by Delmer Padgett

Created on: May 26, 2010

In the early 1970s there was a "Planet of the Apes" craze particulary among the young, due too the very popular series of five movies based on the novel by Pierre Boulle. CBS had been running these films in prime time to very high ratings and decided to devolop a series based on them.

The show was launched on September 13, 1974 and the premise was this. Two Astronauts; Alan Virdon and Peter Burke had been on a space misson from 1980s earth when their spacecraft passed through some sort of mysterious time warp and they are propelled into Earth's future to the year 3085. The Astronauts find a world where humans are used as slave labor and Simians rule. The space travelers are considered dangerous fugitives as representatives of a violent and destructive past human civilization. Apprehending them becomes a top priority for Orangutan head of the Ape government "Doctor Zaius" and "Urko", the Gorilla in charge of the military and police. Virdon and Burke become friends with "Galen" a Chimpanzee who helps them avoid capture.and together the trio journey around the planet hoping to find sanctuary or a way home.

The regular cast featured Roddy McDowell as "Galen" reprising the Chimpanzee role he had played so well in the series of movies. "Alan Virdon was played by Ron Harper, (who went on to star in season three of "Land of the Lost"  in 1976.) James Naughton portrayed Peter Burke and "Dr Zauis" was Booth Coleman. "Urko" was played by Mark Lenard, (who appeared in many great science fiction series over the years, including the original "Star Trek" where he was "Spock's"  father in one episode.)

Although short lived this program has acquired quite a cult following over the years; which is just, because most of the 14 episodes are very good. The premier episode of the series is the weakest of the bunch and probably led to the shows early demise in December 1974.

Quite a few talented actors were guest stars during the programs short run; including Michael Conrad, (later Sergeant "Lets be careful out there" Phil Esterhous on "Hill Street Blues"). Sondra Locke (Probably best known for being Clint Eastwood's longtime girlfriend.) Beverly Garland, (previously a regular on "My Three Sons".)  Also appearing were; Ann Seymour, Roscoe Lee Browne, Marc Singer, John Ireland, Morgan Woodard and others.

In 1975 NBC produced an animated version of this series titled "Beyond the Planet of the Apes" for Saturday mornings. It only lasted one season and it was apparent the "Apes" fad was over. An inexpensive collection of the "Planet of the Apes" series is available and well worth adding to your collection.

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