The 65 Best TV Shows Set In The '50s, Ranked
- 1
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Rachel Brosnahan, Michael Zegen, Alex BorsteinThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is an exquisite depiction of the 1950s, showcasing the mores, fashion, and culture of post-war America with aplomb. As protagonist Midge Maisel navigates her way through the male-dominated world of stand-up comedy, the show brilliantly captures the struggle for gender equality that was beginning to percolate during this era. Through witty dialogue, rich characters, and a vivid recreation of New York City, the series offers viewers a captivating glimpse into 1950s America and its burgeoning entertainment scene. In doing so, it highlights the growing societal shifts in a nation on the brink of monumental change, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in this pivotal decade.
- 2Ron Howard, Henry Winkler, Tom Bosley
Happy Days transports viewers back to the quintessential 1950s American suburb, complete with sock hops, drive-in diners, and jukeboxes. The beloved sitcom centers on the Cunningham family and their friends, offering a delightful snapshot of the decade's popular culture and wholesome values. With vivid attention to period detail, from clothing and hairstyles to the iconic Fonzie's leather jacket, Happy Days presents a nostalgic and entertaining look at what life was like in a more innocent time. As a definitive example of 1950s Americana, the show remains a enduring classic that resonates with audiences across generations.
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- 3Jenny Agutter, Annabelle Apsion, Linda Bassett
Set in the impoverished East End of London during the 1950s, Call The Midwife is a poignant exploration of social issues and changing attitudes towards healthcare within a traditional community. The show follows a group of nurse-midwives as they tend to the often harsh conditions and struggles experienced by those living in the area. By weaving together stories of love, loss, and hope with historical context, the series offers an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of life in post-war Britain. Call The Midwife gives audiences an invaluable insight into the societal challenges of the period, while simultaneously shedding light on the incredible progress made in women's health services at the time.
- 4Anya Taylor-Joy, Marielle Heller, Thomas Brodie-Sangster
The Queen's Gambit is both a thrilling coming-of-age story and a vivid portrayal of the 1950s and 60s Cold War era. Set against the backdrop of an intensely competitive international chess scene, the show delves into themes of obsession, addiction, and the pursuit of excellence in a time when societal norms were rapidly changing. With meticulous attention to period detail, from the fashion and music to the evolving ideals of the era, the series fully immerses viewers into its distinctive world. Ultimately, The Queen's Gambit is a compelling examination of the human condition within the context of a transformative historical period, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven drama and engrossing storytelling.
- 5Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
M*A*S*H is an iconic television series that brilliantly juxtaposes the Korean War's harsh realities with a healthy dose of humor and humanity. Though set in the 1950s, it captures the anti-war sentiment prevalent during the 1970s when the show initially aired. Through its memorable characters and groundbreaking storytelling, M*A*S*H depicts the complexities and absurdities of war while providing viewers with a glimpse into the lives of military medical personnel during a turbulent era. By blending comedy with drama, this seminal show remains a timeless classic and an essential piece of television history that resonates across generations.
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- 6Penny Marshall, Cindy Williams, Eddie Mekka
Laverne & Shirley is a beloved sitcom that offers a comedic yet heartfelt look at the lives of two working-class women in 1950s Milwaukee. The show expertly evokes the era with its detailed portrayal of blue-collar life and culture, featuring period-specific costumes, music, and slang. As a female-centric show highlighting the growing independence and evolving roles of women, Laverne & Shirley deftly explores themes of friendship, ambition, and love. This enduring series provides viewers with a delightful blend of humor and nostalgia, making it a quintessential piece of 1950s television.
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- 7Juno Temple, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Inspired by the Coen Brothers' film of the same name, the Fargo television series is a darkly comedic crime drama that features interconnected storylines set in various eras, including the 1950s. By delving deep into themes of greed, corruption, and moral ambiguity, the show uncovers the seedy underbelly of seemingly idyllic Midwestern communities during a time of post-war prosperity. The atmospheric backdrop and carefully constructed period details immerse viewers in a world where the pursuit of the American Dream often leads to disastrous consequences. Fargo's unique blend of biting humor and thought-provoking narratives make it an essential addition to the pantheon of great television.
