Lancer

This is the complex story of two brothers -- separated by circumstance and birth -- who are contacted by their estranged father, Murdoch Lancer. Wounded and almost killed by the land pirates who have attacked his vast estancia, Murdoch offers each of his sons a thousand dollars for an hour of their time.

Scott has been raised in comfort in Boston by his maternal grandfather. He is a Civil War veteran, and quite a ladies man; and apparently bored with his current life. He is also curious about his absent father, who he has no memory of ever meeting.

Johnny Madrid Lancer, is a young pistolero; an angry young man who grew up believing his father kicked his mother and him out when Johnny was just a toddler. He is angry; and you get the feeling the thousand dollars is not the real reason he has come home.

Complicating matters: neither young man is aware of the others existence. They also have gained a younger, foster sister.

Although reviewed as a "Bonanza clone", Lancer was a much edgier western, with stronger characters and more conflict. The roles of Murdoch Lancer, Scott Lancer and Johnny Madrid were well played by the lead actors, and the show still stands out for the incredible performances of not only the three stars, but for guest stars of the caliber of Warren Oates and Jack Elam.

The show still has many fans world wide. James Stacy and Wayne Maunder who portrayed Johnny Madrid and Scott Lancer left an indelible impression in the roles as the brothers; and both men are alive and well and maintain active web sites..

Lancer has not yet been released to DVD by Fox. The fans are hoping it will happen soon.