The Best TV Shows Of The '60s, Ranked
- October 2, 1959
This groundbreaking anthology series, created and hosted by Rod Serling, captivated audiences with its clever twists, thought-provoking moral dilemmas, and haunting final revelations. Each standalone episode delves into the utterly bizarre, tackling topics such as supernatural occurrences and ghastly technological dangers. The show's unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and psychological horror remains influential to this day, inspiring countless modern television series and films.
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- #9 of 279 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- September 8, 1966
Breaking new ground in both science fiction storytelling and progressive social commentary, Gene Roddenberry's visionary series chronicled the adventures of Captain James T. Kirk, First Officer Spock, and their dedicated crew aboard the USS Enterprise. As they explored strange new worlds and encountered fascinating aliens, the series challenged societal norms and tackled thought-provoking issues, all while showcasing innovative special effects, memorable villains, and iconic catchphrases that have stood the test of time.
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- September 30, 1960
As television's first prime-time animated series, this groundbreaking hit introduced viewers to the prehistoric lives of Fred Flintstone, his wife Wilma, and their family, friends, and neighbors in the town of Bedrock. Featuring an array of hilarious Stone Age humor, including pun-based technology and satirical takes on modern American culture, the show's enduring appeal ensured that neither nostalgia nor an appetite for clever witticisms was lost to the sands of time.
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- #57 of 538 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- October 27, 1954
Premiering at a time when color television was just beginning to gain traction, this anthology program provided wholesome entertainment for the whole family. Through a mix of animation, live-action, and documentary-style segments, viewers were transported to realms of pure imagination, exploring the wonders of the natural world and meeting the beloved characters of classic Disney tales.
- September 24, 1964
Adding a twist to the traditional family sitcom, this ghoulish comedy centered around Herman Munster, his vampire wife Lily, and their oddball relatives living in a spooky mansion in a seemingly normal American suburb. The show consistently amused audiences with its unique brand of macabre humor, endearing characters, and over-the-top antics as the monstrous clan faced various fish-out-of-water situations and misunderstandings.
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- October 3, 1960
Set in the fictional small town of Mayberry, this beloved sitcom portrayed the life of kindhearted Sheriff Andy Taylor as he navigated family matters and municipal challenges with a firm yet gentle hand. Supported by an unforgettable cast of quirky characters—including bumbling deputy Barney Fife, endearing son Opie, and wise Aunt Bee—the show celebrated the charms of rural life and the importance of community and friendship.
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- October 3, 1961
This classic American sitcom, which first graced the screens on CBS between October 3, 1961, and June 1, 1966, is a creation of Carl Reiner and features a talented cast including Dick Van Dyke, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, and Mary Tyler Moore. The series delves into the professional and personal life of Rob Petrie, a television comedy writer.
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- #28 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- September 17, 1964
The enchanting premise of this beloved sitcom saw Samantha Stephens, a suburban housewife who happened to be a witch, attempt to conceal her magical powers from her unsuspecting husband Darrin. Enduring interference from her meddling, mystical relatives—including her mischievous Uncle Arthur and headstrong mother Endora—she navigated the challenges of domestic life through a combination of sorcery, wit, and charm. The show's quirky blend of supernatural hijinks and hilarious misunderstandings ensured its popularity and longevity.
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- #21 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- September 18, 1964
Defying conventional ideals of the nuclear family, this darkly comedic series revolved around the macabre yet lovable Addams clan, led by dashing patriarch Gomez and his sultry wife Morticia. With their taste for the unusual and morbid, the eccentric relatives navigated life in their creepy mansion, frequently clashing with "normal" society to hilarious effect. Its striking visual style, wicked wit, and irresistible charm made the show an instant classic.
More The Addams Family - September 11, 1967
This trailblazing variety program showcased the comedic genius of its titular star as well as supporting performers Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner. Featuring uproarious sketches, dazzling musical numbers, and hilarious audience interactions, the show became a staple of '60s television, earning countless accolades and cementing Carol Burnett's status as a comedy icon.
