Menace from Outer Space (1956)

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Rocky Jones, Space Ranger is an American science fiction television serial originally broadcast in syndication beginning in October 1953. The show lasted for only one season produced over two recording blocks and, though syndicated sporadically, dropped into obscurity. Because it was produced on black-and-white film, rather than being broadcast live as were most other TV space operas of the day, it has survived in reasonably good condition. The filmed format also allowed more elaborate special effects and sets, exterior scenes, and much better episode continuity.

Production

Rocky Jones was the creation of Roland D. Reed, a Hollywood producer best known for his successful My Little Margie TV series. Roland Reed Productions was founded in 1950, and in 1951 Warren Wilson penned the screenplay for the Rocky Jones pilot. By the end of 1951, a cast had been selected, headed by Richard Crane as Rocky Jones and one-time Our Gang member Scotty Beckett, as Rocky’s co-pilot and comic relief, Winky.

The pilot was screened on September 29, 1952. Although the premise showed potential, several characters were recast, including Vena Ray and Secretary Drake. With the new cast finally in place and teleplays prepared for the first 26 episodes, filming began in October 1953 and continued until April 1954. A merchandising blitz began during this time.

After airing in various markets since October, 1953, the series premiered in Los Angeles on KNXT on January 7, 1954 and then began appearing more widely on Monday, February 22, 1954, at various days and times on additional stations across the United States. Off-screen issues began almost immediately.

After filming of the initial 26 episodes ended, Maurice Cass (Professor Newton) died of a heart attack on June 8, 1954. An additional 13 episodes were ordered, and filming took place between August and October 1954. Winky was replaced by a new character, Biffen Cardoza (James Lydon), and Professor Newton was replaced by Professor Mayberry (Reginald Sheffield), while regular villain Cleolanta, Suzerain of Ophiucius (Patsy Parsons) was replaced by…

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