Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1965: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a groovy ride back to 1965, a golden era of television that gave us some of the most iconic shows in history. Before the days of binge-watching, streaming services, and spoiler alerts, there was the pure joy of tuning in every week to catch the latest episode of your favorite show. Whether you’re a Baby Boomer looking to relive the good old days, or a curious Millennial wanting to discover the classics, this nostalgic countdown is for you. We’ve compiled the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1965, a year that truly rocked the small screen. So, grab your popcorn, adjust your rabbit ears, and prepare for a blast from the past. Let’s roll the opening credits!
Get Smart

Get Smart

Release Date: 1965-09-18

Genres: Comedy

“Get Smart” is a hilarious American comedy TV series that premiered on September 18, 1965. Created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, the show brilliantly satirizes the secret agent genre, combining the best elements of James Bond and Inspector Clouseau with Mel Brooks’ signature comedy. Starring Don Adams, Barbara Feldon, Edward Platt, and Robert Karvelas, this show follows the misadventures of bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart as he takes on various missions. With its witty humor and clever writing, “Get Smart” became a huge success, leading to follow-up films, a revival series, and even a 2008 film remake.

Cast: Don Adams (Maxwell Smart) , Barbara Feldon (Agent 99) , Edward Platt (Thaddeus) , Robert Karvelas (Larabee)

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Tags: secret mission, espionage, spy, secret organization, villain, secret agent, satire, agent, high tech, top secret, criminal gang, sitcom, archvillain, 1960s

Honey West

Honey West

Release Date: 1965-09-17

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Honey West” is an American crime drama TV show that aired in 1965. Starring Anne Francis and John Ericson, it was one of the best-voted TV shows of that year. Join Honey West, a captivating female detective, as she solves thrilling criminal cases in this gripping series.

Cast: Anne Francis (Honey West) , John Ericson (Sam Bolt)

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Writers: Skip Fickling, Gloria Fickling, Bud Kay

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Public Eye

Public Eye

Release Date: 1965-01-23

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Public Eye” is a British TV series that aired from 1965 to 1975. It follows the life of Frank Marker, an unmarried loner in his early forties, who works as an unglamorous enquiry agent. Unlike your typical detective, Marker deals with people in trouble, the kind of trouble they can’t go to the police about, even if they’re innocent. Starring Alfred Burke, this show offers a unique perspective on investigations and cases that you won’t find in other crime dramas.

Cast: Alfred Burke (Frank Marker)

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Hogan's Heroes

Hogan’s Heroes

Release Date: 1965-09-17

Genres: War & Politics, Comedy

“Hogan’s Heroes” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1971. Set in a German prisoner of war camp during World War II, the show follows Colonel Robert E. Hogan, played by Bob Crane, as he leads a group of Allied prisoners in covert operations. With a talented cast including Richard Dawson, Robert Clary, Larry Hovis, Werner Klemperer, and John Banner, this series became a fan favorite and remains popular to this day.

Cast: Bob Crane (Robert Hogan) , Richard Dawson (Peter Newkirk) , Robert Clary (Louis LeBeau) , Larry Hovis (Andrew Carter) , Werner Klemperer (Wilhelm Klink) , John Banner (Hans Schultz)

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Tags: germany, world war ii, prisoner of war, military, sitcom, war absurdity, nazi parody

The Wild Wild West

The Wild Wild West

“The Wild Wild West” is a thrilling American TV series that aired in 1965. Set during President Ulysses Grant’s administration, it follows Secret Service agents James West and Artemus Gordon as they solve crimes, protect the President, and thwart the plans of power-hungry villains. With a unique blend of Western and spy genres, this show also incorporates fantasy elements and showcases advanced technology, making it a must-watch for fans of action-packed adventures. Starring Robert Conrad and Ross Martin, “The Wild Wild West” is often credited for inspiring the steam punk subculture.

