Mayerling

Lux Redux: Hollywood's Timeless Theater

Mayerling

Clean

Published on Apr 10, 2026, 4:00:00 AM
Total time: 00:59:25

Episode Description

Originally Aired: January 9, 1939

Lux Radio Theater #201, "Mayerling," presents the tragic romance of Crown Prince Rudolph of Austria and the beautiful Marie Vetzera. Set in 1881 Vienna during a time of political unrest and student riots against the monarchy, the story follows the tormented heir to the Austrian throne who struggles against the suffocating constraints of royal duty. Rudolph, married to Princess Stephanie in a loveless political union, finds himself under constant surveillance by the Emperor. His every move is watched, his friends scrutinized, and his life controlled. When he meets the enchanting young Marie Vetzera, their passionate connection ignites a forbidden love that threatens to shake the foundations of the Habsburg dynasty.

As their romance deepens, Rudolph faces an impossible choice between duty to his country and the only genuine happiness he has ever known. The Emperor demands he end the relationship, while Marie's devotion remains unwavering despite the scandal and consequences. With the royal family and Countess Lariche closing in around them, the star-crossed lovers retreat to the hunting lodge at Mayerling, where they will share their final twenty-four hours together in a drama that will echo through history.

More about Lux Redux: Hollywood's Timeless Theater

Experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age with "Lux Redux: Hollywood's Timeless Theater." This podcast brings you pristine rebroadcasts of the legendary Lux Radio Theater, the crown jewel of old-time radio drama. Each week, step back in time to hear Hollywood's biggest stars perform adaptations of their greatest films, exactly as audiences did decades ago. From Bogart and Bacall to Gable and Garbo, "Lux Redux" showcases the voices that shaped cinema history in their most captivating radio performances. Hosted by the incomparable Cecil B. DeMille and other Hollywood luminaries, each episode is a time capsule of entertainment, offering:Star-studded casts performing adaptations of classic filmsBehind-the-scenes insights into Hollywood's Golden AgeThe unique blend of storytelling and advertising that defined the eraWhether you're a classic film buff, a radio drama enthusiast, or simply curious about the entertainment of yesteryear, "Lux Redux" offers an authentic journey i...