Ep 5. Fifty Years a Mystery
- TVPG
- October 30, 1957
- 26 min
In the Death Valley Days season 6 episode Fifty Years a Mystery, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of William Thornsberry, a man who was accused of murder but maintained his innocence for over fifty years. Thornsberry is played by acclaimed actor James Whitmore, who delivers a nuanced and emotional performance.
The episode begins with Thornsberry being convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. He insists that he is innocent, but no one believes him. Over the course of fifty years, Thornsberry never gives up hope that one day he will be exonerated.
The episode is expertly crafted, with a mix of flashbacks and present-day scenes that add depth and complexity to Thornsberry's character. We see him as a young man, full of hope and promise, and we also see him as an older man, worn down by years of living in a prison cell.
Throughout the episode, we are also introduced to a number of other characters, each with their own unique role to play in Thornsberry's story. There is the prison warden, who is convinced of Thornsberry's guilt and refuses to consider any new evidence that might exonerate him. There is also Thornsberry's lawyer, a young man who takes up his case in the hopes of proving his innocence.
As the years go by, Thornsberry remains steadfast in his belief that he will one day be free. He spends his time reading law books and learning everything he can about the legal system. He also becomes a mentor to other prisoners, offering them advice and support in their own struggles.
In the end, it is a chance encounter with a former cellmate that leads to Thornsberry discovering the evidence he needs to prove his innocence. The episode ends on a beautiful and emotional note, with Thornsberry finally being released from prison after more than fifty years.
Overall, Fifty Years a Mystery is a powerful and moving episode of Death Valley Days that explores themes of perseverance, justice, and the human spirit. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys historical dramas and true crime stories.
