Family Theater Classic Radio: Recent Episodes
Family Theater Classic Radio
Great stories, featuring stars from the "golden age" of Hollywood. Radio shows produced by Venerable Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., remastered for today by Family Theater Productions, and reintroduced by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Gary Cooper (Sergeant York, High Noon) hosts this Family Theater radio drama originally broadcast April 27, 1949. Shelley Winters (Poseidon Adventure) and Henry Morgan (MASH) were both at the start of their long careers in Hollywood when they agreed to be on Father Peyton's radio show. This restored version is introduced by Father David Guffey, CSC.
Jack Haley (Wizard of Oz-Tin Man) hosts this episode of Family Theater originally broadcast on March 23, 1949. World War II was still very much in people's minds. This a story of the bond among soldiers and the universal need for prayer. The show was originally produced by Father Patrick Peyton. This restored version is introduced by Father David Guffey, CSC.
Hedda Hopper, legendary entertainment journalist, and Dan Dailey (My Baby Smiles at Me) star in this episode originally broadcast March on the Family Theater Radio Show. Comedian Fred Allen hosts.
Dennis Day hosts this episode of Family Theater Radio Show, starring Ann Blyth (Mildred Piece) and Philip Terry (Lost Weekend). The show was originally produced by Father Patrick Peyton and broadcast live on March 2, 1949. This restored version is introduced by Father David Guffey, CSC.
Jack Benny hosts this week’s show, starring Dan O'Herlihy and Rod O'Connor, telling the tragic story of Francis Thompson, mystic and poet who found grace in the midst of much suffering. Originally broadcast in 1949, the program has been digitally remastered and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
The great Ethel Barrymore narrates the story of the Passion of Jesus Christ, a story heard in these days leading up to Easter. Originally broadcast in 1947, the program has been digitally remastered and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Glenn Langan and Rita Wilson play a couple who have suffered one of the greatest losses possible, the death of a child. What could help heal their hearts and open their lives again? Meet Tommy an orphaned boy. Originally broadcast in 1949, the program has been digitally remastered and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Guy Madison played all-America hero types in "golden age" Hollywood movies. In this show he plays a stranger who comes to town and changes lives with his coaching, but can he convince people that he has changed? The play also stars Coleen Townsend and is hosted by John Lund. Originally broadcast in 1949, the program has been digitally remastered and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Jimmy Gleason and Nancy Olson star in this classic radio play from Family Theater Productions. Gleason plays Brownie, a third shift elevator operator who observes unfolding drama and helps lift people up. This remastered classic originally aired with a live orchestra on April 6, 1949. It is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, CSC.
Hollywood legend Edmund Gwenn (Santa in Miracle on 34th Street) narrates this delightful Irish tale of a precocious leprechaun. The radio play is hosted by academy award winning actor, Ray Milland (Lost Weekend). Originally broadcast live from Hollywood on March 16, 1949, the show is presented here remastered, with a new introduction from Father David Guffey of Family Theater Productions.
Family Theater Productions presents this remastered family radio play from January 1949. The Host is Lizabeth Scott. The play tells the story of a boy, David, drawn to show business and the mentor who helped him. David in youth is played by a young Dean Stockwell (Quantum Leap, Battle Star Galactica) and the older David by the great Lionel Barrymore (great uncle to Drew, known best as Mr. Potter in It’s a Wonderful Life). Presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Family Theater Productions and Father David Guffey present this remastered family radio play from February 1949. Roddy McDowall hosts. Anne Revere played some strong mothers in films like Song of Bernadette, National Velvet, and Gentleman’s Agreement. In this story she again plays a mother whose sons are called to war. At the time of this broadcast, many families were still mourning the loss of their loved ones or waiting for them to come home. Based on a true story, fitting for the upcoming Presidents’ Holiday.
Family Theater Productions presents this remastered family radio play from January 1949. The Host is Adolphe Menjou. This is a story of an English war orphan sent to live with her aunt Helen(Jeanne Bates) in New York City. It stars Gigi Perreau, Peter Miles, Steven Dunne and Jeanne Bates. Gigi Perreau was just a child at this time but went on to act as an adult on TV and on stage. Father David Guffey offers interesting insights.
