The Saint comic books were a small part of what detective-mystery book author Leslie Charteris wrote for the Simon Templar (aka The Saint) character. Starting from numerous novels an entire movies, radio, daily and Sunday newspaper strip and television empire were spawned.
The Saint got his name due to his calling card, leaving behind a small stick figure with a halo. The English character was known as a “Robin Hood” who righted wrongs by stealing back items from which robbers themselves had stolen previously. A lady’s man, his primary romance was with Patricia Holm, herself a capable adventurer. Roger Moore of James Bond fame played the role in a television series The Saint that ran from 1962 to 1969.
The first movie was titled The Saint in New York and released in 1938. It was based on the 1935 novel of the same name. The film was successful and quickly followed up with seven more.
The most known radio version was played by Vincent Price between 1947 and 1951 on three networks: CBS, Mutual and NBC. The program was recognized by its characteristic opening whistle theme.
Avon Comics published just 12 comic issues of a The Saint from 1947 and 1952. Shown here are my #4* (1948) and #12* (March 1952). Nearly every cover was classic gga. The cover painting on #12* is by an unknown artist, but was also used by Avon Books on a paperback they published titled “The Case of the Dark Hero” by Peter Cheyney.
* Sold Copy
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