Donovan’s Brain, Part Two: The Final Host

Originally Aired: May 25, 1944

Donovan’s Brain, Part Two: The Final Host

In the chilling conclusion to Suspense's two-part science fiction saga, Orson Welles returns as Dr. Patrick Cory—a man now fully under the growing influence of the disembodied brain he has kept alive in his laboratory. What began as an ambitious experiment to preserve thought has devolved into a psychological and spiritual nightmare.

As the brain of ruthless financier William H. Donovan continues to grow in power, it manipulates Cory’s thoughts, voice, and memories. His family grows suspicious—especially when Cory can no longer recall what happened to his wife, Janice, or when he begins mimicking Donovan’s infamous phrase: “Sure, sure, sure.”

As the horrifying truth unfolds, Janice returns, revealing that Cory committed her to a psychiatric clinic under Donovan’s influence. Cory, desperate to break free, tries one last desperate act: using a blood transfusion with an incompatible blood type, he attempts to destroy the brain. But Donovan anticipates every move.

The story builds to its devastating climax: Cory performs fatal surgery on his own son, David, intending to use his body to house Donovan’s mind. But in sacrificing his son, Cory finally breaks free of the brain’s control and finds the strength to destroy it—though at the cost of his own life.

In a final narration, we learn that both Cory and David are dead, and Janice has been committed once again. The brain, found rotting in the lab, appears to have been dead for months—leaving the chilling question: what was truly controlling Patrick Cory?

An unforgettable blend of science fiction and psychological horror, Donovan’s Brain, Part Two is a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition, obsession, and the price of playing God.

Keywords: "Donovan’s Brain Part Two Suspense," "Orson Welles brain experiment story," "May 1944 Suspense radio," "disembodied brain horror," "William H. Donovan science fiction," "Patrick Cory mind control," "Roma Wines classic Suspense."

Cast: Orson Welles (Dr. Patrick Cory), with supporting performances by Hans Conried, Joseph Kearns, and the Suspense radio company. Produced and directed by William Spier.