A Friend to Alexander: Haunted by History

Suspense - Radio’s Outstanding Theater of Thrills

In this captivating episode of Suspense, Harry Andrews finds himself haunted by unsettling dreams that blur the line between his reality and the infamous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. The story, based on the classic short tale by James Thurber, delves into the psychological torment that arises from Harry’s personal connection to Hamilton’s tragic fate.

Harry, an architect by profession, experiences recurring dreams where he converses with Alexander Hamilton—only to witness Aaron Burr, Hamilton's historical adversary, taunt and ultimately kill him in a duel. But in these dreams, the conflict becomes more personal, with Hamilton occasionally taking on the visage of Harry’s own deceased brother, intensifying the emotional and psychological strain. Even after the fatal duel, Aaron Burr continues to haunt Harry’s dreams, refusing to let go of his grip on Harry’s subconscious.

First aired on August 3, 1943, and again on June 15, 1944, this version from 1956 features the skilled direction of Antony Ellis and standout performances by John Dehner and Joseph Kearns. "A Friend to Alexander" weaves a tale of historical obsession, where past events echo through time to affect the living in deeply personal and mysterious ways.

Keywords: "A Friend to Alexander Suspense episode," "August 15, 1956 broadcast," "Alexander Hamilton Aaron Burr duel," "James Thurber story radio adaptation," "John Dehner Suspense actor," "classic psychological thriller."

Tune in to A Friend to Alexander and follow Harry Andrews as his dreams become a nightmarish connection to one of the most famous duels in American history, blurring the lines between the past and his present reality.