September 20, 1953: Jimmy Stewart debuts in 'The Six Shooter'

September 20, 1953: Jimmy Stewart was starred as Britt Ponset on the Western in his first appearance in an NBC program radio western ‘The Six Shooter’.

The well-known parts of the show were when Stewart would whisper during high drama scenes. Only 39 episodes aired on this show, lasting only one season. The classic radio western ended well, with Stewart's character proposing marriage.

May 20: Happy Birthday, Jimmy Stewart

It's only natural that a man with a voice as distinctive as Jimmy Stewart's would have a good time with radio. Of course he's known as a huge movie star, but he spent more than his share of time in front of a radio microphone as well.

Stewart, whose birthday we celebrate today, made frequent appearances on classic radio mainstays such as Screen Guild Theater, Lux Radio Theater, and Silver Theater. He also starred in Six Shooter from 1952-'54.

Some of the productions to which Stewart lent his talents on air include "It's a Wonderful Life," "Winchester '73," and "Destry Rides Again."

Later he would host a show called "Good News," a promotional venture for MGM. On this show, he'd interview MGM stars with upcoming films. So next time the name Jimmy Stewart comes up, remember his radio career and that he wasn't just a movie star.