Automan

Year: 1983 First Air: 1983-01-01

Go to this day in 1983 Open the 1983 capsule

Overview

Automan is an early 1980s sci fi action series about a computer generated hero who enters the real world to help solve crimes. It mixes neon tinged visuals, light comedy, and gadget driven heroics

Synopsis

Automan follows a young police programmer who creates an advanced law enforcement program that unexpectedly takes physical form. The digital hero can generate vehicles and tools, bending “computer logic” into flashy real world stunts. A glowing cursor sidekick helps coordinate the action and adds comic beats. Episodes typically blend case of the week investigations with upbeat banter and high concept tech tricks. The show leans into bright, stylized effects that feel like live action arcade imagery. Its tone is breezy and optimistic, aiming for family friendly adventure in a futuristic Los Angeles vibe

Cast

Desi Arnaz Jr. — Walter Nebicher Chuck Wagner — Automan Heather McNair — Roxanne Caldwell Robert Lansing — Captain E. Boyd K.C. Winkler Deborah Ludwig Davis

Trivia

Think early-’80s network sci-fi with a distinctly electronic look. One question is about a behind-the-scenes connection to another famous futuristic TV series.

Q1: Which U.S. broadcast network originally aired Automan?

Answer: ABC

Knowing the network helps place the show in the early-1980s prime-time sci-fi experiment era.

Q2: Automan is known for what kind of on-screen visual style?

Answer: Glowing, neon-like computer graphics and light-trail effects

The effects are the show’s signature, reflecting the era’s fascination with computers and arcade aesthetics.

Q3: Automan was created by Glen A. Larson, who is also closely associated with which other iconic sci-fi TV franchise?

Answer: Battlestar Galactica

The creator connection explains why the series fits into a broader lineage of glossy, high-concept genre TV.

AUTOMAN

Automan