Ep 31. Dark Star

Ben Cartwright and his sons, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe, are faced with yet another challenge in the thirty-first episode of the first season of the popular western TV show, Bonanza. Titled "Dark Star," this episode follows the Cartwrights as they try to help a young woman who seems to be haunted by her past.

The episode begins with the Cartwrights welcoming a visitor to their home. Her name is Ann, and she is a beautiful young woman who has come to Virginia City to visit her cousin. Ann is played by the talented Gena Rowlands, who would later go on to become one of Hollywood's most respected actresses.

As the Cartwrights get to know Ann, they realize that there is something troubling her. She seems afraid and nervous, and she doesn't want to talk about her past. Despite their curiosity, the Cartwrights respect Ann's privacy and do not pry into her personal life.

However, when Ann's cousin is murdered, Ann becomes the prime suspect in the crime. The Cartwrights are determined to clear Ann's name and find the real killer.

As they investigate the murder, the Cartwrights discover that Ann's past is much darker than they had originally thought. She was once a famous entertainer who performed all over the country. However, when she became involved with a wealthy man, things took a turn for the worse. The man was violent, abusive, and controlling, and Ann was forced to leave him and start a new life.

But even after years of trying to escape her past, Ann's ex-lover continues to haunt her. He follows her to Virginia City and starts threatening her, even going so far as to accuse her of murdering her cousin. The Cartwrights must find a way to protect Ann and bring her ex-lover to justice.

"Dark Star" is a tense and thrilling episode of Bonanza that explores themes of abuse, fear, and redemption. The performances are excellent, especially Gena Rowlands' portrayal of Ann. The episode also features some great action sequences, including a thrilling chase scene through the mountains.

Overall, "Dark Star" is a must-see episode of Bonanza that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.