Have Gun – Will Travel: The Complete Series?
For many, Have Gun – Will Travel, a classic Western TV series that aired from 1957 to 1963, may seem like a distant memory. But for fans of the show, its reruns and re-releases continue to bring nostalgia and excitement. If you’re one of the fortunate ones who got to enjoy this iconic series, then this article will transport you back to the world of Palmer, Remington’s legendary gunslinger.
Contents
Background and Production
The idea for Have Gun – Will Travel originated with Sy Barrett, who pitched his script to Frank Pellegrino, a former Universal Studios executive. After meeting with numerous writers and studios, Pellegrino finally found a producer who took a liking to the show: Robert Sparks, founder of Metromedia Television. In 1955, they developed a pitch for Have Gun – Will Travel, a character-centric Western featuring a one-legged gunslinger who lived at the Palomar Hotel in San Francisco. Paladin, as the main character was named, used his unique circumstances to negotiate gunfights without, theoretically, committing violence himself. The series was praised for its innovative approach, using psychology and clever wordplay over gunfights, emphasizing the character over plot.
Main Characters and Supporting Cast
• Paladin (played by Richard Boone): The central character and title hero of Have Gun – Will Travel, Paladin is a complex figure known for his wisdom, expertise, and ability to read people. As the proprietor of the Palomar Hotel, Paladin finds work as an expert witness in gun cases and receives $1,000 an engagement, often working from afar. Throughout the series, Paladin takes on an extraordinary number of jobs and assumes various disguises.
• Hi Gillespie (played by Victor French): Gillespie was the San Francisco police sergeant, often interacting with Paladin when cases cross the Golden Gate Bridge. Gillespie provides comedic relief, balancing law enforcement procedures with an uncanny trust in Paladin, who assists in difficult situations.
• Lady Inkster (played by Diana Lorys and later Kathleen Case): A recurring character, Lady Inkster was an influential figure at the Palomar Hotel, working as an accountant for Palmer and, at times, providing help or acting as a source of insight to Paladin.
• Palmer (played by Herbert Anderson): As Paladin’s sidekick and butler at the Palomar Hotel, Palmer offered valuable comic relief** with his humor, wit, and unflagging support.
Note: Due to actress changes, Lady Inkster’s portrayal became quite different across the seasons. Kathleen Case’s later characterization is a bit softer compared to the initial presence exhibited by Diana Lorys.
The Original Series Run and Awards
Running from September 1957 to September 1963, Have Gun – Will Travel aired 235 episodes, divided across seven seasons. It debuted at NBC’s new 90-minute Sunday-night prime time in 1957. Critical acclaim helped solidify Have Gun – Will Travel’s spot on America’s airwaves until cancellation in 1963.
• Notably received the following awards: Four Primetime Emmy nominations; one Writers Guild of America Award (1962)
The Cast
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Richard Boone | Paladin / Christopher Temple |
| Cammie Stone | Princess |
| Jay Kirby | Sonny Riley |
Themes, Symbolism, and Guest Stars
• Symbolism: The Lone Rider’s Motto: Have Gun – Will Travel incorporated recurring symbolic elements, most notably Paladin’s legendary rifle with a 41/64" bore, highlighting both his mastery of arms and his strategic nature as an expert.
• Notable Guest Stars in the show’s final four seasons: (1976) Clint Walker (Cheyenne); (1957) Lon Chaney Jr. (of Wolf Man fame); (1957) Burt Lancaster as a lawyer in two consecutive episodes
Movies, TV Remakes, and Influence on Film and Literature
- Western classics like Shane were mentioned as influences by series writer; the script itself reflects upon themes common to such timeless Western films as John Ford’s classics (see for example The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)), an influence upon which was further emphasized due to co-scriptwriter.
- Several modern films acknowledging the Western heritage and having a deep understanding and connection with Western icons would later become notable – most notably The Wild Wild West (1999)
Some of these notable western genre films include; True Grit (1969); The Shootist; and a classic remake. The Have Gun Will Travel series will also feature themes that relate to popular movie genres as time advances – **science fiction in classic western themes, etc.***
