Old Time Radio Christmas Quiz
Here's the RUSC Old Time Radio Christmas-themed quiz to put your knowledge to the test regarding old-time radio episodes. The Golden Age of Radio was also known as the old-time radio era. We want you to enjoy your Christmas, which is the most wonderful time of the year, with this amazing Christmas quiz. Do not forget to share it with others to make their Christmas entertaining and thrilled. Good luck, my old-time radio friend! We hope you like this quiz
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which Big Band leader also played on the Burns and Allen Radio Show?
- A.
Charlie Barnet
- B.
Benny Goodman
- C.
Ken Carpenter
- D.
Artie Shaw
- E.
Count Basie
- F.
Duke Ellington
Correct Answer
D. Artie ShawExplanation
Artie Shaw is the correct answer because he was not only a renowned Big Band leader but also played on the Burns and Allen Radio Show. He was a clarinetist and bandleader during the swing era, known for his technical skill and innovative approach to jazz music. Shaw's involvement with the Burns and Allen Radio Show showcased his versatility as a musician, as he was able to adapt his style to different genres and mediums.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which female actress in the movie, Gone With The Wind, later on played Mary Livingstons Maid on The Jack Benny Show?
- A.
Butterfly McQueen
- B.
Portland Hoffa
Correct Answer
A. Butterfly McQueenExplanation
Butterfly McQueen is the correct answer because she is the actress who played Mary Livingstons Maid on The Jack Benny Show after her role in the movie Gone With The Wind.Rate this question:
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- 3.
In the series 21st Precinct, long time star Cpt. Canelli was replaced on his promotion by Cpt. Cronin played by an actor who made a mark in TV in the same sort of role. Who was it?
- A.
James Gregory - Inspector Luger on 'Barney Miller'
- B.
Ray Collins - Lt. Tragg on 'Perry Mason'
- C.
Broderick Crawford - Chief Dan MAthews on "Highway Patrol"
- D.
Lee Marvin - Lt. Frank Ballinger on 'M Squad'
Correct Answer
A. James Gregory - Inspector Luger on 'Barney Miller'Explanation
James Gregory is the correct answer because he played the role of Inspector Luger on the TV show 'Barney Miller', which was similar to the role of Cpt. Cronin in the series '21st Precinct'.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Who played the part of Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke?
- A.
William Conrad
- B.
Parley Baer
- C.
Howard McNear
- D.
Harry Bartell
- E.
Barney Phillips
Correct Answer
A. William ConradExplanation
William Conrad played the part of Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke.Rate this question:
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- 5.
An annual radio Christmas present was an adaptation of Dicken's "A Christmas Carol'. Who played the part of Ebenezer Scrooge?
- A.
Lionel Barrymore
- B.
Monte Wooley
- C.
Ed Wynn
- D.
Edgar Bergen
Correct Answer
A. Lionel BarrymoreExplanation
Lionel Barrymore played the part of Ebenezer Scrooge in the annual radio Christmas present adaptation of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol".Rate this question:
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- 6.
Beaulah, one of at least two spin offs of the Fibber Magee & Molly Show, followed the story of a 40's African-American housekeeper, funny thing was:
- A.
The part was played by 'Molly McGee' who had to juggle this and the original Fibber show
- B.
Part was played by the same actress who played the similar part of 'Birdie" on 'The Great Gildersleeve'
- C.
Protests from the newly created Domestic Workers of America lead to its early demise
- D.
Beaulah was in reality a male actor
Correct Answer
D. Beaulah was in reality a male actorExplanation
The correct answer is that Beaulah was in reality a male actor. This means that the character of Beaulah, who was portrayed as an African-American housekeeper, was actually played by a male actor. This could have been seen as unusual or unexpected, as traditionally female roles are played by female actors.Rate this question:
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- 7.
In the early radio episodes of Dragnet, Chief of Detectives Ed Backstran was played by someone who later had great success as a TV actor. Who was it?
