Matt Houston

Where to watch?

Source

Synopsis

Matt Houston is a classic American television series that aired during the 1980s, blending action, drama, and crime-solving elements in a stylish, fast-paced narrative. The show follows Matt Houston, a wealthy Texas oil heir turned private investigator, as he navigates both the glamorous and gritty sides of life in Los Angeles. The show combines thrilling investigations with a touch of humor and memorable characters, making it an unforgettable piece of 1980s television.

Technical Sheet

• Air dates: 1982–1985
• Number of episodes: 71
• Creator: Lawrence Gordon
• Genre: Action, Drama, Crime

Summary

Matt Houston follows the adventures of its titular character, a wealthy Texan oil heir turned private investigator, portrayed by Lee Horsley. Set in Los Angeles, the series blends elements of crime-solving with action-packed sequences. Houston, who is known for his charm, wit, and rugged good looks, operates his own private detective agency and often works alongside a team of dedicated professionals. Despite his high society background, he is deeply committed to justice and takes on a wide range of cases, from corporate espionage to high-stakes kidnappings, all while navigating the sometimes dangerous world of organized crime. His affluent lifestyle and unique resources make him a formidable investigator in a city filled with intrigue and danger. The series is distinguished by its flashy 1980s aesthetic, including sharp fashion, high-octane car chases, and an atmospheric, jazzy soundtrack. Each episode typically revolves around a case that Matt Houston must solve, all while offering glimpses into his personal life, including his relationships with family, friends, and love interests. With its mix of fast-paced action and engaging storylines, Matt Houston became a popular fixture in American TV during the 1980s, appealing to fans of crime dramas and action series alike.

Main Cast

• Lee Horsley as Matt Houston
• Pamela Hensley as C.J. Parsons
• John Aprea as Lt. Leo Filitti
• Bud Ekins as Ben Edwards
• Linda Gray as Suzanne Cummings (seasons 1–2)

Why Was It Iconic?

• Memorable Lead Character: Lee Horsley’s portrayal of Matt Houston made the character iconic, embodying both the rugged charm of a private investigator and the wealthy allure of a Texas oil heir. His character resonated with audiences who appreciated the combination of intelligence, brawn, and sophisticated style.
• Strong Female Characters: The show featured prominent female characters, particularly C.J. Parsons (played by Pamela Hensley), who served as both a romantic interest and a professional partner to Matt. This progressive portrayal of women in a traditionally male-dominated genre was ahead of its time.
• Signature Style: The show’s vibrant 1980s visual style — complete with flashy cars, luxurious homes, and bold fashion choices — became a defining characteristic. The show's aesthetic embodied the glitz and glam of Los Angeles while grounding its stories in real-life crime and investigative work.
• Soundtrack: Matt Houston’s jazzy, upbeat theme song and musical score became an iconic part of the show, adding to the overall atmosphere of excitement and suspense.
• Audience Reception: The show enjoyed solid ratings throughout its run and was praised for its engaging plotlines, sharp dialogue, and charismatic lead. Viewers appreciated its balance between action-packed sequences and compelling mysteries, which made it stand out from other crime dramas of the era.
• Impact on 1980s TV: As part of the wave of action and crime series that dominated 1980s television, Matt Houston helped shape the genre. It introduced audiences to a fresh, action-oriented hero and set a high standard for private investigator shows to come.

→ Do you remember this show? Share your memories with us!

Casting

Lee Horsley

Matlock 'Matt' Houston

Pamela Hensley

C.J. Parsons

Photos

Trivia

Matt Houston never kills only to defend himself, except in an episode or a serial killer that Matt had just master, and who had attacked a person dear to his heart, had threatened him to start again. And there Matt said to him: "I never kill for pleasure", the serial killer threatens him and Matt Houston turns by saying: "Except this time", without adding other words he kills the bad blood . This episode caused a lot of ink to the USA which did not admit this gesture from a hero.

Authors of the card

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