Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1963: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to journey back to 1963, a golden year in television history. Before the era of binge-watching and streaming services, TV was a simpler pleasure, and the shows from ’63 still hold a special place in our hearts. From the suspenseful thrillers to the laugh-out-loud comedies, these shows were the talk of the water cooler and the highlight of our evenings. So, dust off your rabbit ears, adjust your antennas, and prepare for a nostalgic countdown of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1963. Whether you’re a Baby Boomer looking to reminisce or a millennial eager to discover classic television, this list is your ticket to a time when TV was less about reality and more about pure, unadulterated entertainment. So, without further ado, let’s tune in!
Das Kriminalmuseum

Das Kriminalmuseum

Release Date: 1963-04-04

Genres: Crime

“Das Kriminalmuseum” is a captivating German TV series that aired from 1963 to 1970 on ZDF. Each episode takes you on a thrilling journey through a crime museum, where the story behind one of the displays is revealed. With episodes ranging from 60 to 75 minutes, the show features different actors as the criminal commissioner, including the renowned Reinhard Glemnitz. This classic series, accompanied by the mesmerizing theme music composed by Martin Böttcher, is a must-watch for crime enthusiasts and fans of German television history.

Cast: Reinhard Glemnitz (Erzähler)

Directors: Helmut Ashley

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The Human Jungle

The Human Jungle

Release Date: 1963-03-30

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“The Human Jungle” is a captivating British TV series from 1963 that revolves around a psychiatrist’s intriguing world. Starring the talented Herbert Lom, this show takes you on a journey through the complexities of the human mind, offering a unique perspective on the human psyche. With its release on March 30, 1963, it quickly became a favorite among viewers, making it one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Herbert Lom (Doctor Roger Corder M. D., D. P. M.)

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Tags: psychiatrist

The Dick Emery Show

The Dick Emery Show

Release Date: 1963-07-13

Genres: Comedy

“The Dick Emery Show” is a hilarious British sketch comedy that aired on the BBC from 1963 to 1981. With a talented cast including Dick Emery, Joan Sims, Deryck Guyler, Pat Coombs, Roy Kinnear, and Michael Bates, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and memorable characters. Tune in to experience the laughter that has made this show a fan favorite since its release on July 13, 1963.

Cast: Dick Emery () , Joan Sims () , Deryck Guyler () , Pat Coombs () , Roy Kinnear () , Michael Bates ()

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The Judy Garland Show

The Judy Garland Show

Release Date: 1963-09-29

Genres: Comedy

“The Judy Garland Show” is a musical variety TV series that aired in 1963-1964. It follows the legendary Judy Garland as she takes on the challenge of hosting a weekly show to overcome her financial struggles. Despite facing production difficulties and format changes, Garland’s talent shines through, although her co-star Jerry Van Dyke and the initial variety format didn’t resonate with viewers. Unfortunately, the show was cancelled after just one season, but it has since gained recognition as one of the “Cancelled Too Soon” gems by TV Guide.

Cast: Judy Garland (Herself) , Jerry Van Dyke (Himself) , Mel Tormé (Herself)

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Tags: variety show

Let's Make a Deal

Let’s Make a Deal

Release Date: 1963-12-30

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“Let’s Make a Deal” is a classic television game show that first aired in 1963. Hosted by Monty Hall, the show revolves around audience members who are offered exciting deals by the host. They have to decide whether to take a chance on a valuable prize or risk ending up with a “Zonk,” an undesirable item. With its unique concept and the fun and crazy costumes worn by audience members, this show has become a favorite among viewers worldwide.

Cast: Monty Hall () , Wendell Niles () , Billy Bush () , Nicole Pulliam () , Vanessa Lachey () , Jay Stewart () , Carol Merrill () , Bob Hilton () , Geoff Edwards () , Vance DeGeneres ()

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Tags: game show, game, tv show in film, tv host, celebrity game, old games

Doctor Who

Doctor Who

“Doctor Who” is a beloved TV show that first aired in 1963 and continues to captivate audiences to this day. It follows the thrilling adventures of the Doctor, a time-travelling humanoid alien, as he explores the universe in his sentient time-travelling space ship called the TARDIS. With a blue British police box exterior, the Doctor, played by Sylvester McCoy, and his companion, Sophie Aldred, face a wide range of foes while saving civilizations, helping ordinary people, and making things right.

