49 minSeason 14 • Episode 16
LatestIn what turned out to be the series finale, Little Joe is making a delivery for Ben when he meets Bill Tanner, a psychotic killer that is posing as a soldier he has killed. His delivery wagon stolen and sans supplies, food or water, Joe - whom Tanner has called his ""prey"" - tries to evade the well-stocked madman, who takes sadistic pleasure in his role as a predator.
The High-Sierra adventures of Ben Cartwright and his sons as they run and defend their ranch while helping the surrounding community.
Production
First major Western shot in color—those Ponderosa trees pop.
Acting
Lorne Greene's voice could soothe a stampede.
Writing
Surprisingly progressive for 1959, then wildly not. Rollercoaster.
Creator
David Dortort
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Michael Landon was so broke when cast as Little Joe that he ate the catering leftovers. He eventually directed 9 episodes and became the show's creative force.
Bonanza invented the 'death of the week' guest star format later perfected by Murder, She Wrote—famous actors flocked to Nevada for one-episode dramatic deaths.
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