Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 2004: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, TV aficionados! We’re about to take a thrilling ride back to 2004 – a golden year for television that gifted us with some of the most iconic shows in history. Remember when you could barely wait for the next episode of your favorite series, and the suspense was so intense it felt like your heart might leap out of your chest? Or when you laughed so hard at a sitcom that your sides ached for days? Well, it’s time to relive those moments! We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 2004 that will make you yearn for the good old days of television. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and prepare for a nostalgic countdown that will take you back to a time when TV was truly epic. Let’s get started, shall we?
House

House

Release Date: 2004-11-16

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“House” is a gripping medical drama that aired in 2004 and quickly became a fan favorite. Led by the brilliant yet unconventional Dr. Gregory House, played by the talented Hugh Laurie, the show follows a team of diagnosticians as they solve complex medical cases at the fictional Princeton–Plainsboro Teaching Hospital. With a stellar cast and an intriguing storyline, “House” is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a mix of medical mysteries and compelling characters.

Cast: Hugh Laurie (Gregory House) , Robert Sean Leonard (James Wilson) , Omar Epps (Eric Foreman) , Jesse Spencer (Robert Chase) , Odette Annable (Jessica Adams) , Peter Jacobson (Chris Taub) , Charlyne Yi (Chi Park)

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Tags: drug addiction, medicine, misanthrophy, hospital, doctor, patient, medical drama

Drake & Josh

Drake & Josh

Release Date: 2004-01-11

Genres: Comedy

“Drake & Josh” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 2004 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the story of two schoolmates, Drake and Josh, who are forced to become step-brothers and roommates when their parents get married. With Drake’s cool and laid-back personality clashing with Josh’s quirky and goofy nature, you can only imagine the comedic chaos that ensues. Starring Drake Bell, Josh Peck, and Miranda Cosgrove, this spin-off of “The Amanda Show” is definitely worth a watch!

Cast: Drake Bell (Drake Parker) , Josh Peck (Josh Nichols) , Miranda Cosgrove (Megan Parker) , Jonathan Goldstein (Walter Nichols) , Nancy Sullivan (Audrey Parker-Nichols)

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Tags: sibling relationship, family, blended family

Battlestar Galactica

Battlestar Galactica

“Battlestar Galactica” is a gripping sci-fi series that aired in 2004. Set in a distant future, it follows the crew of the Galactica as they protect the last remnants of humanity from the Cylons, their old enemies who have destroyed the 12 colonies. With a talented cast including Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, and Jamie Bamber, this show takes you on an epic journey as they search for Earth, the fabled 13th colony.

Cast: Edward James Olmos (William Adama) , Mary McDonnell (Laura Roslin) , Jamie Bamber (Lee ‘Apollo’ Adama) , Katee Sackhoff (Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace) , James Callis (Gaius Baltar) , Tricia Helfer (Number Six) , Tahmoh Penikett (Karl ‘Helo’ Agathon) , Grace Park (Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii) , Michael Hogan (Saul Tigh) , Aaron Douglas (Galen Tyrol)

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Writers: Carla Robinson

Tags: spacecraft, artificial intelligence, cyborg, space travel, invasion, space, alien planet, space opera, cybernetic

North & South

North & South

Release Date: 2004-11-14

Genres: Drama

“North & South” is a captivating TV show set in the year 2004. It tells the story of Margaret Hale, a spirited woman who moves from the peaceful countryside to the bustling industrial town of Milton. There, she finds herself entangled in a clash between the workers and the determined cotton mill-owner, John Thornton. As tensions rise and unexpected feelings emerge, Margaret’s journey becomes a thrilling tale of love, pride, and the complexities of life in a changing world. Starring Richard Armitage and Daniela Denby-Ashe, this show is a must-watch for anyone seeking a compelling period drama.

Cast: Richard Armitage (John Thornton) , Daniela Denby-Ashe (Margaret Hale) , Sinéad Cusack (Hannah Thornton) , Jo Joyner (Fanny Thornton) , Tim Pigott-Smith (Richard Hale) , Pauline Quirke (Dixon) , Kay Lyon (Mary Higgins) , Brendan Coyle (Nicholas Higgins)

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Writers: Sandy Welch, Antonia Gordon, Elizabeth Gaskell

Tags: england, romance, period drama, costume drama

Deadwood

Deadwood

Release Date: 2004-03-21

Genres: Western, Crime, Drama

“Deadwood” is a captivating TV show set in the early days of Deadwood, South Dakota. Based on real events, it follows the transformation of a lawless gold mining camp into a civilized town. With a talented cast including Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, and Molly Parker, this wild-west drama brings to life the stories of real-life characters like Seth Bullock and Al Swearengen. Released in 2004, it’s definitely one of the best TV shows of that year!

