Law of the Plainsman
Law of the Plainsman is a Western television series starring Michael Ansara that aired on the NBC television network from October 1, 1959, until May 5, 1960. The character of Native American U.S. Marshal Sam Buckhart was introduced in two episodes of the popular ABC Western television series The Rifleman starring Chuck Connors as Lucas McCain. Law of the Plainsman is distinctive and unique in that it was one of the few television programs that featured a Native American as the lead character, a bold move for U.S.network television at that time. Ansara had earlier appeared in the series Broken Arrow, having portrayed the Apache chief, Cochise. Ansara, however, was not Native American but of Syrian descent. Ansara played Sam Buckhart, an Apache Indian who saved the life of a U.S. Cavalry officer after an Indian ambush. When the officer died, he left Sam money that was used for an education at private schools and Harvard University. After school, he returned to New Mexico where he became a Deputy Marshal working for Marshal Andy Morrison. He lived in a boarding house run by Martha Commager. The only other continuing character was 8-year old Tess Logan, an orphan who had been rescued by Buckhart. Robert Harland, later of Target: The Corruptors! starred in seven episodes as Deputy Billy Lordan. Wayne Rogers, who went on to star in another Four Star western, Stagecoach West, and later, M*A*S*H, also played deputy Lordan in several episodes.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in the fictional town of Harmony Gulch, New Mexico, 'Law of the Plainsman' follows the life of U.S. Marshal Sam Colt. He is a Native American of Cherokee descent, a rarity for the time, who grapples with the complexities of law enforcement and his own cultural identity in the American West. Each episode presents Sam Colt with new challenges as he seeks justice and maintains peace in a frontier town.
Critical Reception
As an anthology series featuring different storylines and guest stars each week, 'Law of the Plainsman' received moderate attention during its initial run. While it aimed to portray a more nuanced view of the West with a Native American protagonist, critical reception often focused on its episodic nature and adherence to Western genre conventions. It is generally remembered as a competent, albeit not groundbreaking, entry in the television Western landscape of the era.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unique casting of a Native American lead, offering a different perspective in Westerns.
- Often cited for its classic Western storytelling and episodic format.
- Generally viewed as a solid, if not spectacular, addition to the genre.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'Law of the Plainsman' is largely nostalgic, with viewers recalling its presence on television during its original broadcast. Comments often highlight the series' competent execution of Western themes and the memorable portrayal of its protagonist. Specific detailed critiques from Google users are not widely available due to the show's age.
Fun Fact
The series was notable for its casting of Michael Ansara, an actor of Lebanese descent, as the Native American U.S. Marshal Sam Colt, which was a significant departure from typical casting practices of the time.
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