Sherlock Holmes Rathbone & Bruce

When it comes to the embodiment of deductive reasoning and intellectual prowess, one name frequently comes to mind – Sherlock Holmes. The legendary detective, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, has been portrayed in numerous mediums, but one of the most intriguing adaptations was an old-time radio show that aired from October 2, 1939, to July 7, 1947, in the United States. This series, known as “The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes,” brought the thrilling escapades and fascinating mysteries of Holmes and his loyal companion, Dr. Watson, to life for listeners across the country.

Originally, the show starred Basil Rathbone, a British actor best known for his portrayal of suave villains in Hollywood films, as Sherlock Holmes. Rathbone’s sharp wit and distinctive voice were perfectly suited to the character of Holmes, and his performances quickly became a highlight of the show. Alongside him was Nigel Bruce, who portrayed the affable and slightly bumbling Dr. John Watson. While the characterization was a departure from the more competent depiction of Watson in the original stories, Bruce’s performance added a touch of humor and warmth to the show, creating a dynamic and engaging duo that listeners loved.

“The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” aired weekly on Mondays from 8:30 to 9:00pm. During its initial run, the show was sponsored by Bromo Quinine, a popular brand of cold and flu medicine, and some of the earlier programs were broadcast on the NBC Blue Network. For a period, Parker Pen, a renowned manufacturer of high-quality writing instruments, also served as a sponsor. The show first aired on the Blue Network, but later moved to the Mutual Broadcasting System, one of the ‘Big Four’ radio networks in the United States during the golden age of radio.

The radio show was notable not just for its high-quality storytelling and performances, but also for its ability to adapt Sherlock Holmes’s adventures for the audio medium. Each episode was a self-contained story, allowing listeners to tune in at any time without needing to catch up on previous episodes. The stories were a blend of adaptations of Conan Doyle’s original tales and new mysteries written for the show.

“The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” gave audiences a new way to experience the thrilling exploits of literature’s most famous detective. It was an integral part of the golden age of radio and remains a beloved piece of Sherlock Holmes lore. Even today, the show provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of radio broadcasting and the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes.