Questions
Who created Knight Rider and when did it premiere?
Glen A. Larson created and produced the action crime drama for NBC, and it premiered in September 1982. It was reportedly the last series Larson developed at Universal Television before he moved to 20th Century Fox.
Who starred as Michael Knight?
David Hasselhoff played Michael Knight, a former Los Angeles detective given a new face and identity. His character was formerly named Michael Arthur Long.
What does KITT stand for?
KITT stands for Knight Industries Two Thousand, the talking, high-tech car at the center of the show.
Who was the voice of KITT?
Actor William Daniels provided KITT’s voice, and he reportedly requested no on-screen credit. He was voicing KITT at the same time he was starring in St. Elsewhere.
What kind of car was KITT?
KITT was a customized 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. Building the car reportedly cost about $100,000, which is roughly $334,000 in 2025 dollars.
Where did KITT’s famous red scanner light come from?
The distinctive sweeping red light on KITT’s nose was reportedly inspired by the Cylons from Battlestar Galactica. Designer Michael Scheffe created the car’s nose and dashboard.
How did they film KITT driving itself?
Because KITT was supposed to drive autonomously, stuntman Jack Gill reportedly hid behind the driver’s seat and extended his arms and legs through it to steer. The car was rarely seen driving solo for long stretches because it was so hard to film.
What does FLAG stand for?
FLAG stands for the Foundation for Law and Government, the organization Michael Knight works for. Edward Mulhare played its leader, Devon Miles.
Who played Bonnie, and why is her return notable?
Patricia McPherson played Dr. Bonnie Barstow, KITT’s mechanic. She reportedly returned for seasons three and four after fan demand brought the character back.
Who narrated the show as the founder Wilton Knight?
Richard Basehart narrated as Wilton Knight, the deceased billionaire founder of the foundation behind Michael and KITT.
Who composed the Knight Rider theme?
Stu Phillips and Glen A. Larson composed the theme using five or six synthesizers, drums and a Fender bass. Larson reportedly drew inspiration from a piece in Léo Delibes’ ballet Sylvia.
How long did the original series run?
The show ran for 90 episodes across four seasons, from September 1982 to April 1986.
Was Knight Rider a hit with critics?
Critics initially panned the show, but retrospective reviews were far more positive and it developed a lasting cult following.
Were there any spin-offs?
Yes. Follow-ups included the TV film Knight Rider 2000 (1991), the series Team Knight Rider (1997 to 1998), and a Knight Rider reboot (2008 to 2009).
