Starring Bob Bailey — the man with the action‑packed expense account
Part 1: Monday, May 7, 1956 Part 2: Tuesday, May 8, 1956 Part 3: Wednesday, May 9, 1956 Part 4: Thursday, May 10, 1956 Part 5: Friday, May 11, 1956
Les Crutchfield
Bob Bailey – Johnny Dollar
Virginia Gregg – Key female role
Harry Bartell, Parley Baer, Lawrence Dobkin, Howard McNear – supporting roles
Jack Johnstone – Producer/Director
Amerigo Marino – Music Director
Johnny Dollar is sent to investigate the suspicious death of Walter Patterson, a quiet, seemingly ordinary man whose life insurance claim raises more questions than answers. Patterson's death is officially ruled accidental — but the company suspects foul play.
Dollar's investigation uncovers:
A hidden double life Patterson kept from everyone
A financial trail that doesn't add up
A woman who knows more than she's willing to say
And a dangerous connection to a criminal operation Patterson may have stumbled into
As Johnny digs deeper, he finds himself navigating a maze of lies, intimidation, and a conspiracy that reaches far beyond Patterson's modest life. The final episode delivers a tense confrontation and a revelation that reframes Patterson's tragic fate.
Crutchfield's writing is tight, atmospheric, and character‑driven.
Bailey's performance is at its peak — calm, incisive, and emotionally grounded.
Johnstone's direction emphasizes tension and pacing, making this one of the standout mid‑1956 serials.
Strong use of supporting actors gives the story a rich, lived‑in feel.
Part 1: Monday, May 14, 1956 Part 2: Tuesday, May 15, 1956 Part 3: Wednesday, May 16, 1956 Part 4: Thursday, May 17, 1956 Part 5: Friday, May 18, 1956
Les Crutchfield
Bob Bailey – Johnny Dollar
Eleanor Audley, Harry Bartell, Parley Baer, Lawrence Dobkin, Howard McNear – supporting roles
Jack Johnstone – Producer/Director
Amerigo Marino – Music Director
Johnny Dollar heads to Baltimore to investigate a claim involving a wealthy family whose patriarch has died under questionable circumstances. The insurance company suspects the death may not be natural — and the family's behavior only deepens the mystery.
Dollar uncovers:
A family divided by greed and resentment
A will that may have been altered
A doctor whose testimony doesn't match the medical evidence
And a dangerous secret someone is willing to kill to protect
The investigation becomes a battle of wits as Johnny navigates lies, conflicting motives, and a household full of suspects. The climax reveals a shocking betrayal and the true cause of the patriarch's death — a revelation that brings justice, but at a heavy emotional cost.
Crutchfield again delivers a layered, character‑rich script.
Bailey's Dollar is sharp, sardonic, and relentless.
The ensemble cast shines, especially Eleanor Audley in a pivotal role.
The Baltimore setting is used effectively, giving the serial a distinct tone and atmosphere.
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