The Daily Think

Kolchak: The Night Stalker, which aired on ABC from 1974-1975, is often considered a groundbreaking television series in the horror and supernatural genres. Starring Darren McGavin, mostly remembered for A Christmas Story as Ralphie’s dad, Kolchak has been praised for its innovative storytelling, engaging characters, and creative use of horror tropes. One of the most notable aspects of the show is its influence on later series, particularly The X-Files, which premiered more than 20 years later. The X-Files creator, Chris Carter, has acknowledged the influence of Kolchak on his own work, citing the show as a major inspiration for his own series.

Kolchak’s influence on The X-Files is evident in a number of ways. Both shows feature a central protagonist investigating supernatural or paranormal events, often encountering creatures or phenomena that are difficult to explain or understand. Both shows also feature a focus on investigative journalism, as the central characters work to uncover the truth behind the strange events they encounter.

Despite its influence on later series, Kolchak was itself heavily influenced by earlier supernatural and horror-themed television shows. The show was produced by Dan Curtis, who was also responsible for other popular supernatural series like Dark Shadows and The Night Stalker (a made-for-TV movie that served as a precursor to the series). In addition, the show drew inspiration from classic horror films and literature, often incorporating elements of these stories into its own episodes.

Kolchak’s place in television history is therefore significant not only for its influence on later series, but also for its role in continuing a long tradition of horror and supernatural storytelling on television. The show remains a cult favorite among fans of the genre, and its impact can still be felt in the many supernatural and horror-themed shows that continue to air on television today.

Episode Summaries:

Episode 1: “The Ripper”

In the pilot episode of Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Carl Kolchak investigates a series of murders committed by a Jack the Ripper copycat. The killer turns out to be a vampire, and Kolchak must find a way to stop him before he strikes again. This episode features a classic horror trope – the vampire – and it sets the tone for the rest of the series.

Episode 2: “The Zombie”

In “The Zombie,” Kolchak investigates a series of mysterious deaths in a nursing home. The culprit turns out to be a voodoo priest who has been using a zombie to carry out his evil deeds. This episode explores the concept of the undead and the power of black magic.

Episode 3: “They Have Been, They Are, They Will Be…”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of strange disappearances that lead him to a group of aliens who are using humans as hosts. This episode explores the idea of extraterrestrial life and the possibility of alien invasion.

Episode 4: “The Vampire”

In this episode, Kolchak is tasked with investigating a series of murders that are linked to a vampire who has been stalking the city. This episode features another classic horror trope – the vampire – and it showcases the tension between the supernatural and the mundane.

Episode 5: “The Werewolf”

In “The Werewolf,” Kolchak investigates a series of brutal murders that are attributed to a werewolf. The episode explores the concept of the monster within and the idea that anyone could be a werewolf.

Episode 6: “Firefall”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of deaths that are linked to a fire-breathing creature that has been terrorizing the city. This episode features a classic monster – the dragon – and it explores the idea of ancient creatures that have survived into modern times.

Episode 7: “The Devil’s Platform”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a politician who has made a deal with the devil in order to secure his political ambitions. This episode explores the idea of supernatural deals and the price that must be paid for power.

Episode 8: “Bad Medicine”

In “Bad Medicine,” Kolchak investigates a series of mysterious deaths at a hospital that are linked to a Native American curse. This episode explores the concept of ancient curses and the power of magic.

Episode 9: “The Spanish Moss Murders”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of murders that are linked to a supernatural creature that lives in the Spanish moss that grows in the city. This episode features a classic horror trope – the creature that lurks in the shadows – and it explores the idea of ancient creatures that live in the city.

Episode 10: “The Energy Eater”

In “The Energy Eater,” Kolchak investigates a series of deaths that are linked to a creature that feeds on energy. This episode explores the concept of the supernatural and the power of energy.

Episode 11: “Horror in the Heights” (Continued)

In this episode, Kolchak continues his investigation of the creature that lives in the walls of an apartment building. The creature turns out to be a demon that has been summoned by a group of occultists. This episode explores the concept of demonic possession and the power of the occult.

Episode 12: “Mr. R.I.N.G.”

In “Mr. R.I.N.G.,” Kolchak investigates a series of bizarre deaths that are linked to a robotic intelligence that has malfunctioned. This episode explores the concept of artificial intelligence and the dangers of technology.

Episode 13: “Primal Scream”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of murders that are linked to a primitive man who has survived into modern times. This episode explores the idea of ancient creatures that have survived into modern times and the clash between primitive instincts and modern society.

Episode 14: “The Trevi Collection”

In “The Trevi Collection,” Kolchak investigates a fashion designer who has been using supernatural means to create his designs. This episode explores the idea of the supernatural and the power of art.

Episode 15: “Chopper”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of murders that are linked to a motorcycle gang that has been possessed by a demon. This episode explores the idea of demonic possession and the power of motorcycle culture.

Episode 16: “Demon in Lace”

In “Demon in Lace,” Kolchak investigates a series of deaths that are linked to a succubus who has been seducing and killing men. This episode explores the concept of seduction and the power of the feminine.

Episode 17: “Legacy of Terror”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of deaths that are linked to a cursed object that has been passed down through generations of a family. This episode explores the concept of cursed objects and the power of family curses.

Episode 18: “The Knightly Murders”

In “The Knightly Murders,” Kolchak investigates a series of murders that are linked to a knight who has been resurrected from the dead. This episode explores the idea of resurrection and the power of ancient legends.

Episode 19: “The Youth Killer”

In this episode, Kolchak investigates a series of murders that are linked to a scientist who has been experimenting with a serum that can reverse the aging process. This episode explores the concept of immortality and the dangers of playing with nature.

Episode 20: “The Sentry”

In “The Sentry,” Kolchak investigates a series of deaths that are linked to a golem that has been brought to life by a rabbi. This episode explores the concept of Jewish mythology and the power of the golem.

Throughout the series, Kolchak encounters a wide range of monsters and supernatural creatures, including vampires, zombies, werewolves, demons, succubi, and golems. The show also explores a variety of horror tropes, such as ancient curses, resurrection, demonic possession, and cursed objects. Overall, Kolchak: The Night Stalker is a classic horror series that continues to captivate audiences to this day with its inventive storytelling and compelling characters.