Ponderosa (2001) : distribution, intrigue et streaming

Released in 2001, Ponderosa is a western and drame series.

What it’s about. Ponderosa is a television series developed by Bonanza creator David Dortort for PAX-TV that ran for the 2001–2002 television season. Envisioned as a prequel to the long-running NBC series Bonanza, it had less gunfire, brawling and other traditional western elements than the original. Bonanza creator David Dortort approved PAX TV's decision to hire Beth Sullivan, creator and executive producer of Dr. Quinn: Medicine Woman to oversee scripts and executive produce, which some believe gave the series a softer edge. Ponderosa was canceled after one season, in part because of disappointing ratings and high production costs. Although Sullivan had hoped to film the series in and around Los Angeles, PAX decided to film in Australia to reduce costs. Series "show runner" Sullivan sustained severe injuries in a car crash only twelve days after the airing of the first season's last episode. The show should not be confused with Ponderosa, the title used for Bonanza reruns aired on NBC during the summer of 1972.

Who’s in it. Ponderosa stars Daniel Hugh Kelly as Ben Cartwright, Gareth Yuen as Hop Sing, Bruce Dickinson as Big Dan Larson and Brad Dourif as Maurice 'Frenchy' Devereaux, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.0/10, Ponderosa has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Ponderosa page.

If you liked it. Fans of Ponderosa tend to enjoy The Mandalorian, Cowboy Bebop, Dutton Ranch and Yellowstone.