Celebrating 40 Years of ‘Hunter’: A Landmark Action Series
On September 18th, 2024, the iconic NBC action series “Hunter” turns 40, marking four decades since its debut in 1984. Created by Frank Lupo, the series starred Fred Dryer as Detective Rick Hunter, a tough, no-nonsense LAPD cop known for bending the rules and often resorting to heavy-handed tactics. Co-starring Stepfanie Kramer as Detective Dee Dee McCall, the show delivered intense action, thrilling crime stories, and a memorable duo that became one of television’s most popular crime-fighting teams.
The Plot and Characters
“Hunter” followed the traditional “buddy cop” formula, but it stood out with its gritty approach to law enforcement. The series revolved around the partnership between Rick Hunter, a former football player turned cop, and Dee Dee McCall, known as “The Brass Cupcake” for her hard-nosed attitude combined with her stylish looks. Together, they tackled Los Angeles’ most dangerous criminals, often crossing lines to achieve justice. Hunter’s catchphrase, “Works for me,” perfectly encapsulated his attitude toward crimefighting – whatever it took to get the job done.
Fred Dryer, a former NFL player, brought an athletic and imposing physicality to his role, which helped define Hunter’s persona as a lone-wolf cop who didn’t shy away from violence. Stepfanie Kramer, meanwhile, delivered a sharp contrast as McCall, balancing toughness with empathy, and her dynamic with Dryer was key to the show’s appeal.
Action-Packed Storylines
The first season of “Hunter” had a rocky start, with the show’s extreme violence raising some eyebrows. However, by the second season, the show had found its rhythm, with tighter scripts, a reduction in the graphic nature of the violence, and a focus on the chemistry between Hunter and McCall. The action sequences often involved car chases, shootouts, and hand-to-hand combat, giving the show a cinematic feel that separated it from other cop dramas of the era.
Episodes typically focused on complex crime plots, from murder mysteries to undercover operations, all while weaving in the evolving relationship between the two main characters. The portrayal of the gritty streets of Los Angeles added to the show’s authentic feel. As the seasons progressed, “Hunter” delved deeper into its characters’ personal lives, exploring Rick Hunter’s troubled family history and McCall’s own struggles as a woman in a male-dominated profession.
Cast and Guest Stars
In addition to Dryer and Kramer, “Hunter” boasted a rotating roster of supporting actors, with some memorable guest appearances. Garrett Morris and Charles Hallahan took on recurring roles, bringing depth to the show. Over the years, notable guest stars like George Clooney and Dennis Franz made appearances, adding to the show’s prestige.
The Made-for-TV Movies
After the original run of “Hunter” ended in 1991, Fred Dryer reprised his role in a series of made-for-TV movies. Between 1995 and 2003, several movies aired, including “The Return of Hunter: Everyone Walks in L.A.” and “Hunter: Return to Justice.” These films continued the saga of Rick Hunter, often introducing new characters or bringing back familiar faces like McCall. Though the movies had a slightly different tone, they still delivered the action-packed crime stories that fans of the series loved.
Lasting Impact
“Hunter” was more than just another 1980s cop show. It cemented Fred Dryer’s place in television history and set the stage for future police dramas with its blend of action and character-driven storytelling. As it turns 40, “Hunter” remains a fan favorite, remembered for its intense action, engaging plots, and the strong partnership between its lead characters.
