Faced with betrayal and moral conflict, Martins ultimately cooperates with the authorities to bring Lime to justice. The story ends with a dramatic chase through the sewers of Vienna, and Lime is shot and killed. The final scene mirrors the film’s iconic ending, with Anna walking past Martins in silent grief and refusal.

The Third Man was adapted for radio by Lux Radio Theatre and originally broadcast on April 9, 1951, on NBC Radio.