Le fugitif

The 2000 version of the '60s Fugitive TV series was one of the very few remakes that was actually good and refreshing. Tim Daly was a fine Dr. Richard Kimble (the man wrongfully accused of murdering his wife), but no one could ever hold a candle to David Janssen's portrayal of the doctor on the run. (Ironically, when this remake debuted in 2000, it had been a full 20 years since Janssen's untimely death.)

But believe it or not, when I first heard about plans to remake the old Fugitive, I was convinced that it wouldn't last. And guess what? I was right! Whenever a classic TV show gets remade, the remake is usually a ratings failure. You know the old saying: "Been there, done that!" And I think that apathetic response played a role in the new Fugitive's premature cancellation. In addition, the series aired on Fridays (one of the least watched TV nights). It did, however, garner strong ratings on its first two weeks on the air, only to have those ratings trail off afterwards. Therefore, the show was axed after only one season.

Worst of all, the last episode ended with a cliffhanger! (WARNING: Stop reading here unless you want it given away!) An FBI man, supposedly tracking the one-armed man, shoots Lt. Gerard, and then corners Richard Kimble and the one-armed man. As more shots ring out, the screen goes black--and THAT WAS IT!!! No one really knows for sure if Kimble and/or the one-armed man were actually shot and killed. Nor do we know for sure whether Gerard lived or died.

It's a real shame that the cancellation of the new Fugitive wasn't confirmed until after production had officially wrapped for summer hiatus. And unless the series is miraculously brought back or followed by a post-series TV-movie, we may never know what actually happened to the unfortunate doctor.

I too was very skeptical when a series that had an ending was brought back. It seemed unwise at the time, but good acting and interesting new twists on an old theme made it work. It is very unfortunate that CBS had no faith or patience with it. It might have run at least as long as the original had it been given a chance.

Many of us do remember it. In fact, there is a Yahoo group that I own and moderate dealing with both series that has been around for years and recently has gotten renewed interest. We reviewed all of the original stories from the first series and would be interested in having people review the 2000 version. We also have two members who extended the series by writing fan fiction...and extending the story.

Check out...

http://TV.groups.yahoo.com/group/THE-FUGITIVE-VIEWS-AND-REVIEWS/ and feel free to join and be part of the discussion.

bobbynear owner/moderator

I'm writing this on behalf of all the "Fugitive" TV show fans who were as disappointed as I was at the abrupt ending to the 2000/2001 show. Some think it was suppose to be seen as a cliff hanger, while others think the story was concluded although in an extremely disheartening way. It's not too late to continue the saga even if it just means a single episode or TV movie. Like so many others I am completely baffled at the media's obsession with ridiculous reality shows, while intelligent programs just keep getting pulled off the air. "The Fugitive" was a well-acted, action-packed, FUN show that had a larger audience than the network seems to recognize. So how 'bout it guys? Is there any chance for a REAL conclusion to this exciting show? Even Gilligan's Island had 3 made for TV movies long after the show ended. THANKS so much and I hope that others who read this will also put in their two cents worth. Regards..............

Along with C.S.I., this is the best new show of the season and the only one worthy of an audience. Daly is great, and while I'm not wild about the casting of Gerard, I'll give it time. Although I was slightly disappointed that the series is more an adaptation of the original and not the film (contrary to "other" reviews), it looks like it'll still work. Actually, it's a combination of both, with the technology of the 90s being worked in as well. The dialogue between the two leads was great, and the opening sequence with flashbacks intercutting with Kimble's escape is the best sequence of a television series I have ever seen (and I've seen a lot).

Great acting, great writing, great action and suspense, and great music all ad up for a great series that is the best of the new shows this Fall. Don't miss it!

I am a fan of the David Jansen Fugitive and I don't like remakes. In other words, why make it again when it is already made? This series is so good with the great acting by the 2 stars and the location filming like the old Rt#66 show that I really enjoyed it. One thing I miss is the naration at the end by the late Bill Conrad. I think that someone like that, with a rich voice, would help the end of each show. Otherwise I hope it is a success.