Cast: Robert Conrad (James T. West) , Ross Martin (Artemus Gordon)

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Tags: secret agent, wild west

Green Acres

Green Acres

Release Date: 1965-09-15

Genres: Comedy

“Green Acres” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1971. Starring Eddie Albert and Eva Gabor, the show follows a couple who leave the hustle and bustle of New York City to start a new life on a rural country farm. With solid ratings and a dedicated fan base, “Green Acres” became a classic, and even though it was cancelled in 1971, it continues to be enjoyed through syndication and DVD releases.

Cast: Eddie Albert (Oliver Wendell Douglas) , Eva Gabor (Lisa Douglas)

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Tags: farm, country life, sitcom, simpler life

The Dean Martin Show

The Dean Martin Show

Release Date: 1965-09-16

Genres: Comedy

“The Dean Martin Show, also known as The Dean Martin Variety Show, is a classic TV variety-comedy series that aired from 1965 to 1974. Hosted by the talented entertainer Dean Martin, this NBC show featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guests. With its catchy theme song ‘Everybody Loves Somebody,’ it quickly became a fan favorite and ran for an impressive 264 episodes.”

Cast: Dean Martin (Self – Host)

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Tags: variety show

Run for Your Life

Run for Your Life

Release Date: 1965-09-13

Genres: Drama

“Run for Your Life” is a gripping American TV drama series that aired from 1965 to 1968. Starring the talented Ben Gazzara, the show follows the story of a man who discovers he has limited time left to live. Created by Roy Huggins, who also brought us “The Fugitive,” this captivating series will keep you on the edge of your seat as our protagonist embarks on a thrilling journey.

Cast: Ben Gazzara (Paul Bryan)

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Tags: terminal illness, good deed

Lost in Space

Lost in Space

Release Date: 1965-09-15

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Lost in Space” is a classic TV show from 1965 that follows the space adventures of the Robinson family. Sent on a five-year mission to find a new planet to colonize, they face constant sabotage from an inept stowaway named Dr. Zachary Smith. Alongside them is a friendly robot who endures endless abuse from Dr. Smith but becomes a trusted companion to young Will Robinson. With a talented cast including Guy Williams, June Lockhart, and Jonathan Harris, this show is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.

Cast: Guy Williams (Dr. John Robinson) , June Lockhart (Dr. Maureen Robinson) , Mark Goddard (Major Don West) , Marta Kristen (Judy Robinson) , Angela Cartwright (Penny Robinson) , Bill Mumy (Will Robinson) , Jonathan Harris (Dr. Zachary Smith) , Dick Tufeld (Robot B-9) , Bob May (Robot B-9)

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Writers: Anthony Wilson

Tags: future, spacecraft, space, alien planet

I Spy

I Spy

Release Date: 1965-09-15

Genres: Action & Adventure

“I Spy” is a thrilling American TV series that aired from 1965 to 1968. It follows the adventures of Kelly Robinson, an international tennis player, and his trainer Alexander Scott, who are actually top agents for the Pentagon. The duo’s cover story as tennis bums allows them to chase villains, spies, and beautiful women while on their secret missions. Starring Bill Cosby and Robert Culp, this action-packed show is a must-watch for fans of espionage and adventure.

Cast: Bill Cosby (Alexander Scott) , Robert Culp (Kelly Robinson)

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Writers: Morton S. Fine

Tags: tennis, secret agent

Kapitan Sowa na tropie

Kapitan Sowa na tropie

Release Date: 1965-12-25

Genres: Mystery, Crime

“Kapitan Sowa na tropie” is a captivating Polish series that aired in 1965, directed by the talented StanisÅ‚aw Bareja. It holds the distinction of being the first criminal series produced in Poland after World War II. With a stellar cast including WiesÅ‚aw GoÅ‚as, MichaÅ‚ Szewczyk, and Kalina JÄ™drusik, this show promises thrilling detective stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Make sure to mark your calendar for its release on December 25th, 1965!