- A.
Raymond Burr - TV's Perry Mason
- B.
Chuck Connors - TV's the Rifleman
- C.
James Arness - TV's Matt Dillon
- D.
Peter Falk - TV's Colombo
Correct Answer
A. Raymond Burr - TV's Perry MasonExplanation
Raymond Burr, who later achieved great success as TV's Perry Mason, played the role of Chief of Detectives Ed Backstran in the early radio episodes of Dragnet.Rate this question:
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- 8.
On Fibber McGee and Molly, what was the real name of Teeny the little girl who lived next door?
- A.
Molly
- B.
Alice
- C.
Elizabeth
- D.
Beulah
- E.
Fibber
Correct Answer
C. ElizabethExplanation
Teeny, the little girl who lived next door on Fibber McGee and Molly, was actually named Elizabeth.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What are the names of the husband and wife on The Couple Next Door?
- A.
Ethel & Albert
- B.
Betty & Bill
- C.
They have no names, they call each other Dear
- D.
Millie and Dick
Correct Answer
C. They have no names, they call each other DearExplanation
In the book "The Couple Next Door," the husband and wife do not have specific names. Instead, they refer to each other as "Dear." This is a unique characteristic of the couple in the story and is mentioned as the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which old time radio cowboy had a horse named Trigger?
- A.
Roy Rogers
- B.
Lone Ranger
- C.
Tonto
- D.
Hopalong Cassidy
- E.
Wild Bill Hickok
Correct Answer
A. Roy RogersExplanation
Roy Rogers is the correct answer because he was an old time radio cowboy who had a horse named Trigger. Roy Rogers was a popular cowboy actor and singer in the 1940s and 1950s, and he often appeared in radio shows and movies as a cowboy character. His horse, Trigger, was also well-known and appeared alongside him in many of his performances.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What was the name of Cisco Kid's horse?
- A.
Diablo
- B.
Silver
- C.
Champion
- D.
Trigger
- E.
Scout
- F.
Topper
Correct Answer
A. DiabloExplanation
Diablo is the correct answer because it was the name of Cisco Kid's horse.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following was NOT a regular visitor to the Fibber McGee and Molly household?
- A.
Mr. Whipple the harried husband of 'Sweetie Pie'
- B.
Bombastic Wistfull Vista Mayor La Trivia
- C.
The old timer - 'That's not the way I heared it'
- D.
Luigi the Italian Immigrant
Correct Answer
D. Luigi the Italian ImmigrantExplanation
Luigi the Italian Immigrant was not a regular visitor to the Fibber McGee and Molly household. The question is asking for the option that was NOT a regular visitor, and all the other options mentioned were regular visitors to the household.Rate this question:
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- 13.
In the early days, the Magee's (of Fibber McGee and Molly fame) had a boarder. Who was he?
- A.
Molly's dipsomaniacal uncle Dennis
- B.
Sven the janitor at Fibber's lodge
- C.
Mr. Wilcox the Johnson's wax spokesman
- D.
Trick Question - there was no boarder
Correct Answer
A. Molly's dipsomaniacal uncle DennisExplanation
Molly's dipsomaniacal uncle Dennis was the boarder in the early days of the Magee's.Rate this question:
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- 14.
In the Great Gildersleeve, who wasn't a Jolly Boy?
- A.
Nephew Leroy
- B.
Mr. Peavy the Druggist
- C.
Floyd the Barber
- D.
Judge Hooker
- E.
The Summerfield Police Chief
Correct Answer
A. Nephew LeroyExplanation
In the Great Gildersleeve, Nephew Leroy was not a Jolly Boy. The Jolly Boys is a social club in the show, consisting of several characters including Mr. Peavy the Druggist, Floyd the Barber, Judge Hooker, and the Summerfield Police Chief. Leroy, being Gildersleeve's nephew, is not a member of this club.Rate this question:
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- 15.
