Like a good number of its radio contemporaries, Meet Corliss Archer transitioned to television in 1954 as a mid-season replacement, albeit in syndication. Unfortunately, 8 months later, the show was cancelled, and the Christmas episode was likely the last, as the radio version would continue for 2 more years.
Based on a story by F. Hugh Herbert, Meet Corliss Archer chronicles the life of a typical teenager (Ann Baker), her family, and her well meaning but bumbling neighbor-boyfriend, Dexter. The casting of Ann Baker in the title role is significant because of a more famous voice that essayed the part on radio for a good chunk of the series run-----Janet Waldo, better known for her years of work for Hanna-Barbera (i.e. The Jetsons, Perils of Penelope Pitstop), among others. For some reason, whether it was Ms. Waldo's decision or that of the producers, she was not cast for the television version, although Corliss does look like the prototypical teen that Janet specialized in.
Here's the Christmas show. Famed director Hy Averback is the narrator.
We'll look at the radio version another time. Rating: B.
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