Joan Leslie plays multiple roles in this radio play showing the resolve and strength of women through generations. This radio show was aired live on January 19, 1949, in the wake of WWII. It also stars Barry Kroeger and Robert Young. The show has been remastered by Family Theater productions, with a new introduction by Father David Guffey.
Actor John Beal (Trip to the Bountiful, 12 Angry Men) hosts this show starring Jack Smith (Known as "The Man wth A Smile in his Voice), and Janet Waldo, (The Woman of 1000 voices, including: Judy Jetson, Morticia Adams on the animated series, and many others). The show aired live on December 8, 1948. A special message on family comes at the conclusion of the show.
Hosted by Edward G. Robinson and stars Pat O'Brien(Knute Rockne All American, Angels with Dirty Faces) who plays a priest retiring from a beloved assignment as a prison chaplain to take on a new role in a parish. This remastered classic first aired March 25, 1947. Presented her with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
The great Beulah Bondi (It's A Wonderful Life) plays a teacher who really cares for her students including a struggling girl, played by Jeanne Cagney(Yankee Doodle Dandy). Don McNeil, popular morning radio personality, hosts the show which originally aired on February 2, 1949.
FBI director, J Edgar Hoover, hosted this radio story, starring Ruth Hussey (Philadelphia Story) and Glenn Langan(Dragonwyck, Margie) who play a couple struggling to keep together in the WWII era. This remastered show aired live on January 1, 1948, and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Classic Radio Podcast-Stars Margaret O'Brien, and Kenny Baker by Family Theater Classic Radio
Child actress, Margaret O'Brien, plays a blind girl who makes a Christmas wish, and sees more than most ever see. Also stars the original singer on the Jack Benny Radio Show, Kenny Baker, who shares his talents in this episode. This program originally aired live December 22, 1948, and is presented here with remastered audio and a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Loretta Young Young narrates the classic Christmas tale by author Charles Taswell. Family Theater has remastered the audio for this show which aired live, with an in-studio orchestra, on December 21, 1949.
Academy award nominated actress Irene Dunne (Cimarron, Love Affair, I Remember Mama) hosts this dramatic retelling a a French story of a simple man's devotion. This remastered classic radio play first broadcast on Christmas Day 1947. Legendary baritone singer, John Nesbitt and John Charles Thomas star with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Beloved comic Jimmy Durante stars in this weeks show of a kindly old man who promises his young neighbor the moon, and she believes him.- also stars MGM actress Jeanette McDonald. This remastered program originally aired November 17, 1948, and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey and the usual message of family prayer at the end of the show.
Jane Wyatt stars as a mother struggling to raise here children well, as she endures the judgement of some townspeople. Robert Ryan hosts this show which originally aired live on November 24, 1948. Family Theater Productions has remastered the show and added an introduction from Father David Guffey.
Rory Calhoun and Cathy O'Donnell play a young couple hoping to start a family. They get a jump-start on that when the husband meets a war orphaned boy who so wants a home. But how can his wife learn to love the child too? This remastered family classic first broadcast on November 3, 1948, and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
A story of a jealous brother played by Lon McCallister (The adventures of Tom Sawyer) and the people who try to show him love. Originally aired on November 3, 1948, and presented here withe a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
The great June Haver plays Birdie McKessler, a receptionist friendly and intuitive, but who can only type 22 words a minute. When her employers try to fire her, they discover her real value. The host of today's show, George Lloyd Murphy, was an actor who went on in the 1960s to become a U.S. Senator from California. This remastered family classic aired live on October 14, 1948, and presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Roddy McDowell stars as a good natured teen, intent on saving a friend accused of a crime. He sees good in someone who is held suspect by all others. This remastered radio play first was heard October 7, 1948. Father David Guffey gives a new introduction to the story.
Steve Dunne stars as a baseball player on a hitting streak and also in love. Will his fiancee, played by Gale Storm believe him. This remastered radio play originally aired September 23, 1948. Presented here by Family Theater Productions with a new introduction from Father David Guffey
In early December 1948, The University of Notre Dame Football Team was in Los Angele to play the USC Trojans. While in town, at the invitation of Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., Coach Frank Leahy, came to the Mutual Broadcasting studios to host this episode of Family Theater of the Air. The show starred Robert Stack and Richard Webb with Gloria Blondel. The show aired live on December 1, 1948. Notre Dame tied with USC, ending an ND undefeated streak.