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- 8Mark Williams, Sorcha Cusack, John Burton
Father Brown, based on the popular book series, is set in the picturesque English countryside during the 1950s, and masterfully uses the time period to enhance its murder mystery storylines. Amidst the backdrop of post-war Britain, the show delves into moral dilemmas and societal norms while exploring the era's evolving values and attitudes. Featuring meticulous attention to historical detail, the series transports viewers to a seemingly simpler time rife with its own complexities and intrigue. Father Brown expertly combines period charm with entertaining whodunits, making it an engaging choice for fans of classic detective tales.
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- 9David Corenswet, Patti LuPone, Jake Picking
Hollywood is a stylish and thought-provoking examination of the movie industry during the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown's golden age in the post-WWII era. The show deftly blends fact and fiction, offering a tantalizing "what-if" scenario where marginalized voices are given a chance to shine, despite the period's rampant racism, sexism, and homophobia. Through its sumptuous production design, glamorous costumes, and sharp writing, Hollywood captures the excitement and cultural impact of the film industry during the 1950s while shining a light on the systemic injustices that still reverberate today. At its core, the series is a dazzling love letter to cinema's transformative power and an exploration of the universal desire for representation.
- 10Craig McLachlan, Nadine Garner, Charlie Cousins
Set in the 1950s in the rural town of Ballarat, Australia, The Doctor Blake Mysteries follows the enigmatic Dr. Lucien Blake as he solves crimes and navigates the complexities of post-war life. The series' meticulous attention to period detail, from clothing and vehicles to the prevailing attitudes of the era, provides an authentic backdrop for its engrossing mysteries. As it explores themes of loss, redemption, and the shifting currents of societal change, the series offers a fascinating portrayal of a time marked by both optimism and uncertainty. The Doctor Blake Mysteries strikes a compelling balance between atmospheric period drama and gripping crime-solving, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
- 11Robson Green, Tessa Peake-Jones, Kacey Ainsworth
Grantchester is a masterful period drama that invites viewers into the seemingly tranquil world of 1950s English countryside, where its clergyman-sleuth protagonist uncovers dark secrets lurking beneath the picturesque facade. The show deftly navigates the complex social mores and moral dilemmas of the era while exploring themes of love, loss, and human frailty. With its beautiful backdrop, well-written characters, and intriguing mysteries, Grantchester marries the charm of period television with the suspense of crime drama. This engaging series encourages audiences to ponder deeper questions about society, sin, and redemption, while immersing them in the richly constructed world of post-war England.
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- 12Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison
Based on the beloved books by James Herriot, All Creatures Great and Small transports viewers to the quaint village of Darrowby in 1950s Yorkshire, England. The show expertly captures the charm and warmth of rural life during this era through its endearing characters and heartwarming stories. As young veterinarian James Herriot navigates the challenges of caring for both animals and their human companions, the show provides a window into the resilience and camaraderie of a community weathering the challenges of post-WWII Britain. All Creatures Great and Small is a delightful celebration of the simple pleasures and enduring bonds that unite us all.
- 13Marta Dusseldorp, Noni Hazlehurst, Brett Climo
Set in rural Australia in the 1950s, A Place to Call Home follows the story of a mysterious woman who returns to her native land after World War II, only to find herself embroiled in the lives of the wealthy Bligh family. The series expertly crafts a detailed and evocative portrayal of the era's social constraints, gender dynamics, and shifting values. Through its compelling narrative and richly developed characters, A Place to Call Home explores themes of identity, prejudice, and belonging within the context of a rapidly changing society. This captivating drama offers viewers a heartfelt and insightful journey into the complexities of life and love in post-war Australia.
- 14Richard Chamberlain, Rachel Ward, Barbara Stanwyck
This sweeping miniseries adaptation of Colleen McCullough's epic novel transports viewers to the sprawling Australian outback during the mid-20th century. The Thorn Birds follows the tumultuous love affair between a young woman and the ambitious priest who must choose between his passion for her and his commitment to the Church. In addition to its breathtaking backdrop and poignant storytelling, the series delves into themes of forbidden love, ambition, and sacrifice set against the shifting societal landscape of the 1950s and beyond. The Thorn Birds is a captivating and timeless drama that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
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- 15Sam Waterston, Regina Taylor, Jeremy London
I'll Fly Away is a critically acclaimed American drama set in the late 1950s and early 1960s that tackles the tumultuous issues of civil rights and racial inequality. The series follows the lives of a white district attorney and his African American housekeeper, skillfully using their intertwined stories to explore the complexities and challenges of a society divided by prejudice. With its poignant storytelling, nuanced characters, and authentic portrayal of the era, I'll Fly Away is both an engaging drama and a thought-provoking examination of a pivotal time in American history.
