In the postwar years, MGM Radio Attractions attempted to duplicate the success of many of radio's popular anthology series with its own showcase, MGM Theatre of the Air. Dramatizing popular films from the studio's vaults, as well as showcasing top guest stars such as Marlene Dietrich and Rex Harrison—the series sometimes even managed to secure the service of the original performer or performers who had appeared in the original film. The program was hosted by Howard Dietz and though the lion's share of the production budget usually went towards securing that weeks big name performer, the programs also featured the cream of New York-based radio actors in supporting roles.