A Look at TV Westerns - Yancy Derringer

 

 Post by Doris McCraw aka Angela Raines

Photo property of the author 

I am continuing my year-long look at TV Westerns, primarily the lesser-known shows that we may have missed, or were before some of us were born. This time I'm looking at the fringe Western, Yancy Derringer. I've written about his show before, but it bears another look. 

The show was set in New Orleans at the time of reconstruction after the Civil War and ran for one season. The star is someone I spoke of in the last post, Jock (Jack) Mahoney. I confess I'm a fan. Tall, 6'4", with amazing blue eyes, and a stunt man to boot, he was a devastating combination.

Photo of Jock Mahoney from
Find a Grave

Some would say his portrayal of Derringer, a former Confederate soldier, captures the concept of the classic Western hero - a man of honor, quick wit, and ability to deal with danger.

The co-stars were no slouches either. Kevin Hagen as the assigned Northern administrator for New Orleans, was also tall, 6'2", and a perfect 'foil' for the antics of Derringer. 

The other male co-star was X Brands, also 6'2" and a part-time stuntman. Although of European Heritage he played the part of Pahoo-Ka-Wah (Wolf Who Stands in Water), a Pawnee who never said a word, and had a shotgun as his weapon of choice. Watching Brands and Mahoney is a joy. Their chemistry s what helped make the show so fun to watch.

Photo of X Brands from
Find a Grave

I loved the attention to detail, and authenticity the show strived for. When I re-watch the shows I really feel like I'm in New Orleans during the reconstruction era. To me, this show is just plain fun and a testament to the Westerns of that bygone era.

Attached is a link to the first episode. Watch for the interaction between Brands and Mahoney as they're stranded on the river waiting for a boat to come along. Yancy Derringer - Season 1 Episode 1

Here's a link to last month's post. Range Rider

See you next time for another exciting adventure tale from Western TV shows I have and continue to enjoy.

Make sure to check out the other posts on this blog. The information and topics are as diverse as the stories the authors here tell.

Doris