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- September 26, 1964
Stranded on a seemingly deserted tropical island after a fateful shipwreck, a diverse group of hapless castaways endeavored to make the best of their situation as they attempted to adapt to their new environment and find rescue. Filled with misadventures, pratfalls, and idyllic scenery, the show charmed viewers with its heartwarming portrayal of camaraderie and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
- September 18, 1965
Parodying the espionage craze of the 1960s, this satirical series followed the adventures of bumbling spy Maxwell Smart and his competent partner, Agent 99, as they battled the sinister forces of the criminal organization KAOS. With its iconic catchphrases, slapstick humor, and humorous gadgets, the show lampooned the conventions of the spy genre to great effect, amassing a devoted following and praise for its unique wit and style.
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- #62 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- September 23, 1962
Set in a dazzling future filled with robots, flying cars, and other advanced technology, this prime-time animated sitcom followed the lives of George Jetson and his family as they navigated the pitfalls and perils of their futuristic utopia. With its blend of slapstick humor and insightful commentary on societal trends, the show appealed not only to children but to adult viewers as well, reflecting both optimism and anxieties regarding the rapid pace of technological development.
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- September 26, 1962
Whisking a rural Appalachian family into the heart of high society, this enduring comedy showcased the endearing misadventures of the newly wealthy Clampett family after the discovery of oil on their land. Navigating the opulence and extravagance of Beverly Hills proved to be a constant source of humor, as the family's eccentric ways clashed with their sophisticated surroundings while trying to maintain their traditional values.
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- #41 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #53 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- January 12, 1966
In an era when superhero media was still in its infancy, this campy adaptation introduced viewers to the dynamic duo of billionaire-turned-crimefighter Bruce Wayne, played by Adam West, and his trusty sidekick Robin, portrayed by Burt Ward. Along with their loyal butler Alfred and Commissioner Gordon, they tirelessly battled an array of colorful villains that plagued Gotham City. With its memorable theme song, over-the-top gadgetry, and tongue-in-cheek humor, this pop culture phenomenon redefined an iconic franchise and captivated audiences for years to come.
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- #36 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- October 2, 1955
Hosted by the master of suspense himself, this anthology series served as a showcase for chilling tales of mystery, intrigue, and psychological horror. Reminiscent of his lauded films, each episode plumbed the depths of human depravity and paranoia, often culminating in shocking twist endings that left audiences questioning their own sanity.
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- #39 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #47 of 644 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- September 17, 1966
Pioneering the ensemble action-drama format, this riveting series followed the high-stakes exploits of the top-secret IMF agency, tackling international crises and thwarting dangerous adversaries through elaborate, covert operations. As each meticulously planned mission unfolded, agents faced countless obstacles and high-tension scenarios, requiring them to rely on their diverse skills, cutting-edge gadgetry, and unflappable teamwork to save the day. With its memorable theme tune and iconic fuse-igniting opening credits, the show became a lasting staple of the espionage genre.
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- September 17, 1965
Taking a decidedly irreverent approach to the subject of World War II, this sitcom chronicled the schemes and stratagems of a group of Allied prisoners held captive in a German POW camp. Led by cunning Colonel Hogan, played by Bob Crane, the ragtag team of inmates used their wits and ingenuity to outsmart their captors, never missing an opportunity to sabotage enemy plans and further the Allied cause.
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- #45 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #63 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- September 17, 1965
Blending the best of espionage thrillers and timeless westerns, this action-packed series chronicled the daring exploits of secret agents James West and Artemus Gordon, who protected President Ulysses S. Grant and upheld law and order throughout the untamed frontier. Combining thrilling shootouts and stunt work with fantastical gadgets, ingenious disguises, and an unmistakable sense of humor, the show redefined the art of genre-mashing for a truly unique viewing experience.