Cast: Sylvester McCoy (The Doctor) , Sophie Aldred (Ace)

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Tags: time travel, alien, space

The Outer Limits

The Outer Limits

Release Date: 1963-09-16

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Outer Limits” is a captivating anthology TV series from 1963 that features a collection of standalone sci-fi-horror stories. With its intriguing plot twists at the end, the show keeps you on the edge of your seat. Starring Vic Perrin, this thrilling series is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Vic Perrin (Control Voice (voice) (uncredited))

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Tags: dystopia, alien life-form, anthology, somber, horror anthology, horror, alien plant-life, off-screen host

East Side/West Side

East Side/West Side

Release Date: 1963-09-23

Genres: Drama

“East Side/West Side” is a captivating American drama series that aired in 1963, starring talented actors like George C. Scott, Elizabeth Wilson, Cicely Tyson, John McMartin, and later on, Linden Chiles. The show follows the lives of its characters, exploring the contrasting realities of the East and West sides of a city. Despite its short-lived run of only one season, “East Side/West Side” gained recognition and was even ranked #6 on TV Guide’s 2013 list of shows that were “Cancelled Too Soon.”

Cast: George C. Scott (Neil Brock) , Elizabeth Wilson () , Cicely Tyson () , John McMartin () , Linden Chiles ()

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Writers: Arnold Perl

Tags: new york city, social worker

Breaking Point

Breaking Point

Release Date: 1963-09-16

Genres: Drama

“Breaking Point” is a captivating medical drama that aired in 1963. Starring Paul Richards and Eduard Franz, the show follows the intense lives of doctors as they navigate the challenges of the medical field. With its spinoff from “Ben Casey” and a talented cast, this series promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storylines and compelling performances.

Cast: Eduard Franz () , Paul Richards () , Robert Redford (Roger Morton) , Joey Heatherton (Dory Costain)

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Writers: Allan Sloane

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The Fugitive

The Fugitive

“The Fugitive” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1963 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the gripping story of Richard Kimble, who is wrongly convicted of his wife’s murder and sentenced to death. After a fortunate train crash allows him to escape, Kimble embarks on a relentless quest to find the true killer, all while being relentlessly pursued by the determined Police Lieutenant Philip Gerard. With a talented cast led by David Janssen, Barry Morse, and William Conrad, this show is a must-watch for anyone who loves suspense and mystery.

Cast: David Janssen (Richard Kimble) , Barry Morse (Lieutenant Gerard) , William Conrad (Narrator)

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Tags: escape, fugitive, pursuit, one armed man, integrity

Programa Silvio Santos

Programa Silvio Santos

Release Date: 1963-06-02

Genres: Talk

“Programa Silvio Santos” is a highly acclaimed TV show that aired in 1963. Hosted by the charismatic Silvio Santos and featuring Patrícia Abravanel, this show quickly became a fan favorite. With its release on June 2nd, it captivated audiences with its entertaining content and engaging performances, making it one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Silvio Santos (Self – Host) , Patrícia Abravanel (Self – Host)

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Tags: game show, variety show, live studio audience, entertainment

The French Chef

The French Chef

Release Date: 1963-02-02

Genres: Reality

“The French Chef” is a classic television cooking show that aired from 1963 to 1973. Hosted by the talented Julia Child, it was one of the first cooking shows in America and was based on her book “Mastering the Art of French Cooking.” With its educational and entertaining approach, the show became a hit and continues to be loved by viewers, even airing reruns on PBS until 1989 and currently on the Cooking Channel.

Cast: Julia Child (Self – Host)

Directors: David Atwood, Russell Fortier

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Tags: cooking, food, chef, instructional

Mr. Novak

Mr. Novak

Release Date: 1963-09-24

Genres: Drama

“Mr. Novak” is a captivating American drama series that aired on NBC from 1963 to 1965. Starring James Franciscus in the lead role, the show follows the life of Mr. Novak, a dedicated educator, as he navigates the challenges and triumphs of teaching. With a talented cast including Dean Jagger, Bill Zuckert, and Phyllis Avery, this show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the educational landscape of the 1960s.

Cast: James Franciscus (John Novak) , Dean Jagger (Principal Albert Vane) , Bill Zuckert (Mr. Arthur Bradwell) , Peter Hansen (Mr. Parkson) , Sandy Millar (Toni) , Phyllis Avery (Ruth Wilkinson) , Vince Howard (Mr. Butler)

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Tags: high school, teacher, los angeles, california, high school teacher

The Danny Kaye Show

The Danny Kaye Show

Release Date: 1963-09-25

Genres: Comedy

“The Danny Kaye Show” is a popular American variety show hosted by the talented Danny Kaye. It aired on CBS from 1963 to 1967 and was a Wednesday night favorite. At the height of his fame, Kaye brought his comedic charm and musical talents to the small screen, captivating audiences with his lively performances. Starting in black-and-white and later switching to color, this series was a hit, showcasing Kaye’s versatility and entertaining guests week after week.

