"Death of a Lifer" is episode #23 of the 33 Half Moon Street radio series, originally broadcast on October 26, 1965. This South African detective drama, which aired in the mid-1960s, centers on the private investigation firm "Assignments Unlimited," located at the titular address, 33 Half Moon Street. The show was a hit in its day, featuring Chief Investigator Aubrey Mason, played by the popular South African actor Michael Todd. Mason’s character is known for his bold slogan, "We do anything, anywhere, at any time," and the agency’s guarantee of success on every case, no matter how unusual.
While specific plot details for "Death of a Lifer" are not widely documented in accessible archives, the episode title suggests a story involving a "lifer"—likely a prisoner serving a life sentence—whose death becomes the focal point of Mason’s investigation. Given the series’ reputation for tackling uncommon cases, the narrative might explore a mysterious death in a prison setting, a wrongful conviction, or a conspiracy tied to the lifer’s demise. The show’s typical 25-minute runtime would feature a tightly woven plot, relying on sharp dialogue and sound effects to drive the suspense, with Mason’s resourcefulness and wit at the forefront.
33 Half Moon Street was written by Adrian Steed for its first 17 episodes, with Douglas Laws taking over for the remainder, including this one. Produced after the Golden Age of Radio, it still captured the era’s charm with high production values and engaging storytelling. Michael Todd’s performance as Mason, combined with the series’ focus on clever, offbeat mysteries, kept listeners hooked.
(00:18) The Mysterious Funeral Assignment
(02:50) Canon's Unusual Task
(07:21) The Midnight Burial
(12:19) The Disappearing Funeral Parlor
(17:04) The Cemetery Investigation
(22:30) The Graveyard Discovery
(25:31) The Truth Unveiled
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