Ep 15. The Buffalo Man
- TVPG
- December 25, 1967
- 51 min
-
7.8 (89)
The Big Valley season 3 episode 15, titled "The Buffalo Man," is an exciting addition to the classic Western series. The episode follows the Barkley family, a powerful and wealthy ranching family in 19th century California, as they face a new threat to their way of life.
The episode opens with the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the Barkley ranch. He introduces himself as a buffalo hunter, but the Barkleys quickly learn that he has much more on his mind than just hunting. The stranger, named Caleb, is on a mission to protect the dwindling buffalo herds from the growing threat of extinction.
The Barkleys are skeptical of Caleb at first, but as they spend more time with him, they begin to see that he is a man of conviction and honor. Caleb's passion for the buffalo is infectious, and he quickly gains the respect and admiration of the Barkleys, especially Heath, who has always had a love of the wilderness and a connection to nature.
As Caleb and the Barkleys work together to protect the buffalo, they face opposition from a local rancher who sees the buffalo as nothing more than a nuisance to his land. The tension between the rival ranchers quickly escalates, leading to a dramatic showdown that puts both the Barkleys and Caleb's lives in danger.
"The Buffalo Man" is a well-crafted episode that explores themes of conservation, respect for the environment, and the clash between tradition and progress. The character of Caleb is a standout, portrayed with depth and nuance by guest star Brock Peters. The episode also features strong performances from the regular cast, particularly Lee Majors as Heath, who gets a chance to showcase his range as an actor.
Overall, "The Buffalo Man" is a must-see for fans of The Big Valley and Westerns in general. It is a testament to the show's enduring appeal that it can tackle important issues while still delivering exciting action and memorable characters. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this episode is sure to entertain and inspire.