In Bold Venture, the Bogarts, Humphrey and Lauren, were based in a resort hotel in:
- A.
Havana
- B.
Martinique
- C.
Key West
- D.
Bermuda
Correct Answer
A. HavanaExplanation
The correct answer is Havana. In the radio show "Bold Venture," Humphrey and Lauren Bogart played the roles of Slate Shannon and Sailor Duval, who were based in a resort hotel in Havana. The show followed their adventures in the Caribbean, and Havana served as their main location.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Dragnet star Jack Webb named his first child after a frequent radio guest star. Who was it?
- A.
Stacy Harris
- B.
Harry Bartell
- C.
Martin Milner
- D.
Vic Perrin
Correct Answer
A. Stacy HarrisExplanation
Jack Webb named his first child after Stacy Harris, a frequent radio guest star.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Dennis Day, from the Jack Benny show, was married to the sister of which actress?
- A.
Ann Blyth
- B.
Loretta Young
- C.
Linda Darnell
- D.
Ann Margaret
Correct Answer
A. Ann BlythExplanation
Dennis Day, from the Jack Benny show, was married to Ann Blyth, the sister of actress Ann Blyth.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Fill in the blank for this famous old time radio series. Life with _____
Correct Answer
LuigiExplanation
The correct answer is "Luigi" because "Life with Luigi" is a famous old-time radio series that aired from 1948 to 1953. The show followed the life of Luigi Basco, an Italian immigrant living in Chicago, as he navigated the challenges and adventures of American life. Luigi's character was known for his endearing accent and optimistic outlook, making the show a beloved and popular choice among listeners during its time.Rate this question:
- 19.
Fill in the blank for this popular old time radio Christmas series. Cinnamon ____
Correct Answer
BearExplanation
This popular old time radio Christmas series is called "Cinnamon Bear".Rate this question:
- 20.
In which year was The Grand Ole Opry was first broadcast?
- A.
1920
- B.
1925
- C.
1930
- D.
1935
- E.
1940
Correct Answer
B. 1925Explanation
The correct answer is 1925. The Grand Ole Opry was first broadcast in 1925.Rate this question:
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- 21.
In which year was CBS formed?
- A.
1922
- B.
1927
- C.
1932
- D.
1937
Correct Answer
B. 1927Explanation
CBS, which stands for Columbia Broadcasting System, was formed in 1927. This answer is correct as it accurately states the year of CBS's formation.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who formed CBS?
- A.
William S. Paley
- B.
Edward Armstrong
- C.
Reginald A. Fessanden
- D.
James C. Maxwell
Correct Answer
A. William S. PaleyExplanation
William S. Paley formed CBS.Rate this question:
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- 23.
In which year did the Federal Communications Commission authorize FM experimentation
- A.
1931
- B.
1941
- C.
1951
- D.
1961
Correct Answer
B. 1941Explanation
In 1941, the Federal Communications Commission authorized FM experimentation. This decision allowed for the testing and development of frequency modulation (FM) technology, which is used in radio broadcasting. It marked an important milestone in the advancement of radio communication and paved the way for the widespread use of FM radio in the years to come.Rate this question:
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- 24.
In which decade was the organization that became the American Broadcasting Corporation formed, when NBC was forced by the Federal Communications Commission to sell one of its two networks?
- A.
1930s
- B.
1940s
- C.
1950s
- D.
1960s
- E.
1920s
Correct Answer
B. 1940sExplanation
In the 1940s, the organization that became the American Broadcasting Corporation was formed. This was because NBC was compelled by the Federal Communications Commission to sell one of its two networks.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which two presidential candidates held the first radio and TV debates?
- A.
Richard Nixon
- B.
John F. Kennedy
- C.
Lyndon B. Johnson
- D.
Dwight D. Eisenhower
- E.
Adlai Stevenson
- F.
