Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1964: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to journey back to 1964, a golden year in television history. This was a time when the Beatles were just starting to shake things up, the mini-skirt was the latest fashion craze, and the TV was the heart of every home. From the suspenseful drama of “The Fugitive” to the quirky charm of “Bewitched”, 1964 was a year that gifted us with an array of unforgettable TV shows. So, grab your TV dinner, adjust your rabbit ears, and prepare to be transported back to a time when the small screen was larger than life. Here’s our nostalgic countdown of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1964. Let’s see if your favorite made the list!
Le inchieste del commissario Maigret

Le inchieste del commissario Maigret

Release Date: 1964-12-27

Genres: Mystery, Drama, Crime

“Le inchieste del commissario Maigret” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1964. Starring talented actors like Gino Cervi, Andreina Pagnani, and Mario Maranzana, it follows the thrilling investigations of Commissioner Maigret. With a release date on December 27th, this show was among the best voted TV shows of that year, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

Cast: Gino Cervi (Maigret) , Andreina Pagnani (La signora Maigret) , Mario Maranzana (Lucas) , Manlio Busoni (Torrence) , Daniele Tedeschi (Janvier) , Gianni Musy (Lapointe) , Franco Volpi (Il giudice Comeliau) , Oreste Lionello (Moers) , Giuseppe Scarcella (Un agente) , Franco Scandurra (Andrè Monfils)

Directors: Mario Landi

Writers: Georges Simenon, Umberto Ciappetti, Romildo Craveri, Diego Fabbri, Mario Landi, Amleto Micozzi

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Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea

Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea

“Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea” is a thrilling TV show that takes you on an action-packed adventure aboard the Seaview submarine. Join the courageous crew as they face dangerous missions, from battling enemy agents and mad scientists to encountering deadly sea creatures and even nuclear disasters. With a talented cast including Richard Basehart, David Hedison, and Terry Becker, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Premiering in 1964, it’s definitely a must-watch for fans of thrilling underwater escapades.

Cast: Richard Basehart (Adm. Harriman Nelson) , David Hedison (Captain Crane) , Terry Becker (Chief Sharkey) , Del Monroe (Kowalski) , Paul Trinka (Patterson) , Richard Bull (Doctor) , Robert Dowdell (Chip Morton)

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Tags: submarine, underwater

The Rogues

The Rogues

Release Date: 1964-09-13

Genres: Action & Adventure, Crime

“The Rogues” is a captivating TV show that aired from September 1964 to April 1965. Starring David Niven, Charles Boyer, and Gig Young, it follows the thrilling adventures of a trio of former conmen who use their skills to outsmart wealthy and morally corrupt individuals. Despite winning the prestigious Golden Globe award for Best Television Series, the show unfortunately got canceled after just one season, comprising thirty exciting episodes.

Cast: David Niven (Alec Fleming) , Charles Boyer (Marcel St. Clair) , Robert Coote (Timmy St. Clair) , Gig Young (Tony Fleming) , Gladys Cooper (Margaret St. Clair)

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Tags: con man, master criminal

12 O'Clock High

12 O’Clock High

Release Date: 1964-09-18

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“12 O’Clock High” is a thrilling TV show that takes us back to 1964. Set during World War II, it follows the courageous men of the 918th Bombardment Group as they embark on daring missions against German-held Europe. Led by the tough General Frank Savage and later Colonel Joe Gallagher, this action-packed series showcases the bravery and camaraderie of these American heroes in the air and on the ground.

Cast: Paul Burke (Colonel Joe Gallagher) , Frank Overton (Major Harvey Stovall) , Chris Robinson (T/Sgt. Alexander “Sandy” Komansky) , Barney Phillips (Major “Doc” Kaiser) , Andrew Duggan (Brigadier/Major General Ed Britt) , Paul Newlan (Lieutenant General Bill Pritchard) , Robert Dornan (Lieutenant/Captain Fowler)

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Tags: sacrifice, world war ii, bomber pilot, maximum effort

Match of the Day

Match of the Day

Release Date: 1964-08-22

Genres: Talk, News

“Match of the Day” is a popular TV show that first aired in 1964 and holds the title of the longest-running football television programme in the world. It features BBC’s football highlights and analysis, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts. With its release date coinciding with the year’s best voted TV shows, it’s no wonder this show has stood the test of time.

