Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1962: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Fasten your seatbelts, folks, we’re about to take a groovy trip down memory lane! The year is 1962, the Beatles are yet to invade America, and the television is the centerpiece of every living room. It’s a time when TV shows were more than just background noise; they were a weekly event, a shared experience that brought families together. From the suspenseful twists of “The Twilight Zone” to the wholesome charm of “The Andy Griffith Show”, these shows defined an era and left an indelible mark on pop culture. So, dust off your rabbit ears, adjust your horizontal hold, and prepare for a nostalgic journey as we countdown the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1962. Whether you’re a baby boomer looking to relive your childhood or a millennial eager to discover the classics, this list is sure to entertain. So, without further ado, let’s tune in!
The Alfred Hitchcock Hour

The Alfred Hitchcock Hour

Release Date: 1962-09-20

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Drama

“The Alfred Hitchcock Hour” is a thrilling TV show that premiered on September 20, 1962. Hosted by the master of suspense and mystery himself, Alfred Hitchcock, it serves as a continuation of the popular anthology series “Alfred Hitchcock Presents”. Get ready to be captivated by a series of suspenseful and mysterious stories brought to life by the iconic filmmaker.

Cast: Alfred Hitchcock (Self – Host)

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Tags: anthology

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

Release Date: 1962-10-01

Genres: Talk

“The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a legendary talk show that aired from 1962 to 1992. Hosted by the charismatic Johnny Carson, it started in New York City before permanently moving to Burbank, California in 1972. This iconic show, ranked #12 on TV Guide’s 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time, entertained audiences with Carson’s wit and charm for three decades.”

Cast: Johnny Carson (Self – Host)

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Tags: talk show, late-night show

Steptoe and Son

Steptoe and Son

Release Date: 1962-01-05

Genres: Comedy

“Steptoe and Son” is a classic British sitcom that aired from 1962 to 1965, with a second run from 1970 to 1974. The show revolves around the hilarious adventures of a father and son duo, played by Wilfred Brambell and Harry H. Corbett, who make a living by selling used items. Set in the fictional street of Oil Drum Lane in London, this beloved series was voted as the 15th best sitcom in a 2004 BBC poll. With its catchy theme tune “Old Ned” and a movie adaptation released in the early 70s, “Steptoe and Son” has become a timeless comedy favorite.

Cast: Harry H. Corbett (Harold Steptoe) , Wilfrid Brambell (Albert Steptoe)

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Tags: son, dark comedy, melancholy, father, love-hate relationship, business, working class, sitcom

Benny Hill

Benny Hill

Release Date: 1962-02-23

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“Benny Hill” is a hilarious TV show that premiered on February 23, 1962. Starring the talented Benny Hill, this comedy series was voted as one of the best in 1962. With its witty humor and entertaining sketches, it’s no wonder this show made it to the top 20 list!

Cast: Benny Hill ()

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Combat!

Combat!

Release Date: 1962-10-02

Genres: War & Politics, Drama

“Combat!” is a gripping American TV show that aired from 1962 to 1967. Set during World War II, it follows the intense and challenging lives of a group of American soldiers fighting against the Germans in France. Led by the courageous Second Lieutenant Gil Hanley, played by Rick Jason, and the tough Sergeant “Chip” Saunders, portrayed by Vic Morrow, the show offers a realistic and gritty portrayal of the soldiers’ experiences on the battlefield. With a talented cast and its release in 1962, this series quickly became a favorite among viewers.

Cast: Rick Jason (Lieutenant Gil Hanley) , Vic Morrow (Sergeant Chip Saunders) , Jack Hogan (William G. Kirby) , Pierre Jalbert (Paul “Caje” Lemay) , Conlan Carter (Doc) , Dick Peabody (Little John) , Tom Lowell (Billy Nelson) , Steven Rogers (Doc Walton)

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Tags: world war ii, us army, u.s. soldier, military, 1940s, occupied france

Das Halstuch

Das Halstuch

Release Date: 1962-01-03

Genres: Crime

“Das Halstuch” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1962 and was voted as one of the best that year. Starring a talented cast including Heinz Drache, Albert Lieven, and Eckart Dux, this captivating series follows a gripping storyline centered around a mysterious murder and the investigation that unfolds. With its release on January 3rd, “Das Halstuch” is definitely a must-watch for fans of suspenseful dramas from the 60s.

Cast: Heinz Drache (Kriminalinspektor Harry Yates) , Albert Lieven (Clifton „Terry“ Morris) , Eckart Dux (Sergeant Jeffreys) , Horst Tappert (Vikar Nigel Matthews) , Margot Trooger (Marian Hastings) , Dieter Borsche (John Hopedean) , Hellmut Lange (Edward Collins) , Gardy Granass (Jill Yates) , Eva Pflug (Diana Winston) , Alf Marholm (Inspektor Rowland) , Erwin Linder (Alistair Goodman) , Erika Beer (Kim Marshall)

Directors: Hans Quest

Writers: Francis Durbridge, Marianne de Barde

Tags: london, england, murder, miniseries

Man of the World

Man of the World

Release Date: 1962-09-29

Genres: Drama

“Man of the World” is a captivating TV drama series that aired in the United Kingdom in 1962 and 1963. Starring Craig Stevens as Michael Strait, a renowned photographer, the show takes us on thrilling adventures as he investigates mysterious events among the rich and glamorous in exotic locations like Iraq, Indo-China, and Algiers. With Tracy Reed co-starring in the first season, this monochrome series of 20 one-hour episodes is a must-watch for fans of intrigue and adventure.

