Step back in time to the golden era of television and immerse yourself in the captivating drama series from the 1950s. Brace yourself for a thrilling ride as we delve into a world filled with suspense, mystery, and mind-bending tales that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Prepare to be enthralled by the mesmerizing “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” This extraordinary drama show takes you on a rollercoaster of murderous intentions gone awry, offering a twisted and unexpected journey through the human psyche.
Enter “The Twilight Zone,” a realm where reality and imagination collide in thought-provoking stories that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your imagination. Get ready to embark on mind-bending adventures that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Hold on tight as we ride into the wild west with “Gunsmoke,” a legendary drama series that rode its way into the history books as the longest-running primetime series of the 20th century. Get a taste of the old frontier and immerse yourself in the tales of lawmen and outlaws, as they navigate a world filled with danger and adventure.
Join the ranks of legendary characters as you dive into the gripping world of “Perry Mason,” “Bonanza,” and “Public Defender.” These iconic shows have left an indelible mark on television history, captivating audiences with their compelling stories and unforgettable characters.
We’re eager to hear your thoughts on these mesmerizing 1950s TV dramas. Share your favorites and join in the excitement in the comments section. Let’s relive the magic of a bygone era and celebrate the timeless allure of these unforgettable series.
1. The Twilight Zone
Step into the unknown with The Twilight Zone, a captivating anthology series that delves into the depths of human imagination and the mysteries of the universe. Each standalone episode presents thought-provoking tales of science fiction, fantasy, and suspense, inviting viewers to ponder the unimaginable. This celebrated classic has garnered numerous Emmy nominations and wins, captivating audiences with its clever storytelling and unforgettable performances. One standout performance is William Shatner’s portrayal of the tormented Bob Wilson. The Twilight Zone serves as a testament to the limitless potential of television, offering engaging and stimulating entertainment that leaves viewers intrigued and inspired.
Premiered: October 2, 1959
Actors: Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
2. Alfred Hitchcock Presents
Alfred Hitchcock Presents is a classic anthology series that skillfully combines suspense and intrigue in every episode. With the iconic director leading the way, the show received numerous awards and nominations during its impressive run. Viewers were treated to an impressive lineup of guest stars, including Steve McQueen and Bette Davis, who delivered unforgettable performances in their respective roles. Each story unfolds with a captivating twist that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, without giving away too much. From psychological thrillers to crime dramas, Alfred Hitchcock Presents offers a wide range of stories that continue to captivate and engage fans of all ages.
Premiered: October 2, 1955
Actors: Alfred Hitchcock, Harry Tyler, John Williams
3. Bonanza
Set in the rugged American West, this classic TV drama follows the ups and downs of the Cartwright family. With Ben as the wise and respected father, and his three sons – the thoughtful Adam, the compassionate Hoss, and the spirited Little Joe – the show captures their adventures and struggles. Over its 14-year run, Bonanza received numerous awards and nominations, thanks to its compelling storytelling and talented cast. The Cartwrights face the trials of frontier life, offering viewers a mix of emotions, ethical dilemmas, and thrilling action that still captivates audiences today.
Premiered: September 12, 1959
Actors: Lorne Greene, Michael Landon, Dan Blocker
4. Perry Mason
Perry Mason is an intriguing legal drama with a noir-inspired vibe that offers a fresh take on the classic courtroom narrative. Taking place in 1930s Los Angeles, the show takes us deep into the complex life of Perry Mason, brilliantly portrayed by Matthew Rhys. We witness his journey through the city’s gritty underworld and his involvement in some of its most high-profile cases.
One of the highlights of the series is its exceptional ensemble cast, which includes Emmy-nominated performances. John Lithgow shines as E.B. Jonathan, a struggling lawyer who serves as Mason’s mentor. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to the characters.
What sets Perry Mason apart is its intricate storytelling and visually stunning aesthetics. The plot weaves together with precision, keeping viewers captivated and engaged. The show pays homage to its source material while also injecting a contemporary edge that sets it apart from traditional courtroom dramas.
In summary, Perry Mason is a must-watch for fans of legal dramas. With its noir-inspired setting, talented cast, and captivating storytelling, it offers a refreshing and modern take on the genre.
