Last of the Dinosaurs (Quincy, M.E.): Difference between revisions

From QME Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
← Older editNewer edit →
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
No edit summary
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Infobox television episode
{{Infobox television episode
| title              = Last of the Dinosaurs
| title              = Last of the Dinosaurs
| titlecard          = Quincy_S2E12_Last_of_the_Dinosaurs_Titlecard.jpg
| series            = Quincy, M.E.
| series            = Quincy, M.E.
| season            = 2
| season            = 2
| episode            = 12
| episode            = 12
| airdate            = December 16, 1977
| airdate            = December 16, 1977
| airtime            = 60 minutes
| production_code    = 48020
| production_number  = 48020
| runtime            = 47 minutes
| writer            = Leonard Stadd
| writer            = Leonard Stadd, Glen A. Larson, Lou Shaw
| director          = Ray Danton
| director          = Ray Danton
| guest_star        = Cameron Mitchell as Will Preston
| guest_star        = Carolyn Jones, Cameron Mitchell
| victim            = Will Preston
| autopsy_findings  = Acute diabetic coma; signs of physical trauma; death ruled as natural causes
| prev              = The Deadly Connection
| prev              = The Deadly Connection
| next              = Crib Job
| next              = Crib Job
| network            = NBC
| network            = NBC
| production_company = Glen A. Larson Productions / Universal Television
| production_company = Universal Television
}}
}}


== Episode Quote ==
== Episode Quote ==
''"I don't care how many movies he's made, or how many fans he has. When a man dies, it's my job to find out why."''   
''"I don't care if he's a movie star or not. A man is dead, and it's my job to find out why."''   
~ '''Dr. Quincy''', in ''[[Last of the Dinosaurs]]''
~ '''Dr. Quincy''', in ''Last of the Dinosaurs''


== Episode Overview ==
== Episode Overview ==
''Last of the Dinosaurs'' is the 12th episode of the third season of the [[Quincy, M.E.]] television series. It originally aired on [[NBC]] on December 16, 1977. The episode follows Dr. R. Quincy, a forensic pathologist, as he investigates the death of his idol, western movie star Will Preston, and uncovers a web of secrets and deceit.
''Last of the Dinosaurs'' is the 12th episode of the third season of the American television series *Quincy, M.E.*. It originally aired on December 16, 1977, on NBC. In this episode, Dr. Quincy investigates the death of Will Preston, a Western movie star and one of his idols. Initially thought to be a natural death, Quincy uncovers evidence suggesting foul play.


== Application of The QME Episode Laws ==
== Application of The QME Episode Laws ==
''Last of the Dinosaurs'' exemplifies the guiding principles known as **The QME Episode Laws**, which shaped the narrative framework of the entire series.
This episode exemplifies the guiding principles of *Quincy, M.E.*, known as the QME Episode Laws:


✅ **Law 1: A Quincy, M.E. story must always seek to uncover the truth and bring justice to the victim.** 
* '''Law 1: A Quincy, M.E. story must always seek to uncover the truth and bring justice to the victim.'''
The episode begins with the apparent natural death of Will Preston, but Quincy’s thorough investigation reveals inconsistencies in the autopsy and witness statements, leading to the discovery of foul play and the pursuit of justice for the victim.
  * Dr. Quincy challenges the initial assessment of Will Preston's death, uncovering evidence that leads to the identification of the true cause of death and the perpetrator.


✅ **Law 2: A Quincy, M.E. story must explore the social and ethical issues surrounding the case, and particularly the struggle for justice against powerful systems.** 
* '''Law 2: A Quincy, M.E. story must explore the social and ethical issues surrounding the case, and particularly the struggle for justice against powerful systems.'''
The episode delves into the pressures and challenges faced by public figures, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of maintaining a public image while concealing personal health issues. Quincy confronts the complexities of uncovering the truth about a beloved celebrity.
  * The episode delves into the ethics of celebrity and the pressures faced by public figures, highlighting the importance of truth and justice over fame.


✅ **Law 3: A Quincy, M.E. story must never shy away from complex or controversial topics, but always approach them with sensitivity and respect.** 
* '''Law 3: A Quincy, M.E. story must never shy away from complex or controversial topics, but always approach them with sensitivity and respect.'''
The narrative addresses the sensitive topic of a public figure's health issues and the implications of concealing such information from the public, approaching the subject with the necessary respect and consideration.
  * The narrative addresses the complexities of dealing with the death of a public figure, balancing the need for investigation with respect for the deceased's legacy.


