Raymond Johnson, 90; Radio Actor, Host of ‘Inner Sanctum’

Raymond Edward Johnson, 90, a radio actor who played the title roles in “Mandrake the Magician” and “Don Winslow of the Navy” but was best known as host of “Inner Sanctum Mysteries,” died of complications from multiple sclerosis Aug. 15 in Wallingford, Conn.

During radio’s Golden Age, Johnson performed frequently on such shows as “The First Nighter,” “The Guiding Light,” “Stella Dallas,” “Lights Out,” “Gang Busters” and “Mr. District Attorney.”

But Johnson, who once played boyfriends and leading men, became known as the “scary guy” once he began hosting “Inner Sanctum.” The weekly show opened with a squeaking door, followed by Johnson’s eerie welcome, “Good e-e-evening, and how are you this evening?” and a sinister laugh.

Johnson left the popular show to serve in the Army during World War II. He returned to radio after the war, but was stricken by multiple sclerosis in his 40s and was forced to retire.