Product ID: DNDE
Control Number: 7497902
Dragnet 369 Episodes
Dragnet is a legendary American radio crime drama that set the standard for realistic police storytelling. Premiering on NBC in 1949, the series brought a new level of authenticity to the airwaves, captivating audiences with its methodical depiction of police work. Set in Los Angeles, Dragnet followed the investigations of Sergeant Joe Friday and his partners as they pursued criminals through careful procedure, tireless legwork, and unwavering dedication to the law.
The show was groundbreaking in its portrayal of law enforcement, offering a stark contrast to the more sensational detective dramas of its time. With its signature opening lines — “Ladies and gentlemen: the story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent” — Dragnet delivered tightly plotted stories based on real police cases, making it one of the most respected and influential programs of the golden age of radio.
The Stars
Jack Webb, who also created and directed the series, starred as the stoic and determined Sergeant Joe Friday. Webb’s portrayal was deliberately understated, emphasizing professionalism and procedure over emotion or personal drama. His clipped, no-nonsense delivery became iconic, embodying the show's commitment to realism.
Friday was frequently partnered with a variety of characters, most notably Sergeant Ben Romero, played by Barton Yarborough, and later Frank Smith, played by Ben Alexander. These partnerships provided a sense of camaraderie and humanity to the otherwise serious and duty-driven tone of the series.
Key Dates
• Dragnet premiered on June 3, 1949, on NBC Radio.
• The original radio series ran until February 26, 1957, spanning eight years and over 300 episodes.
• A highly successful television adaptation premiered on December 16, 1951, and became equally influential, airing in multiple runs over the decades, including the notable 1967–1970 revival, again starring Jack Webb.
Other Information
Dragnet revolutionized the police procedural genre, both in its format and style. Its scripts were based on actual case files provided by the Los Angeles Police Department, giving the stories a feeling of authenticity rarely seen in entertainment at the time. The series placed great emphasis on the day-to-day realities of police work: the paperwork, the interviews, the slow build toward an arrest, and the moral and ethical responsibilities faced by officers.
The program’s distinctive sound design, featuring terse narration and the famous four-note theme ("Dun-dun-dun-dun!"), became instantly recognizable. Its deliberate pacing and detailed attention to investigative process influenced countless radio, television, and film crime dramas that followed.
Dragnet was more than just a crime show — it was a tribute to the work of real-life police officers. Jack Webb’s insistence on accuracy earned him the respect of law enforcement agencies across the country, and the show helped shape the public’s perception of the police for years to come.
Today, Dragnet is considered one of the most important and enduring shows in radio and television history, remembered for its realism, its influence on the crime drama genre, and its portrayal of the American ideal of justice, duty, and integrity.
This collection comes preloaded on a USB stick, allowing you to easily transfer all episodes to the device of your choice. Enjoy seamless playback a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern convenience.
Suggested Retail Price: $49.99
Mice Price: $36.29
Length: 30
Width: 369
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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