Ep 2. Robert Conrad (The Wild Wild West)

Then Again With Herbie J. Pilato season 1 episode 2 focuses on the life and career of Robert Conrad, best known for his role as James West in the popular TV series "The Wild Wild West."

The episode starts off with Pilato providing an overview of Conrad's early life, including his upbringing in Chicago and his time in the military. Pilato goes on to talk about Conrad's early days in Hollywood, where he started out as a stuntman before getting his big break as a leading man in "Hawaiian Eye."

The bulk of the episode is dedicated to exploring Conrad's time on "The Wild Wild West," which aired from 1965 to 1969. Pilato interviews several of Conrad's co-stars and colleagues, who reflect on the actor's undeniable charisma, physicality, and talent. They discuss the groundbreaking nature of the show, which blended elements of westerns and spy thrillers, and which featured an abundance of action, adventure, and plot twists.

Pilato also delves into the controversy surrounding Conrad's decision to perform many of his own stunts on the show, which resulted in several on-set injuries. Some crew members have accused Conrad of being reckless and difficult to work with, but Pilato provides a balanced portrayal of the actor, highlighting his commitment to the craft and his passion for delivering a quality product.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to clips from "The Wild Wild West," showcasing Conrad's suave and daring portrayal of James West. Pilato also offers insights into the show's production design, musical score, and cultural impact, which influenced everything from fashion to technology.

Near the end of the episode, Pilato shifts focus to Conrad's life after "The Wild Wild West," which included a stint as a game show host (on "The Battle of the Network Stars") and a number of TV movies and series. Some of Conrad's later work, including the cult classic "Assault on Precinct 13," is discussed in detail.

The episode ends with Pilato reflecting on Conrad's legacy, noting that the actor remains beloved by fans of all ages and that his contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be felt. Pilato's deep affection and knowledge for his subject matter are evident throughout the episode, making it a must-watch for fans of classic TV and Hollywood history.