Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1955: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to journey back to a time when television was a newfangled novelty and the phrase “Netflix and chill” would have been met with puzzled looks. Welcome to 1955, a golden era of television, where the shows were as comforting as a warm cup of cocoa on a rainy day. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, these shows captured the hearts of millions and set the standard for the small screen. So, dust off your rabbit ears, adjust your horizontal hold, and prepare for a nostalgic countdown of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1955. Whether you’re a baby boomer seeking a blast from the past or a millennial with a taste for vintage, this list is sure to entertain. So, without further ado, let’s tune in!
The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel

The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel

Release Date: 1955-09-28

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel” is a thrilling TV show that takes us back to 1955. Set in England, it follows the courageous Scarlet Pimpernel and his League as they embark on daring missions to save the day. With Marius Goring leading the cast, get ready for a captivating series filled with heroic exploits and suspenseful short stories.

Cast: Marius Goring (Sir Percy Blakeney / The Scarlet Pimpernel)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: scarlet pimpernel

Alfred Hitchcock Presents

Alfred Hitchcock Presents

Release Date: 1955-10-02

Genres: Mystery, Drama, Crime

“Alfred Hitchcock Presents” is a captivating TV anthology series from 1955 that you won’t want to miss. Hosted by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock himself, this show brings you a mix of thrilling dramas, mysteries, and suspenseful tales. With its release on October 2nd, 1955, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year.

Cast: Alfred Hitchcock (Self – Host)

Directors:

Writers: James P. Cavanagh

Tags: anthology, horror anthology

The Johnny Carson Show

The Johnny Carson Show

Release Date: 1955-06-30

Genres: Comedy, Talk, Music

“The Johnny Carson Show” is a classic TV variety program that aired in 1955. It was created after Johnny Carson’s impressive performance as a fill-in host on “The Red Skelton Show”. The show featured a mix of comedy, music, dance, skits, and monologues, setting the stage for Carson’s future success on “The Tonight Show”.

Cast: Johnny Carson (Himself)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: variety show

The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp

The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp

Release Date: 1955-09-06

Genres: Drama, Western

“The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp” is a classic television western series that aired from 1955 to 1961. Based on the life of frontier marshal Wyatt Earp, the show follows his adventures in a half-hour black-and-white format. Starring Hugh O’Brian in the title role, this iconic series takes you back to the Wild West with its 229 thrilling episodes.

Cast: Hugh O’Brian (Wyatt Earp)

Directors:

Writers: Daniel B. Ullman

Tags: wyatt earp, lawman , tombstone arizona, ok corral, buntline special

Gunsmoke

Gunsmoke

Release Date: 1955-09-10

Genres: Western, Action & Adventure

“Gunsmoke” is a captivating Western drama series set in Dodge City, Kansas, during the American West settlement. It follows the adventures of Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by James Arness, as he upholds the law in a wild and untamed frontier. With a talented cast including Amanda Blake, Ken Curtis, Milburn Stone, and Woody Chambliss, this TV show, which premiered on September 10, 1955, is a must-watch for fans of thrilling Western tales.

Cast: James Arness (Marshal Matt Dillon) , Amanda Blake (Kitty) , Ken Curtis (Festus) , Milburn Stone (Doc) , Woody Chambliss (Woody Lathrop)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: marshal, kansas, usa, wild west, 19th century

The Phil Silvers Show

The Phil Silvers Show

Release Date: 1955-09-20

Genres: Comedy

“The Phil Silvers Show, also known as Sergeant Bilko, is a hilarious sitcom that aired from 1955 to 1959. Starring Phil Silvers as the mischievous Master Sergeant Ernest G. Bilko, the show follows the comedic adventures of Bilko and his fellow army buddies. With its witty writing and talented cast, this Emmy-winning series quickly became a fan favorite, propelling Silvers and the show’s creator, Nat Hiken, into the spotlight.”

Cast: Phil Silvers (Ernest Bilko) , Harvey Lembeck (Rocco Barbella) , Paul Ford (John Hall) , Allan Melvin (Steve Henshaw) , Billy Sands (Dino Paparelli) , Maurice Gosfield (Duane Doberman) , Herbie Faye (Sam Fender)

Directors:

Writers: Leonard B. Stern, Billy Friedberg, Coleman Jacoby, Arnie Rosen, A.J. Russell, Terry Ryan, Phil Sharp, Tony Webster, Sydney Zelinka, Arnold M. Auerbach, Barry Blitzer, Harvey Orkin

Tags: us army, kansas, usa, military, sitcom, small time crook

Screen Director's Playhouse

Screen Director’s Playhouse

Release Date: 1955-10-05

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Screen Director’s Playhouse” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1955. Presented by Eastman Kodak, it featured a series of original scripts directed by acclaimed directors and starred well-known performers. From musicals to comedies and dramas, this show offered a diverse range of stories that kept viewers entertained throughout the season.