Premiered: September 21, 1957
Actors: Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William Hopper
5. Lassie
An extraordinary collie helps humans with problems.
Premiered: September 12, 1954
Actors: Tommy Rettig, Jan Clayton, George Cleveland
6. Davy Crockett
Davy Crockett is a popular five-part serial that originally aired on ABC as part of the Disneyland series. The show stars Fess Parker as the legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett, with Buddy Ebsen playing his friend, George Russel.
The first three episodes of the serial were combined and released as the 1955 theatrical film, Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier. This film gained even more popularity when it was rebroadcast in color during the 1960s, after the Disney program moved to NBC. One of the standout features of this series and film is its memorable theme song, “The Ballad of Davy Crockett”.
Filming took place in stunning color at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, specifically at the Mountain Farm Museum near Qualla Reservation’s entrance and Janss Conejo Ranch in California. The beautiful scenery adds to the overall charm of the show.
The final two episodes were edited together and released as the 1956 theatrical film, Davy Crockett and the River Pirates. This film was filmed in Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, providing a different backdrop for the adventures of Davy Crockett.
For fans of this beloved miniseries, Walt Disney Home Video released a special two-film set on DVD on September 7, 2004. This allows viewers to enjoy the complete Davy Crockett experience from the comfort of their own homes.
Premiered: 1954
Actors: Fess Parker, Buddy Ebsen, Kenneth Tobey
7. Gunsmoke
Gunsmoke, set in the rugged American frontier, takes us into the lives and challenges of Marshal Matt Dillon and his loyal companions. This long-running western drama has received numerous awards and nominations, as it skillfully intertwines themes of justice, morality, and human nature. Over its twenty-year span, audiences have been treated to a diverse cast of characters, including the wise Doc Adams, the steadfast Miss Kitty, and the spirited Chester Goode. Gunsmoke’s captivating storylines and well-developed characters continue to connect with viewers, making it a timeless television classic.
Premiered: September 10, 1955
Actors: James Arness, Dennis Weaver, Milburn Stone
8. Dragnet
Detectives investigate clues to solve crimes.
Premiered: December 16, 1951
Actors: Jack Webb, Harry Morgan, Ben Alexander
9. Zorro
Zorro is this cool action-adventure show from America that Disney made back in the day. It’s all about this famous character called Zorro. The show first hit the screens on October 10, 1957, and was aired on ABC. They kept it going for a while, but the last episode was broadcasted on July 2, 1959. In total, they made seventy-eight episodes, and they even had four special hour-long episodes that were shown on the Walt Disney anthology series between October 30, 1960, and April 2, 1961.
Premiered: October 10, 1957
Actors: Guy Williams, Gene Sheldon, George J. Lewis
10. Wagon Train
Wagon Train is an American Western series that aired on NBC from 1957 to 1962 and then on ABC from 1962 to 1965. The show was quite popular and even had daytime repeats under the titles Major Adams, Trailmaster and Trailmaster from January 1963 to September 1965. It started off strong, debuting at #15 in the Nielsen ratings and then climbing to #2 in the following seasons. Its peak came in the 1961-62 television season when it reached the coveted #1 spot. However, after moving to ABC in the fall of 1962, the show’s ratings began to decline and it failed to make the Top 20 listing again.
The series initially starred Ward Bond, a well-known supporting actor in movies, as the wagon master. However, after Bond’s death, he was replaced by John McIntire. Additionally, Robert Horton played the scout but was later replaced by Robert Fuller, who bore a striking resemblance to Horton, after Horton decided to leave the series.
The inspiration for the series came from the 1950 film Wagon Master, which was directed by John Ford and starred actors like Ben Johnson, Harry Carey Jr., and Ward Bond. It also pays homage to the early widescreen wagon train epic The Big Trail, which starred John Wayne and featured Bond in his first major screen appearance in a supporting role.
Premiered: September 18, 1957
Actors: Frank McGrath, Terry Wilson, Robert Horton
11. The Lone Ranger
The Lone Ranger and Tonto avenge wrongs throughout the Old West.
Premiered: September 15, 1949
Actors: Clayton Moore, Jay Silverheels, John Hart