Harry S. Truman
Correct Answer(s)
A. Richard Nixon
B. John F. KennedyExplanation
Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy held the first radio and TV debates. These debates took place during the 1960 presidential election and were a significant milestone in American political history. The debates were televised and marked the first time that candidates had the opportunity to directly address the American public through this medium. The debates were highly influential in shaping public opinion and are often cited as a turning point in the election, with Kennedy's performance on TV being seen as a key factor in his victory over Nixon.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Who set up NBC specifically for handling the company's radio activities?
Correct Answer(s)
RCA, Radio Corporation of America, R.C.A., R C AExplanation
RCA, also known as Radio Corporation of America, was the entity responsible for setting up NBC specifically for handling the company's radio activities.Rate this question:
- 27.
How many different actors played the part of Johnny Dollar?
- A.
One
- B.
Three
- C.
Six
- D.
Nine
- E.
Twelve
Correct Answer
C. SixExplanation
Six different actors played the part of Johnny Dollar. This implies that there were multiple actors who portrayed the character of Johnny Dollar, suggesting that the role may have been recast or rotated among different actors throughout the series or production.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Who was the "insurance investigator with the action-packed expense account"?
Correct Answer
Johnny Dollar, Yours Truly Johnny Dollar, Yours Truly, Johnny DollarExplanation
Johnny Dollar, also known as Yours Truly Johnny Dollar, is the insurance investigator with the action-packed expense account. This character was featured in a popular radio drama series called "Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar." The show aired from 1949 to 1962 and followed the adventures of Johnny Dollar as he investigated insurance fraud cases. The character was known for his thrilling and action-packed investigations, often involving danger and suspense.Rate this question:
- 29.
At the end of each episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar what did the main character do?
- A.
Itemized his expenses
- B.
Called the boss
- C.
Ate a bagel and cream cheese
- D.
Drank a famous cola drink
Correct Answer
A. Itemized his expensesExplanation
At the end of each episode of "Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar," the main character itemized his expenses. This suggests that the main character was a detective or investigator who kept track of his expenses for reimbursement purposes or for his own records. By itemizing his expenses, he ensured that he accounted for every expenditure made during the episode. This detail adds depth to the character and portrays him as organized and meticulous in his work.Rate this question:
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- 30.
You Bet Your Life was a TV game show BEFORE it was first broadcast on radio. True or false?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because "You Bet Your Life" was first broadcast on radio before it became a TV game show.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which of the Marx brothers hosted You Bet Your Life?
- A.
Chico
- B.
Harpo
- C.
Groucho
- D.
Gummo
- E.
Zeppo
Correct Answer
C. GrouchoExplanation
Groucho Marx hosted "You Bet Your Life."Rate this question:
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- 32.
What fell down in front of contestants onYou Bet Your Life if they mentioned "the secret woid"?
- A.
A toy duck
- B.
A clown
- C.
An umbrella
- D.
A ten dollar bill
Correct Answer
A. A toy duckExplanation
In the game show "You Bet Your Life," when contestants mentioned "the secret woid," a toy duck would fall down in front of them. This was a humorous and unexpected element of the show, adding entertainment value and creating a fun atmosphere for both the contestants and the audience.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Fill in the blank to complete the name of this spooky old time radio thriller that ran from 1934 to 1937. Witch's ____
Correct Answer
TaleExplanation
The correct answer is "Tale" because it completes the name of the spooky old time radio thriller that ran from 1934 to 1937, which is "Witch's Tale".Rate this question:
- 34.
Wild Bill Hickok was a TV show BEFORE it was first broadcast on radio. True or False?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because "Wild Bill Hickok" was originally a TV show before it was first broadcast on radio. This means that the show was created and aired on television before it was adapted and broadcasted on the radio.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Fill in the blank for this famous introduction to a popular mystery show that ran from 1942 to 1955. "I am the ________, and I know many things for I walk by night"
Correct Answer
whistler, the whistlerExplanation
The correct answer is "whistler, the whistler". This answer refers to the famous introduction of the popular mystery show that aired from 1942 to 1955. The introduction suggests that the speaker is "the whistler" and claims to know many things because they walk by night. This phrase became iconic and is associated with the show.Rate this question:
- 36.
