Murder Ordained
“Adultery and murder... the true story of Reverend Tom Bird”
Series Overview
Murder Ordained is a television miniseries which originally aired for CBS in 1987, starring Keith Carradine, JoBeth Williams, and Kathy Bates. The telefilm was directed and co-written by Mike Robe. Based on actual events that occurred in Emporia, Kansas in 1983, the film tells the story of trooper John Rule whose investigation into a fatal traffic accident involving a local minister's wife turns into a case of murder when it becomes apparent that the accident was no accident at all. Much of the principal photography and filming occurred on location in Kansas and some of the dialogue comes directly from court transcripts. The film was subsequently released on VHS and DVD. The cast also includes Terry Kinney, M. Emmet Walsh, John Goodman and Johnny Galecki. The miniseries was nominated for an Emmy Award.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
Broadcast Syndication
1 Season • 2 Episodes
1987 – 1987
Premiered: Sun, May 3, 1987
Creative Production Team
Latest Aired Episode
Season 1, Episode 2: “Part 2”
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
Explore Star Directory →
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Mike Robe
James Steven Sadwith, Mike Robe
Department Leadership Roster
Mike Robe
Director
James Steven Sadwith
Writer
Mike Robe
Writer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Murder Ordained.
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Shows sharing similar genres, audiences, and storylines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Murder Ordained
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is Murder Ordained about?
Murder Ordained is a television miniseries which originally aired for CBS in 1987, starring Keith Carradine, JoBeth Williams, and Kathy Bates. The telefilm was directed and co-written by Mike Robe. Based on actual events that occurred in Emporia, Kansas in 1983, the film tells the story of trooper John Rule whose investigation into a fatal traffic accident involving a local minister's wife turns into a case of murder when it becomes apparent that the accident was no accident at all. Much of the principal photography and filming occurred on location in Kansas and some of the dialogue comes directly from court transcripts. The film was subsequently released on VHS and DVD. The cast also includes Terry Kinney, M. Emmet Walsh, John Goodman and Johnny Galecki. The miniseries was nominated for an Emmy Award.
How many seasons does Murder Ordained have?
Murder Ordained comprises 1 season available to explore.
Who stars in Murder Ordained?
Key cast members in Murder Ordained include Keith Carradine, JoBeth Williams, Kathy Bates, Guy Boyd, Terence Knox.
Who created or directed Murder Ordained?
Murder Ordained was developed and directed by Mike Robe.