The famous television parents Ozzie and Harriet bring a version of their classic radio (later TV) show to Family Theater of the Air, originally aired in 1948. Barry Fitzgerald hosts. This show has been digitally remastered by Family Theater Productions, presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, CSC.
A Family Theater Production which originally aired May 27, 1948, starring Lee Bonnell and Gale Storm(of "It Happened on 5th Avenue") with host, Mona Freeman. The play tells the real life story of a man who started as a pro-slavery politician but had a conversion and ended up being a great friend to all people. Remastered audio with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, CSC.
Ronald Reagan plays Mike Palmer, man looking honestly at his life, as he recognizes what damage falsehoods can do. Even before social media gossip and innuendo had the power to ruin lives. This radio drama aired live from Hollywood in 1948, and is presented in digitally remastered form here, with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Real life child prodigy Saundra Berkova stars as a talented young musician who want to switch to acting. A wise and kindly teacher (played by Barry Fitzgerald of "Going My Way")helps her discover her call and her her worth as a person. Originally broadcast in 1948, and is remastered here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
A young man set-up for a crime, abused in the system, emerges from prison full of wrath ready to strike at the people he blamed. A wise man intervenes, can there be change? Hosted by Golden Globe winner Dan Dailey, the show originally broadcast live from Hollywood in 1948 and is digitally remastered here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
June Haver stars as an actress facing a huge decision when her sister becomes ill. Originally produced by Venerable Patrick Peyton and broadcast in 1948, digitally remastered here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey of Family Theater Productions.
In this classic from the "Golden Age of Radio" Gene Raymond stars as a jaded reporter in search of a story who meets a remarkably generous man, played by Gene Lockhart (Miracle on 34th Street). Is he for real? Originally broadcast in 1948, Family Theater Productions presents the story here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
William Lundigan stars as a writer working as a janitor in a church, where one night he finds a woman weeping, and a love story begins. Father David Guffey, C.S.C. introduces this digitally remastered radio play from 1947.
Bob Hope introduces this radio play from 1947 starring Otto Kruger (High Noon)as a post WWII German immigrant facing prejudice, but who still acts with kindness and hope. Father David Guffey, C.S.C. offers a brief introduction to this digitally remastered radio classic.
Ward Bond plays Mark Bronson, a hard working father who sacrifices to send his son to fine school so that the boy will get a good education. At a father and son event at the school, Bronson feels out of place among the other fathers who are industry big wigs and high rollers. His son shows him what is most important in a parent. Originally broadcast in 1947, produced by Father Patrick Peyton, CSC. It has been remastered by Family Theater Productions with a new introduction by Father David Guffey, CSC
Paul Henreid plays a POW from WWII who returns to his home Austria with his American wife played by Joan Leslie. As they discover his village ravaged by war, they also find the true meaning of Thanksgiving and making a home. Originally broadcast in 1947, remastered by Family Theater Productions with an introduction by Father David Guffey, CSC.
Hoagy Carmichael was an actor but was primarily known as a musician, writing songs like "Stardust," and "Georgia on my Mind." He hosts this show and gives a touching word about family at the end of the program. The program was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is introduced here by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
To understand this story remember that it was produced as people in the United States were recovering from World War II. The nation did not suffer the damage to buildings and landscapes, families and to make sense of the loss of loved ones and the care of those wounded. William Holden stars with Brenda Marshall. At the time of this broadcast, the two were married in real life. Father Patrick Peyton produced the original program in 1947. The program was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is introduced here by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Victor Jory stars as an attorney who has the biggest challenge of his life, with himself as the client. This radio drama was broadcast live not he Mutual Broadcast System in 1948. Listen after the story for a special word from Victor Moore. The program was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is introduced here by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
See how early you can detect which classic of English literature is referenced in this radio play from 1948. Natalie Wood stars as a young girl who befriends a kindly professor who tells her a story that leads to an afternoon of adventure. Father Patrick Peyton produced this program, digitally remastered here and presented with a new introduction by Father David Guffey.