The whistling that was a famous part of "The Whistler" theme music was - for the most part - performed by a woman?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
For almost all the years the show was on air the whistling part of the theme was performed by Dorothy Roberts, as very few people could perfect the two octave range.Rate this question:
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- 37.
What reason did Orson Welles give for starting to act on radio?
- A.
"in order to pay the bills"
- B.
"because it is the medium of the imagination"
- C.
"to get the girls"
- D.
"I have a face for radio"
Correct Answer
A. "in order to pay the bills"Explanation
Orson Welles started acting on radio "in order to pay the bills." This suggests that he took up radio acting as a means of financial support. It implies that he may not have initially had a strong passion for radio acting, but rather saw it as a practical way to make a living. This answer provides a logical explanation for why Welles chose to pursue a career in radio acting.Rate this question:
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- 38.
After the massive publicity surrounding the broadcast of "War of the Worlds" Orson Welles was offered a contract by RKO to produce, direct and star in a film. The result was the cinematic masterpiece "Citizen Kane". True or False.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
After the massive publicity surrounding the broadcast of "War of the Worlds," Orson Welles was indeed offered a contract by RKO to produce, direct, and star in a film. The film that resulted from this contract was the renowned cinematic masterpiece "Citizen Kane."Rate this question:
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- 39.
The part of Harry Lime was played by Orson Welles on both the radio and in 'The Third Man' on the big screen. In the film version Harry Lime was a hero, but in the radio version he was portrayed as a villain - or was it the other way round.
- A.
Harry Lime was a villain in the film, but a hero in the radio series
- B.
Harry Lime was the hero in the film, but the villain in the radio series
- C.
Harry Lime was the hero in both the film and the radio series
- D.
Harry Lime was the villain in both the fim and the radio series
Correct Answer
A. Harry Lime was a villain in the film, but a hero in the radio seriesExplanation
In the film version of "The Third Man," Harry Lime is portrayed as a villain. However, in the radio series, he is portrayed as a hero. This suggests that the character's portrayal differs between the two mediums, with the film presenting him as a villain and the radio series presenting him as a hero.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Where was Jack Webb born?
- A.
New York
- B.
Santa Monica
- C.
Boston
- D.
Chicago
- E.
London
Correct Answer
B. Santa MonicaExplanation
Jack Webb was born in Santa Monica.Rate this question:
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- 41.
In which old time radio show series did Jack Webb NOT appear as some kind of crime fighter?
- A.
Jeff Regan, Detective
- B.
Pat Novak for Hire
- C.
Pier 23
- D.
Broadway is my Beat
Correct Answer
D. Broadway is my BeatExplanation
Jack Webb did not appear as a crime fighter in the old time radio show series "Broadway is my Beat." This series focused on Detective Danny Clover, played by Larry Thor, who patrolled the streets of New York City's Broadway district. Jack Webb, however, did appear as a crime fighter in the other three mentioned series: "Jeff Regan, Detective," "Pat Novak for Hire," and "Pier 23."Rate this question:
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- 42.
Fill in the blank for this popular domestic comedy of the 1930s and 40s. Vic and ____
Correct Answer
Sade, sadeExplanation
The correct answer is "Sade, sade" because "Vic and Sade" was a popular domestic comedy radio program that aired during the 1930s and 40s. The show revolved around the lives of Vic and Sade Gook, a married couple, and their everyday experiences and interactions with their son, Rush. The repetition of "Sade, sade" emphasizes the importance of Sade's character in the show.Rate this question:
- 43.
What was the last name of Vic and Sade in the popular 1930s and 40s domestic comedy?
- A.
Gook
- B.
Cook
- C.
Flook
- D.
Their last name was never revealed
Correct Answer
A. Gook -
- 44.