Cast:

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

The Bob Cummings Show

The Bob Cummings Show

Release Date: 1955-01-02

Genres: Comedy

“The Bob Cummings Show” is a classic American sitcom that aired from 1955 to 1959. Starring Robert Cummings, Rosemary DeCamp, Dwayne Hickman, and Ann B. Davis, it was the first-ever series to debut as a midseason replacement. The show initially ran on NBC for a half-season, then moved to CBS for two full seasons before returning to NBC for its final two seasons. It later aired in daytime on ABC and was syndicated as “Love That Bob.” If you’re a fan of vintage sitcoms, this is definitely one to check out!

Cast: Robert Cummings (Bob Collins) , Rosemary DeCamp (Margaret MacDonald) , Dwayne Hickman (Chuck MacDonald) , Ann B. Davis (Charmaine ‘Schultzy’ Schultz)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: photographer, hollywood, sitcom

Science Fiction Theatre

Science Fiction Theatre

Release Date: 1955-04-09

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Science Fiction Theatre” is an intriguing American science fiction anthology series that aired from April 1955 to April 1957. Produced by Ivan Tors and Maurice Ziv, this captivating show features a collection of thrilling and imaginative stories. With Truman Bradley as the lead actor, get ready to embark on a journey through the wonders of science fiction as you dive into this classic TV series from 1955.

Cast: Truman Bradley ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

The Sooty Show

The Sooty Show

Release Date: 1955-01-16

Genres: Comedy, Kids

“The Sooty Show” is a beloved British children’s Puppet series that aired from 1955 to 1992. It follows the hilarious adventures of Sooty, Sweep, and Soo, three adorable puppets, along with their owner Harry Corbett and later his son Matthew. With its charming characters and comedic day-to-day life, this show has been entertaining kids for decades.

Cast: Matthew Corbett (Self) , Brenda Longman (Soo (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: puppet

Fury

Fury

Release Date: 1955-10-15

Genres: Western, Action & Adventure

“Fury” is a heartwarming American western TV series that aired from 1955 to 1960. Set in California, it revolves around Jim Newton, played by Peter Graves, who runs the Broken Wheel Ranch. Alongside him are his adopted son Joey, portrayed by Bobby Diamond, and ranch hand Pete Wilkey, played by William Fawcett. The show follows the beautiful bond between a horse named Fury and Joey, showcasing their adventures and the deep friendship they share. With its captivating storyline and memorable characters, “Fury” quickly became a beloved favorite among viewers when it first premiered in 1955.

Cast: Peter Graves (Jim Newton) , William Fawcett (Pete Wilkey) , Bobby Diamond (Joey Newton) , Roger Mobley (Packy Lambert) , Highland Dale (Fury)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: california, horse, ranch, orphan

Dixon of Dock Green

Dixon of Dock Green

Release Date: 1955-07-09

Genres: Drama

“Dixon of Dock Green” is a classic BBC television series that aired from 1955 to 1976, following the lives of police officers at a fictional Metropolitan Police station in London’s East End. Starring Jack Warner, Peter Byrne, Arthur Rigby, and more, this long-running show captivated audiences with its engaging stories of law enforcement. It even had some episodes remade as a radio series in the early 2000s.

Cast: Jack Warner (PC George Dixon) , Peter Byrne (Andy Crawford) , Arthur Rigby (Station Sgt. Flint) , Robert Cawdron (Det. Insp. Cherry) , Ben Howard (DC Len Clayton) , Richard Heffer (DS Alan Bruton) , Jeanette Hutchinson (Mary Crawford) , Moira Mannion (WP Sgt. Grace Millard) , Nicholas Donnelly (Johnny Wills)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Quatermass II

Quatermass II

Release Date: 1955-10-22

Genres: Drama

“Quatermass II” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show from 1955 that follows Professor Bernard Quatermass as he investigates mysterious meteorite showers. Little does he know, his findings lead him to uncover a shocking conspiracy involving alien infiltration within the highest levels of the British Government. With even his closest colleagues falling victim to the alien influence, Quatermass must risk everything, including his own unsafe rocket prototype, to save mankind from being taken over by these extraterrestrial beings. Starring Hugh Griffith, John Robinson, John Stone, and Monica Grey, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Hugh Griffith (Dr. Leo Pugh) , John Robinson () , John Stone (Captain John Dillon) , John Robinson (Proffesor Bernard Quatermass) , Monica Grey (Paula Quatermass)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: miniseries

The Mickey Mouse Club

The Mickey Mouse Club

Release Date: 1955-10-03

Genres: Kids

“The Mickey Mouse Club” is a delightful variety show that premiered on October 3, 1955. With a talented cast of child performers including Bonnie Lynn Fields, Eileen Diamond, Patricia Morrow, J. Pat O’Malley, Judy Nugent, Mickey Rooney Jr., Roberta Shore, Doreen Tracey, Bobby Burgess, and Alvy Moore, this show offers a fun and entertaining experience. Get ready to be entertained by these young stars as they showcase their talents in a variety of performances.