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Tags: sports, football (soccer)

The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1964. It follows the adventures of agents Napoleon Solo and Illya Kuryakin, who work for a secret intelligence service called U.N.C.L.E. Their mission is to maintain law and order under the United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. With a secret base in New York City and the guidance of their superior Mr. Waverly, this action-packed series is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Robert Vaughn (Napoleon Solo) , David McCallum (Illya Kuryakin) , Leo G. Carroll (Alexander Waverly)

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Tags: spy, secret agent, super spy

The Likely Lads

The Likely Lads

Release Date: 1964-12-16

Genres: Comedy

“The Likely Lads” is a classic British sitcom that aired from 1964 to 1966. Created by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, this black and white series follows the hilarious misadventures of two friends, played by Rodney Bewes and James Bolam. With only eight surviving episodes out of the original 21, this show is a must-watch for fans of vintage comedy.

Cast: Wendy Richard () , Rodney Bewes () , Sheila Fearn () , James Bolam ()

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Tags: friendship, northern england, working class, newcastle, england, sitcom

Top of the Pops

Top of the Pops

Release Date: 1964-01-01

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“Top of the Pops” is a popular British pop show that aired in 1964. Hosted by Richard Bacon, it featured the biggest stars and their most iconic performances, along with some outrageous outfits. If you’re into music and love watching top-notch performances, this show is a must-watch!

Cast: Richard Bacon (Self – Presenter)

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Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.

Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.

Release Date: 1964-09-25

Genres: Comedy

“Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from September 25, 1964, to May 2, 1969. Set in California, the show follows the adventures of Gomer Pyle, a kind-hearted gas-station attendant from Mayberry, North Carolina, who joins the United States Marine Corps. With Jim Nabors as the lovable Gomer, Frank Sutton as the fiery Gunnery Sergeant Vince Carter, and Ronnie Schell as Gomer’s buddy Duke, this series captivated audiences for five seasons with its comedic take on their unique relationship.

Cast: Jim Nabors (Pvt. Gomer Pyle) , Frank Sutton (Sgt. Vince Carter) , Ronnie Schell (Duke Slater)

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Tags: u.s. marine, military, us military, sitcom

Shindig!

Shindig!

Release Date: 1964-09-16

Genres: Reality

“Shindig!” is a popular American musical variety series that aired from September 1964 to January 1966. Hosted by Jimmy O’Neill, a well-known disc jockey from Los Angeles, the show featured a talented cast of artists and was completely redesigned after its original pilot was rejected by ABC. With its energetic performances and diverse musical acts, “Shindig!” quickly became a must-watch for music lovers in the mid-60s.

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Tags: pop music, variety show

Peyton Place

Peyton Place

Release Date: 1964-09-15

Genres: Drama

“Peyton Place” is a captivating nighttime soap opera that takes place in the charming town of Peyton Place, set in New England. With a star-studded cast including Dorothy Malone, Mia Farrow, and Ryan O’Neal, this show delves into the hidden secrets and scandals lurking beneath the town’s idyllic facade, featuring extramarital affairs, shady business deals, and even murder. Premiering on September 15, 1964, this TV show promises to keep you hooked with its intriguing plot and talented ensemble cast.