Legendary and ground-breaking actress Louise Beavers stars as a mother explaining courage to her daughter by telling the story of another young woman, Joan of Arc. Bob Crosby, brother of Bing Crosby hosts this show originally broadcast in 1948. The program was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is presented here with a new introduction from Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
"No Night too Dark" was the second radio play produced by Family Theater Productions for the series that was heard on the Mutual Broadcasting System for 20 years. William Cargan (Ellery Queen) hosts this play starring Walter Brennan (The Westerner, Come and Get It) and Beulah Bondi (It's a Wonderful Life, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Brennan's character Jonathon, plays cupid to a returning WWII vet and the woman he left behind. The program was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is introduced here by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Many will know the classic poem "The Hound of Heaven." You may not know the story of its author Francis Thomson. This radio play, originally broadcast in 1947, is hosted by Joan Caufield, stars Mark Stevens and narrator Marvin Miller. In spite of great poverty and suffering, Thomson was in touch with the mystery of God's persistent grace. The program is remastered by Family Theater Productions with an introduction from Father David Guffey, CSC.
Legendary child film star, Shirley Temple stars in this radio play originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC, in 1948, and broadcast on a Sunday evening by The Mutual Broadcasting System. Shirley Temple plays a woman trying to help her husband adjust to life after his service in World War II. John Agar stars as her radio husband, but at the time of recording Agar and Temple were actually married. Temple as an adult served in many roles including U.S. Ambassador to South Africa. The play was remastered by Family Theater Productions and is introduced by Father David Guffey, CSC.
Every marriage has its moments of challenge. In this comic story from 1948, a young couple Madeline(Barbara Eiler) and Tommy(Dennis Day/) face challenges balancing career goals. Giblin(Jimmy Durante) steps in to try to keep them together. This episode features a song from Dennis Day, remembered fondly for his work on "The Jack Benny Show." Remastered by Family Theater Productions and re-introduced by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
Gramps may not be a great babysitter but he is a wonderful grandfather. Find out what makes him so. This show from 1948, hosted by 5 time Academy Award nominated Irene Dunne, offers a charming story of a multi-generational home. Gramps is played by Victor Moore, Una Merkel plays his daughter and Henry Blair, the grandson. Venerable Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., produced this program. It has been remastered by Family Theater Productions and is re-introduced by Farther David Guffey, C.S.C.
This tribute to mothers originally broadcast on Mother's Day 1948, and is hosted by the great Gene Kelly. That same year Kelly starred as D'Artagnan in "The Three Musketeers." The story also features, Virginia Bruce and John Beal. Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., produced this show which has been remastered and is presented her by Father David Guffey, C.S.C. and Family Theater Productions.
Dennis Morgan received the most fan mail of any male actor on the Warner Brother's lot in 1947. That same year he hosted this episode of Family Theater on the Mutual Broadcasting System. This week's story is all about the power of forgiveness and second chances. The show stars William Gargan, known for his work playing 1940s film detective Ellery Queen. This episode was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. and has been remastered by Family Theater Productions. It is re-introduced by Father David Guffey, CSC.
"Unless you become like a child you will not see the Kingdom of God." A very young Natalie Wood plays just such a child, a little girl who helps others see beauty and accept love. This show is from 1947, that same year, Natalie Wood starred in the Christmas classic, "Miracle on 34th Street." Father Patrick Peyton produced the show and it has been remastered by Family Theater Productions, with an introduction by Father David Guffey, C.S.C.
A man tells the story of how his daughter was named and in the process tells the love story of how he met his wife. Don Ameche hosts. Kathryn Grayson and Johnny Johnston star. Family Theater Productions presents remastered family classics from our audio archives. The shows were originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC, with new introductions by Father David Guffey.
Jack Haley (Scarecrow in "Wizard of Oz") hosts this show from 1947. Chester Morris (Radio's "Boston Blackie" detective) plays a hardened ex-convict, intent on revenge. An angel tries to help him reconcile his life and find peace. Family Theater Productions presents remastered family classics from our audio archives. The shows were originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC, with new introductions by Father David Guffey.
