From Biker Basher to Counterculture Icon

I am surprised that the character Billy Jack hasn't resurfaced on the big screen. The liberal-minded, Native American military vet packed a punch (and barefooted kicks) in drive-ins across the country.

Played by actor/director/activist Tom Laughlin, Billy Jack was an action hero for a peace and love generation. He defended the oppressed, questioned authority and advocated peace as a solution. Of course, when the latter failed, he would use his Green Beret skills to kick ass.

Three "Billy Jack" movies were released in the 1970s: "Billy Jack," "The Trial of Billy Jack" and "Billy Jack Goes to Washington" (a dud upon arrival with a very limited distribution).

Before these movies, Billy made his debut in biker flick "The Born Losers." It's actually my favorite Billy Jack movie. Here, he takes on a brutal gang of biker thugs and later, engages in a faceoff with police. It's a pretty standard biker movie and solid introduction for Billy (although he doesn't wear his iconic round-brimmed hat.

Check out "The Born Losers" late TONIGHT (11:30 p.m. CST) on THIS.

Laughlin has long promised another "Billy Jack" movie, but nothing has ever come of it. Perhaps the peace-loving kung fu expert could take on terrorists or a divided congress. Who knows? Until Laughlin makes good on his promises, enjoy "The Born Losers."