancient creature deep in a cave. It has a surprising twist ending that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

  2. The House in Cypress Canyon

    This episode features a couple who move into a new home and discover strange occurrences happening around them. It's a classic haunted house story with a unique twist.

  3. The Last Call

    This episode follows a man who receives a phone call from his deceased wife. It's a haunting tale that will leave you wondering if there is life after death.

  4. The Ghost Plane

    This episode features a pilot who lands a plane that has been missing for years. However, when he disembarks, he realizes that he has traveled back in time. It's a thrilling adventure that will keep you guessing until the end.

Where can I listen to CBS Radio Mystery Theater?

You can listen to CBS Radio Mystery Theater on various websites and apps such as YouTube, Archive.org, and the CBS Radio Mystery Theater website.

Is CBS Radio Mystery Theater still on the air?

No, CBS Radio Mystery Theater stopped airing in 1982. However, its episodes are still available for listening online.