Mr. Moto. Mr. I.A. Moto.

Sound familiar? John Phillips Marquand beat Ian Fleming to it by a few years. Like James Bond, Mr. Moto is recognized by his adversaries and fights Communism, but there the similarities end. Moto, although San Francisco-born, speaks with an indeterminate “Oriental” accent, has a high, almost effeminate voice, and prefers vaguely mystical utterances to wry asides. He’s also an agent of the American government, or possibly a former agent of the US government - his exact profession and position are unclear.

Despite the stereotypes, Mr. Moto was one of the earliest, most successful Japanese characters in Anglophone radio drama and the show’s story lines defy the racial stereotypes of the time (except for Mr. Moto being exceedingly sharp and mystical.)　We think it’s interesting to hear a portrayal of a Japanese man as hero so shortly after World War II. We hope you will, too.

Listen Now:

 TPR - Mr Moto X07: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download