In the 1980s, the Western genre was far from extinct, despite its decline in popularity compared to the 1950s and '60s. Shows like 'Little House on the Prairie' and the critically acclaimed miniseries 'Lonesome Dove' kept the genre alive, even as its cinematic counterparts became less frequent. However, there are several lesser-known Western series from the '80s that deserve a second look. These shows, though often short-lived, offer a unique perspective on the genre and are well worth exploring. Let's delve into five of these forgotten gems.
One such series is 'The Last Outlaw', a four-episode Australian miniseries that brings to life the story of Ned Kelly, the infamous outlaw. John Jarratt's portrayal of Kelly is nuanced and authentic, capturing the man behind the legend. The show's attention to detail and its ability to weave in Kelly's childhood and his days on the run make it a standout. 'The Last Outlaw' is a labor of love, offering a fresh take on a well-known figure.
Another series that deserves recognition is 'Bret Maverick', a revival of the classic Western series that starred James Garner. In this iteration, Garner reprises his role as the charming and irascible Bret Maverick, now settled in the frontier town of Sweetwater. The show's dynamic between Maverick and his business partner, Tom Guthrie, is engaging, and Garner's performance remains as captivating as ever. Despite its single-season run, 'Bret Maverick' is a delightful addition to the Western canon.
'Wildside', starring Meg Ryan, is a short-lived but exciting Western series. The show follows a group of outlaws who go legitimate and settle in the California town of Wildside. Ryan's character, the town's newspaper editor, falls for one of the reformed outlaws, adding a touch of romance to the high-octane action. While 'Wildside' only ran for six episodes, it's an easygoing and entertaining ride.
'Outlaws' is a unique time-traveling Western series that stars Rod Taylor, Richard Roundtree, and Charles Napier. The show's premise is odd, but it works thanks to its eclectic cast. The series follows a group of 19th-century outlaws who are transported to present-day Texas, where they form a detective agency. Despite its short 13-episode run, 'Outlaws' is a wild and entertaining ride.
Finally, 'Bordertown' is a Western series that stands out for its unique setting. Set in the late 19th century along the U.S.-Canadian border, the show revolves around the town of Pemmican and the challenges faced by American and Canadian law enforcement working together. With a case-of-the-week structure and a cozy aesthetic, 'Bordertown' is a fun-filled Western that spans three seasons. These lesser-known '80s Western series are well worth revisiting, offering a fresh perspective on the genre and a chance to discover hidden gems.
