Robin Hood: A Thief Unmasked

Gunsmoke: Old West Stories

Originally Aired: January 8, 1955

Robin Hood: A Thief Unmasked:

In this riveting episode of Gunsmoke, Marshal Matt Dillon faces off against Teddy Blue Fisher, a charismatic outlaw with a reputation for robbing the rich and sparing the poor, earning comparisons to the legendary Robin Hood. But when Fisher's true nature is revealed, his carefully crafted image as a gentleman bandit begins to unravel.

The episode begins with Fisher holding up a stagecoach, singling out a wealthy banker as his only target and sparing the other passengers. His gallant demeanor and clever tactics win the admiration of the downtrodden, who offer him protection and support. However, Matt suspects that Fisher’s benevolence masks a far darker reality.

When Fisher attempts to rob a trusting homesteading couple under the guise of camaraderie, Matt and Chester intervene in the nick of time. Fisher’s brutal intentions shatter his reputation, exposing him as a cold-blooded thief willing to kill to satisfy his greed. The episode culminates in a tense confrontation, where Matt captures Fisher and ensures his actions will be judged in the light of truth.

This episode explores themes of deception, hero worship, and the fine line between myth and reality, offering a powerful commentary on the dangers of misplaced loyalty.

Keywords: "Gunsmoke Robin Hood episode," "January 1955 Gunsmoke radio," "Matt Dillon Teddy Blue Fisher showdown," "Western Robin Hood tale Gunsmoke," "homesteader robbery plot," "classic Western radio series," "John Meston Gunsmoke drama."

Cast: William Conrad, Parley Baer, Howard McNear, Georgia Ellis, Lawrence Dobkin, Harry Bartell, Helen Kleeb, Joe Cranston.