Wonder Woman starring Lynda Carter debuted with a pilot movie in 1975, followed by 59 episodes spread over three seasons. The series began its run on ABC, before moving to CBS for its second and third seasons. This adaptation introduced audiences to an unforgettable portrayal of the Amazonian superhero, blending action, humor, and a touch of 1970s camp.
The pilot movie, The New Original Wonder Woman, served as a 90-minute introduction to the world of Diana Prince. The story opens with American pilot Steve Trevor (Lyle Waggoner) crash-landing on the hidden Paradise Island, home to the immortal Amazons. Princess Diana, the daughter of Queen Hippolyta, defies her mother’s wishes and competes in a masked contest to earn the right to escort Steve back to the United States.
The New Original Wonder Woman
With her iconic invisible plane, Diana brings Steve to the U.S., and the series transitions to a charming “fish-out-of-water” narrative. As Diana Prince, she navigates the unfamiliar world of 1940s America while donning her alter ego, Wonder Woman, to fight the forces of evil during World War II.
This setup allowed the show to explore themes of cultural contrast. Diana’s peaceful Amazonian upbringing clashes with the violence and inequality of the outside world. Yet, her intelligence, compassion, and sheer strength prove that she’s more than ready to meet these challenges.
A Dose of 1970s Camp
The series embraced the hallmarks of 1970s television: quirky special effects, over-the-top sound effects, and vibrant theme music. The famous spin transformation, where Diana twirls into her Wonder Woman costume, quickly became a cultural icon.
Fight scenes were playfully dramatic, with exaggerated action sequences and visual effects that showcased Diana’s superhuman abilities. Exploding cars, glowing bracelets deflecting bullets, and Diana’s trusty golden Lasso of Truth added an entertaining, almost comic-book-like flair.
At the time, television executives were hesitant to take comic book adaptations too seriously. Shows like Batman (1966-68) leaned into campy humor, and Wonder Woman followed suit. The result was a lighthearted, family-friendly adventure that captured the spirit of the era.
Girl Power!
At its core, Wonder Woman was a show about empowerment. Diana constantly reminded the men around her—whether allies or foes—that women were capable, intelligent, and strong. Whether she was saving Steve Trevor from peril or dismantling Nazi plots, Diana was a trailblazer in a media landscape dominated by male superheroes.
Her interactions with male characters often highlighted the limitations of their perspectives. Diana’s quiet confidence and strength allowed her to outsmart and outfight her adversaries without compromising her compassion or femininity. The series didn’t just entertain—it inspired.
In a decade when women’s liberation was making strides, Wonder Woman became a symbol of equality and resilience. Her message was simple but powerful: women are here, they are strong, and they deserve a place in the spotlight.
Legacy of the Lynda Carter Era
Wonder Woman wasn’t just a TV show; it was a cultural milestone. Lynda Carter’s portrayal of Diana Prince remains iconic, influencing generations of fans and future portrayals of the character, including Gal Gadot’s take in the modern DC Extended Universe.
Even with its campy charm, the series managed to resonate on a deeper level. It offered a heroine who wasn’t just physically strong but morally grounded, someone who fought for justice, truth, and equality. This combination of strength and heart made Wonder Woman a lasting symbol of female empowerment.
Let’s Watch!
This show was all over syndication in the early 1980s, but now we can it from the beginning on MAX.com.
December 2, 2024
* Pilot – The New Original Wonder Woman
Watching S1 E1 of Wonder Woman. I didn't expect to see Cloris Leachman as the Queen! #wonderwoman #tv
— Historical TV Viewing (@historicalviewing.tv) December 2, 2024 at 9:07 PM
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* S1 E2 – Wonder Woman Meets Baroness von Gunther”
