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Podcast: The Master of None
Episode: The Panic Broadcast: Examining the Impact of War of the Worlds Radio Broadcast in 1938
Description: The episode caused widespread panic among listeners who believed that an actual alien invasion was taking place. The broadcast, which was presented in the form of a series of simulated news bulletins, described a Martian invasion of Earth and featured realistic sound effects and voice acting. Many listeners tuned in late and missed the opening announcements that the program was a drama and not a live news broadcast, contributing to the confusion. The panic and public outcry that followed the broadcast led to an investigation by the Federal Communications Commission and changes in the way radio dramas were presented.
In...