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Gangbusters was a popular American crime drama that aired on NBC Radio from 1936 to 1957. It was created by Phillips H. Lord and based on his previous radio show, Call the Police. Each episode of Gangbusters showcased real-life stories of law enforcement officers tracking down notorious criminals. The show's tagline was "The only national program that brings you authentic police case histories." Many of the cases featured on the show were based on FBI files and involved high-profile criminals like John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, and Baby Face Nelson.

The format of Gangbusters was unique for its time. Each episode began with a dramatic reenactment of a crime being committed, followed by the narrator describing the criminal and the crime in great detail. The show then shifted to the police investigation, with officers using innovative techniques to track down the suspect. The final act of the show was the criminal's capture and subsequent trial and conviction.

One of the most memorable aspects of Gangbusters was its use of sound effects. The show's sound designers went to great lengths to create realistic audio environments, including recording the actual sounds of police sirens, gunfire, and other weapons. This attention to detail helped to immerse listeners in the world of the show and added to the drama and tension of each episode.

Gangbusters was also notable for its use of celebrity guest stars. Many Hollywood actors and actresses lent their voices to the show, including Humphrey Bogart, Barbara Stanwyck, and Mickey Rooney. These guest stars helped to attract a wider audience to the show and added to its popularity.

In addition to its entertainment value, Gangbusters was also seen as a valuable resource for law enforcement officials. The show's accurate portrayal of police techniques and procedures helped to educate the public on the important work being done by the police force. Additionally, the show's dramatization of real-life cases helped to humanize the officers and underscore the dangers they faced on a daily basis.

Gangbusters was also notable for its impact on popular culture. The show's tagline, "come out with your hands up", went on to become a catchphrase and is still used today in popular media. The show was also adapted into a comic book series, a television show, and several films.

Despite its popularity, Gangbusters faced controversy throughout its run. Some critics accused the show of glorifying violence and contributing to the rise of juvenile delinquency. In response, the show's producers argued that the show had a moral message and aimed to educate young people about the consequences of crime.

In conclusion, Gangbusters was a pioneering crime drama that captivated audiences with its realistic portrayals of law enforcement officers tracking down notorious criminals. The show's use of sound effects, celebrity guests, and real-life cases helped to make it a cultural phenomenon and a valuable resource for law enforcement officials. While the show faced controversy throughout its run, its impact on popular culture cannot be denied. Gangbusters remains a fascinating glimpse into the world of crimefighting and a testament to the power of radio storytelling.

Gangbusters is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (13 episodes). The series first aired on March 21, 1952.