- 16
Velvet
Paula Echevarría, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Aitana Sánchez-GijónVelvet is a Spanish period drama set in the glamorous world of high fashion during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The series centers on a prestigious Madrid fashion house, where forbidden romance blossoms between a young seamstress and the heir to the business. Velvet skillfully captures the elegance and excitement of the era, with its sumptuous costumes, lavish sets, and captivating characters. By exploring themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations, the show offers a vivid and enthralling portrayal of the transformative power of fashion during this vibrant period in history.
- 17Debbi Morgan, Dorian Harewood, Paul Koslo
As a continuation of the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, Roots: The Next Generations chronicles the lives of the descendants of Kunta Kinte through the turbulent middle decades of the 20th century. By offering a compelling and nuanced portrayal of various historical events and figures, including the civil rights movement, the series provides a powerful depiction of the African American experience during this formative era. Through its unflinching examination of racial injustice, family, and resilience, Roots: The Next Generations offers viewers an essential and deeply affecting exploration of America's ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
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- 18Ben Whishaw, Romola Garai, Dominic West
The Hour is a stylish and suspenseful British drama series set in the high-pressure world of television journalism during the 1950s. The show follows a group of dedicated reporters, producers, and on-air personalities as they navigate the professional and personal challenges of their careers, exploring themes of truth, integrity, and ambition within the context of a rapidly changing media landscape. With its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and atmospheric portrayal of the era, The Hour offers viewers a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of the power and responsibility of the press during this pivotal period in history.
- 19
Young Hyacinth
Jerry Howard, Debra Stephenson, Tony GardnerA prequel to the beloved British sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, Young Hyacinth transports viewers back to the early life of the show's protagonist, Hyacinth Bucket, in the 1950s. The series cleverly uses the context of this era to explore the origins of Hyacinth's social aspirations and unstoppable ambition. With its expertly crafted sets, costumes, and writing, Young Hyacinth immerses viewers in the world of post-war Britain while offering a fresh take on a classic character. This delightful comedy perfectly captures both the nostalgia of the 1950s and the spirit of the original series, making it an enjoyable viewing experience for fans old and new alike.
- 20Jonathan Majors, Courtney B. Vance, Jurnee Smollett-Bell
Lovecraft Country offers a fresh and genre-bending take on the 1950s through its blending of horror, science fiction, and social commentary. Set during the height of the Jim Crow era, the series uses the supernatural as a vehicle to confront and expose the real-life horrors of systemic racism and bigotry in America. With its striking visuals and bold storytelling, Lovecraft Country not only delves into H.P. Lovecraft's monstrous creations but also unearths the dark history beneath the seemingly idyllic American dream. This groundbreaking show offers a gripping and unflinching exploration of the intersecting struggles faced by marginalized groups during this tumultuous period.
- 21Oliver Masucci, Karoline Eichhorn, Jördis Triebel
Dark is a thrilling and complex German sci-fi series that weaves together multiple timelines and characters, including those from the 1950s. As the show explores the interconnected lives and secrets of a small town plagued by bizarre events, viewers are transported back in time to witness the roots of the ongoing mystery. The series' meticulously crafted narrative, atmospheric setting, and richly developed characters create an immersive experience that expertly captures the essence of the 1950s while offering a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time and humanity.
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- 22
Bless Me, Father
Arthur Lowe, Daniel Abineri, Gabrielle DayeBless Me Father is a heartwarming British sitcom set in the 1950s, following the misadventures of a young Catholic priest as he navigates his new parish in East London. The show expertly captures the spirit of the era with its authentic set design, costumes, and cultural references, providing a nostalgic and humorous glimpse into post-war Britain. Through its memorable characters and gentle humor, Bless Me Father offers an entertaining and affectionate look at the everyday lives and challenges faced by ordinary people during this period.
