The original character of Dr. Paul Christian was named after author 'Hans Christian Anderson (I)', a fellow countryman of actor Jean Hersholt.
The character of Dr. Paul Christian was originated in a long- running and popular series on network radio by actor Jean Hersholt, who later carried the role into motion pictures. Hersholt, though sick at the time, appeared in one episode of the television series to pass the baton on to actor Macdonald Carey as Dr. Mark Christian, the character's nephew.
The "Doctor Christian" radio series ran on American network radio from 1937-1953.