The Phoenix

Monday, June 25, 2007

The Phoenix was a show that ran for only five episodes on ABC starting in 1982. It starred Judson Scott who is most famous for his role in Star Trek II as Khan’ second-in-command (and yes, he makes the convention rounds).

Bennu was an alien astronaut who was locked in a state of hibernation for over a thousand years when the seal on his computerized sleeping pod is broken by archaeologists in an ancient Peruvian tomb. The computer is supposed to also implant Bennu with knowledge of why he is on Earth is also destroyed by the archaeologists, so he has no understanding of his purpose.

Supposedly he was sent to Earth to wait for some great event so he would awake and save humanity. After his awakening, he is transfered to a secure government location, but escapes with the help of one of the scientists. He ends up wandering the country searching for Mira, a female like him who would have knowledge of what he is to do.

The show featured Bennu running from government agents while solving problems for people in trouble.

Bennu would absorb solar power, causing him to glow. He could use some basic heat powers (very mundane ones) and he had an advanced intellect, but that was it.

See the television intro clip for The Phoenix.