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Broderick Crawford Starring in Highway Patrol


Synopsis


Broderick Crawford Starring In Highway Patrol is the only complete volume on the history of this blockbuster television series. This book contains fascinating interviews with Highway Patrol writers, directors, producers and cast members highlighting many inside, behind-the-scenes stories. With the author's unprecedented rare access to the archives of ZIV Television Productions, Inc., Broderick Crawford Starring In Highway Patrol is profusely illustrated with hundreds of rare, and never before seen photographs and documents. It includes a complete episode guide with plot summaries for the entire four seasons of one hundred fifty-six episodes of Highway Patrol, and several original pages reproduced from the script of the series' pilot episode. Highway Patrol was often imitated but never duplicated and this book documents the series' many imitators, parodies, and merchandise.

Goltz, Gary

Summary

Chapter 1: The Origins of Highway Patrol

* Explores the historical context and societal concerns that led to the creation of the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
* Provides background on the early days of the CHP, its mission, and the challenges it faced.

Real Example: Discusses the alarming rise in traffic fatalities and the public's demand for increased road safety measures, which prompted the establishment of the CHP in 1929.

Chapter 2: The Casting of Broderick Crawford

* Describes the search for an actor to portray CHP Officer Dan Matthews, the lead character in the popular television series "Highway Patrol."
* Explores Broderick Crawford's background, acting career, and his casting as Dan Matthews.

Real Example: Explains that Crawford was initially reluctant to accept the role due to the physical demands and potential danger involved, but was eventually persuaded by the show's producer, Jack Webb.

Chapter 3: The Production of Highway Patrol

* Details the production process of "Highway Patrol," including the writing, filming, and editing of episodes.
* Discusses the show's unique style, which emphasized authenticity, realism, and public safety education.

Real Example: Mentions the use of actual CHP officers as technical advisors and the incorporation of real-life accident footage into the show.

Chapter 4: The Impact of Highway Patrol

* Explores the profound impact that "Highway Patrol" had on American popular culture and public awareness.
* Examines the show's role in promoting highway safety, educating viewers about traffic laws, and inspiring a generation of law enforcement officers.

Real Example: Cites statistics showing a significant decline in traffic fatalities in California during the years that "Highway Patrol" was on the air.

Chapter 5: The Legacy of Broderick Crawford

* Assesses the lasting impact of Broderick Crawford's portrayal of Dan Matthews on both the show and his own acting career.
* Discusses Crawford's personal qualities, which made him an ideal choice to play the role of a dedicated and compassionate police officer.

Real Example: Highlights Crawford's ability to convey both the authority and humanity of his character, making Dan Matthews an unforgettable figure in television history.

Chapter 6: The End of an Era

* Chronicles the decline and eventual cancellation of "Highway Patrol" in 1959.
* Examines the factors that contributed to the show's demise, including changing television tastes and the rise of new crime dramas.

Real Example: Mentions the loss of interest in Highway Patrol stories as viewers became more accustomed to more sensationalistic crime shows.

Asterix and the Griffin

Asterix and the Griffin