[s1e17] The Fugitive Apr 2026

Reviewers on IMDb and Substack note the episode's gritty, rural feel, which was a hallmark of the show's early black-and-white seasons.

The tension escalates when the local sheriff, Bowers, decides to transport Bellows to the county seat via a school bus. Because of a lack of available deputies, Kimble is forced into service alongside the very witnesses who are eager to see the prisoner lynched rather than face a potentially inconclusive trial.

The central hook is the "fugitive" acting as a "lawman." Kimble, a man wrongly accused of murder, is placed in a position where he must protect a man who is likely guilty from a bloodthirsty mob. [S1E17] The Fugitive

Critics have pointed out that the climactic fight scene at the end of the episode features somewhat obvious stunt doubling for David Janssen, which was more common in the television production standards of 1964. Quick Episode Facts Title " Come Watch Me Die " Air Date January 21, 1964 Guest Stars Bruce Dern, John Anderson Setting A small Midwest town IMDb Rating

This was the second of five appearances Bruce Dern would make in the series, often playing similar "trashy" or antagonistic characters. His portrayal of Bellows adds a layer of grime and unpredictability to the claustrophobic bus setting. Production Notes Reviewers on IMDb and Substack note the episode's

The 17th episode of Season 1 of the original 1960s series The Fugitive is titled (first aired January 21, 1964). It is widely regarded as a standout entry for its high-stakes irony and exploration of vigilante justice. Plot Overview

Are you interested in how this episode compares to other in the series, or "The Fugitive" Come Watch Me Die (TV Episode 1964) - IMDb The central hook is the "fugitive" acting as a "lawman

In this episode, Dr. Richard Kimble (David Janssen) finds himself in the ultimate ironic predicament: while hiding out in a small Midwest town, he is to help transport a prisoner. The prisoner, a ne’er-do-well named Bellows (played by guest star Bruce Dern ), is suspected of murdering an elderly couple.