Legendary actress Ethel Barrymore narrates the story of the suffering and death of Jesus. She is accompanied by music from Meredith Wilson and The Bob Mitchell Choir. Originally broadcast in 1947, this play was remastered and is now introduced by Father David Guffey from Family Theater Productions.
A young man runs away from home, guided by a wise old fellow traveler. Family Theater Productions presents remastered family classics from our audio archives. The shows were originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC, with new introductions by Father David Guffey.
Nothing is more tragic for a couple than the loss of a child. In this story, two parents face this loss by turning to each other and by turning to God. In doing so, they found life-giving hope for their future together. Jeanne Crain ("State Fair" and "Cheaper by the Dozen") stars with Patrick McGeehan. This show originally aired in 1947 and has been remastered by Family Theater Productions, with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Sometimes a younger person can teach a lot to someone older. Regis Toomey plays Officer Mac Denton, a hardened cop who no one wants to partner with except a rookie, Ed Thomas (Walter Tetley), whose compassion and sense of understanding helps transform his elder colleague. Originally broadcast in 1947 and hosted by award winning actress Maureen O'Hara(Miracle on 34th Street). Family Theater Productions remastered the show, with an introduction from Father David Guffey,
Singer Kate Smith hosts this episode of Family Theater Radio, originally broadcast in 1948. What would it be like to meet your Guardian Angel? In the play, An angel helps a man look at his life with new eyes. It stars Robert Ryan and Joan Loring (Oscar nominated for her role in The Corn is Green). This remastered classic is introduced by Father David Guffey from Family Theater Productions.
Gregory Peck plays a young legislator torn between voting his conscience for the good of his district or caving to pressures of monied lobbyists. He finds inspiration in a vision from a leader of another age. Family Theater Productions presents remastered family classics from our audio archives. The shows were originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC, with new introductions by Father David Guffey.
Radio comedy legends Fibber Magee and Molly play cupid to a young friend Jane (played by Betty White) who has just broken up with her fiancee. This show was originally produced by Venerable Patrick Peyton, CSC, for Family Theater Productions in 1947. The show has bee digitally remastered with a new introduction from Father David Guffey.
Oscar Season is upon us, this show features three Academy Award winners: Jimmy Stewart(Philadelphia Story), Loretta Young (Farmer's Daughter and Come to the Stable), and Don Ameche (Cocoon). This was the first Family Theater Radio Play on the Mutual Broadcasting System, originally airing in February 1947.
Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Oscar-winning legend, Lionel Barrymore (It's a Wonderful Life, Key Largo) stars in this 1947 drama about a grumpy old man who learns that there is more to lie than profit.
Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
The Super Bowl is coming soon and football is on peoples' minds. In this story, Bob Hope plays a football superstar for whom the game was all, until an injury makes him realize other important things. Joan Leslie (Yankee Doodle Dandy, Rhapsody in Blue) hosts, also features Virginia Welles
Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced in 1947 by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
The Great Gildersleeve (Hal Leonard) stars in this show (comedy) about a man whose tall tale leads to trouble. Bea Benaderet also stars- she was the neighbor in "The Burns and Allen Show" and later was the original voice of Betty Rubble in the 1960s "Flintstones." Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Gregory Peck hosts this episode about a family whose need brought them to prayer and whose prayer brought them together. Originally broadcast in February 1948. Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Eddie Cantor host this retelling of the story of the Three Wise Men, set in cold war Eastern Europe. Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the audio vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Three scientists in an isolated observatory discover true wonder when a niece comes to stay with them. The story features Pat O'Brien (Knute Rockne All American), Francis X Bushman (Ben-Hur and Sabrina) and Jill Oppenheim (aka Jill St. John). Originally broadcast live 1951. Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the audio vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio shows from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Based on a true story by Leo Tolstoy, Ralph Edwards (Host of "This is Your Life") hosts and Otto Krueger (High Noon) stars in this weeks radio play recorded in 1949. Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio show from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
Loretta Young narrates the story of the "The Littlest Angel" in a Family Theater Productions Radio Show recorded in December 1950. Father David Guffey, C.S.C., reintroduces this remastered classic radio show from the vaults of Family Theater Productions. The series was originally produced by Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C.
The radio play is based on a story by