Originally, the pilot teleplay was titled "Superdude" when it was written by Michael Elias and Frank Shaw. Additionally, the main role (which ended up being Black Bart) was called Johnny Digs, and three actors were in mind for the role: Louis Gossett Jr. (who got the part), Richard Pryor, and Cleavon Little. For the role of Belle, Sally Kellerman, Tammy Grimes, and Amanda Blake were considered. Finally, Bert Remsen, Lou Frizzell, and Sorrell Booke were considered for the part of Mayor Malaga.