What do you get when you mix a radio broadcast about aliens with fake news? In this case, it's one of the most well-known and successful hoaxes to ever exist. Join host Patton Oswalt for the incredible story about The War of the Worlds broadcast. It's time to peek inside the brilliant mind of Orson Welles and join the many Americans who sat glued to their radio sets as they heard a "news" story about aliens attacking Earth in 1938.

About the Host

Patton Oswalt is an American stand-up comedian, actor, author and screenwriter. He was a supporting character as Spence Olchin in the sitcom The King of Queens and narrated the sitcom The Goldbergs as adult Adam F. Goldberg. Oswalt has appeared in six stand-up specials and also won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special and a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for his Netflix special Patton Oswalt: Talking for Clapping.

About Honest History

Honest History creates award-winning books, magazines, and this show for young historians across the world. Our mission is to inspire kids to create a positive impact on history themselves. Learn more at honesthistory.co and @honesthistory.

Credits

This episode was written by Brooke Knight and produced by Randall Lawrence. Original theme music was written and recorded by Luke Messimer.

More

Enjoy this episode? Share with your friends and don't forget to rate and review. See you next time!