Although both Alfred Hitchcock, director of the 1940 Suspense pilot, and Charles Vanda, the producer who recalled Hitchcock’s effort and persuaded CBS to bring the show back in 1942, deserve credit for planting the seed, it is William Spier who must be considered the architect of the show still appreciated by fans today. Although not the first anthology show of its type, Suspense set a high bar for itself, thanks to Spier. He came into the position of producer with a very specific vision for the program, one that he was able to put all the pieces together to complete.

 

From the beginning, Spier insured that everyone involved in Suspense felt fully invested and understood that it was as much their show as his. He did this, according to many, by verbally confirming that everyone involved would have creative influence. This was an interesting approach, especially since when Spier signed on, the show did not have a sponsor. He sought to appeal to the professionalism and artistry of all involved and based on multiple results, including quickly becoming a show major stars wanted to be a part of and being able to secure sponsorship quickly and for several years, it is evident that he was successful.

 

Spier’s ability to attract major Hollywood actors is quite obvious. He also took great care to craft other parts of the program as well. Spier insisted that his musical directors not only create original pieces for each episode, but that the music, whenever possible, not only accentuated the episode, but figured into it as an actual component, almost as a character itself. Spier also took a hand in sound effects, working with Berne Surrey to be sure every sound went exactly in the right place and was timed to the precise second necessary.

 

Enjoy twelve stellar shows of mystery, thrills, chills, action, and adventure in Suspense, Volume 26, restored to Sparkling audio quality by Radio Archives.