Cast: Craig Stevens (Michael Strait) , Tracy Reed () , Graham Stark ()

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The Lucy Show

The Lucy Show

Release Date: 1962-10-01

Genres: Comedy

“The Lucy Show is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1962 to 1968, following Lucille Ball’s iconic role in I Love Lucy. With a change in cast and premise in its third season, the show was divided into two distinct eras. Lucille Ball, along with Gale Gordon, remained as the main stars throughout the series, while Vivian Vance joined as the co-star for the first three seasons. The show garnered critical acclaim, with Ball winning consecutive Emmy Awards for her outstanding lead performance in the final two seasons.”

Cast: Lucille Ball (Lucy Carmichael) , Gale Gordon (Theodore J. Mooney)

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Tags: new york city, single mother, sitcom, living with friends

The Saint

The Saint

“The Saint” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1962 and features the talented Roger Moore as Simon Templar. With his charm and sophistication, Simon plays a modern-day Robin Hood, recovering ill-gotten wealth and generously distributing it to those in need. It’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1962!

Cast: Roger Moore (Simon Templar)

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Tags: outlaw, thief, gentleman thief

The Scales of Justice

The Scales of Justice

Release Date: 1962-01-11

Genres: Crime

“The Scales of Justice” is a unique TV show that aired in 1962. It was not your typical TV production, but rather a series of cinema second features produced by Anglo Amalgamated. Each episode, running for about 30 minutes, followed the “Scotland Yard” series of shorts and was based on real cases. With a talented cast of familiar British actors and high production standards, this show offers tightly plotted screenplays that will keep you hooked.

Cast: Edgar Lustgarten (Self – Introduces)

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McHale's Navy

McHale’s Navy

Release Date: 1962-10-11

Genres: Comedy

“McHale’s Navy” is a hilarious TV show set during World War II, following the adventures of Lieutenant Commander Quinton McHale and his crew on Torpedo Patrol Boat #73. The show features a colorful cast of characters, including a con man, a womanizer, a dedicated family man, a talented magician, and even a former Japanese Navy deserter who happens to be an amazing cook. With a talented ensemble cast led by Ernest Borgnine, Joe Flynn, and Tim Conway, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its mix of comedy and wartime shenanigans.

Cast: Ernest Borgnine (Quinton McHale) , Joe Flynn (Captain Wallace B. Binghamton) , Tim Conway (Ensign Charles Parker) , Carl Ballantine (Lester Gruber) , Gary Vinson (George Christopher) , Billy Sands (‘Tinker’ Bell) , Edson Stroll (Virgil Edwards) , John Wright (Willy Moss) , Yoshio Yoda (Fuji Kobiaji) , Gavin MacLeod (Happy) , Bob Hastings (Lt. Elroy Carpenter)

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Tags: rogue navy, pt boats

The Beverly Hillbillies

The Beverly Hillbillies

Release Date: 1962-09-26

Genres: Comedy

“The Beverly Hillbillies” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1962. It follows the story of Jed Clampett, whose swamp turns out to be rich in oil. After selling his land to the O.K. Oil Company, Jed and his family move from their humble home to a luxurious 35-room mansion in Beverly Hills. With a talented cast including Buddy Ebsen, Raymond Bailey, Donna Douglas, Max Baer Jr., Nancy Kulp, Irene Ryan, and William ‘Shorty’ Young, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its comedic adventures.

Cast: Buddy Ebsen (Jed “JD” Clampett) , Raymond Bailey (Milburn Drysdale) , Donna Douglas (Elly May Clampett) , Max Baer Jr. (Jethro Bodine) , Nancy Kulp (Jane Hathaway) , Irene Ryan (Granny) , William ‘Shorty’ Young (Shorty)

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Tags: wealthy, fish out of water, campy, beverly hills, sitcom

I'm Dickens, He's Fenster

I’m Dickens, He’s Fenster

Release Date: 1962-09-28

Genres:

“I’m Dickens, He’s Fenster” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired during the 1962-63 season on ABC. Created and produced by Leonard Stern, the show revolves around the comedic misadventures of two friends, Dickens and Fenster, played by John Astin and Marty Ingels respectively. With its premiere on September 28, 1962, this sitcom quickly became a fan favorite and is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for some classic comedy.

Cast: John Astin () , Marty Ingels () , Emmaline Henry ()

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Z-Cars

Z-Cars

Release Date: 1962-01-02

Genres: Drama

“Z-Cars” is a popular British TV drama series that aired from January 1962 to September 1978. Set in the fictional town of Newtown, which is based on Kirkby, Merseyside, the show revolves around the daily lives and work of mobile uniformed police officers. Starring Frank Windsor, James Ellis, and Douglas Fielding, “Z-Cars” offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of law enforcement in the early 1960s.