Cast: Dorothy Malone (Constance MacKenzie) , Warner Anderson (Matthew Swain) , Ed Nelson (Michael Rossi) , Mia Farrow (Allison MacKenzie) , Ryan O’Neal (Rodney Harrington) , Barbara Parkins (Betty Anderson) , Mariette Hartley (Claire Morton) , George Macready (Martin Peyton) , Kasey Rogers (Julie Anderson) , Patricia Morrow (Rita Jacks) , Tim O’Connor (Elliot Carson) , Christopher Connelly (Norman Harrington) , Tippy Walker () , Ruth Warrick (Hannah Cord) , Paul Langton (Leslie Harrington) , Diana Hyland (Susan Winter) , Frank Ferguson () , Henry Beckman (George Anderson) , Kimberly Beck (Kim Schuster) , Lee Grant (Stella Chernak) , Leigh Taylor-Young (Rachel Welles) , Susan Oliver (Ann Howard) , Percy Rodriguez (Harry Miles)

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Tags: small town, based on novel or book, new hampshire

Daniel Boone

Daniel Boone

Release Date: 1964-09-24

Genres: Action & Adventure, Western

“Daniel Boone” is an exciting American action-adventure TV show that aired from 1964 to 1970. Starring Fess Parker as the legendary frontiersman, the series follows Daniel Boone’s thrilling adventures in the wilderness. With a talented cast including Ed Ames and Patricia Blair, this show captivated audiences for 165 episodes, showcasing Boone’s friendship with Mingo, a Cherokee companion, and his encounters with various characters along the way. A must-watch for fans of action-packed historical dramas!

Cast: Fess Parker (Daniel Boone) , Ed Ames (Mingo) , Patricia Blair (Rebecca Boone) , Darby Hinton (Israel Boone) , Dal McKennon (Cincinnatus)

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Tags: kentucky, frontiersman, 18th century, american revolution, cherokee

Stingray

Stingray

“Stingray” is a British children’s Supermarionation TV series that aired in 1964. Starring Lois Maxwell, Don Mason, Ray Barrett, David Graham, and Robert Easton, this show follows the thrilling adventures of a group of characters. With its release on October 4th, 1964, “Stingray” became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Lois Maxwell (Lt Atlantis Shore) , Don Mason (Captain Troy Tempest) , Ray Barrett (Commander Sam Shore) , David Graham (Marinville Tracking Station) , Robert Easton (Lieutenant George Lee Sheridan)

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My Living Doll

My Living Doll

Release Date: 1964-09-27

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“My Living Doll” is a fascinating American science fiction sitcom that aired from September 27, 1964, to March 17, 1965. Produced by Jack Chertok and filmed at Desilu studios, this unique series captivated audiences with its 26 episodes. What makes it even more intriguing is that it was bought by the network without a formal pilot film, thanks to the success of Chertok’s previous hit, “My Favorite Martian.”

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Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock Holmes

Release Date: 1964-05-17

Genres: Mystery, Crime, Drama

“Hey, have you heard of the TV show ‘Sherlock Holmes’? It’s one of the best-voted TV shows of 1964! This British series, produced by the BBC, aired between 1965 and 1968 and stars Peter Cushing and Nigel Stock. It’s actually the second adaptation of Sherlock Holmes by the BBC, and it’s definitely worth checking out!”

Cast: Peter Cushing (Sherlock Holmes) , Nigel Stock (Dr. Watson)

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Tags: based on novel or book, detective, sherlock holmes

The Hollywood Palace

The Hollywood Palace

Release Date: 1964-01-04

Genres: Comedy

“The Hollywood Palace” is a popular American television variety show that aired from January 4, 1964, to February 7, 1970. It was initially introduced as a replacement for “The Jerry Lewis Show” and took place at the iconic Hollywood Playhouse, later renamed The Hollywood Palace. The show featured a range of talented performers and even introduced a budding starlet, Raquel Welch, as the “Billboard Girl” during its first season. With its entertaining variety acts and glamorous setting, “The Hollywood Palace” quickly became a favorite among viewers in 1964.

