Introduction to Steve McQueen and Michael Landon
If you were a fan of TV Westerns in the late 1950s and early 1960s, then the name Steve McQueen should be a familiar one. McQueen starred in the CBS series Wanted Dead or Alive, which ran for three seasons from 1958 to 1961. The show featured McQueen as bounty hunter Josh Randall, who tracked down fugitives for reward money.
Michael Landon also starred in a TV Western series during this same time period. Landon’s show was called Bonanza, and it aired on NBC from 1959 to 1973. Like Wanted Dead or Alive, Bonanza was also a hit with viewers and helped to solidify Landon’s status as a TV star.
In 1962, the two actors appeared together in an episode of Wanted Dead or Alive titled “The Bounty Hunter.” In this episode, Josh Randall comes to the aid of Michael Landon’s character, Little Joe Cartwright, when he is being pursued by a ruthless bounty hunter. The episode was well-received by both audiences and critics, and it helped to increase the popularity of both Steve McQueen and Michael Landon.
The making of Wanted Dead or Alive
The making of Wanted Dead or Alive was a long and difficult process. Steve McQueen, who was the director, had a very clear vision for the film and was very specific about what he wanted. The script went through many drafts and revisions, and Michael Landon, who was the star of the film, was constantly changing his mind about his character. The production team had to work hard to keep up with McQueen’s demands and to keep Landon happy.
The filming took place in various locations in California, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Yosemite National Park. It was a challenging shoot, with long hours and difficult conditions. But the end result was worth it. Wanted Dead or Alive is a classic film that is still loved by fans today.
The premiere of Wanted Dead or Alive
The premiere of Steve McQueen’s ‘Wanted Dead or Alive,’ featuring Michael Landon, was held on October 13, 1958, at the Hollywood Paramount Theater. The film was distributed by United Artists and produced by Hal Wallis. The screenplay was written by John Sturges and Richard Brooks, based on a story by Clair Huffaker.
McQueen stars as Josh Randall, a bounty hunter who tracks down criminals for the reward money. Landon co-stars as his sidekick, Simon Frye. Wanted Dead or Alive also features Robert Duvall, Charles Bronson, and Sheree North.
At the time of its release, Wanted Dead or Alive was one of the most expensive films ever made, with a budget of $4 million. It was also one of the longest Westerns ever made, with a running time of nearly two and a half hours.
Despite its length and cost, Wanted Dead or Alive was a box office success, grossing $5.5 million in its initial release. It received positive reviews from critics and is considered one of McQueen’s best films.
The critical reception of Wanted Dead or Alive
The critical reception of Wanted Dead or Alive was mixed. Some reviewers praised the movie for its realistic portrayal of the American West, while others criticized it for its violence. Overall, the movie was a box office success, grossing $3 million in its opening weekend.
Steve McQueen and Michael Landon’s post-Wanted Dead or Alive careers
While “Wanted Dead or Alive” was a popular show, it was not the only thing that Steve McQueen and Michael Landon were known for. After the show concluded, both actors had successful careers in film and television.
Steve McQueen starred in some of the most iconic films of the 1960s and 1970s, including “The Great Escape,” “Bullitt,” and “The Thomas Crown Affair.” He was also nominated for an Academy Award for his role in “The Getaway.” After his death in 1980, he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Michael Landon is best known for his work on “Little House on the Prairie,” which he starred in, wrote, and directed. He also had success with other shows like “Highway to Heaven” and “Father Murphy.” Landon won multiple Emmy Awards for his work in television.
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Conclusion
Steve McQueen’s ‘Wanted Dead or Alive,’ starring Michael Landon was a cultural phenomenon in its day. As the first major Western to feature a black actor and one that depicted African Americans in a positive light, it opened up many doors for future films of the genre. The success of this film is also credited with launching Michael Landon’s career as an iconic Hollywood star and cementing Steve McQueen’s status as one of America’s greatest directors and actors.