The Deputy (1959)

Set against the untamed backdrop of 1880's Arizona Territory, The Deputy unfolds the intriguing narrative of Simon Fry, the chief marshal, and his reluctant deputy, Clay McCord. Henry Fonda, in his captivating portrayal of Fry, introduces us to a world where law and disorder dance a dangerous waltz. Fry, however, is not a constant presence, appearing fully engaged in only a select number of episodes, lending his compelling narration to most. This unique structure gave rise to what has been intriguingly labelled as the "Fonda" and "Non-Fonda" episodes, each characterized by its distinct flavour and quality. While Fonda's intermittent appearances are a trademark of the show, it's the storekeeper turned deputy, Clay McCord who holds the reins. McCord, portrayed with relentless effort by Allen Case, is a man of deep-rooted principles who, despite his unmatched skill with a gun, harbours a profound aversion to the weapon. He firmly believes that guns are the driving force behind the frontier violence plaguing the territories. In a twist of fate, McCord often finds himself wearing the badge of deputy, a role he accepts reluctantly but executes with unwavering dedication. As Simon Fry drifts in and out of town, McCord is frequently called upon to maintain the fragile peace of Silver City, a task he takes on not with his expert shooting skills, but his firm belief in justice. The Deputy is a riveting exploration of morality and law in the rugged landscapes of the old Wild West, where the line between right and wrong blurs under the scorching Arizona sun. It's a series that showcases the stark contrasts and uncanny similarities between a chief marshal and his unlikely deputy, each episode a new chapter in their intertwined destinies.

The Deputy is a western show featuring Read Morgan and created by Norman Lear.

The Deputy is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV and it's also available on Starz Apple TV Channel.