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Another World

Another World

Release Date: 1964-05-04

Genres: Soap

“Another World” is a captivating American soap opera that aired on NBC for an impressive 35 years, from May 4, 1964, to June 25, 1999. Set in the fictional town of Bay City, the show delves into the intricate lives of families from different backgrounds, offering a unique blend of exotic melodrama and heartfelt emotions. With a talented cast including Tom Eplin, Linda Dano, Charles Keating, Victoria Wyndham, and more, this long-running series takes viewers on a journey through the world of dreams and feelings, showcasing the contrast between the world we live in and the world we aspire to.

Cast: Tom Eplin (Jake McKinnon) , Linda Dano (Felicia Gallant) , Charles Keating (Carl Hutchins) , Victoria Wyndham (Rachel Cory Hutchins) , Matt Crane (Matthew Cory) , Thomas Gibson (Sam Fowler) , Allison Hossack (Olivia Matthews) , Robin Strasser (Rachel Cory Hutchins) , Dack Rambo (Grant Harrison) , Mark Pinter (Grant Harrison) , Alicia Coppola (Lorna Devon) , Robert Kelker-Kelly (Shane Roberts) , Harry Bellaver () , Jennifer Lien () , Charles Siebert () , Denise Alexander () , Elizabeth Ashley () , Timothy Gibbs () , Jason Bernard () , Nancy Marchand () , Anita Gillette () , Christopher Knight (Leigh Hobson) , Ann Flood () , Kevin Conroy () , Howard Rollins ()

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Writers: Douglas Marland, Richard J. Allen, Tom King, Jan Merlin, Harding Lemay, Donna Swajeski, Charles Kozloff

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Crossroads

Crossroads

Release Date: 1964-11-02

Genres: Drama

“Crossroads” is a beloved British soap opera that aired from 1964 to 1988, and was later revived in 2001. Set in a fictional motel near Birmingham, England, the show follows the lives and dramas of its diverse characters. With a catchy theme tune composed by Tony Hatch and even covered by Paul McCartney & Wings, “Crossroads” became a household name, despite its reputation for low production values. Starring a talented cast including Kate O’Mara, Jane Rossington, and Roger Tonge, this long-running series captivated audiences for decades.

Cast: Kate O’Mara () , Jane Rossington () , Roger Tonge () , Kathy Staff (Doris Luke) , Sue Lloyd () , Gabrielle Drake () , Susan Hanson () , Terence Rigby () , Noele Gordon () , Tony Adams () , Jessica Fox (Belle Wise) , Ronald Allen () , Paul Henry (Benny) , Ann George () , Jane Asher () , Al Hunter Ashton () , Annette Andre () , Frances Cuka () , Arthur White () , Norman Bowler () , Sandor Elès () , Margaret John () , Diane Keen () , Johnny Briggs () , Angus Lennie ()

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Tags: motel, birmingham, soap opera

Homicide

Homicide

Release Date: 1964-10-20

Genres: Drama

“Homicide” is an Australian television police drama series that aired in 1964. Set in the Victorian Police force, the show follows a dedicated homicide squad as they investigate various crimes and cases, many of which are based on real-life incidents. With a talented cast including Norman Yemm, George Mallaby, and Charles Tingwell, this gripping series offers a thrilling glimpse into the world of crime-solving in the 1960s.

Cast: Norman Yemm () , George Mallaby () , Charles Tingwell () , Michael Preston () , Leslie Dayman () , John Stanton () , Don Barker () , Leonard Teale () , John Fegan () , Gary Day () , Alwyn Kurts () , Lionel Long ()

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The Wednesday Play

The Wednesday Play

Release Date: 1964-09-30

Genres: Drama

“The Wednesday Play” is a highly acclaimed British anthology series that aired from October 1964 to May 1970. It featured a collection of thought-provoking television plays, often written specifically for the show, that tackled contemporary social issues. With its release just a day before the start of 1964, this show quickly became a platform for bringing important topics to the forefront, captivating a wide audience and sparking discussions that might not have otherwise taken place. Plus, it stars the talented George Webb!

Cast: George Webb (Jim Ritchie)

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