Ep 1. Badge For A Day (The Deputy)

The Deputy is a classic western television series that aired from 1959-1961, starring Henry Fonda as Marshal Simon Fry in the titular role. Season 1 Episode 1, "Badge For A Day (The Deputy)" introduces viewers to the town of Silver City, where Fry is the lawman in charge. In this episode, Fry hires a new deputy for the day, hoping to give back to the community and engage with its members.

The new deputy is a young boy named Timmy Juttson, who has been living in a nearby mining camp with his family. Timmy is excited to have the opportunity to wear a badge and help Marshal Fry enforce the law. However, before he can even get started, Timmy witnesses a brutal murder in the heart of Silver City.

The murder victim is a well-liked local business owner named Sam Gage, and the suspects are many. Gage was a wealthy man with many enemies, and Fry must work tirelessly to track down the killer before more violence erupts in his town. Timmy is eager to help, but Fry is hesitant to involve the young boy in such a dangerous case.

As Fry investigates the murder, tensions rise in Silver City. The suspects include Gage's business rival, his jilted lover, and other members of the community with their own motives for revenge. Along the way, Fry also clashes with the corrupt sheriff in a neighboring town, who seems to care more about collecting bribes than enforcing the law.

Despite the danger, Timmy proves himself to be a valuable ally to Fry. Together, they interview witnesses and piece together clues to unravel the mystery of Gage's death. The investigation takes them through saloons, hotels, and even a hidden underground tunnel, as they follow the trail of the killer.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the harsh realities of life on the frontier. Fry and Timmy encounter a range of colorful characters, from rough-and-tumble cowboys to hardworking ranchers. The show doesn't shy away from violence, with several shootouts and fistfights breaking out over the course of the investigation.

Overall, Season 1 Episode 1 of The Deputy is a thrilling introduction to the series. The murder mystery provides a compelling narrative arc, while the dynamic between Fry and Timmy keeps viewers invested in the characters. The episode also sets up several ongoing plotlines, including Fry's ongoing feud with the corrupt sheriff and the simmering tension between the town's various factions.

Fans of classic westerns will appreciate the show's attention to detail and realistic portrayal of life on the frontier. The Deputy is a quintessential example of the genre, with iconic performances from Fonda and the rest of the cast. "Badge For A Day (The Deputy)" sets the stage for a thrilling series that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.