Cast: Frank Windsor (DS John Watt) , James Ellis (Bert Lynch) , Douglas Fielding (Sgt. Alec Quilley)

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Tags: police, police everyday life, police investigation

The Virginian

The Virginian

Release Date: 1962-09-19

Genres: Western

“The Virginian” is a classic TV show set in the 1890s, taking place at the Shiloh Ranch in Wyoming Territory. It follows the ranch’s ownership by Judge Henry Garth, the Grainger brothers, and Colonel Alan MacKenzie. With a focus on character development and relationships, this western series offers a variety of captivating stories. Starring Doug McClure, James Drury, Lee Majors, and Sara Lane, “The Virginian” premiered on September 19, 1962, and was among the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Doug McClure (Trampas) , James Drury (The “Virginian”) , Lee Majors (Roy Tate) , Sara Lane (Elizabeth Grainger)

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Tags: ranch, 19th century

Ensign O'Toole

Ensign O’Toole

Release Date: 1962-09-23

Genres: War & Politics, Comedy

“Ensign O’Toole” is a hilarious military comedy that aired from September 1962 to May 1963. Starring the talented Dean Jones as the laid-back Ensign O’Toole, the show follows his adventures as a nonchalant Navy officer aboard the USS Appleby in the early 1960s. With a stellar cast including Jack Mullaney, Harvey Lembeck, Jay C. Flippen, and Jack Albertson, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and lighthearted storyline.

Cast: Dean Jones (Ensign O’Toole) , Jack Mullaney (Lieutenant Rex St. John) , Harvey Lembeck (Seaman Gabby Di Julio) , Jay C. Flippen (Chief Petty Officer Homer Nelson) , Jack Albertson (Lieutenant Commander Virgil Stoner)

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Tags: boat, u.s. navy, military, sitcom

Halsduken

Halsduken

Release Date: 1962-11-20

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Halsduken” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1962 and was among the best voted that year. Starring Lars Ekborg, Gertrud Fridh, Frank Sundström, and a talented ensemble cast, this series follows the intriguing lives of a group of individuals. With its release on November 20th, “Halsduken” is a must-watch for anyone seeking a compelling and well-acted television experience from the early 60s.

Cast: Lars Ekborg (Kommissarie Yates) , Gertrud Fridh (Marianne Hastings) , Frank Sundström (Clifton Morris) , Claes Thelander (Edward Collins) , Ulla Sjöblom (Kim Stevens) , Marianne Aminoff (Diana Winston) , Doris Svedlund (Jill Yates) , Åke Grönberg (Alistair Goodman) , Ragnar Falck (Nigel Matthews) , Bengt Eklund (John Hopedean) , Tomas Bolme (Gerald Quincey) , Bengt Blomgren (Överkonstapel Jeffreys) , Monica Nielsen (Phyllis North) , Tor Isedal (Eric) , Willy Peters (Kommissarie Rowland) , Lauritz Falk (Polisintendent Nash) , Manne Grünberger (Kent)

Directors: Hans Lagerkvist

Writers: Francis Durbridge

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Zero One

Zero One

Release Date: 1962-10-03

Genres: Crime

“Zero One” is a captivating TV show that premiered on October 3, 1962. Starring Nigel Patrick, William Smith, and Katya Douglas, this thrilling series takes viewers on a journey into the world of espionage and technology. With its intriguing storyline and talented cast, it’s no wonder “Zero One” made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1962.

Cast: Nigel Patrick (Alan Garnett) , William Smith (Jimmy Delaney) , Katya Douglas (Maya)

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The Eleventh Hour

The Eleventh Hour

Release Date: 1962-10-03

Genres: Drama

“The Eleventh Hour” is a captivating American medical drama set in the field of psychiatry. Starring Wendell Corey, Jack Ging, and Ralph Bellamy, the show aired from October 3, 1962, to September 9, 1964, on NBC. With sixty-two new episodes and selected rebroadcasts, it offers an intriguing exploration of the complexities of the human mind.

Cast: Jack Ging (Dr. Paul Graham) , Ralph Bellamy (Dr. Theodore Bassett) , Ralph Bellamy (Dr. L. Richard Starke)

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Tags: psychologist, psychiatrist, medical drama, mental health professional

Sam Benedict

Sam Benedict

Release Date: 1962-09-15

Genres: Drama

“Sam Benedict” is a captivating legal drama that aired on NBC from September 1962 to March 1963. Based on the real-life lawyer Jake Erlich, the show follows the intriguing cases and adventures of Sam Benedict, brilliantly portrayed by Edmond O’Brien. With a talented cast and the expertise of Erlich himself as a technical consultant, this series promises an engaging and authentic portrayal of the legal world in the early 1960s.

Cast: Edmond O’Brien (Sam Benedict) , Richard Rust (Hank Tabor) , Joan Tompkins (Trudy Wagner)

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Tags: san francisco, california, lawyer

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