
21st Precinct
Entertainment Radio

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.The Echoes of "21st Precinct": A Look Back at the Classic Police Drama
Step back in time to the bustling streets of New York City in the 1950s, where the airwaves were filled with the gripping tales of "21st Precinct," a police drama that captivated listeners with its authentic portrayal of the men in blue. From July 7, 1953, to July 26, 1956, CBS radio audiences were treated to this innovative series that was not just entertainment but a tribute to the real heroes of the city.
"21st Precinct" was more than just a show; it was a summer sensation that replaced "My Friend Irma," offering a unique glimpse into the lives of New York's finest. Produced in collaboration with the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association of the City of New York, the series presented stories adapted from true criminal records, all from the perspective of the police, the unsung guardians of the city.
The show was a masterful creation of Stanley Niss, who wore the hats of producer, writer, and director, bringing to life the stories of bravery, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice. The precinct, though fictional and without a real-world counterpart after the reorganization in 1929, resonated with the listeners, symbolizing the law and order that the actual 23rd Precinct represented.
Everett Sloane's portrayal of Captain Frank Kennelly was nothing short of iconic, embodying the leadership and dedication of a precinct captain. His character's promotion and reassignment marked a significant turn in the series, paving the way for actors James Gregory and Les Damon to step in as Captain Cronin, continuing the legacy of leadership.
The ensemble cast, including Ken Lynch, Harold Stone, Jack Orissa, and Santos Ortega, brought depth and authenticity to the show, making each character memorable and each episode a narrative gem. The opening lines of the announcer, followed by the lead actor's introduction, set the stage for the drama that would unfold, immersing the audience in the heart of the 21st Precinct.
Today, "21st Precinct" remains a testament to the golden age of radio, a period when storytelling was an auditory art form, and the imagination was the canvas. It reminds us of the timeless nature of good storytelling and the enduring respect for those who protect and serve. As we celebrate the legacy of this classic series, we honor the real-life counterparts of the characters who continue to watch over the city, ensuring the security of its people. The 21st Precinct may be a memory, but the spirit of service it depicted lives on.
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Top 10 21st Precinct Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best 21st Precinct episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to 21st Precinct for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite 21st Precinct episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

21st Precinct 54-12-29 077 The Wife
21st Precinct
12/25/19 • 27 min
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21st_Precinct_54-01-01_026_Case_Of_The_Stairs
21st Precinct
10/09/19 • 29 min
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21st_Precinct_53-10-06_014_The_Bird
21st Precinct
10/09/19 • 27 min
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21st Precinct 54-07-28 055 The DOA
21st Precinct
12/25/19 • 28 min
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21st_Precinct_53-10-27_017_Case_Of_The_Fall
21st Precinct
10/09/19 • 27 min
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21st_Precinct_55-03-16_088_The_Declaration
21st Precinct
02/28/20 • 26 min
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21st_Precinct_55-11-11_110_The_Friend
21st Precinct
02/28/20 • 27 min
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21st Precinct 54-08-18 ep058 The Iron
21st Precinct
06/02/20 • 28 min
21st Precinct: A Nostalgic Look at the Classic Police Drama
The 21st Precinct was a cornerstone of the golden age of radio, a time when storytelling was a purely auditory art and listeners were transported to another world through sound and imagination. This old-time radio show, which aired from July 7, 1953, to November 1, 1956, was a dramatic police drama that brought the day-to-day operations of a police precinct in New York City to life for its audience.
The show was unique in its approach, focusing on the human element of policing rather than just the crimes. It offered a window into the lives of the officers and the community they served, highlighting the challenges and triumphs they faced. The 21st Precinct was more than just lines on a map; it was a microcosm of the bustling city, with over 173,000 people living and working within its boundaries.
Listeners were captivated by the authentic portrayal of the precinct, which was made up of 160 patrolmen, eleven sergeants, and four lieutenants, all under the command of one captain. The series was presented with the official cooperation of the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association of the Police Department, City of New York, adding an extra layer of realism to the production.
The role of Captain Frank Kennelly, the primary character and narrator, was portrayed by three different actors throughout the series' run: Everett Sloane, James Gregory, and Les Damon. Supporting roles included Ken Lynch as Lt. Matt King and Harold Stone as Sgt. Waters, with Santos Ortega frequently appearing as Lt. Patrick "Red" Gorman.
The 21st Precinct was initially a summer replacement for "My Friend Irma" but quickly became a beloved fixture in its own right. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of old-time radio dramas and their ability to capture the imagination of listeners. For those looking to relive the nostalgia or discover it for the first time, many episodes are available for streaming on various platforms.
The legacy of the 21st Precinct is a reminder of the power of storytelling and the timeless nature of good drama. It's a piece of history that continues to resonate with audiences, proving that great stories truly are immortal. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the genre, the 21st Precinct offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the rich tradition of radio storytelling.
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/
Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon
Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/21st-precinct/donations

21st_Precinct_55-02-09_083_The_Surety
21st Precinct
02/28/20 • 27 min
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21st_Precinct_55-02-23_085_The_Museum
21st Precinct
02/28/20 • 26 min
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FAQ
How many episodes does 21st Precinct have?
21st Precinct currently has 111 episodes available.
What topics does 21st Precinct cover?
The podcast is about Fiction, Society & Culture, Drama and Podcasts.
What is the most popular episode on 21st Precinct?
The episode title '21st Precinct 54-11-03 ep069 The Glass' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on 21st Precinct?
The average episode length on 21st Precinct is 28 minutes.
When was the first episode of 21st Precinct?
The first episode of 21st Precinct was released on Jul 10, 2019.
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