Matt Houston is a crime drama television series that aired from 1982 to 1985, starring Lee Horsley as the wealthy attorney Matt Houston. The show follows his adventures defending clients and battling corruption in a fictional Texas city.
Created by Glen A. Larson, the series became known for its slick production, aerial action sequences, and blend of legal drama with thriller elements. It remains popular in syndication and has a strong online following among fans of 1980s television.
Series Quick Facts
| Field | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Matt Houston | Crime drama series |
| Star | Lee Horsley | Lead actor |
| Network | ABC | Original broadcaster |
| Years | 1982–1985 | Three-season run |
| Episodes | 88 | Total produced |
Main Cast and Characters Overview
The core cast defines the show’s dynamic, balancing courtroom drama with high-energy action. Each actor brings a distinct style, contributing to the series’ memorable appeal.
Lee Horsley stars as Matt Houston, a sophisticated lawyer with a sharp mind and a private air force. The supporting cast includes notable performances that enrich the storytelling.
Story Arcs and Key Episodes
Matt Houston frequently tackles intricate cases intertwined with personal vendettas and political intrigue. The series balances episodic legal cases with ongoing narrative threads, keeping viewers engaged across seasons.
Signature episodes highlight aerial stunts, elaborate schemes, and moral dilemmas. These moments cemented the show’s reputation for combining suspense with glamor, making it a standout in 1980s prime time.
Production History and Behind the Scenes
Production involved high budgets for aircraft and set design, reflecting the series’ ambition to deliver cinematic action on television. The crew emphasized realism in courtroom scenes and stylized visuals in action set pieces.
Glen A. Larson’s influence shaped the show’s thematic focus on justice and power. Behind-the-scenes challenges included scheduling demanding stunts and maintaining consistent tone across a long series run.
Why Matt Houston Remains Popular
The combination of stylish visuals, engaging legal cases, and charismatic lead performance helps the series maintain relevance in classic TV discussions.
Its frequent airings on cable and streaming services ensure new audiences continue to discover the show.
Final Assessment
- Strong lead performance by Lee Horsley
- High production values for its time
- Blend of legal drama and action
- Consistent storytelling across three seasons
- Continued availability through syndication and streaming
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Matt Houston available for streaming in 2024?
Availability varies by region, but in many areas the series can be streamed through licensed platforms that carry classic TV dramas.
How many seasons does Matt Houston have?
The show ran for three seasons, producing a total of 88 episodes between 1982 and 1985.
Who played the lead role of Matt Houston?
Lee Horsley played the title role of attorney Matt Houston throughout the series.
Are there any plans for a remake or reboot?
As of now, there have been no official announcements regarding a remake or new version of the series.