Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1960: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a groovy journey back to the swinging 60s, a golden era of television that introduced us to some of the most iconic characters and unforgettable storylines. From the eerie suspense of “The Twilight Zone” to the hilarious antics of “The Flintstones”, the 1960s were a veritable treasure trove of TV gold. So, dust off your rabbit ears, adjust your dials, and prepare for a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we count down the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1960. Whether you’re a baby boomer longing for the good old days or a millennial with a taste for vintage, this list is sure to entertain, surprise, and maybe even inspire a binge-watch or two. So, without further ado, let’s tune in and turn back time!
Miss Universe

Miss Universe

Release Date: 1960-07-09

Genres: Reality

“Miss Universe” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1960 and quickly became a global sensation. Hosted by the United States-based Miss Universe Organization, this annual international beauty pageant attracted over 2.5 billion viewers from more than 190 countries. With the talented Helen O’Connell as one of the lead actors, this show showcased the world’s most stunning contestants competing for the prestigious title of Miss Universe.

Cast: Helen O’Connell (Host)

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Tags: competition, pageant, beauty pageant

Citizen James

Citizen James

Release Date: 1960-11-24

Genres: Comedy

“Citizen James” is a hilarious BBC sitcom that aired from 1960 to 1962. Starring the talented comedian Sid James, along with Bill Kerr, Alec Bregonzi, Sydney Tafler, and Liz Fraser, the show follows Sid’s character as he embarks on various get-rich-quick schemes, often with the help of his dim-witted Australian friend, Billy. With a change in format after the first series, Sid becomes a people’s champion fighting for social justice, and the show takes a new direction. It’s a must-watch for fans of classic comedy!

Cast: Sid James () , Bill Kerr () , Alec Bregonzi () , Sydney Tafler () , Liz Fraser ()

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Tags: scam, spin off, sitcom

Danger Man

Danger Man

Release Date: 1960-09-11

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Danger Man” is a thrilling British TV series that aired from 1960 to 1962, and then again from 1964 to 1968. Starring the talented Patrick McGoohan as secret agent John Drake, the show follows his exciting adventures as he tackles dangerous missions. Created by Ralph Smart and featuring captivating scripts, “Danger Man” was a hit during its time and is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of action-packed spy dramas.

Cast: Patrick McGoohan (John Drake)

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Tags: espionage, spy

The Andy Griffith Show

The Andy Griffith Show

Release Date: 1960-10-03

Genres: Comedy

“The Andy Griffith Show” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1960 to 1968. Set in the fictional small town of Mayberry, North Carolina, the show follows the life of widowed sheriff Andy Griffith as he navigates the challenges of his job with the help of his bumbling deputy Barney Fife, his spinster aunt Aunt Bee, and his young son Opie. With its nostalgic charm and endearing characters, the show became a huge hit, consistently ranking high in the Nielsen ratings and even ending its final season at number one. It has since been recognized as one of the best shows in American television history.

Cast: Andy Griffith (Andy Taylor) , Ron Howard (Opie Taylor) , Frances Bavier (Aunt Bee Taylor)

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Tags: small town, sheriff, north carolina, jail, courthouse, widower, aunt nephew relationship, americana, small town sheriff, sitcom, wisdom, justice of the peace, father son relationship

Maigret

Maigret

Release Date: 1960-10-31

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Maigret” is a captivating BBC series that aired from 1960 to 1963, based on the novels by Georges Simenon. Starring Rupert Davies as Inspector Maigret, a French detective known for his keen observation skills, the show follows his methodical approach to solving crimes by watching and listening. With a talented cast and its release date in 1960, this TV show is definitely worth checking out for fans of classic crime dramas.

Cast: Rupert Davies (Chief Inspector Maigret) , Ewen Solon (Lucas) , Henry Oscar (Inspector Lognon) , Helen Shingler (Madame Maigret) , Neville Jason (Lapointe)

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Writers: Georges Simenon

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Pony Express

Pony Express

Release Date: 1960-03-09

Genres: Western

“Pony Express” is an exciting American western TV series that aired in 1960. Set in the 1860s, the show follows the thrilling adventures of an agent working for the Central Overland Express Company, famously known as the Pony Express. Starring Grant Sullivan, this half-hour program captivated audiences with its thirty-five episodes, which aired from the fall of 1959 until May 1960.