Cast: Bonnie Lynn Fields (Self) , Eileen Diamond (Self) , Patricia Morrow (Self) , J. Pat O’Malley (Self) , Judy Nugent (Self) , Mickey Rooney Jr. (Self) , Roberta Shore (Self) , Doreen Tracey (Self) , Bobby Burgess (Self) , Alvy Moore (Self) , Lonnie Burr (Self) , Annette Funicello (Self) , Cheryl Holdridge (Self) , Tommy Kirk (Self) , Julius Sumner Miller (Self) , Kevin Corcoran (Self (as “Moochie”)) , Jimmie Dodd (Self) , Sharon Baird (Self) , Don Grady (Self) , Sherry Alberoni (Self) , Johnny Crawford (Self) , Paul Petersen (Self) , Karen Pendleton (Self) , Tim Considine (Self) , Darlene Gillespie (Self)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: mouseketeers

Sergeant Preston of the Yukon

Sergeant Preston of the Yukon

Release Date: 1955-09-29

Genres: Western

“Sergeant Preston of the Yukon” is a thrilling TV show set in the rugged wilderness of the Yukon in 1955. Follow the adventures of Canadian Mountie Sgt. Preston as he fearlessly patrols the untamed territory alongside his trusty horse Rex and loyal dog Yukon King. Together, they face off against both the harsh elements and dangerous criminals, making for an action-packed and captivating viewing experience.

Cast: Dick Simmons (Sergeant Preston)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: canadian stereotype, yukon, canada, mountie (rcmp), northern canada

My Friend Flicka

My Friend Flicka

Release Date: 1955-09-30

Genres: Western, Drama

“My Friend Flicka” is a heartwarming western TV show set in the beautiful Goose Bar Ranch in Wyoming during the early 20th century. It follows the adventures of young Ken McLaughlin, played by Johnny Washbrook, and his beloved horse Flicka. With a talented cast including Anita Louise, Gene Evans, and Pamela Baird, this series captures the special bond between a boy and his horse. Originally aired in black and white in 1956, it later transitioned to color and continued to captivate audiences for years to come.

Cast: Anita Louise () , Gene Evans () , Johnny Washbrook () , Pamela Baird ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: horse, ranch

Spin and Marty

Spin and Marty

Release Date: 1955-11-04

Genres: Western

“Spin and Marty” is a heartwarming TV show that aired in 1955 and quickly became one of the best voted shows of the year. Set at a summer camp on a dude ranch, it follows the story of Marty Markham, a wealthy orphan who forms an incredible bond with his new best friend, Spin Evans. With a talented cast including Tim Considine and David Stollery, this show is sure to bring a smile to your face as you join Marty and Spin on their unforgettable adventures.

Cast: Tim Considine (Spin) , David Stollery (Marty) , Patrick Miller (Rick) , Harry Carey, Jr. (Bill Burnett) , Roy Barcroft (Col. Logan) , J. Pat O’Malley (Perkins)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Cheyenne

Cheyenne

Release Date: 1955-09-20

Genres: Western

“Cheyenne” is an iconic American western TV show that aired from 1955 to 1963. Starring Clint Walker, it was the first hour-long dramatic series of its kind and the first to last more than one season. Produced by Warner Brothers, this groundbreaking show paved the way for a long line of original series from the studio.

Cast: Clint Walker (Cheyenne Bodie)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: frontier, western usa, frontier justice, native american tribe

Highway Patrol

Highway Patrol

Release Date: 1955-10-03

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Highway Patrol” is a thrilling police action series that aired from 1955 to 1959. Set in an unidentified state, the show follows the adventures of Dan Matthews, the leader of the highway patrol. Starring Broderick Crawford and narrated by Art Gilmore, this gripping series takes you on a wild ride through the dangerous world of law enforcement on the open road.

Cast: Broderick Crawford (Chief Dan Mathews) , Art Gilmore (Narrator)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: police, militia, missing person, criminal investigation, 1950s, state highway patrol, chief of patrol, children in danger, highway patrolmen, police women

Navy Log

Navy Log

Release Date: 1955-09-20

Genres: War & Politics, Drama

“Navy Log” is an American drama anthology series that aired from 1955 to 1958. It tells captivating stories of survival during wartime, specifically focusing on the remarkable tales from the United States Navy. Starring Clint Eastwood, this show takes you on an emotional journey through history, showcasing the bravery and resilience of naval heroes.

Cast: Clint Eastwood (Burns)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: navy, anthology, military

This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB.