Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Welles, Wells and 'The War of the Worlds'

On Oct. 30, 1938, H.G. Wells' science-fiction story about an invasion from Martians was heard on the Columbia Broadcasting System, adapted into a radio play by film auteur Orson Welles. But many listeners across the country believed that the play was an actual news report.

Copyright 2005 NPR

Steve Inskeep
Steve Inskeep is a host of NPR's Morning Edition, as well as NPR's morning news podcast Up First.
Renee Montagne
Renee Montagne, one of the best-known names in public radio, is a special correspondent and host for NPR News.
Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information