Apr 17, 2025

On Ron’s Amazing Stories last week, we delighted in two Western tales featuring the legendary Jimmy Stewart. But today, we're shifting gears to showcase a different side of this versatile actor. While many remember Stewart for his iconic roles in Westerns, his talents stretched far beyond, gracing dramas, spy thrillers, suspense films, and even a unique role involving conversations with an imaginary six-foot rabbit in "Harvey"—a comedy with surprisingly profound themes.

Comedy from the golden age of radio isn't something we've often explored on this podcast. Truth be told, humor from that era can feel a bit dated. However, today's feature, "The Jackpot," defies that trend. This 1950 comedy film, directed by Walter Lang and starring Jimmy Stewart alongside Barbara Hale, was inspired by a real-life event where James P. Caffrey of Rhode Island won $24,000 worth of merchandise on the CBS radio quiz show, "Sing It Again." Imagine the chaos of winning a ton of raw beef without owning a freezer!

While the film has faded from the limelight, preserved only in the 20th Century Fox Cinema Archives since 2012, we're bringing its radio adaptation to your ears today. Originally broadcast on NBC's Screen Directors Playhouse, Stewart reprises his role with Margaret Truman making her radio debut as his wife, Amy. Get ready for a delightful comedic gem, ”The Jackpot," aired originally on April 26, 1951.

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Program Info: Ron’s Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link.

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