RUSC MAILING

Written by Ned Norris

If you enjoy a good helping of espionage with your old time radio, I think you’ll be pleased to hear that I’ll be adding more episodes of The Man Called X throughout the coming week.

This splendid adventure series follows Ken Thurston, known as “The Man Called X,” a suave and resourceful American agent who travels the globe on dangerous assignments. One week he may be in Europe, the next in the Middle East, South America, or some other far-flung corner where trouble is brewing and secrets are changing hands.

The part of Thurston was most famously played by Herbert Marshall, whose refined voice gave the character just the right air of calm sophistication.

And then there is Pegon Zeldschmidt, played by Leon Belasco — a wonderfully slippery companion who brings humor, nervous chatter, and a touch of mischief to the proceedings.

What I enjoy about The Man Called X is the atmosphere. Shadowy foreign capitals, suspicious strangers, secret papers, coded messages, double-crosses, and danger waiting just around the corner. It is very much a product of the post-war years, when radio listeners were fascinated by spies, international crime, and the uneasy tensions of a changing world.

If you enjoy shows such as Dangerous Assignment, I Was a Communist for the FBI, The Lives of Harry Lime, or the more adventure-filled episodes of Suspense, then this series should be right up your street.

I’ll be adding new episodes to RUSC during the coming week, so do keep checking back. Whether you already know Ken Thurston’s adventures or are discovering them for the first time, this is a fine opportunity to enjoy one of radio’s classic espionage dramas.

So fasten your trench coat, keep your passport handy, and beware the stranger who seems just a little too friendly — The Man Called X is on the case.

Happy listening,

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