Ep 13. The Old Man and the Sledge

In the season 1 finale of the hit TV show Sledge Hammer!, titled "The Old Man and the Sledge," chaos ensues as the tough and unconventional detective Sledge Hammer (David Rasche) finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes battle against a notorious gang of criminals.

The episode begins with Captain Trunk (Harrison Page) assigning Sledge Hammer and his loyal sidekick, Detective Dori Doreau (Anne-Marie Martin), to a seemingly routine case involving a missing diamond necklace. Little do they know that this investigation will lead them into a web of deception and danger that will test their skills and resilience to the limit.

As Hammer and Dori delve deeper into the case, they discover that the missing diamond necklace belongs to an elderly billionaire, Bartholomew Kensington (John Astin), who happens to be a long-lost acquaintance of Hammer's late father. Intrigued by this unexpected connection, Hammer takes the case personally and becomes determined to solve it.

Their investigation takes them on a thrilling chase through the seedy underbelly of the city, where they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including shady nightclub owners, exotic dancers, and corrupt politicians. Hammer's brash and unorthodox tactics clash with Dori's more methodical approach, leading to some hilarious and explosive moments as they navigate through the treacherous criminal landscape.

Meanwhile, Hammer finds himself developing a surprising bond with Bartholomew Kensington. The elderly billionaire, who is wise and eccentric in equal measure, reminds Hammer of his own father, bringing up long-buried emotions and memories from the detective's past. Through their interactions, Kensington imparts valuable life lessons to Hammer, teaching him about compassion, determination, and the true meaning of justice.

"The Old Man and the Sledge" encapsulates the unique blend of action, comedy, and satire that made Sledge Hammer! such a beloved cult classic. Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a barrage of witty one-liners, over-the-top action sequences, and clever genre subversions. The show's signature irreverent humor is on full display as Hammer's penchant for excessive force and disregard for protocol clash with the absurdity of the situations he finds himself in.

As the clock ticks closer to the explosive climax, Hammer and Dori must put their differences aside and work together to bring down the criminal organization responsible for the missing necklace. With their lives on the line, they face off against an army of henchmen and engage in an adrenaline-fueled showdown that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

"The Old Man and the Sledge" is not only a thrilling crime caper but also a poignant exploration of family, legacy, and the power of human connection. It showcases the growth and development of Sledge Hammer's character as he learns valuable life lessons from the unexpected mentorship of Bartholomew Kensington.

As the final episode of the season, "The Old Man and the Sledge" leaves viewers eagerly anticipating what future adventures and hilarious escapades await the indomitable duo of Sledge Hammer and Dori Doreau. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic 1980s show, which continues to captivate audiences with its blend of action, humor, and heart.