The Waltons (TV Series) The Fighter (1975) User Reviews

Cleavon Little Guest Stars

[computersprockets · 10/10 · 17 April 2020]

Very powerful episode in which Cleavon Little plays a pugilist who dreams of starting a church on Walton's Mountain. Overcoming 1930s American racism both in the ring and out of the ring is boldly on display with a very 1970s era "Roots" and all things Mohammed Alli zeitgeist. This is a poignant and beautifully written episode. It may well bring tears to your eyes during the powerful final scene on the mountain.

Ridiculous Bogus Story

[Johnny_West · 1/10 · 26 March 2021]

The great Cleavon Little guest stars in this episode as a boxer who is a victim of racial discrimination. He cannot get any fights, or a manager, or a promoter. In comes John Boy Billy Bob, who knows nothing about boxing, and volunteers to make Cleavon a champion. Since John Boy is writing the stories, he naturally does everything right, and Cleavon gets his big chance for fame and fortune. Thanks to the great Walton Family for so many self-aggrandizing fantasies.

Cleavon Little gets no credit???

[gimmesummdapp-80699 · 12 January 2022]

Simple story addresses 1930s racism. Cliches and tropes abound. Was pleased to see that veteran actor, ivan dixon, directed this episode. Puzzled as to why cleavon little is not credited for his solid role in this piece.

Not My Favorite

[dasfette · 5/10 · 16 March 2024]

The underlying story around Cleavon Little trying to win a fight purse to build a church is fairly solid. Cleavon Little plays the role well, and the family provides good support. Where the story goes south is that, at the drop of a hat, the backwoods, know nothing about professional boxing Walton family goes from providing room and board to a traveling prizefighter to becoming his manager (John-Boy) and ring crew (John and Zebulon).

Why they decided to make this a "John-Boy can do everything"-type episode really makes it unbelievable and takes away from the story and its message. The good news is, if you stop watching it about 2/3 through, you can just assume it ends realistically and enjoy the episode.