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Synopsis
In The Big Laugh, the story unfolds with Detective Sergeant Friday and his partner, Frank Smith, working the bunko detail in Los Angeles. They are faced with a troubling case involving a con man who has been cheating lonely women out of their money by promising them love and marriage. The episode begins with a poignant scene in a department store cafeteria, where a victim, Miss Terrance, recounts her heartbreaking experience with a man named Jonathan Benton. She describes how he charmed her with attention and affection, only to vanish after asking for money under the pretense of losing his wallet.
Featured in playlists
Goldie Originals that include this night
Broadway Is My Beat
The Lucille Baker Murder Case
Detective Danny Clover investigates the murder of Lucille Baker, who is found strangled in her home. As he delves into the lives of the suspects, he uncovers secrets that complicate the case.
Suspense
Sorry, Wrong Number
An invalid woman overhears a chilling conversation about a planned murder while struggling with a malfunctioning telephone. As she fights to alert the authorities, the stakes rise with each passing moment.
Gunsmoke
Line Trouble
Marshal Dillon investigates the cutting of a telegraph line, which has created tension between the local Native American community and the U.S. Army. He seeks to prove that the telegraph is not 'bad magic' and to prevent further conflict.
Fort Laramie
Shavetail
Lieutenant Sybert disobeys orders during a mission, leading to a confrontation with Captain Quince about the consequences of his actions. The stakes rise as they face the repercussions of a deadly ambush.
Let George Do It
Chance and Probability
George Valentine travels to South America to investigate a gambling system that promises wealth but is linked to a murder. He must uncover the truth behind the death of a man who possessed the system before he becomes the next target.
Escape
The Golden Snake
In The Golden Snake, a helicopter pilot and an archaeologist's secretary embark on a perilous journey into the Yucatan jungle to uncover a hidden Mayan treasure. They must navigate not only the treacherous terrain but also the ancient curses that guard the riches.
Dragnet
The Big Mask Part 2
Detectives Friday and Smith pursue the elusive Black Masked Bandit, who has been robbing local markets. As they investigate a bakery hold-up, they uncover unexpected twists in the case.
Dragnet
The Big Bop
A robber targets check cashing services, leading to a series of crimes and a murder. Detectives work to identify and apprehend the suspect before more violence occurs.
Dragnet
The Big Walk
Sgt. Friday and his partner pose as buyers to infiltrate a heroin trafficking operation in Los Angeles. They face challenges in identifying key players while racing against time to dismantle the gang.
Dragnet
The Big Locker
Detectives investigate a pawn shop when a man attempts to sell a suspicious emerald ring, leading them to uncover a jewelry robbery.
Dragnet
The Big Chet
Detectives Friday and Smith investigate a series of jewelry store robberies committed by a pair of armed thieves. With the help of an ex-convict, they aim to track down the criminals before they strike again.
Dragnet
The Big Tooth
A young woman reports her mother missing, leading detectives to suspect foul play involving the woman's husband. As they investigate, they uncover a history of domestic abuse and dark secrets.
Tense
Same mood, other nights on the dial
Suspense
Sorry, Wrong Number
An invalid woman overhears a chilling conversation about a planned murder while struggling with a malfunctioning telephone. As she fights to alert the authorities, the stakes rise with each passing moment.
The Lone Ranger
Cold Spring Showdown (Last Original 'Live' Broadcast)
The Lone Ranger and Tonto prepare to defend Cold Spring against a band of outlaws led by Red Eagle, who are intent on stealing a chest of gold. Tensions rise as the outlaws launch their attack on the stagecoach station.
Dangerously Yours
The Highwayman
In The Highwayman, a daring outlaw confronts a wealthy coachman while seeking romance with the landlord's daughter, Bess. The stakes rise as love and danger intertwine under the moonlit sky.
X Minus One
At the Post
A race track tout struggles to save his wife, who has fallen into a catatonic state, believing she is being controlled by aliens. He uses his knowledge of horse racing to uncover the truth behind her condition and the impending doom of mankind.
The New Adventures of Nero Wolfe
Stamped for Murder
Nero Wolfe faces a pressing dilemma when a young woman seeks his help to recover her inheritance, which her father has squandered on a dubious treasure map. As Wolfe reluctantly takes on the case, the stakes rise with the revelation of swindlers and hidden value.
Crime
More stories in this vein
Gunsmoke
Old Faces
Tom Cook confronts Ed Ivers after Ivers insults his wife, Tilda, leading to escalating tensions in Dodge City. The stakes rise as Tom's honor and safety are put on the line in a potential gunfight.
The Six Shooter
Jenny
The Six Shooter encounters a young man injured in a gully and helps him reach safety, only to find himself in a tense situation with a mysterious woman at a nearby cabin.
An Evening With Groucho
Tough Chicago Critic Story
Groucho reflects on the tough Chicago critic Percy Hammond, who famously panned the Marx Brothers' act. He shares anecdotes about Hammond's career and his interactions with notable figures in theater.
