Science teacher Andrea Thomas (portrayed by Joanna Cameron) made a remarkable discovery during an archaeological dig in Egypt. This precious "Tutmose amulet" belonged to Queen Hatshepsut, an ancient Egyptian pharaoh, and was believed to bestow extraordinary powers upon the wearer. These powers were granted by the goddess Isis.
The Power of the Amulet and Its Activation
When the need arose, Andrea would expose the amulet and invoke its powers by uttering the words "Oh Mighty Isis". She often used these powers to assist her high school students who frequently found themselves in mischief. Alongside her was fellow teacher and love interest Rick Mason (played by Brian Cutler), as well as students Cindy Lee (portrayed by Joanna Pang) and Rennie Carol (acted by Ronalda Douglas), and her pet crow, Tut. On occasion, she would join forces with Captain Marvel (Shazam!). To activate her powers, Andrea would speak in rhyming couplets. For instance, before taking flight, she would say, "Oh Zepher winds that blow on high, lift me now so I can fly".The "Secrets of Isis" Television Series
"The Secrets of Isis" was a live-action superhero television series produced by Filmation and aired from September 6, 1975, to October 23, 1976. It holds the distinction of being the first live-action series to feature a leading female superhero, predating both "The Bionic Woman" (January 14, 1976) and "Wonder Woman" (April 21, 1976). In the series, three episodes featured a crossover with Shazam, whose own weekly Filmation television series premiered the year before. In return, three episodes of Shazam also featured Isis. The show broke the fourth wall, with Isis or Andrea winking at the camera or acknowledging the audience in other ways. Like other Filmation series, the character would perform an epilogue that emphasized the moral lessons learned in the episode. The final two-part episode of the series served as a back door pilot for a trio of teens called the Super-Sleuths, who assisted Isis in a non-high school themed storyline involving espionage and a weather-making machine that Rick was building for the US Government. However, the Super-Sleuths series was never picked up.The Impact on the Viewer
In 1975 and 1976, this show was watched religiously by many. Those who were already fans of the Shazam series found "Isis" to be even more entertaining. The casting of Joanna Cameron was impeccable, as she exuded a sense of stature, power, and intelligence. Brian Cutler was charming as the clueless love interest who never quite realized Andrea's true identity. Despite its corny nature and nearly non-existent special effects, the show had a great heart and wonderful energy. As a child, the rhyming couplets that summoned Isis's amazing powers were a source of great delight. Even to this day, one might find themselves speaking the words she used to make her fly just for fun. Overall, it's uncertain how a modern audience would view the show, but for those who witnessed its premiere, it holds a special place in their hearts.New
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