Cast: WiesÅ‚aw GoÅ‚as (kapitan Sowa) , MichaÅ‚ Szewczyk (Albin, współpracownik Sowy) , Jerzy Walczak (Reżyser Gajda, przyjaciel Nawrockiego) , Janusz KÅ‚osiÅ„ski (Dyrektor cyrku) , Jerzy Turek (Laborant Czerski) , Kalina JÄ™drusik (Kazimiera Paluch “Fatima”, asystentka “Damona”) , BogusÅ‚aw Sochnacki (Lekarz milicyjny) , Leon Niemczyk (Podróżnik Krzysztof MaÅ‚ecki) , StanisÅ‚aw Bareja (Mężczyzna przy skrzynce pocztowej (niewymieniony w czołówce)) , Janusz Gajos (“Listonosz”, współpracownik Sowy (niewymieniony w czołówce))

Directors: Stanisław Bareja

Writers: Janina Ipohorska

Tags: detective inspector, investigation, criminal, police detective, criminal investigation, police investigation, crime investigation

Branded

Branded

Release Date: 1965-01-24

Genres: Western

“Branded” is an American Western series that aired in 1965 and 1966. Starring Chuck Connors as Jason McCord, a United States Army Cavalry captain, the show follows his journey after being unjustly accused of cowardice and drummed out of the service. With its gripping storyline and Connors’ captivating performance, “Branded” is a must-watch for fans of Western dramas.

Cast: Chuck Connors (Captain Jason McCord)

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Tags: cowardice, wild west, ex soldier

Please Don't Eat the Daisies

Please Don’t Eat the Daisies

Release Date: 1965-09-14

Genres: Comedy

“Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” is a delightful American sitcom that premiered on September 14, 1965. Starring Pat Crowley, Mark Miller, Dub Taylor, Ellen Corby, Jean Vander Pyl, and Kim Tyler, this show follows the humorous adventures of a family as they navigate their way through life. With its charming cast and witty storyline, it’s no wonder this series made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1965.

Cast: Pat Crowley (Joan Nash) , Mark Miller (Jim Nash) , Dub Taylor (Ed Hewley) , Ellen Corby (Martha) , Jean Vander Pyl (Ethel Carter) , Kim Tyler (Kyle Nash)

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Tags: new york city, suburb, family, sitcom

A Man Called Shenandoah

A Man Called Shenandoah

Release Date: 1965-09-13

Genres: Western

“A Man Called Shenandoah” is a classic American Western series that aired in 1965. Starring Robert Horton, who had previously appeared on “Wagon Train,” the show follows the journey of a man named Shenandoah. Filmed in California’s High Sierras and Mojave Desert, the series offers breathtaking scenery as Shenandoah navigates through various adventures. With its intriguing storyline and Horton’s exceptional acting, this show is a must-watch for Western enthusiasts.

Cast: Robert Horton (Shenandoah)

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Laredo

Laredo

Release Date: 1965-09-16

Genres: Western

“Laredo” is a popular American Western TV show that aired from 1965 to 1967. Set on the Mexican border in Laredo, Texas, it follows the thrilling adventures of Texas Rangers played by Neville Brand, William Smith, Peter Brown, and Philip Carey. The show, produced by Universal Television, gained such popularity that three episodes from the first season were even turned into a feature film called “Three Guns for Texas.” If you’re a fan of action-packed Westerns, this is definitely a show worth checking out!

Cast: William Smith (Joe Riley) , Philip Carey (Capt. Edward Parmalee) , Neville Brand (Reese Bennett) , Robert Wolders (Erik Hunter) , Peter Brown (Chad Cooper)

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Tags: texas, texas ranger

Gidget

Gidget

Release Date: 1965-09-01

Genres: Comedy

“Gidget” is a delightful American sitcom that aired from September 1965 to April 1966. Starring Sally Field as the fun-loving and boy-crazy teenager Gidget, the show revolves around her adventures with her widowed father, played by Don Porter, who is a professor at UCLA. Despite being one of the first color programs on ABC, “Gidget” unfortunately didn’t perform well in the ratings and was canceled after its first season.