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Pete and Gladys

Pete and Gladys

Release Date: 1960-09-19

Genres: Comedy

“Pete and Gladys” is a delightful American sitcom that aired from 1960 to 1962. Starring Harry Morgan and Cara Williams, the show follows the humorous adventures of a couple named Pete and Gladys. With its charming cast and witty storytelling, this TV series was a favorite among viewers in 1960 and remains a classic in the world of sitcoms.

Cast: Harry Morgan () , Cara Williams (Gladys Porter) , Verna Felton ()

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Tags: california, insurance salesman, sitcom

The Westerner

The Westerner

Release Date: 1960-09-30

Genres: Western

“The Westerner” is a classic American Western series that aired on NBC from September to December 1960. Created by Sam Peckinpah and produced by Four Star Television, it stars Brian Keith as the main character, Dave Blassingame. Set in the wild west, the show follows Dave’s adventures alongside semi-regular character Burgundy Smith, played by John Dehner.

Cast: Brian Keith (Dave Blassingame)

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Tags: wild west

My Three Sons

My Three Sons

Release Date: 1960-09-29

Genres: Comedy

“My Three Sons” is a heartwarming TV show that premiered on September 29, 1960. It follows the story of Steven Douglas, an aeronautical engineer and widower, as he raises his three sons with the help of his father-in-law and later their great-uncle. As the seasons progress, the family grows with an adopted son, a stepdaughter, wives, and even another generation of sons, making it a truly loving and inclusive family. Starring Fred MacMurray, Don Grady, Barry Livingston, Stanley Livingston, William Demarest, Beverly Garland, and Tina Cole, this show was one of the best-voted TV shows of 1960.

Cast: Fred MacMurray (Steve Douglas) , Don Grady (Robbie Douglas) , Barry Livingston (Ernie Thompson) , Stanley Livingston (Chip Douglas) , William Demarest (Charley O’Casey) , Beverly Garland (Barbara) , Tina Cole (Katie)

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Tags: single father, sitcom

Route 66

Route 66

Release Date: 1960-10-07

Genres: Drama

“Route 66” is a classic American TV series that aired from 1960 to 1964. It follows the exciting adventures of two young men, Tod Stiles and Buz Murdock, as they travel across the United States in a cool Chevrolet Corvette sports car. The show’s catchy instrumental theme song and the iconic Corvette convertible make it a must-watch for fans of vintage TV shows.

Cast: Glenn Corbett (Linc Case)

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Tags: route 66, road trip, chevrolet

The Barbara Stanwyck Show

The Barbara Stanwyck Show

Release Date: 1960-09-19

Genres: Drama

“The Barbara Stanwyck Show” is an anthology drama series that aired from September 1960 to September 1961. Hosted by the talented Barbara Stanwyck, she also starred in most of the half-hour episodes, showcasing her outstanding acting skills. The show featured a variety of stories, including pilot episodes for potential series that unfortunately never came to fruition. Stanwyck’s portrayal of “Josephine Little,” an American woman running an import-export shop in Hong Kong, was particularly captivating. Despite its short run, the show garnered critical acclaim, with Stanwyck even winning an Emmy Award for her exceptional performance in 1961.

Cast: Barbara Stanwyck (Self – Host)

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Tags: anthology

Thriller

Thriller

Release Date: 1960-09-13

Genres: Crime

“Thriller” is a captivating anthology TV series that aired from 1960 to 1962 on NBC. Hosted by the legendary Boris Karloff, the show presents a chilling blend of eerie horror and suspenseful crime stories. With Karloff’s charismatic presence and the show’s macabre and Hitchcockian vibe, it’s no wonder “Thriller” made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1960.

Cast: Boris Karloff (Self – Host)

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Tags: dystopia, supernatural, possession, swamp, anthology, revenge, old dark house, somber, parapsychology, horror anthology, magick, ghostly hauntings, weird tales, curses

Stagecoach West

Stagecoach West

Release Date: 1960-10-04

Genres: Western

“Stagecoach West” is a captivating American Western drama series that aired from October 4, 1960, to June 27, 1961. Set in the post-Civil War era, the show follows Luke Perry and Simon Kane, deputy U.S. marshals who operate the Timberland Stage Line. Together with Simon’s son, Davey, they embark on thrilling journeys from Outpost, Missouri to San Francisco, facing stagecoach robbers, murderers, and even the forces of nature. With a talented cast including Wayne Rogers, Robert Bray, and Richard Eyer, this one-hour black-and-white program offers an exciting blend of action, adventure, and human interest stories.

