
A 1963 Ford Falcon Ranchero made an appearance in an early episode of “The Fugitive,” starring David Janssen. Photos from IMCDB.
We are counting down the Top 50 hot rods and street cars of all time that have made an appearance in a television series, or a memorable television episode. Starting from #50, and counting down to our #1 pick, follow along with our memories, and see where your favorite show lands.
29. The Fugitive: 1963 Ford Falcon Ranchero
Name: Richard Kimble. Profession: Doctor of Medicine. Destination: Death Row, state prison.
An original television series produced by ABC television, “The Fugitive” starred actor David Janssen as Dr. Richard Kimble – a man wrongly convicted in the murder of his wife. In a twist of fate, he escapes from custody en route to death row at the state prison following a train crash, and is hell-bent on proving his innocence by tracking down the real killer.
The series continues, showcasing his time on the lamb. Airing from 1963 to 1967 the game of cat and mouse, and near hits and misses, Kimble pursues the true identity of the person responsible for his wife’s death (could it be the mysterious one-armed man?). Considered a fugitive, Kimble is hunted by the authorities as he traverses across the country in search of answers to clear his name.
In a season one episode titled “Never Wave Goodbye,” Karen Christian (Susan Oliver) is the owner of a shop that manufactures sails for boats, where Kimble has secured a job. Knowing his story, and believing he is innocent, the pair set out in her 1963 Ford Falcon Ranchero to search for the one-armed man after hearing he is in the local vicinity.
Ford produced the Ranchero – a first of its kind as the first car with a utility bed — from 1957 through 1979. The model featured in The Fugitive followed the 1960-’66 Falcon car body style in a pickup configuration. It had the capacity to haul an 800-pound load thanks to the 144 cubic-inch, six-cylinder under the hood. Optional power was available with a 260 ci V8, factory four-speed manual transmission, bucket seats, and a deluxe trim.