Who played the part of Effie Perrine in The Adventures of Sam Spade, Junior's Mommy and Daisy June on The Red Skelton Show, Harriet's mother on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, Gildersleeve's niece on The Great Gildersleeve, Dolly Snaffle on Duffy's Tavern, and Judy Price on Dr. Christian?
- A.
Lurene Tuttle
- B.
Nernadine Flynn
- C.
Lucille Wall
- D.
Harriette Widner
- E.
Lucille Ball
Correct Answer
A. Lurene TuttleExplanation
Lurene Tuttle played the part of Effie Perrine in The Adventures of Sam Spade, Junior's Mommy and Daisy June on The Red Skelton Show, Harriet's mother on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, Gildersleeve's niece on The Great Gildersleeve, Dolly Snaffle on Duffy's Tavern, and Judy Price on Dr. Christian.Rate this question:
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- 45.
In which show would you find Old Wrangler, Jimmy, Jane, Amos Q. Snood, Sheriff Mike Shaw, Wash, Calamity and Lee Loo the Chinese cook?
- A.
Tom Mix
- B.
Gunsmoke
- C.
Lone Ranger
- D.
Six Shooter
- E.
Fort Laramie
- F.
Hopalong Cassidy
- G.
Tales of the Texas Rangers
Correct Answer
A. Tom MixExplanation
In the show "Tom Mix," you would find Old Wrangler, Jimmy, Jane, Amos Q. Snood, Sheriff Mike Shaw, Wash, Calamity, and Lee Loo the Chinese cook.Rate this question:
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- 46.
Where was the setting for the popular juvenile radio series Terry and the Pirates?
- A.
South China Sea
- B.
The Indian Ocean
- C.
The Mediterranean
- D.
The Caribbean
Correct Answer
A. South China SeaExplanation
The setting for the popular juvenile radio series "Terry and the Pirates" was the South China Sea. This is where the adventures of Terry Lee and his friends took place, as they encountered pirates and explored various islands in the region. The South China Sea provided a rich and exotic backdrop for the series, captivating young listeners with its sense of adventure and danger.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Who composed the music for The Lone Ranger?
- A.
Rossini
- B.
Brahms
- C.
Debussy
- D.
Tchaikovsky
- E.
Chopin
Correct Answer
A. RossiniExplanation
Rossini is the correct answer because he composed the music for The Lone Ranger. Rossini was an Italian composer known for his operas and is particularly famous for his overture to the opera William Tell, which includes the iconic "William Tell Overture" that is often associated with The Lone Ranger. His lively and dramatic music perfectly captures the adventurous spirit of the character and has become synonymous with the franchise.Rate this question:
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- 48.
What was the relationship between Edgar Rice Burroughs who wrote Tarzen of the Apes, and the actors who played Tarzan and Jane in the radio series that ran from 1932 to 1936.
- A.
Son and daughter
- B.
Wife and son
- C.
Daughter and Son-in-Law
- D.
Son and Daughter-in-Law
- E.
They were not related
Correct Answer
C. Daughter and Son-in-LawExplanation
The correct answer is Daughter and Son-in-Law. This means that Edgar Rice Burroughs, who wrote Tarzan of the Apes, had a daughter who was married to the actor who played Tarzan in the radio series.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Which of the following is NOT a juvenile old time radio series?
- A.
Air Adventures of Jimmie Allen
- B.
Big Jon and Sparkie
- C.
Chandu The Magician
- D.
Johnny of the Circus
- E.
Little Orphan Annie
Correct Answer
D. Johnny of the CircusExplanation
Johnny of the Circus was not an old time radio series. However, there was an old time radio series called Jerry of the Circus.Rate this question:
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- 50.
Fill in the blank for this juvenile old time radio series. ______ The Magician
Correct Answer
Chandu, chanduExplanation
The given correct answer is "Chandu, chandu." This answer fills in the blank for the juvenile old time radio series called "Chandu The Magician."Rate this question:
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