Cast: Wayne Rogers () , Robert Bray () , Richard Eyer ()

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Klondike

Klondike

Release Date: 1960-10-10

Genres: Western

“Klondike” is a thrilling American Western TV series that aired in 1960-1961. Starring Ralph Taeger and James Coburn, the show follows the adventures of a group of characters in the Klondike region. With its 17 episodes, “Klondike” faced tough competition but managed to captivate audiences with its exciting storyline and talented cast, including Joi Lansing and Mari Blanchard.

Cast: James Coburn (Jeff Durain) , Ralph Taeger (Michael Halliday) , Joi Lansing (Goldie) , Mari Blanchard (Kathy O’Hara)

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Tags: gold rush, klondike gold rush, 19th century, northern canada

The Tall Man

The Tall Man

Release Date: 1960-09-10

Genres: Western

“The Tall Man” is a captivating American western TV show that aired from 1960 to 1962. Set in the Wild West, it follows the thrilling adventures of Sheriff Pat Garrett and the notorious gunfighter Billy the Kid. With talented actors Clu Gulager and Barry Sullivan leading the way, this series is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Clu Gulager (Billy the Kid) , Barry Sullivan (Pat Garrett)

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Tags: sheriff, new mexico, wild west, 19th century, pat garrett

The Chevy Mystery Show

The Chevy Mystery Show

Release Date: 1960-05-29

Genres: Mystery

“The Chevy Mystery Show is a thrilling American TV series that aired in 1960 as a summer replacement. With a different mystery unfolding each week, this anthology series keeps you on the edge of your seat. Starring Vincent Price and Walter Slezak, it’s a must-watch for all mystery enthusiasts!”

Cast: Vincent Price (Host) , Walter Slezak (Host)

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Tags: anthology

The Aquanauts

The Aquanauts

Release Date: 1960-09-14

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“The Aquanauts” is an exciting American adventure/drama series that aired on CBS during the 1960-1961 season. Starring Keith Larsen, Jeremy Slate, and Ron Ely, this show takes you on thrilling underwater adventures. With its release on September 14, 1960, it’s no wonder it made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1960!

Cast: Ron Ely (Mike Madison) , Jeremy Slate (Larry Lahr) , Keith Larsen (Drake Andrews)

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Tags: sea, california, treasure hunt, scuba diving, diver

Checkmate

Checkmate

Release Date: 1960-09-17

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Checkmate” is a captivating detective TV show that aired from 1960 to 1962. Starring Anthony George, Doug McClure, and Sebastian Cabot, this series follows a team of skilled investigators as they tackle intriguing cases. With guest appearances from renowned actors like Charles Laughton, Peter Lorre, and Lee Marvin, “Checkmate” promises an exciting blend of mystery and top-notch performances.

Cast: Anthony George (Don Corey) , Doug McClure (Jed Sills) , Sebastian Cabot (Dr. Carl Hyatt)

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Tags: san francisco, california, private investigator, detective agency

Tate

Tate

Release Date: 1960-06-08

Genres: Western

“Tate” is an American Western TV show that aired in 1960. Created by Harry Julian Fink and produced by Perry Como’s Roncom Video Films, Inc., it served as a summer replacement for The Perry Como Show. Starring David McLean, the series follows the adventures of its titular character, Tate, as he navigates the Wild West. With Richard Whorf guest starring and Ida Lupino directing one segment, this show promises an exciting blend of action and drama set in the rugged frontier.

Cast: David McLean (Tate)

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Tags: wild west, 19th century

Coronation Street

Coronation Street

Release Date: 1960-12-09

Genres: Soap

“Coronation Street” is a beloved British soap opera that first aired on December 9, 1960. Set in a working-class neighborhood, the show revolves around the lives of ordinary people and their everyday experiences at home, work, and their local pub, the Rovers Return Inn. With its relatable characters and engaging storylines, it has become Britain’s longest-running soap, captivating audiences for over six decades. Plus, it stars the talented William Roache, adding to its appeal.

Cast: William Roache (Ken Barlow)

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Tags: northern england, community, manchester

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