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- September 15, 1965
Adding a touch of magic to the classic sitcom formula, this enchanting show saw astronaut Captain Tony Nelson inadvertently unleash a captivating genie named Jeannie, sparking an unconventional romance as he attempted to keep her existence a secret from his disbelieving colleagues. Quirky misunderstandings, offbeat humor, and comedic chemistry between the leads created hugely entertaining scenarios, while the show's whimsical charm captivated fans both young and old.
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- #24 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- December 16, 1951
Pioneering the police procedural genre, this gripping drama offered an unflinching look at the day-to-day operations of law enforcement officers in Los Angeles. Central characters Sergeant Joe Friday and Officer Bill Gannon tackled diverse cases ranging from petty theft to murder, resulting in a realistic portrayal of police work and the challenges faced by those sworn to protect and serve.
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- September 12, 1959
Set on the sprawling Ponderosa Ranch during the height of the American Old West, this trailblazing western series followed the rugged lives and moral dilemmas faced by thrice-widowed patriarch Ben Cartwright and his three distinctively different sons, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe. Tackling themes such as justice, family loyalty, and the taming of a wild frontier, the long-running program combined thrilling action sequences with heartfelt, morally complex storytelling.
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- October 4, 1957
At the heart of this quintessential suburban sitcom, the Cleaver family—headed by all-American dad Ward and wholesome mom June—navigated the ups and downs of the 1950s and '60s familial life. Focusing particularly on the naive, inquisitive nature of young "Beaver" Cleaver, the show depicted a gentler, simpler era while tackling universal themes such as friendship, family dynamics, and childhood innocence.
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- #46 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- October 1, 1962
As the host who revolutionized late-night television, Johnny Carson transformed the talk-show format with his suave personality, innovative skits, and engaging interviews that made audiences feel like they were part of the conversation. With a rotating cast of celebrities, musical acts, and comedians, he dominated the airwaves and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
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- #62 of 470 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
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- June 20, 1948
This landmark variety program became a cultural touchstone for millions of viewers, showcasing a diverse array of talent spanning music, comedy, and other artistic pursuits. With a legendary roster of guest stars—including The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and The Supremes—Ed Sullivan played an instrumental role in shaping American pop culture throughout the '60s and beyond.
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- September 24, 1961
Employing a distinctive brand of self-referential humor and witty satire, this imaginative animated program followed the adventurous escapades of moose-and-squirrel duo Rocky and Bullwinkle as they thwarted nefarious foes and navigated a colorful world filled with unlikely allies and sinister adversaries. The show's densely layered gags and subversive tone appealed to audiences of all ages, making it one of the era's most lauded animated series.
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- September 21, 1957
Centered around the enigmatic defense attorney Perry Mason, adeptly portrayed by Raymond Burr, this absorbing legal drama chronicled the tense courtroom battles faced by the brilliant lawyer and his steadfast team as they sought to exonerate unjustly accused clients through diligent investigation and keen legal strategy. Prominent for its memorable whodunit storylines and tight pacing, the series remains a standout within the crime-drama genre.
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- #31 of 86 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- September 12, 1966
Initially created to capitalize on the popularity of The Beatles, this groundbreaking series combined a witty sitcom format with music videos, following the zany antics of the four members of the eponymous band. With their irreverent humor, catchy tunes, and endearing personalities, the fictional group eventually transcended the small screen to achieve genuine success as a pop phenomenon in their own right.
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- September 22, 1964
Embodying the height of '60s spy mania, this thrilling series followed agents Napoleon Solo and Illya Kuryakin as they worked for the United Network Command for Law and Enforcement (U.N.C.L.E.) to combat the nefarious schemes of the evil organization THRUSH. Filled with action-packed sequences, suave charm, and unique gadgets, the show managed to capture the imagination of viewers and leave an indelible mark on the espionage genre.
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- August 10, 1948
Blurring the lines between reality and fiction, this innovative hidden-camera comedy series captured the outrageous reactions of unsuspecting individuals caught in awkward predicaments or baffling scenarios devised by host Allen Funt and his team. A trailblazer in the realm of prank television, the show's influence can still be seen in modern programming that explores the humor and humanity inherent in unscripted moments.
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