In the world of television, few partnerships have been as fruitful as that between George R.R. Martin and HBO. While George R.R. Martin is now synonymous with the epic fantasy series Game of Thrones, his collaboration with HBO predates this massive hit. What many people don't realize is that Martin's work was also instrumental in shaping another HBO series, The Hitchhiker, a horror anthology that is now somewhat of a lost relic. This series, which aired in the early 1980s, showcases a different side of Martin's writing and the network's programming choices. Personally, I think it's fascinating to see how this early collaboration set the stage for Martin's later success with HBO, and how it provides a glimpse into the network's early days before it became a powerhouse of prestige TV.
A Different Kind of Horror
The Hitchhiker was a weekly horror anthology series that aired for six seasons, with a total of 85 episodes. Each episode was bookended by a mysterious wanderer known only as The Hitchhiker, who would introduce a new, creepy tale. The series was a departure from the more fondly remembered Tales from the Crypt, which HBO later produced. In my opinion, The Hitchhiker offers a unique perspective on the genre, with its focus on the darkness of humanity and the macabre. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it showcases Martin's ability to craft compelling, eerie stories that still resonate today.
Martin's Influence
Martin's contribution to The Hitchhiker was his horror short story, Remembering Melody. The story, which was published in the early 1980s, revolves around a self-centered lawyer, Ted Miller, who reunites with his former fling, Melody. When Melody stays at Miller's apartment, she soon realizes that he has become a materialist in the worst way. This story, in my view, is a perfect example of Martin's skill in crafting suspenseful, character-driven narratives. It's also a precursor to the complex, morally ambiguous characters that would later become a hallmark of Game of Thrones.
A Lost Relic
Despite its significance, The Hitchhiker is now a somewhat lost relic. The series is not available on any mainstream streaming service, and its rights are undoubtedly an issue due to the involvement of various production companies. This is a shame, as the series offers a unique glimpse into the early days of HBO and its programming choices. It's also a reminder of how the network has evolved, from its early days of horror anthologies to its current status as a prestige TV powerhouse.
Looking Ahead
As HBO undergoes another dramatic shift with the potential acquisition by Paramount, it's worth reflecting on the network's past collaborations with Martin. If the deal goes through, it's likely that the new brass will want to continue the partnership. In my opinion, this is a smart move, as Martin's work has proven to be a valuable asset for the network. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how HBO continues to evolve and adapt, while still staying true to its roots and the creative vision of George R.R. Martin.
