Mel Denton

Philo Vance is a fictional character featured in numerous crime novels written by S. S. Van Dine, published in the 1920s and 1930s, who was later revived in film and on radio and television. During that time Vance was immensely popular. He was portrayed as a stylish, even foppish dandy, a New York bon vivant with a highly intellectual bent - America's Sherlock Holmes. He worked closely with his secretary and right-hand woman, Ellen Deering, and his pal, John Markham, New York County district attorney.

He walks the streets by night! He solves crimes! He loves the ladies! And, he sings, too! What more you could you want from a radio detective? Hear screen legend Dick Powell star in sixteen rollicking episodes as Richard Diamond, Private Detective. A cut above the usual shamus, Rick is a charmer, has a snappy way with a wisecrack, and isn't afraid to use his fists. Diamond is flirtatious with female clients, but always remains true to his lady love. Helen Asher, his own sweet socialite, is playfully portrayed by Virginia Gregg, whose chemistry with Powell is positively peerless.

If you got the idea that Pat Novak was a rather single-minded fellow, you'd be wrong. He appreciated liquor every bit as much as he appreciated women. He could be found most nights popping shots and wisecracks with his saloon-owner pal, Jocko Madigan (Tudor Owen). But, most of all, he appreciated the crisp greenness of a new 50-dollar bill. Operating out of the grim San Francisco waterfront, Novak didn't have much use for anyone and didn't much care who knew it.