✅ **Law 4: A Quincy, M.E. story must strive for scientific accuracy in its medical and forensic investigations.** 
* '''Law 4: A Quincy, M.E. story must strive for scientific accuracy in its medical and forensic investigations.'''
The episode showcases Quincy's meticulous approach to forensic pathology, including the examination of autopsy findings and the identification of signs of physical trauma that were initially overlooked, ensuring scientific accuracy in the investigation.
  * The episode showcases Quincy's meticulous approach to forensic pathology, using scientific methods to uncover the truth behind Preston's death.


== Episode Synopsis ==
== Episode Synopsis ==
Dr. Quincy is called to investigate the death of Will Preston, a renowned western movie star and one of Quincy's idols. Initially believed to have died from natural causes, Quincy's examination reveals signs of physical trauma inconsistent with the initial diagnosis. As he delves deeper, Quincy uncovers a series of secrets about Preston's health and personal life, leading to the revelation of a cover-up and the identification of the true cause of death.
Dr. Quincy is called to investigate the death of Will Preston, a former Western movie star. Initially, the cause of death is believed to be natural. However, upon conducting a thorough autopsy, Quincy discovers signs that suggest foul play. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Quincy uncovers a web of deceit involving individuals close to Preston, leading to a revelation that challenges initial assumptions and brings justice to the victim.


== Plot Summary ==
== Cast ==
The episode begins with Quincy watching a classic western film starring Will Preston. Shortly after, Quincy is informed of Preston's death and is asked to perform the autopsy. Despite initial findings suggesting a natural death, Quincy notices signs of physical trauma and inconsistencies in witness statements. His investigation reveals that Preston had been concealing his health issues and had been involved in a struggle prior to his death. Quincy uncovers a conspiracy to cover up the true cause of death, leading to the identification of the perpetrator and the pursuit of justice for Preston.
 
== Episode Navigation ==
← [[The Deadly Connection]] • '''Last of the Dinosaurs''' • [[Crib Job]] 
''Season 3 Overview:'' [[Quincy, M.E. (Season 3)|Full Episode List]]
 
== Main Cast ==
* '''Jack Klugman''' as Dr. R. Quincy
* '''Jack Klugman''' as Dr. R. Quincy
* '''Robert Ito''' as Sam Fujiyama
* '''Garry Walberg''' as Lt. Frank Monahan
* '''Garry Walberg''' as Lt. Frank Monahan
* '''John S. Ragin''' as Dr. Robert Asten
* '''John S. Ragin''' as Dr. Asten
* '''Val Bisoglio''' as Danny Tovo
* '''Carolyn Jones''' as Sybil Preston
 
== Guest Cast ==
* '''Cameron Mitchell''' as Will Preston
* '''Cameron Mitchell''' as Will Preston
* '''Carolyn Jones''' as Sybil Presstin
* '''John Anderson''' as Movie Director
* '''John Dennis''' as 2nd Bartender
* '''John Nolan''' as Bartender
== Case File Summary ==
'''Victim:''' Will Preston 
'''Case #:''' LACC 77.12.016


Dr. Quincy investigates the death of Will Preston, uncovering a series of secrets and a cover-up surrounding the actor's health issues, leading to the identification of the true cause of death.
== Reception ==
 
The episode received positive reviews for its compelling storyline and Jack Klugman's performance. It holds a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb, based on user reviews. Critics appreciated the episode's exploration of themes such as justice and the ethics surrounding the death of a public figure.
== Filming Locations and Exterior Footage ==
Local filming locations in and around [[Los Angeles]] included various locations that contributed to the authentic portrayal of the entertainment industry setting.
 
== Forensic Science Insight ==
* The episode highlights Quincy's attention to detail in forensic pathology, including the examination of autopsy findings and the identification of signs of physical trauma.
* Quincy's investigative methods showcase the application of scientific principles in uncovering the truth behind the death.
 
== Themes & Tropes ==
* ''Celebrity Culture'' – The episode explores the pressures faced by public figures and the lengths to which they may go to conceal personal issues.
* ''Deception and Discovery'' – The narrative centers on uncovering hidden truths and the consequences of deceit.
* ''Forensic Investigation'' – The episode emphasizes the role of scientific analysis in solving complex cases.
 
== Reception & Ratings ==
The episode received positive reviews for its engaging storyline and the performance of the cast.
* IMDb rates the episode 7.3/10 from over 100 user reviews ([IMDb Last of the Dinosaurs](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0681801/)).


