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Iran Welcomes Back Classic US Radio Detective ‘Johnny Dollar’ on Air
In the midst of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, a unique American presence has found a spot on Iranian state radio. This is not a politician or celebrity but rather a fictional insurance fraud detective named Johnny Dollar, who has been captivating audiences since 1949.
The show, titled “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar,” was originally created by CBS and gained popularity among Iranian listeners during the 1960s under the reign of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The program has recently returned to Iranian airwaves, with its Farsi-language version rekindling interest in a character many older Iranians hold dear.
Although the motivations behind the revival by the state-controlled network remain unclear, it carries nostalgic echoes of a time when U.S.-Iran relations were far more amiable. New episodes are now introducing younger Iranians to a show that resonates with their parents’ generation, starting with the iconic sound of gunshots followed by Dollar’s classic greeting.
Masoud Kouchaki, a 73-year-old fan of the show, reminisces about the days he listened with his parents. “It is amazing; it reminds me of the ‘60s and ’70s when I listened to the episodes through a vacuum tube radio,” he stated. For him, the show’s mysteries were a source of entertainment, free from the concerns of the world outside.
Originally airing from 1949 to 1962, “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar” followed the adventures of Johnny Dollar, a Hartford, Connecticut investigator. Its unique format involved narration through Dollar’s expense account entries, which progressed the story as he navigated various cases. His signature transatlantic accent became a hallmark of the detective genre in that era.
In Iran, state radio first began broadcasting in 1940 as part of efforts by Reza Shah to modernize the nation. Under his son Pahlavi, radio became a dominant media form, paving the way for its significant role in society for decades to come. However, following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, programming celebrating American culture faced strict censorship.
The recent adaptation of Johnny Dollar deviates from the original by omitting the expense account narrative but retains the noir ambiance, complete with dramatic music. The Iranian version invites listeners to solve the mystery and win prizes for their correct answers.
Mostafa Nasiri, a 76-year-old retired engineer, recalls winning a watch for his sharp deduction as a teenager in 1966. “It was a precious gift,” he shared. The public recognition at school for his accomplishment made the experience memorable.
After the 1979 revolution, U.S.-inspired programs were largely silenced, particularly after the embassy hostage crisis that marked a low point in relations. This November will mark 45 years since the crisis. Despite the restrictions, Hollywood films have still managed to seep into Iranian viewership, although hard-liners frequently denounce them as tools for cultural invasion.
Yet, many Iranians circumvent censorship with satellite dishes and the internet, often finding ways to connect with media from outside their borders. This curiosity likely extends to a show featuring a quintessential American detective.
John C. Abbott, a chronicler of the “Johnny Dollar” series, affirms the appeal lies in the character’s lifestyle. “You’ve got some guy out there buying drinks, taking cabs, doing all this wonderful stuff,” he remarked, suggesting it might offer an escape for the Iranian audience.
Despite the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting not elaborating on the reasons for airing the show, they have already produced nine episodes and plan to release 17 more. Director Ayoub Aghakhani stated that he sought to draw in more listeners by adapting the available Farsi translations.
For many younger Iranians, however, the show garners indifference, as modern distractions dominate their lives. Hamid Mohseni, a 29-year-old taxi driver, expresses his disapproval, wishing for the station to cease airing the American program.
In contrast, older generations are rejoicing at Johnny Dollar’s return. “It is beautiful to listen to stories that revive many memories,” said 68-year-old homemaker Mehri Bagheri, reflecting on the joy of revisiting fond experiences from the past.
As “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar” gains traction once again in Iran, it stands as a cultural symbol, bridging the past with the present.
Source: AP News
