Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1956: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Roll up, roll up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to take a delightful detour down memory lane! We’re about to embark on a nostalgic journey back to 1956, a golden era of television when rabbit ears were the latest tech and TV dinners were the height of convenience. We’re dusting off the old tube to bring you the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from this iconic year. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, these shows captured the hearts of millions and defined a generation. So, grab your coonskin cap, adjust your antenna, and get ready for a blast from the past. Whether you’re a bona fide baby boomer or a vintage TV enthusiast, this countdown is sure to tickle your nostalgia bone. So, without further ado, let’s tune in and turn back time to the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1956. The show is about to start!
Huntley-Brinkley Report

Huntley-Brinkley Report

Release Date: 1956-10-29

Genres: News

“The Huntley-Brinkley Report was a popular TV show that aired from 1956 to 1970. Anchored by Chet Huntley in New York City and David Brinkley in Washington, D.C., this flagship evening news program provided viewers with the latest news updates. Starting as a 15-minute program, it later expanded to 30 minutes, following the footsteps of CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite. With its talented lead actors and informative content, it became a must-watch for many Americans.”

Cast: Chet Huntley (Himself) , David Brinkley (Himself)

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The Hardy Boys

The Hardy Boys

Release Date: 1956-09-21

Genres: Kids, Mystery

“The Hardy Boys” is a thrilling TV show that premiered on September 21, 1956. It follows the adventures of Frank and Joe, the sons of renowned detective Fenton Hardy, as they strive to impress their father with their impressive mystery-solving skills. With a talented cast including Tim Considine, Tommy Kirk, and Russ Conway, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as the Hardy Boys unravel one captivating mystery after another.

Cast: Tim Considine (Frank Hardy) , Tommy Kirk (Joe Hardy) , Russ Conway (Fenton Hardy) , Sarah Selby (Aunt Gertrude Hardy) , Carole Ann Campbell (Iola Morton) , Andy Clyde (Lacey) , John Baer (Eric) , Hugh Sanders (Mr. Binks)

Directors: R.G. Springsteen

Writers: Edward Stratemeyer, Jackson Gillis

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Adventure in Dairyland

Adventure in Dairyland

Release Date: 1956-11-05

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“Adventure in Dairyland” is a captivating television serial that aired in 1956 as part of The Mickey Mouse Club’s second season. Starring the talented Mouseketeer Annette Funicello and Sammy Ogg from Spin and Marty, this show marked Kevin Corcoran’s debut in a Walt Disney production. Set in the picturesque Dairyland, the series follows a thrilling adventure filled with mystery and excitement, making it a must-watch for fans of classic TV shows.

Cast: Annette Funicello (Herself) , Sammy Ogg (Himself) , Kevin Corcoran (“Moochie” McCandless) , Fern Persons (Mrs. McCandless)

Directors: William Beaudine

Writers: Lillie Hayward

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Playhouse 90

Playhouse 90

Release Date: 1956-10-04

Genres: Drama

“Playhouse 90” is a captivating American television anthology series that aired from 1956 to 1960. With a total of 133 episodes, this unique show stood out by presenting hour-and-a-half dramas instead of the usual 60-minute plays. Created by Hubbell Robinson and originating from CBS Television City in Los Angeles, it featured a talented cast and showcased a wide range of compelling stories.

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Colonel March of Scotland Yard

Colonel March of Scotland Yard

Release Date: 1956-02-29

Genres: Drama

“Colonel March of Scotland Yard” is a thrilling TV show from 1956 that follows the investigations of Colonel March, a member of The Department of Queer Complaints. With a focus on unusual cases, locked-room murders, and supernatural mysteries, this show keeps you on the edge of your seat. Starring Boris Karloff, Ewan Roberts, and Eric Pohlmann, it’s a must-watch for fans of crime-solving and suspense.

Cast: Boris Karloff (Colonel March Of Scotland Yard) , Ewan Roberts (Inspector Ames) , Eric Pohlmann (Commissionner Aristide Goron)

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Tags: detective, creature

Hancock's Half Hour

Hancock’s Half Hour

Release Date: 1956-07-06

Genres: Comedy

“Hancock’s Half Hour” is a classic BBC radio and television comedy series from the 1950s and 60s, created by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson. Starring the talented comedian Tony Hancock, the show follows the hilarious misadventures of Anthony Aloysius St John Hancock, a struggling comedian living in a rundown house in East Cheam. With its focus on character development and witty humor, this influential series played a significant role in shaping the sitcom genre. It first aired on July 6, 1956, and became one of the best-loved TV shows of its time.