== Trivia ==
== Trivia ==
* The Preston home was also used in the Columbo episode "Identity Crisis".
* The Preston home featured in this episode was also used in the *Columbo* episode "Identity Crisis."
* The desk nameplate of the Deputy Coroner (played by John S. Ragin) says R.J. Astin. However, during season 8, the opening credits indicate that the character's last name is spelled Asten.
* The episode's title, "Last of the Dinosaurs," refers to Will Preston's status as a former Western movie star, symbolizing the end of an era in Hollywood.
 
== Cultural Impact ==
''Last of the Dinosaurs'' continues to be appreciated for its exploration of the complexities of celebrity life and the ethical dilemmas faced by public figures, contributing to the ongoing relevance of the series in discussions about media and society.


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[List of Quincy, M.E. episodes]]
* [[Quincy, M.E.]]
* [[Quincy, M.E.]]
* [[List of Quincy, M.E. episodes]]
* [[Forensic pathology]]
* [[Forensic pathology]]
* [[Los Angeles]]
* [[NBC]]
* [[1977 in television]]


== External ==
== External Links ==
* [IMDb page for 'Last of the Dinosaurs'](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0681801/)
* [Quincy, M.E. episode guide on TV.com](https://www.tv.com/shows/quincy-me/)

Revision as of 22:34, 13 July 2025

Last of the Dinosaurs
Episode title card
Series Quincy, M.E.
Season 2
Episode 12
Airdate December 16, 1977
Airtime
Runtime 47 minutes
Production No.
Writer Leonard Stadd, Glen A. Larson, Lou Shaw
Director Ray Danton
Music by
Guest Star(s) Carolyn Jones, Cameron Mitchell
Victim
Autopsy Findings
Network Network logo
NBC
Production Company Production company logo
Universal Television
Previous Episode The Deadly Connection
Next Episode Crib Job
Previous Season
Next Season



Episode Quote

"I don't care if he's a movie star or not. A man is dead, and it's my job to find out why." ~ Dr. Quincy, in Last of the Dinosaurs

Episode Overview

Last of the Dinosaurs is the 12th episode of the third season of the American television series *Quincy, M.E.*. It originally aired on December 16, 1977, on NBC. In this episode, Dr. Quincy investigates the death of Will Preston, a Western movie star and one of his idols. Initially thought to be a natural death, Quincy uncovers evidence suggesting foul play.

Application of The QME Episode Laws

This episode exemplifies the guiding principles of *Quincy, M.E.*, known as the QME Episode Laws:

  • Law 1: A Quincy, M.E. story must always seek to uncover the truth and bring justice to the victim.
 * Dr. Quincy challenges the initial assessment of Will Preston's death, uncovering evidence that leads to the identification of the true cause of death and the perpetrator.
  • Law 2: A Quincy, M.E. story must explore the social and ethical issues surrounding the case, and particularly the struggle for justice against powerful systems.
 * The episode delves into the ethics of celebrity and the pressures faced by public figures, highlighting the importance of truth and justice over fame.
  • Law 3: A Quincy, M.E. story must never shy away from complex or controversial topics, but always approach them with sensitivity and respect.
 * The narrative addresses the complexities of dealing with the death of a public figure, balancing the need for investigation with respect for the deceased's legacy.
  • Law 4: A Quincy, M.E. story must strive for scientific accuracy in its medical and forensic investigations.
 * The episode showcases Quincy's meticulous approach to forensic pathology, using scientific methods to uncover the truth behind Preston's death.

Episode Synopsis

Dr. Quincy is called to investigate the death of Will Preston, a former Western movie star. Initially, the cause of death is believed to be natural. However, upon conducting a thorough autopsy, Quincy discovers signs that suggest foul play. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Quincy uncovers a web of deceit involving individuals close to Preston, leading to a revelation that challenges initial assumptions and brings justice to the victim.

Cast

  • Jack Klugman as Dr. R. Quincy
  • Garry Walberg as Lt. Frank Monahan
  • John S. Ragin as Dr. Asten
  • Carolyn Jones as Sybil Preston
  • Cameron Mitchell as Will Preston

Reception

The episode received positive reviews for its compelling storyline and Jack Klugman's performance. It holds a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb, based on user reviews. Critics appreciated the episode's exploration of themes such as justice and the ethics surrounding the death of a public figure.

Trivia

  • The Preston home featured in this episode was also used in the *Columbo* episode "Identity Crisis."
  • The episode's title, "Last of the Dinosaurs," refers to Will Preston's status as a former Western movie star, symbolizing the end of an era in Hollywood.

See Also

External Links

By using this site, you agree to the Terms of Use. © 1996–2025 The Quincy Examiner / MTB. All rights reserved.
Retrieved from "https://quincyexaminer.com/wiki/index.php?title=Last_of_the_Dinosaurs_(Quincy,_M.E.)&oldid=732"