On This Day, September 18: Barry Sullivan and Challenge of the Yukon
Also featured: The Cisco Kid.
September 18 Update & Historical Discoveries
This report durably records the historical discoveries, technical anomalies, verified cast roles, commercial integrity audits, and contemporary newspaper logs for old-time radio broadcasts transmitted on September 18.
1. Broadcasts
| Title | Network, Airdate & Showtime | Sponsor & Commercial Ads | Credited Cast & Performers | Director, Writers & Crew | Genres | Story Synopsis & Discovered Historical Insights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| "The Colorblind Killer" | Mutual Broadcasting System 1949-09-18 7:30 PM EST |
Ford Dealers of America | Barry Sullivan (Simon Templar) Lillian Buyeff Ken Christy |
Leslie Charteris (Creator) Helen Mack (Director) |
["Mystery", "Detective", "Crime"] |
Synopsis: Simon Templar investigates a sinister murder conspiracy involving an eccentric psychiatrist and an elusive assassin who can only distinguish shades of gray. Background: Engaging psychological whodunit showcasing Barry Sullivan's crisp portrayal of Simon Templar confronting an assassin with congenital achromatopsia. |
| "The Fraud" | ABC Network 1947-09-18 5:00 PM EST |
Quaker Oats Company Quaker Puffed Wheat & Rice |
Paul Sutton (Sergeant Preston) Dewey Cole (King the Wonder Dog) |
Fran Striker (Writer) George W. Trendle (Producer) |
["Western", "Adventure", "Juvenile"] |
Synopsis: Sergeant Preston and his loyal malamute King trek through frozen Klondike passes to expose an audacious claim-jumping scheme preying on elderly prospectors. Background: Classic Northwest Mounted Police morality adventure produced by George W. Trendle in Detroit, highlighting King's heroics along the Yukon River. |
| "Headless Valley" | Mutual Broadcasting System 1953-09-18 5:30 PM EST |
Interstate Bakeries Weber's Bread |
Jack Mather (The Cisco Kid) Harry Lang (Pancho) |
Frederic W. Ziv (Producer) Albert C. Cruger (Writer) |
["Western", "Adventure"] |
Synopsis: In Nevada's desolate Toiyabe Range, Cisco and Pancho investigate superstitious rumors of a phantom horseman terrorizing honest cattle homesteaders. Background: Top-tier Ziv western production capturing Jack Mather's charismatic delivery and Harry Lang's comedic timing as Pancho. |
| "What's the Good Word, Mr. Bluebird?" | NBC Radio Network 1950-09-18 10:15 AM EST |
Prudential Insurance Company | Jack Berch (Host / Vocalist) The Three Sunshine Boys |
Jack Berch (Producer) | ["Music", "Variety"] |
Synopsis: Cheerful baritone Jack Berch whistles upbeat tunes, performs What's the Good Word, Mr. Bluebird?, and offers friendly homemaker philosophy. Background: Quintessential morning radio cheer highlighting Prudential's "Piece of the Rock" sponsorship and intimate live studio whistling. |