“Matt Houston” is an American television series that aired on ABC from 1982 to 1985. Created by Lawrence Gordon and produced by Aaron Spelling, the show follows Matt Houston, a wealthy Texas oilman who doubles as a private investigator. Starring Lee Horsley in the title role, the series became popular for its blend of action, mystery, and high-society intrigue. Matt Houston stands out from other private investigator shows of its era by combining glamour with detective work, as Houston uses his vast resources and connections to solve cases while navigating the luxurious lifestyle of the rich and powerful.
Set primarily in Los Angeles, the series captures the essence of 1980s television with its fast cars, expensive wardrobes, and dramatic crime stories. Houston’s charm, confidence, and cowboy style set him apart from traditional detectives, adding a Southern twist to the detective genre.
Plot Overview
The show revolves around Matt Houston, a wealthy, charismatic Texan who moves to Los Angeles to escape the family oil business and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Despite his playboy persona, Houston finds excitement and purpose as a private investigator, taking on cases for the elite while using his vast wealth and resources to help those in need. He balances his detective work with managing various business ventures, though his true passion is solving mysteries and bringing criminals to justice.
Matt Houston’s private investigator firm attracts high-profile clients who turn to him to solve complex cases that often involve kidnapping, blackmail, murder, and corporate crime. His status as a wealthy businessman gives him access to places and people that other investigators might not be able to reach, allowing him to navigate the worlds of the rich and famous with ease. His affable nature, combined with his sharp intellect and street smarts, makes him a formidable detective.
Houston’s investigations are usually aided by his trusted associate, C.J. Parsons (played by Pamela Hensley), an attorney who provides legal expertise and often assists in his cases. C.J. is an essential part of the team, helping Houston gather evidence, plan strategies, and sometimes participating in the action. Their partnership is based on mutual respect, and their dynamic adds depth to the series as they tackle cases together. C.J.’s intelligence and legal acumen balance Houston’s more laid-back, intuitive style of investigation.
Another key figure in Houston’s life is Murray Chase (George Wyner), a tech-savvy sidekick who handles much of the technical side of Houston’s operations. Murray’s role as Houston’s go-to computer expert is a recurring element of the series, providing Houston with the advanced tools and data necessary to solve cases in an era when technology was becoming increasingly important in crime solving.
The show’s plotlines are often episodic, with each episode presenting a new case for Houston and his team to crack. From cases involving high-society scandals to threats against Houston’s friends and clients, the show consistently mixes action with suspense, while also delving into the glamorous lives of Los Angeles’ elite. Despite his wealth, Houston is portrayed as down-to-earth and approachable, making him relatable to audiences while still embodying the allure of 1980s excess.
Key Characters
- Matt Houston (Lee Horsley): Houston is the show’s titular character, a suave, wealthy Texan who embraces the role of a private investigator. With his background in the oil industry and immense personal fortune, Houston is able to live a lavish lifestyle, complete with fast cars, expensive clothes, and luxury homes. His cowboy hat and down-home charm contrast with the glitzy world of Los Angeles, adding a unique twist to his character. Despite his wealth and carefree demeanor, Houston is a dedicated investigator who takes his cases seriously and shows a deep sense of justice.
- C.J. Parsons (Pamela Hensley): C.J. is Matt Houston’s closest confidante and partner in solving crimes. As an attorney, she brings legal expertise to the team and often helps navigate the legal complexities that arise during their investigations. C.J. is sharp, independent, and unafraid to challenge Houston when necessary, making her an indispensable part of his operations. The chemistry between Houston and C.J. is palpable throughout the series, with their relationship based on mutual respect and professional camaraderie.
- Murray Chase (George Wyner): Murray is Houston’s tech expert and a key player in solving many of the cases that come through the firm. As a brilliant computer whiz, Murray’s technical knowledge is often the solution to the complex puzzles Houston faces, whether it’s hacking into systems, tracing phone calls, or analyzing data. His intelligence and nerdy charm provide comic relief, while his contributions make him an invaluable member of Houston’s team.
- Lt. Vince Novelli (John Aprea): Lt. Novelli is a police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department who frequently interacts with Houston. While Novelli is often skeptical of Houston’s methods and status as a private investigator, the two develop a working relationship over the course of the series. Novelli represents the more traditional, law-enforcement side of crime-solving, creating a contrast with Houston’s more unconventional approach.
Themes and Storytelling
“Matt Houston” combines the traditional detective genre with the glitz and glamour of 1980s Los Angeles, resulting in a unique blend of mystery, action, and high-society drama. The series frequently explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the clash between wealth and morality. While Houston enjoys the luxuries his fortune affords him, he is deeply committed to helping those who are wronged, often taking cases that involve protecting the vulnerable or exposing corrupt figures in the world of business and entertainment.
The show also highlights the balance between old-fashioned detective work and emerging technology. Houston’s personal charm, intuition, and physical prowess are central to his success, but the use of computers and other modern tools, courtesy of Murray Chase, represents the increasing role of technology in crime-solving. This juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary methods reflects the changing landscape of detective work in the 1980s.
One of the show’s most compelling elements is the dynamic between Houston and C.J. Their partnership is one of equals, with C.J.’s intelligence and legal skills providing a counterbalance to Houston’s charm and bravado. Their relationship is marked by witty banter and moments of tension, but they always share a mutual respect and dedication to solving crimes. C.J. often serves as the voice of reason, helping Houston stay grounded when his impulsive nature might lead him into danger.
The episodic structure of “Matt Houston” allows for a wide variety of cases, from personal vendettas to corporate intrigue. Each episode typically features a standalone mystery or crime that Houston must solve, often involving wealthy clients or high-profile figures in Los Angeles. The series frequently incorporates action sequences, including car chases, fistfights, and shootouts, providing excitement and suspense.
However, the show is not solely about action; it also delves into the personal lives of its characters, particularly Houston. Episodes occasionally explore Houston’s background, his relationships, and the pressures that come with his dual roles as a businessman and investigator. These moments of introspection add depth to the character and help humanize him amid the glamour and action-packed storylines.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Matt Houston” was a product of its time, reflecting the excesses and style of the 1980s while offering audiences a blend of detective drama and high-society intrigue. The character of Matt Houston, with his cowboy hat, Texas charm, and flashy lifestyle, became a memorable figure in television, representing the wealth and adventure of the era. The show’s focus on a private investigator who moves in elite circles set it apart from other detective shows, offering viewers a glimpse into the world of the rich and famous while still delivering compelling crime stories.
Although “Matt Houston” only ran for three seasons, it developed a loyal fan base and remains a classic example of 1980s television. Its mix of action, humor, and mystery, combined with the strong chemistry between the lead characters, made it a standout in the detective genre. For fans of stylish crime dramas with larger-than-life protagonists, “Matt Houston” continues to be a beloved piece of television history.
