Starring Bob Bailey — the man with the action‑packed expense account
Part 1: Monday, June 25, 1956 Part 2: Tuesday, June 26, 1956 Part 3: Wednesday, June 27, 1956 Part 4: Thursday, June 28, 1956 Part 5: Friday, June 29, 1956
Les Crutchfield
Bob Bailey – Johnny Dollar
Virginia Gregg – Pearl Carrasa
Lawrence Dobkin, Harry Bartell, Howard McNear, Parley Baer – supporting roles
Jack Johnstone – Producer/Director
Amerigo Marino – Music Director
Johnny Dollar is assigned to investigate the disappearance — and possible murder — of Pearl Carrasa, a troubled woman whose life has been marked by bad choices, dangerous men, and a long trail of emotional wreckage. Her insurance claim raises red flags, and the company wants answers.
Dollar's search leads him through:
A web of deceit involving Pearl's former lovers
A criminal undercurrent tied to gambling and extortion
A family dynamic poisoned by jealousy and resentment
And a series of clues suggesting Pearl may have staged her own disappearance… or met a violent end
As Johnny digs deeper, he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy and a shocking truth about Pearl's fate. The final episode delivers one of the Bailey era's most dramatic confrontations — a blend of noir atmosphere, emotional weight, and sharp detective work.
Crutchfield's writing is gritty, layered, and emotionally charged.
Virginia Gregg delivers a standout performance as Pearl — vulnerable, volatile, and unforgettable.
Bailey's Dollar is at his best: calm, incisive, and relentless.
Johnstone's direction emphasizes tension and character, making this one of the most memorable mid‑1956 serials.
Part 1: Monday, July 2, 1956 Part 2: Tuesday, July 3, 1956 Part 3: Wednesday, July 4, 1956 Part 4: Thursday, July 5, 1956 Part 5: Friday, July 6, 1956
Les Crutchfield
Bob Bailey – Johnny Dollar
Eleanor Audley, Harry Bartell, Lawrence Dobkin, Howard McNear, Parley Baer – supporting roles
Jack Johnstone – Producer/Director
Amerigo Marino – Music Director
Johnny Dollar travels to a remote western town to investigate the death of Abel Tackitt, a rugged rancher whose life insurance claim appears straightforward — until Dollar discovers that Tackitt's death may have been anything but accidental.
Dollar uncovers:
A family torn apart by bitterness and old grudges
A land dispute that may have led to murder
A doctor's report that doesn't match the physical evidence
And a dangerous secret someone is desperate to keep buried
The investigation becomes a tense battle of wits as Johnny navigates lies, intimidation, and a community where everyone seems to have something to hide. The final episode reveals a heartbreaking truth — one of the Bailey era's most powerful endings.
Crutchfield again delivers a rich, character‑driven script with strong emotional stakes.
Bailey's performance is steady, thoughtful, and quietly intense.
The western setting gives the serial a unique tone, blending frontier atmosphere with noir mystery.
Eleanor Audley shines in a pivotal role, adding depth and gravitas to the story.
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