Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Impossible Dream (1959)

In 1959 at the age of 54, Franchot stars as an aging actor who is relegated to brief, minor roles in motion pictures in The Impossible Dream episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents. As Oliver Mathews, he is hardened, irritable, and aware of his descent into mediocre roles.

Even more an aggravation to him is his overly attached, constantly present personal assistant. Miss Hall (played by Carmen Mathews) babies him, preparing a sedative for his plane travel, making sure his clothes are properly folded and packed, and hanging on his every word.

Franchot Tone and Carmen Mathews

But she's not the only female who has her claws in Oliver. Grace Dolan (played brilliantly by Mary Astor) holds a secret about Oliver Mathews, one that could ruin his career once and for all, and she uses this information for blackmail.

Franchot Tone and Mary Astor

Just as Oliver believes he's dealt with these nuisances, a classic Hitchcock twist shows otherwise.

The Impossible Dream is Episode 28 of Season 4. 

The Season 4 DVD is available from:

Amazon

At the time of this writing, the episode is also available on Hulu Plus.