Cast: Tony Hancock ()

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Writers: Ray Galton, Alan Simpson

Tags: sitcom

The Adventures of Sir Lancelot

The Adventures of Sir Lancelot

Release Date: 1956-09-15

Genres: Action & Adventure

“The Adventures of Sir Lancelot” is a captivating British TV series that aired in 1956. Set in the enchanting era of King Arthur and Camelot, the show follows the heroic journey of Sir Lancelot, portrayed by the talented William Russell. Join him as he embarks on thrilling adventures as a Knight of the Round Table, showcasing the chivalry and bravery of this legendary character.

Cast: William Russell (Sir Lancelot du Lac)

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Tags: camelot, knight, king arthur, knights of the round table, lancelot

The Price Is Right

The Price Is Right

Release Date: 1956-11-26

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“The Price Is Right” is a popular American game show hosted by Bill Cullen. It first aired on NBC on November 26, 1956, and has since become one of the best-voted TV shows of that year. Tune in to watch contestants guess the prices of various items to win exciting prizes!

Cast: Bill Cullen (Host)

Directors: Paul Alter

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Tags: game show, worth

Telephone Time

Telephone Time

Release Date: 1956-04-08

Genres: Drama

“Telephone Time” is a captivating anthology drama series that aired in the late 1950s. Hosted by John Nesbitt in its first season and later by Frank C. Baxter, the show presents thought-provoking plays directed by Arthur Hiller. With its debut in 1956, this TV gem takes viewers on a journey through various intriguing stories that are sure to keep you hooked.

Cast: John Nesbitt (Self – Host)

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Writers: John Nesbitt

Tags: anthology

The Edge of Night

The Edge of Night

Release Date: 1956-04-02

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Soap

“The Edge of Night” is a captivating American television mystery series/soap opera that first aired on April 2, 1956. Produced by Procter & Gamble, it ran as a live broadcast on CBS until November 28, 1975, and then moved to ABC until December 28, 1984. With an impressive 7,420 episodes, this long-running show features a talented cast including Frances Fisher, Holland Taylor, Joel Crothers, Forrest Compton, Lois Kibbee, Ann Flood, Sharon Gabet, Roger Newman, Irene Dailey, and Michael Stroka.

Cast: Frances Fisher (Deborah Saxon) , Holland Taylor () , Joel Crothers () , Forrest Compton () , Lois Kibbee () , Ann Flood () , Sharon Gabet () , Roger Newman () , Irene Dailey () , Michael Stroka () , Doris Belack () , Maeve McGuire () , Robert Gerringer () , Penny Fuller () , Don Hastings () , Barbara Berjer () , Kim Hunter () , Bruce Gray () , Constance Ford () , David Froman () , Caroline Lagerfelt () , Cec Linder () , Joanna Miles () , Scott Glenn () , Jacqueline Courtney ()

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Writers: Henry Slesar

Tags: organized crime

Armchair Theatre

Armchair Theatre

Release Date: 1956-07-08

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“Armchair Theatre” is a classic British television drama series that aired from 1956 to 1974. It featured a collection of single plays, each with its own unique storyline and cast. With notable actors like Michael Caine and Tim Curry, this show became a fan favorite during its prime years, particularly under the brilliant leadership of producer Sydney Newman from 1958 to 1962. If you’re a fan of captivating and thought-provoking dramas, this is definitely a must-watch from the 1950s TV era.

Cast: Michael Caine (Helmsman) , Tim Curry (Mick)

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Writers: Colin Welland

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As the World Turns

As the World Turns

Release Date: 1956-01-01

Genres: Soap

“As the World Turns” is a beloved American soap opera that aired from 1956 to 2010, making it the second-longest continuous run of any daytime network soap opera in American history. Set in the fictional town of Oakdale, Illinois, the show follows the lives and dramatic relationships of its characters. With a talented cast including Kathryn Hays, Tamara Tunie, Michael Park, and Julianne Moore, this show captivated audiences for over 50 years, becoming a staple in daytime television.”

