On this day August 30 1987, Crossbow premiered on The Family Channel. Based on the legend of William Tell, the historical action series followed the Swiss folk hero as he fought for freedom against the oppressive forces of the Austrian empire.
Starring Will Lyman as William Tell, the show offered a mix of medieval adventure, rebellion, and dramatic storytelling. With its European production roots, Crossbow featured lush locations and a darker tone compared to most American family programming of the time.
Though relatively short lived, the series stood out for its serious treatment of folk mythology and its efforts to bring a more cinematic feel to syndicated television. It was part of The Family Channel’s early push to offer action oriented original programming that still fit within a family friendly format.
80s insight: Crossbow gave younger viewers a rare look at European folklore through an American lens and offered an early glimpse into what syndicated television could achieve with international partnerships.
Starring Will Lyman as William Tell, the show offered a mix of medieval adventure, rebellion, and dramatic storytelling. With its European production roots, Crossbow featured lush locations and a darker tone compared to most American family programming of the time.
Though relatively short lived, the series stood out for its serious treatment of folk mythology and its efforts to bring a more cinematic feel to syndicated television. It was part of The Family Channel’s early push to offer action oriented original programming that still fit within a family friendly format.
80s insight: Crossbow gave younger viewers a rare look at European folklore through an American lens and offered an early glimpse into what syndicated television could achieve with international partnerships.
