Rawhide: Living or Dead?

About Rawhide

Rawhide, the classic western TV series that aired from 1959 to 1966, was a trailblazer in the genre. Starring Clint Eastwood as Rowdy Yates, a young cowboy on a cattle drive, the show was a hit with audiences and critics alike. Rawhide was praised for its realistic portrayal of life on the trail, its attention to historical detail, and its strong performances.

The show's theme song, "Rawhide," became an instant classic, and the series itself has become a cultural touchstone. Rawhide was one of the first TV shows to feature a strong, independent female character in the form of Barbara Hale's character, Della. The show also tackled issues of race and prejudice, with episodes that dealt with Native American rights and the treatment of African Americans in the Old West.

Rawhide was a launching pad for Eastwood's career, and the show's success helped establish him as a leading man in Hollywood. The series also featured a number of notable guest stars, including Robert Redford, Lee Van Cleef, and James Coburn.

Overall, Rawhide was a groundbreaking show that helped redefine the western genre on television. Its influence can still be felt today, and it remains a beloved classic of American television.

References:

- "Rawhide: The Complete Series" DVD set, released by CBS Home Entertainment in 2015

- "Rawhide" entry on IMDb.com

- "Rawhide: A History of Television's Longest Cattle Drive" by David R. Greenland (McFarland & Company, 2010)