Van Johnson, a prominent figure in Hollywood’s Golden Age, graced the popular television series Murder, She Wrote with his presence in several episodes. This article delves into three specific episodes featuring Johnson, analyzing his performances, the mysteries themselves, and other noteworthy aspects of each episode, offering a comprehensive review for fans of both the actor and the show.
Hit, Run and Homicide: A Futuristic Glimpse into Cabot Cove
“Hit, Run and Homicide,” the sixth episode of the first season, aired on November 25th, 1984. This episode introduces Johnson as Daniel, a Cabot Cove inventor whose creations offer a surprisingly prescient look at future technology. One such invention, a device that tracks a cyclist’s heart rate and mileage, foreshadows modern fitness trackers like the Fitbit. Another, a self-driving car, was a nascent concept in 1984 but is now a rapidly developing reality. These futuristic elements add a unique layer to the episode’s charm.
The title card for ‘Hit, Run and Homicide’.
However, the episode’s heavy reliance on dialogue weakens the narrative. While conversations are crucial for mystery storytelling, the discussions in “Hit, Run and Homicide” often feel more like casual exchanges than investigative probes. This dilutes the sense of urgency and hinders the development of a compelling mystery. The episode also showcases a rare instance where Sheriff Tupper actively seeks Jessica’s assistance, a departure from the usual dynamic where Jessica inserts herself into investigations.
Jessica and her friend talking.
Other notable aspects include the extended opening credits featuring more footage of Angela Lansbury’s character and Jessica Fletcher’s increased bicycle usage, highlighting the picturesque scenery of Cabot Cove. A surprising car chase sequence adds an unexpected action element to the typically tranquil town. Overall, while “Hit, Run and Homicide” offers intriguing concepts, its execution falls short compared to other episodes, resulting in a moderately enjoyable viewing experience.
Menace, Anyone?: A Tennis Match with Mystery
“Menace, Anyone?,” the 20th episode of the second season, premiered on April 6th, 1986. Johnson returns, this time as Elliot, a character distinctly different from his previous portrayal of Daniel. The episode centers around the world of professional tennis, offering a fresh setting for a murder mystery. Notably, the episode features appearances by future stars Bryan Cranston and Linda Hamilton, showcasing their early acting prowess.
The title card for ‘Menace, Anyone?’.
While the tennis backdrop provides an interesting context, the episode misses an opportunity to delve deeper into the sport’s nuances. Unlike other Murder, She Wrote episodes that successfully integrate educational elements with entertainment, “Menace, Anyone?” presents familiar information rather than offering new insights into the world of tennis. However, the mystery itself is well-crafted, featuring compelling twists and turns that keep viewers guessing until the very end. The revelation of the culprit is particularly unique compared to other episodes.
A dress from the 80s.
The episode also touches upon the unexpected intensity of a charity tennis tournament and features memorable 80s fashion. A brief but impactful inclusion of mental health adds a layer of depth rarely seen in the series. Overall, “Menace, Anyone?” stands out as a stronger episode thanks to its engaging mystery and solid acting, despite the missed opportunity for deeper exploration of the tennis world. The Boston setting, while lacking famous landmarks, provides interesting visuals with the tennis court and banquet hall.
Hannigan’s Wake: A Cold Case Revisited
“Hannigan’s Wake,” the fourth episode of the seventh season, aired on October 28th, 1990. This episode presents a sixteen-year-old cold case, a departure from the series’ typical format. Johnson’s character, Daniel Hannigan, plays a key role in introducing the mystery. The use of flashbacks effectively enhances the storytelling, visually depicting the events surrounding the original crime and later revealing the guilty party. These flashbacks prevent the scenes from becoming overly dialogue-heavy and add a crucial visual dimension to the narrative.
The title card for ‘Hannigan’s Wake’.
Despite the effective use of flashbacks in key scenes, the episode as a whole still suffers from an overreliance on dialogue. This limits the number of clues presented and diminishes the suspense and intrigue, a common flaw in the show’s cold case episodes. While exploring a different type of mystery is refreshing, the execution lacks the depth and interactivity of other successful episodes. The incorporation of Irish heritage feels more like an afterthought than an integral part of the narrative.
A house from Murder, She Wrote.
“Hannigan’s Wake” also carries a noticeably somber tone, a departure from the series’ usual lightheartedness. The atypical funeral parlor setting and the limited screen time for Johnson’s character further contribute to the episode’s underwhelming nature. Overall, “Hannigan’s Wake” falls short of the series’ best, offering a mediocre viewing experience despite its attempt to explore a different kind of mystery.
Conclusion: Van Johnson’s Enduring Legacy in Murder, She Wrote
Van Johnson’s appearances in Murder, She Wrote showcase his versatility and acting talent, bringing unique characters to life within the cozy yet often deadly world of Cabot Cove. While each episode has its strengths and weaknesses, they collectively offer an interesting lens through which to appreciate both Johnson’s contributions to the series and the enduring appeal of Murder, She Wrote itself. From futuristic gadgets to cold case investigations, Johnson’s presence adds a memorable touch to these classic television mysteries.
