Walter Bedeker is a self-absorbed, insufferable hypochondriac terrified of death. He strikes a bargain with a jovial, business-like devil named Cadwallader: his soul in exchange for and indestructibility . The contract includes an "escape clause" allowing Walter to die only if he chooses to. Critical Consensus
“David Wayne is great fun as unlikable hypochondriac Walter Bedeker.” IMDb The Twilight Zone 1x6
It is one of the few episodes to lean into black comedy , offering a lighter (if more cynical) break from the show's typical dread. Critical Consensus “David Wayne is great fun as
“The only thing I don't like about the episode is how quick Bedeker gives up.” Reddit · r/TwilightZone · 8 years ago The Twist Ending (Spoilers) While often overshadowed by the series' heavier hitters,
David Wayne's portrayal of the "unlikable" Walter and Thomas Gomez’s "hammy" yet effective Devil are frequently cited as the episode's highlights.
"Escape Clause" (1959) — Review This episode is a dark, Faustian comedy that explores the irony of getting exactly what you want. While often overshadowed by the series' heavier hitters, it remains a notable entry for its cynical humor and "be careful what you wish for" moral. The Core Premise