I remember when this episode came out, and I thought it was sobering. This may be the best episode of the entire series as everything clicks.
It's a bit scary too, considering armed stalkers to this very day.
The team of Martin Fine and David Friedkin, who wrote THE PAWNBROKER starring Rod Steiger, put this one together and deserve a lot of credit, especially for the deep psychological slant.
Gary Lockwood, who came from the Anthony Zerbe school of villains, plays Howard Lee, a smirking, creepy guy who wants to settle an old score with Barnaby who sent him to prison years ago. Strictly a cat and mouse game that reminded me of a HAWAII FIVE O episode, the perfect scenario for a much younger Steve McGarrett.
We also get a glimpse of Barnaby Jones sprawling ranch, probably out in the San Fernando Valley (Chatsworth is a good guess), special thanks to producer Quinn Martin who enjoyed his scenery, which was a staple on CANNON. This was also filmed around Century City (where Barnaby is photographed by Howard leaving a building), perhaps for old movie buffs, once the site for the 20th Century Fox studios.
Barnaby's faithful dog, Shane, is killed and that's crossing the line, at least to all of us kids back in the day . Period. Barnaby also has a very talented horse, called Tamar. Watch him in action. Lee Meriwether is exceptional here, especially in final scene.
This is a grim episode, and It will also stick with you for awhile. A dynamic supporting cast, lead by Corinne Comacho as Howard's wife, Vince Howard as Lt. Taylor and look for popular veteran actress Jeff Donnell, as the mother of a suspect. Jeff was in so many great movies, and popular on tv.
A writers "message" here. This episode aired on a Sunday night and Barnaby was to be killed on a Sunday. OMG. SEASON 1 EPISODE 3 remastered CBS dvd box set.