Ep 1. A Rose for Lotta

In the premiere episode of Bonanza's first season, titled "A Rose for Lotta," viewers are introduced to the Cartwright family - a wealthy and powerful clan living in Virginia City, Nevada in the 1860s. Patriarch Ben Cartwright (Lorne Greene) is a successful rancher who has accumulated a vast fortune, but his three sons - Adam (Pernell Roberts), Hoss (Dan Blocker), and Little Joe (Michael Landon) - are restless and seeking adventure beyond the confines of their estate.

The episode opens with the Cartwrights learning of the death of a local actress named Lotta Crabtree, who had been performing in Virginia City. Ben is saddened by the news, and Lotta's manager, Frank Jameson (Gage Clark), informs him that she had left behind a sizable inheritance worth half a million dollars. The money is up for auction, and many people are eager to get their hands on it, including a local saloon owner named Eric Hossler (James Best), who has a reputation for being ruthless and unscrupulous.

Meanwhile, Adam and Little Joe are out hunting when they come across a group of bandits who have just robbed a stagecoach. One of the bandits, a woman named Lotta Crabtree (Inger Stevens), has been shot and left for dead. The Cartwrights take her back to their ranch to nurse her back to health, and Lotta soon charms the entire family with her wit and spirit.

As Lotta recovers, a series of mishaps and misunderstandings occur that put her and the Cartwrights in danger. Hossler becomes increasingly desperate to acquire Lotta's inheritance, and hires a group of gunmen to kidnap her and hold her for ransom. The Cartwrights must work together to rescue her and thwart Hossler's plans, all while navigating the complex social and economic dynamics of their community.

"A Rose for Lotta" is a classic Western tale of honor, loyalty, and adventure, with all the hallmark elements of the genre: gunfights, chases, and plenty of horseback riding. But what sets it apart is the warmth and humor that the Cartwrights bring to the story. Their interactions with each other and with Lotta are full of genuine affection and camaraderie, even as they face life-threatening situations.

The episode also showcases the talents of some of the most iconic actors of the era. Lorne Greene, who would go on to become a household name as the patriarch on "Battlestar Galactica," conveys both the authority and tenderness of Ben Cartwright. Pernell Roberts, who would later star in "Trapper John, M.D.," portrays Adam with a quiet intelligence and reserve. Dan Blocker, who tragically passed away at the age of 43, imbues Hoss with a gentle strength and kindness. And Michael Landon, who would become a TV legend as the star and creator of "Little House on the Prairie" and "Highway to Heaven," shows flashes of the charm and energy that would make him a household name.

Inger Stevens, who would later star in the groundbreaking TV series "The Farmer's Daughter," shines as Lotta, bringing a vivaciousness and charisma to the role that makes her the perfect foil for the reserved Cartwrights. And James Best, who would become a frequent guest star on "Bonanza," is a deliciously oily villain as Hossler, full of menace and greed.

Overall, "A Rose for Lotta" is a delightful introduction to the world of "Bonanza," full of action, humor, and heart. It sets the tone for the rest of the series, which would go on to become one of the most beloved and enduring television shows of all time.