- 23Danny Gerard, Marion Ross, Louis Zorich
Brooklyn Bridge is a heartfelt coming-of-age dramedy set against the backdrop of 1950s Brooklyn, exploring themes of family, love, and growing up in a rapidly changing world. The show expertly recreates the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the period, with authentic costumes, dialogue, and attention to detail, offering viewers an engaging and nostalgic glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during this iconic era. As it follows the experiences of a young boy and his immigrant family, Brooklyn Bridge tells a universal story of the human experience with warmth, humor, and heart.
- 24Bradley Walsh, Joanna Scanlan, Tok Stephen
The Larkins is a charming British comedy-drama series that transports viewers back to the idyllic world of rural Kent during the late 1950s. Based on the popular novel The Darling Buds of May, the show follows the exploits of the lovable Larkin family, who delight in the simple pleasures of life amidst the social and economic changes of post-war Britain. With its warm humor, engaging characters, and picturesque setting, The Larkins offers an irresistible blend of nostalgia and escapism that captures the spirit of a bygone era.
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- 25Harry Morgan, Jamie Farr, William Christopher
AfterMASH is a spin-off of the iconic television series M*A*S*H, chronicling the lives of three of its beloved characters as they return home from the Korean War and adjust to civilian life in the 1950s. The show explores themes of friendship, family, and the struggles faced by war veterans as they reintegrate into a rapidly changing society. With its mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling, AfterMASH captures the essence of the 1950s while providing a poignant and nostalgic continuation of the original series' legacy.
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- 26Timothy Hutton, Maury Chaykin, Colin Fox
A Nero Wolfe Mystery transports viewers back to the glamorous world of 1950s New York City, as the titular private detective and his assistant, Archie Goodwin, solve a variety of perplexing cases. The show expertly evokes the era with its stylish sets, costumes, and atmospheric cinematography, providing a rich backdrop for its engaging and intriguing mysteries. With its clever writing, memorable characters, and entertaining storylines, A Nero Wolfe Mystery offers a delightful mix of whodunit suspense and nostalgic escapism.
- 27Vanessa Lengies, Tracey Ullman, Ian James Corlett
The Little Lulu Show is a delightful animated series based on the classic comic strip character, Lulu Moppet, who charmed readers in the 1940s and 1950s. The show perfectly captures the innocence, mischief, and imagination of childhood during this nostalgic era, with its charming animation and clever nods to the original comic strips. Through its heartwarming and humorous stories, The Little Lulu Show offers a whimsical glimpse into the simpler times of post-war suburban America, making it a delightful viewing experience for audiences of all ages.
- 28
Lipstick on Your Collar
Ewan McGregor, Louise Germaine, Roy HuddLipstick on Your Collar is a British musical drama series that captures the spirit of the 1950s with its vibrant soundtrack, colorful costumes, and engaging storylines centered around love, war, and the transformative power of music. Set in the world of military intelligence, the show uses the backdrop of the era to explore themes of conformity, rebellion, and the search for personal freedom amid the cultural shifts of post-war Britain. With its unforgettable performances and infectious energy, Lipstick on Your Collar offers viewers a thrilling and nostalgic journey into the heart and soul of the 1950s.
- 29Natalia Oreiro, Francesc Orella, Diego Velázquez
Santa Evita is an upcoming Argentine miniseries based on the bestselling novel by Tomás Eloy Martínez, which chronicles the life and mythology surrounding Eva Perón, the iconic First Lady of Argentina during the late 1940s and early 1950s. The show will delve into the complex political, social, and emotional landscape of the era, exploring themes of power, ambition, and the enduring influence of a charismatic and controversial figure. With its rich storytelling, compelling characters, and authentic historical backdrop, Santa Evita promises to offer viewers a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the heart of a tumultuous and transformative period in Argentine history.
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- 30Michael Sheen, Lizzy Caplan, Caitlin FitzGerald
Masters of Sex is a compelling drama based on the groundbreaking work of Dr. William Masters and Virginia Johnson, the duo behind the sexual revolution in the 1950s and '60s. The series delves into the personal and professional lives of these pioneering researchers, exploring the societal taboos and challenges they faced in their quest to uncover the mysteries of human sexuality. With its exceptional writing, strong performances, and deft handling of intimate subject matter, Masters of Sex provides a fascinating and thought-provoking insight into the transformative impact of their work during a period of rapid cultural change.
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