Cast: Kathryn Hays (Kim Hughes) , Tamara Tunie (Jessica Griffin) , Michael Park (Jack Snyder) , Grayson McCouch (Dusty Donovan) , Benjamin Hendrickson (Hal Munson) , Jordana Brewster (Nikki Munson) , Terri Garber (Iris Dumbrowski) , Julianne Moore (Frannie Hughes)

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Tony Awards

Tony Awards

Release Date: 1956-04-01

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“The Tony Awards, also known as The Antoinette Perry Award for Excellence in Theatre, is a prestigious annual ceremony that celebrates outstanding achievements in live Broadway theatre. Presented by the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, this show honors the best Broadway productions and performances of the year. It first aired on April 1, 1956, and continues to be a highly anticipated event in the theatre world.”

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Tags: awards show, broadway theatre

Hey, Jeannie!

Hey, Jeannie!

Release Date: 1956-09-08

Genres: Comedy

“Hey, Jeannie!” is a delightful American sitcom that aired in 1956, starring Jeannie Carson as a young Scottish woman navigating life in the bustling city of New York. With Allen Jenkins by her side, the show follows Jeannie’s hilarious adventures and misadventures, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a good laugh. Premiering on September 8, 1956, this charming series quickly became a fan favorite and is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for some classic comedy.

Cast: Jeannie Carson (Jeannie MacLennan) , Allen Jenkins (Al Murray)

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Tags: new york city, culture clash, sitcom

Stanley

Stanley

Release Date: 1956-09-24

Genres:

“Stanley” is a hilarious American sitcom from 1956 starring the talented Buddy Hackett, Carol Burnett, and the voice of Paul Lynde. Set in a fancy New York City hotel, the show follows the misadventures of Stanley, a newsstand operator, and his girlfriend Celia, while the unseen hotel owner, Mr. Fenton, hilariously gives orders to his staff. With its live and energetic performances, “Stanley” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and a glimpse into the vibrant TV shows of the 1950s.

Cast: Buddy Hackett () , Carol Burnett (Celia Howard) , Reedy Talton (Marvin) , Frederic Tozere (Mr. Phillips) , Paul Lynde (Horace Fenton) , Don Pardo (Announcer) , Dody Goodman (Betty) , Norman Fell (Nick) , Jane Connell (Jane)

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The Count of Monte Cristo

The Count of Monte Cristo

Release Date: 1956-02-20

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“The Count of Monte Cristo” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1956 and was based on the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas. Starring George Dolenz, Henry Corden, and Nick Cravat, this 39-episode series takes you on a captivating journey of revenge and redemption. With its release on 20th February 1956, this show quickly became a fan favorite and is still cherished by viewers today.

Cast: George Dolenz (Edmond Dantes / The Count of Monte Cristo) , Henry Corden () , Nick Cravat (Jacopo)

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Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre

Dick Powell’s Zane Grey Theatre

Release Date: 1956-10-05

Genres: Western, Drama

“Dick Powell’s Zane Grey Theatre is a classic American Western anthology series that aired from 1956 to 1961. Hosted by the talented Dick Powell, this show takes viewers on thrilling adventures through the Wild West. With its release in 1956, it quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year, captivating audiences with its captivating stories and talented cast.”

Cast: Dick Powell (Self – Host)

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Tags: anthology

Sheriff of Cochise

Sheriff of Cochise

Release Date: 1956-09-21

Genres: Crime, Western

“Hey, have you heard of the TV show ‘Sheriff of Cochise’? It’s actually not your typical western, even though it’s set in Cochise County, AZ. It’s a contemporary police drama that aired back in 1956 and starred John Bromfield and Stan Jones. It made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year!”

Cast: John Bromfield (Sheriff Frank Morgan) , Stan Jones (Deputy Harry Olson)

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Noah's Ark

Noah’s Ark

Release Date: 1956-09-18

Genres: Drama

“Noah’s Ark” is an American drama series that aired on NBC during the 1956-1957 season. It was one of the early medical shows on American television and stood out for being aired in color, unlike most shows at the time. Starring Paul Burke, May Wynn, and Victor Rodman, this captivating series takes you back to the medical world of 1950s America.

Cast: Paul Burke (Dr. Noah McCann) , May Wynn (Liz Clark) , Victor Rodman (Dr. Sam Rinehart)

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Tags: veterinarian

On Trial

On Trial

Release Date: 1956-09-14

Genres:

“On Trial” is a captivating TV show that premiered on September 14, 1956. Starring the talented Joseph Cotten, this series takes viewers on a thrilling journey through various courtroom dramas. With its intriguing plotlines and top-notch acting, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1956.

Cast: Joseph Cotten ()

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