Knight Rider (1982–1986)
Knight Rider is an American action-adventure television series that originally aired from 1982 to 1986. Created by Glen A. Larson, the show follows Michael Knight (played by David Hasselhoff), a former police officer who is given a new identity and a mission to fight crime for a secret organization known as the Foundation for Law and Government (FLAG).
Knight is partnered with KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand), a highly advanced, artificially intelligent car equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including the ability to talk, drive autonomously, and perform extraordinary feats of speed, strength, and agility.
KITT, voiced by William Daniels, is one of the most iconic elements of the series, often serving as both a sidekick and a nearly indestructible partner in Knight’s quest for justice. Together, Michael and KITT take on a wide range of missions, from rescuing people in danger to bringing down criminal organizations and high-tech terrorists.
The show became a pop culture phenomenon, known for its catchy theme music, KITT’s distinctive “pulsing light” on the dashboard, and its mix of action, futuristic technology, and cheesy yet entertaining dialogue. Knight Rider was a commercial success and developed a strong fan base, leading to spin-offs, TV movies, and a 2008 reboot. It remains a beloved classic in the realm of 1980s television.