Walker Texas Ranger - An all-time family favorite
Walker Texas Ranger was an a American action-drama television series that aired on CBS from 1993 through 2001. It starred martial arts expert and popular actor Chuck Norris in the starring role. Walker Texas Ranger was known for its emphasis on values and highlighted Chuck Norris’ martial arts talent. Martial arts was often used a tool to fight crime and a way to reach out to the community. The show has since developed somewhat of a cult following.
The character of Walker Texas Ranger is a member of the state-level bureau of investigation. He was raised by a Native American named Ray Firewalker and he served in the US Marines in the Vietnam Ware. His partner is James Trivette who is a former Dallas Cowboy and he also works closely (and is attracted to) Alex Cahill, a Tarrant County Assistant District Attorney. He also gets advice on cases from C.D. Parker, who worked with him in law enforcement until retiring to operate a small restaurant and bar.
The series may have been inspired by the movie Lone Wolf McQuade, which also starred Chuck Norris in the role of J.J. McQuade. This film was a pivotal in Chuck Norris’ career because it gave him a distinctive character rather than the generic good guy he usually played. The character of McQuade was a rogue cop who did not work well in regular law enforcement structures. He was also divorced and, as his name suggested, was rather anti-social. While the character of Walker Texas Ranger is almost certainly patterned on McQuade, the edginess of the character was toned down considerably.
As of March 2006, two cable channels, USA Network and the Hallmark Channel air Walker Texas Ranger almost daily. A made-for-tv-movie “Walker Texas Ranger Trial by Fire” aired on October 16, 2005 and starred Chuck Norris. Chuck Norris, Sheree J. Wilson and Judson Mills reprised their roles, although some other regulars were not featured. The opening theme song was changed, much to the dismay of fans, especially since the theme was voted the #2 theme song behind the Mash theme.
The movie didn’t receive the ratings CBS hoped for (due in part to a football game going into overtime); however CBS decided to give the go-ahead for more Walker Texas Ranger movies in the future. The complete first season is set to be released on DVD this June.
For more information about Walker Texas Ranger and its star Chuck Norris, check out television sites online and keep your eye out for the tv movies.