Masked Rider (TV series)

Masked Rider is an American television series that aired in 1995. It was produced by Saban Entertainment and is based on the Japanese tokusatsu franchise Kamen Rider. The series utilizes footage from the Japanese series Kamen Rider Black RX, but presents an entirely new storyline and characters separate from the original Japanese version.

The series revolves around Dexter Stewart, a teenager who discovers he is actually Prince Dex, an alien from the planet Edenoi. He possesses a royal power that allows him to transform into the Masked Rider, a superhero tasked with protecting Earth from the evil Count Dregon and his army of mutants from the planet Vertigo.

Dexter juggles his superhero responsibilities with his normal life as a student at Meadowbrook High School, aided by his adoptive parents, Hal and Barbara Stewart, and his friends, including his love interest, Barbara Sterling. He also relies on his robotic companion, Ferbus, and his mentor, King Lexian, who communicates with him telepathically.

The show featured a blend of action sequences, humor, and moral lessons aimed at a young audience. While it initially received high ratings, viewership declined throughout its single season, leading to its cancellation. Despite its short run, Masked Rider remains a notable example of American adaptation of Japanese tokusatsu properties, predating the widespread success of Power Rangers. The series also featured a brief crossover with Power Rangers, showcasing the connection between Saban Entertainment's different superhero franchises.