The Six Million Dollar Man (1974–1978)
- Jan 17, 1974
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 29
The Six Million Dollar Man is an American science fiction and action series that captivated audiences with its thrilling premise of a bionic hero. Airing on ABC, the show stood out for its innovative blend of sci-fi, adventure, and human drama, centered on a superhuman protagonist. Its iconic sound effects and groundbreaking special effects made it a cultural touchstone of the 1970s.
Created by Martin Caidin, based on his novel Cyborg, the series was developed by Kenneth Johnson with contributions from writers like Elroy Schwartz. It began as three TV movies in 1973 before becoming a weekly series, premiering on January 18, 1974, and ending on March 6, 1978. The show’s vision of merging technology with humanity, anchored by Lee Majors’ charismatic performance, resonated widely, spawning a spin-off and lasting popularity.
Plot
Set in the United States, The Six Million Dollar Man follows Steve Austin, a former astronaut who, after a near-fatal test flight crash, is rebuilt with bionic implants that grant him superhuman strength, speed, and vision. Working for the OSI (Office of Scientific Intelligence), Steve undertakes covert missions, battling spies, criminals, and even extraterrestrial threats. The series explores themes of duty, identity, and the human cost of technology, blending action with personal struggles.
Cast
Lee Majors as Steve Austin
Richard Anderson as Oscar Goldman
Martin E. Brooks as Dr. Rudy Wells (seasons 3–5)
Alan Oppenheimer as Dr. Rudy Wells (seasons 1–2)
Lindsay Wagner as Jaime Sommers (recurring, spin-off lead)
Farrah Fawcett as Major Kelly Wood (recurring)
Seasons and Episodes
TV Movies (1973) – 3 movies
Season 1 (1974) – 13 episodes
Season 2 (1974–1975) – 22 episodes
Season 3 (1975–1976) – 21 episodes
Season 4 (1976–1977) – 22 episodes
Season 5 (1977–1978) – 21 episodes Total Episodes: 99 (plus 3 TV movies)
Cultural Impact
The Six Million Dollar Man became a 1970s pop culture phenomenon, with its bionic sound effects and slow-motion action sequences defining the era. Steve Austin’s catchphrase, “We can rebuild him,” and the show’s theme music became iconic. It spawned a hit spin-off, The Bionic Woman, and inspired merchandise like action figures and comics. Its influence on sci-fi and action genres is seen in later shows like Knight Rider. Syndication on networks like Syfy and streaming on Peacock kept its legacy alive.
Honors and Recognition
The Six Million Dollar Man earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Sound Mixing in 1977 and won a Golden Reel Award for sound editing. Lee Majors’ portrayal of Steve Austin was praised for blending toughness with vulnerability, and the show’s innovative effects and storytelling earned widespread acclaim.
Conclusion
The Six Million Dollar Man remains a landmark of 1970s television, celebrated for its thrilling blend of sci-fi and action. Its iconic hero and pioneering special effects continue to resonate, securing its place as a classic series that shaped the genre and inspired generations.
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