Hunter

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Synopsis

"Hunter" is an American police procedural and action drama that aired from 1984 to 1991. The show follows the adventures of a tough, street-smart cop named Rick Hunter, who uses unorthodox methods to fight crime in Los Angeles. Blending action with gritty realism, the show is known for its fast-paced scenes, dynamic characters, and its portrayal of the challenges of law enforcement. Set in the heart of the 1980s, "Hunter" stands out for its intense action sequences, the complicated moral compass of its lead character, and its unique mix of drama and crime-solving elements.

Technical Sheet

• Air dates: 1984 – 1991
• Number of episodes: 152
• Creator: Frank Lupo
• Genre: Action, Crime Drama

Summary

"Hunter" centers on Rick Hunter (played by Fred Dryer), a no-nonsense Los Angeles detective who believes in getting the job done by any means necessary, even if it means breaking the rules. Hunter's unorthodox methods often put him at odds with his superiors, but his results speak for themselves. Throughout the series, Hunter is partnered with a variety of colleagues, but the main dynamic is between him and his partner, Dee Dee McCall (played by Stepfanie Kramer), a strong-willed and intelligent officer who contrasts Hunter's rough and ready approach. The pair works together to solve a variety of cases, ranging from murders to organized crime, while navigating the challenges of their dangerous profession. The show often portrays the real-life risks and rewards of being a cop, with Hunter facing both personal and professional dilemmas. The crime procedural format was infused with action-packed sequences, character-driven plots, and occasionally, deep social commentary on crime, justice, and morality.

Main Cast

• Fred Dryer as Rick Hunter
• Stepfanie Kramer as Dee Dee McCall
• Charles Hallahan as Captain Norman
• Charles Durning as Lieutenant Staub

Why Was It Iconic?

• Rick Hunter's Character: Rick Hunter became an iconic TV character thanks to his relentless pursuit of justice, his no-holds-barred approach to solving cases, and his tough exterior. Hunter's often brash methods—such as resorting to physical force or bending the rules—set him apart from other TV detectives of the era.
• Memorable Partnerships: The relationship between Hunter and his partner Dee Dee McCall was central to the show's success. Their dynamic, blending contrasting personalities and approaches to crime-solving, created chemistry that made the series stand out. Dee Dee was a pioneering female cop character in the 1980s, serving as a strong, independent figure who could hold her own in a male-dominated world.
• Action and Grit: "Hunter" was known for its fast-paced action sequences and intense firefights. The show set itself apart from other cop dramas of the time by focusing on the action side of law enforcement, offering a darker and more realistic depiction of crime and punishment.
• Impactful Storylines: The series tackled a wide range of societal issues, including gang violence, drug abuse, corruption, and organized crime, offering a more grounded take on the realities of policing. The storylines were often ripped from the headlines, making the show feel more relevant and engaging to viewers.
• Iconic Theme Song: The theme song for "Hunter," composed by Mike Post, became synonymous with the show’s action-packed vibe. Its catchy, energetic tune helped define the series’ identity, making it instantly recognizable to fans of 80s TV.
• Cultural Impact: Though it wasn't as heavily promoted as other hit shows of the time, "Hunter" developed a loyal following. The character of Rick Hunter became an archetype for tough, flawed cops in later action TV series and films. The show’s influence can still be seen in modern-day cop dramas.

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Casting

Fred Dryer

Rick Hunter

Stepfanie Kramer

Dee Dee McCall

Charles Hallahan

Capitaine Charles Devane

Garrett Morris

Sporty James

Photos

Trivia

Actress Stefanie Kramer will be replaced by Lauren Lane who will play the role of Chris Novak, an actress that we have also seen in "a nanny of hell" (C.C. Babcock).

Filming

• Los Angeles (USA)

Authors of the card

• Creation date: 2003-07-01 by stals
• Last Update: 2007-05-01 by tiger08