The Mutual network show The Falcon was based on the series of movies with the Falcon character, created by Michael Arlen in a 1940 story, Gay Falcon. He was neither gay nor gay in the movies, or on radio. The Falcon on radio was named Michael Waring, played by several actors throughout the '40's and 50's, notably Les Tremayne in the late '40's and Les Damon in the early '50's. New York is the scene, and the thugs are pretty tough. Actors from New York did the parts with authority.

The Falcon played it solo, without a love interest or even catty secretary like other detectives put up with. He got rid of the love interest on the phone right at the beginning of the program. He might have been something of a gumshoe workaholic. His methods were solid and serious, and the cops were usually several steps behind him on the chase. His lines were sharp, cutting. He had little patience with the flatfeet anyway. The plots are solid, but workmanlike, much like the films.

Gem razor blades was the sponsor in the late 40's. In the Kraft period of 50-51, organ work by "Arlo" is solid and up front, with commercials delivered craftily by Ed Herlihy.

For more hard hitting detective action, don't forget to call on some of the most popular detectives: Phillip Marlowe, Richard Diamond, Let George Do It, The Saint, and Boston Blackie.