New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was a beloved old-time radio drama series that captivated audiences in the United States for over a decade, from 1939 to 1950. Based on the iconic detective stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this radio program brought the brilliant mind of Sherlock Holmes and the loyal companionship of Dr. John Watson to life through the talented performances of some of the most renowned actors of the era.

Series Overview and Creation

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes radio series was first launched on October 2, 1939, airing on the Blue Network, which later became the American Broadcasting Company (ABC). The show was initially sponsored by Grove's Bromo Quinine, a popular cold remedy, and was produced and directed by Edith Meiser, who had previously worked on the earlier radio series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes from 1930 to 1935.

Meiser's adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes stories for the new series was well-received, and the show quickly gained a loyal following. The program's format featured Dr. Watson, now retired, recounting the adventures of his famous friend and colleague, Sherlock Holmes, to a visiting narrator. This narrative device allowed the series to maintain a sense of nostalgia and intimacy, as if the listener was being invited into the world of the iconic detective duo.

Over the course of its 11-year run, The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes underwent several changes, both in terms of sponsorship and creative personnel. In 1943, the series moved to the Mutual Broadcasting System, where it would remain for the majority of its lifespan. The writing duties also shifted, with Meiser departing the show after disagreements with a sponsor over the level of violence in the program. From 1943 onward, the episodes were primarily written by the team of Denis Green and Anthony Boucher, with some early contributions from Leslie Charteris.

Notable Episodes and Storylines

One of the hallmarks of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was its ability to adapt a wide range of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's original Sherlock Holmes stories for the radio format. The series covered many of the most beloved tales, including "The Adventure of the Sussex Vampire," "The Adventure of the Empty House," and "The Adventure of the Illustrious Client."

In addition to these classic adaptations, the series also featured original stories inspired by the Doyle canon, such as "The Giant Rat of Sumatra," which was inspired by a reference in "The Adventure of the Sussex Vampire." These new tales allowed the writers to expand the Sherlock Holmes universe and explore fresh narrative possibilities.

One particularly notable storyline was the six-episode adaptation of the novel The Hound of the Baskervilles, which aired during the second season of the series. This gripping supernatural mystery, featuring the legendary hound of the Baskerville family, captivated listeners and showcased the program's ability to translate Doyle's most iconic works to the radio medium.

The series also experimented with innovative sound design, as evidenced by an episode titled "Death in Cornwall," in which actor Nigel Bruce, who portrayed Dr. Watson, "astounded sound engineers" with his convincing imitation of a seagull's call. These creative touches helped to immerse the audience in the world of Sherlock Holmes and enhance the overall listening experience.

Cast and Crew

For the majority of the show's run, the iconic roles of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson were portrayed by the acclaimed British actors Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, respectively. Rathbone's portrayal of the brilliant, eccentric detective was widely praised, and his chemistry with Bruce's warm and bumbling Watson became a hallmark of the series.

However, the show did see some changes in its cast over the years. After Rathbone's departure in 1946, the role of Sherlock Holmes was taken on by actors such as Tom Conway and John Stanley, while Nigel Bruce continued in the role of Dr. Watson until the end of the sixth season.

In addition to the lead actors, The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes featured a talented ensemble of supporting players, including Mary Gordon as the iconic Mrs. Hudson, Frederick Worlock as Inspector Lestrade, and Rex Evans as Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock's equally brilliant but more reclusive brother.

The series also had a rotating cast of announcers, with Knox Manning, Owen Babbe, Marx Hartman, and others serving in this role over the course of the program's run. These announcers often acted as the spokesperson for the show's various sponsors, which included Grove's Bromo Quinine, Petri Wine, Kreml Hair Tonic, and Trimount Clothing Co.

Impact and Reception

The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was a resounding success, captivating audiences across the United States for over a decade. The program's ability to adapt the beloved Sherlock Holmes stories for the radio format, combined with the exceptional performances of its lead actors, contributed to its enduring popularity.

The series was widely praised for its attention to detail and its commitment to preserving the essence of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's original works. Critics lauded the program's ability to transport listeners to the Victorian era and immerse them in the world of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.

The show's popularity was further evidenced by its longevity, with the series running for an impressive 374 episodes. Many of these episodes were recorded in front of live audiences, adding an extra layer of energy and excitement to the performances.

In addition to its critical acclaim, The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes also had a significant impact on the broader cultural landscape. The program's success helped to solidify the enduring popularity of the Sherlock Holmes character, paving the way for countless adaptations in film, television, and other media.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes radio series is undeniable. It not only entertained and captivated audiences for over a decade but also played a crucial role in shaping the public's perception and appreciation of the Sherlock Holmes character.

The program's influence can be seen in the countless adaptations and reimaginings of the Sherlock Holmes stories that have emerged in the decades since its conclusion. From the iconic Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce film series to the modern-day BBC series Sherlock, the impact of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes can be felt in the continued fascination with the world's greatest detective.

Moreover, the series' success helped to solidify the enduring popularity of old-time radio dramas, demonstrating the medium's ability to captivate audiences with its unique blend of storytelling and sound design. The program's innovative use of sound effects and its commitment to preserving the essence of the original Doyle stories have inspired countless other radio dramatists and producers.

Today, the episodes of The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of old-time radio and Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts alike. Many of the surviving recordings have been made available online, allowing new generations of listeners to discover the magic of this iconic series.

In the annals of radio history, The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes stands as a shining example of the medium's ability to bring beloved literary characters to life. Through its exceptional performances, captivating storytelling, and unwavering dedication to the Sherlock Holmes legacy, this series has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, cementing its place as one of the most beloved and influential old-time radio dramas of all time.

The New Adventuresof Sherlock Holmes

Enjoys some shows

Series Overview and Creation

Notable Episodes and Storylines

Cast and Crew

Impact and Reception

Legacy and Influence

The New Adventures
of Sherlock Holmes