Cast: Danny Kaye (Self – Host)

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Tags: variety show

My Favorite Martian

My Favorite Martian

Release Date: 1963-09-29

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Comedy

“My Favorite Martian” is a classic TV show from 1963 that follows the adventures of newspaper reporter Tim O’Hara. After stumbling upon a crashed alien spaceship, Tim discovers a friendly Martian who disguises himself as Tim’s Uncle Martin. Together, they work on repairing the spaceship while trying to keep the Martian’s true identity a secret from the authorities. With a talented cast including Bill Bixby and Ray Walston, this show is a delightful blend of comedy and sci-fi that will keep you entertained.

Cast: Bill Bixby (Tim O’Hara) , Ray Walston (Uncle Martin) , Alan Hewitt (Det. Bill Brennan) , Pamela Britton (Mrs. Lorelei Brown)

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Tags: alien, reporter, los angeles, california, sitcom

Petticoat Junction

Petticoat Junction

Release Date: 1963-09-24

Genres: Comedy

“Petticoat Junction” is a heartwarming TV show that aired in 1963. Set in the Shady Rest Hotel, the Bradley family, led by Kate and her three daughters, take on the responsibility of running the hotel. With a talented cast including Mike Minor, Meredith MacRae, Lori Saunders, Edgar Buchanan, Frank Cady, Rufe Davis, and Linda Kaye, this show promises to be a delightful watch for those who enjoy family-oriented storylines.

Cast: Mike Minor (Steve Elliott) , Meredith MacRae (Billie Jo Bradley) , Lori Saunders (Bobbie Jo Bradley) , Edgar Buchanan (Uncle Joe Carson) , Frank Cady (Sam Drucker) , Rufe Davis (Floyd Smoot) , Linda Kaye (Betty Jo Bradley)

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Tags: hotel, sitcom

The Lieutenant

The Lieutenant

Release Date: 1963-09-14

Genres: Drama

“The Lieutenant” is a captivating American TV series created by Gene Roddenberry, the mastermind behind “Star Trek.” Set in the backdrop of the Cold War, the show revolves around the lives of the U.S. Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton. Led by Second Lieutenant William Tiberius Rice, played by Gary Lockwood, the series delves into the experiences of both enlisted Marines and high-ranking officers. With its release in 1963, this hour-long drama promises an intriguing and immersive look into the world of the military during peacetime.

Cast: Gary Lockwood (Lt. William ‘Bill’ Rice) , Robert Vaughn (Captain Ray Rambridge)

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Tags: military base, u.s. marine, military

Burke's Law

Burke’s Law

Release Date: 1963-09-20

Genres: Drama

“Burke’s Law” is a classic American detective series that aired from 1963 to 1965 and was later revived in the 1990s. Starring Gene Barry as Amos Burke, a wealthy captain of the Los Angeles police homicide division, the show follows his thrilling adventures as he solves crimes while being chauffeured around in his luxurious Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II. With a captivating storyline and a talented cast, this show is a must-watch for fans of crime-solving dramas.

Cast: Gene Barry (Captain Amos Burke) , Regis Toomey (Detective Lester Hart) , Leon Lontoc (Henry) , Gary Conway (Detective Tim Tilson)

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The Dakotas

The Dakotas

Release Date: 1963-01-07

Genres: Western

“The Dakotas” is a western TV show that aired in 1963 and starred Larry Ward and Jack Elam. It is considered a spin-off of Clint Walker’s Cheyenne and follows the adventures of a group of lawmen in the Dakotas. Unfortunately, the show was cancelled after just one week due to viewer protest over a controversial scene.

Cast: Chad Everett () , Larry Ward () , Jack Elam ()

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Temple Houston

Temple Houston

Release Date: 1963-09-19

Genres: Western

“Temple Houston” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1963-1964. It stands out as the first-ever attempt to create a Western series with a lawyer as the main character. Starring talented actors like Jeffrey Hunter, Jack Elam, Frank Ferguson, Chubby Johnson, and Mary Wickes, this unique show follows the adventures of Temple Houston, an attorney who finds himself navigating the wild west while upholding justice.

Cast: Jeffrey Hunter (Temple Lea Houston) , Jack Elam (George Taggart) , Frank Ferguson (Judge Gurney) , Chubby Johnson (Concho) , Mary Wickes (Ida Goff)

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Tags: lawyer, wild west, 19th century

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