Thunder

Thunder is a television series which aired on Saturday Mornings on NBC during the 1977-1978 television season. The show centered around the adventures of Cindy Prescott and her friend, Willie Williams and featured Thunder, a black stallion who ran wild near the ranch owned by the Prescott family: The cast also featured Cindy’s parents: Bill, a rancher, and Anne, a veterinarian. Thunder was always there to rescue Cindy and/or Willie in times of trouble “caused by others’ misdeeds and thoughtlessness,” including a forest fire caused by a practical joker, and Willie being hit by a stray bullet fired by teens in a no-shooting area. Also playing a part in the adventures was Willie’s stubborn mule, Cupcake, who was trained to “burp” on camera. For about a month, in an effort to improve ratings, the producers of Thunder re-titled the show “Super Horse, Starring Thunder.” Thunder was created by the creators of Fury, another show featuring a stallion. This show also aired on NBC, from 1955 to 1960. Thunder was part of a 90-minute block of three live action shows to debut on NBC during the 1977 season, along with Search and Rescue: the Alpha Team and The Red Hand Gang. It was the only one of the three run for a full season in the United States, with all episodes aired.

Directed by —, Thunder leans on a strong ensemble — Melora Hardin, Clint Ritchie, Melissa Converse — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about family titles of 1977.