Six Million Dollar Man It's Not Easy Being Green
Introduction
The Six Million Dollar Man is a popular TV series that aired from 1973 to 1978. The show starred Lee Majors as Steve Austin, a former astronaut who was rebuilt with bionic limbs after a crash. One of the most iconic episodes of the series is "It's Not Easy Being Green," which aired on November 15, 1974. This episode was significant for its environmental message and its use of prosthetics to create a believable "monster."
The Plot
The episode opens with Steve Austin on a mission to investigate a series of strange accidents at a nuclear power plant. He soon discovers that the accidents are the result of a mutated frog that has grown to enormous size due to exposure to radiation. The frog has been causing chaos at the plant, and Austin is tasked with stopping it.
As Austin sets out to capture the frog, he quickly realizes that the creature is not evil but is simply scared and confused. He also realizes that the frog's mutation is a result of the human impact on the environment. The episode ends with Austin releasing the frog back into the wild, with a plea to viewers to take better care of the environment.
The Message
The episode "It's Not Easy Being Green" was groundbreaking for its environmental message. At a time when environmentalism was still a relatively new concept, the show's writers used the platform of a popular TV series to raise awareness about the impact of human activity on the environment. The episode's message is still relevant today, as we continue to grapple with issues such as climate change and pollution.
The Prosthetics
Another reason why "It's Not Easy Being Green" is such a memorable episode is the prosthetics used to create the giant frog. At a time when CGI was not yet invented, the show's creators had to rely on practical effects to bring the creature to life. The result was a convincing and realistic monster that was both terrifying and sympathetic.
The Legacy
The Six Million Dollar Man may have aired its final episode over 40 years ago, but its legacy lives on. The show was a cultural phenomenon that inspired countless imitators and spinoffs. It also helped to popularize the use of prosthetics in film and television, paving the way for future advancements in special effects.
Conclusion
"It's Not Easy Being Green" is a classic episode of The Six Million Dollar Man that remains relevant today. Its environmental message and impressive use of practical effects continue to captivate audiences. The episode serves as a reminder of the power of television to inform and inspire, and the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.