Cast: Don Porter (Professor Russell Lawrence) , Sally Field (Frances Elizabeth ‘Gidget’ Lawrence) , Betty Conner (Anne Cooper) , Lynette Winter (Larue)

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Tags: parent child relationship, single father, sitcom

Days of Our Lives

Days of Our Lives

Release Date: 1965-11-08

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Days of Our Lives” is a captivating TV show that has been entertaining audiences since its release in 1965. Set in the charming Midwestern town of Salem, it follows the lives of the Horton and Brady families as they navigate through the ups and downs of love. Filled with intriguing characters, dramatic storylines, and a rich family history, this show is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good dose of romance and suspense.

Cast: Arianne Zucker (Nicole Walker) , Josh Taylor (Roman Brady) , John Aniston (Victor Kiriakis) , Matthew Ashford (Jack Devereaux) , Deidre Hall (Dr. Marlena Evans) , Valerie Wildman (Fay Walker) , Bryan Dattilo (Lucas Roberts) , Lauren Koslow (Kate Roberts) , Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady)

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F Troop

F Troop

Release Date: 1965-09-14

Genres: Comedy, Western

“F Troop” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1967. Starring Forrest Tucker, Larry Storch, Ken Berry, Melody Patterson, James Hampton, Frank De Kova, Bob Steele, Don Diamond, and Joe Brooks, this satirical show follows the misadventures of a group of soldiers stationed at Fort Courage during the 1860s. With its witty humor and colorful episodes, “F Troop” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.

Cast: Forrest Tucker (Sergeant. Morgan O’Rourke) , Larry Storch (Corporal Randolph Agarn) , Ken Berry (Captain Wilton Parmenter) , Melody Patterson (Wrangler Jane Angelica Thrift) , James Hampton (Hannibal Dobbs) , Frank De Kova (Chief Wild Eagle) , Bob Steele (Trooper Duffy) , Don Diamond (Crazy Cat) , Joe Brooks ()

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Tags: wild west, sitcom, 19th century, period sitcom

The Big Valley

The Big Valley

Release Date: 1965-09-15

Genres: Western

“The Big Valley” is a popular American western TV show that aired from September 15, 1965, to May 19, 1969. Starring Barbara Stanwyck as the widow of a wealthy rancher in 19th century California, the series follows her journey as she manages the family ranch. With a talented cast including Richard Long, Peter Breck, Lee Majors, and Linda Evans, this show offers a captivating glimpse into the challenges and adventures of life in the Wild West.

Cast: Barbara Stanwyck (Victoria Barkley) , Richard Long (Jarrod Barkley) , Peter Breck (Nick Barkley) , Lee Majors (Heath Barkley) , Linda Evans (Audra Barkley)

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Tags: family drama, historical drama, 19th century, 1870s, american history, classic western, frontier western

The F.B.I.

The F.B.I.

Release Date: 1965-09-19

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“The F.B.I.” is a classic American TV series that aired from 1965 to 1974. Sponsored by the Ford Motor Company, the show revolves around the lives of FBI agents who always drive Ford vehicles. Starring talented actors like Efrem Zimbalist Jr., Philip Abbott, and Lynn Loring, this thrilling crime drama is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful storytelling.

Cast: Efrem Zimbalist Jr. (Lewis Erskine) , Philip Abbott (Arthur Ward) , Marvin Miller (Narrator (uncredited)) , William Reynolds (Special Agent Tom Colby) , Lynn Loring (Barbara Erskine) , Shelly Novack (Agente especial Chris Daniels) , Stephen Brooks (Agente especial Jim Rhodes)

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Tags: fbi, police detective

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