Cast: Timothy Olyphant (Seth Bullock) , Ian McShane (Al Swearengen) , Molly Parker (Alma Garret) , Jim Beaver (Whitney Ellsworth) , W. Earl Brown (Dan Dority) , Dayton Callie (Charlie Utter) , Brad Dourif (Amos Cochran) , Anna Gunn (Martha Bullock) , John Hawkes (Sol Star) , Paula Malcomson (Trixie) , Leon Rippy (Tom Nuttall) , William Sanderson (E. B. Farnum) , Robin Weigert (Calamity Jane) , Titus Welliver (Silas Adams) , Brent Sexton (Harry Manning) , Powers Boothe (Cy Tolliver) , Keone Young (Mr. Wu) , Gerald McRaney (George Hearst) , Bree Seanna Wall (Sofia Metz) , Sean Bridgers (Johnny Burns) , Kim Dickens (Joanie Stubbs)

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Tags: sheriff, saloon, gambling, brothel, greed, gold rush, gold mine, outlaw, doctor, saloon owner, wild west, mining town, south dakota, historical drama, 19th century, 1870s

Stargate Atlantis

Stargate Atlantis

“Stargate Atlantis” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that takes us on an adventure to the ancient city of Atlantis, discovered in a distant galaxy. Led by Dr. Elizabeth Weir and Major Sheppard, a team of scientists embarks on a mission to explore the abandoned city. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when they awaken a dangerous enemy, The Wraith, who pose a threat to their survival. With a talented cast including Joe Flanigan, David Hewlett, Rachel Luttrell, Jewel Staite, Robert Picardo, and Jason Momoa, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Premiering in 2004, it’s no wonder “Stargate Atlantis” made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Joe Flanigan (John Sheppard) , David Hewlett (Rodney McKay) , Rachel Luttrell (Teyla Emmagan) , Jewel Staite (Jennifer Keller) , Robert Picardo (Richard Woolsey) , Jason Momoa (Ronon Dex)

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Tags: galaxy, future, spacecraft, technology, atlantis, space travel, alien, alien planet, lost city, alien race, lost civilization, warrior race, distant planet

Lost

Lost

Release Date: 2004-09-22

Genres: Mystery, Action & Adventure

“Lost” is a thrilling TV show that premiered in 2004 and quickly became one of the best-voted shows of the year. It follows the gripping story of a group of survivors who find themselves stranded on a mysterious island after a devastating plane crash. With a talented cast including Matthew Fox, Evangeline Lilly, and Josh Holloway, the show keeps you on the edge of your seat as the survivors work together to uncover the island’s secrets and fight for their lives.

Cast: Matthew Fox (Jack Shephard) , Evangeline Lilly (Kate Austen) , Josh Holloway (James Sawyer) , Michael Emerson (Benjamin Linus) , Naveen Andrews (Sayid Jarrah) , Nestor Carbonell (Richard Alpert) , Henry Ian Cusick (Desmond Hume) , Emilie de Ravin (Claire Littleton) , Jeff Fahey (Frank Lapidus) , Jorge Garcia (Hurley Reyes) , Daniel Dae Kim (Jin-Soo Kwon) , Yunjin Kim (Sun-Hwa Kwon) , Ken Leung (Miles Straume) , Elizabeth Mitchell (Juliet Burke) , Terry O’Quinn (John Locke) , Zuleikha Robinson (Ilana Verdansky)

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Tags: island, airplane crash, uncharted

Desperate Housewives

Desperate Housewives

Release Date: 2004-10-03

Genres: Mystery, Drama, Comedy

“Desperate Housewives” is a captivating TV show that aired in 2004 and quickly became a fan favorite. The series revolves around the mysterious death of Mary Alice Young, who takes us on a journey through the lives of her family, friends, and neighbors from beyond the grave. With a talented cast including Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Marcia Cross, Eva Longoria, and more, this darkly comedic drama offers a unique perspective on the secrets and scandals lurking behind the doors of a seemingly perfect suburban neighborhood.

Cast: Teri Hatcher (Susan Mayer) , Felicity Huffman (Lynette Scavo) , Marcia Cross (Bree Van de Kamp) , Eva Longoria (Gabrielle Solis) , Ricardo Chavira (Carlos Solis) , Doug Savant (Tom Scavo) , James Denton (Mike Delfino) , Brenda Strong (Mary Alice Young) , Darcy Rose Byrnes (Penny Scavo) , Vanessa Williams (Renee Perry) , Charles Mesure (Ben Faulkner) , Mason Vale Cotton (M.J. Delfino) , Madison De La Garza (Juanita Solis) , Jonathan Cake (Chuck Vance)

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Tags: housewife, female friendship, neighbor, neighborhood

Boston Legal

Boston Legal

Release Date: 2004-10-03

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Boston Legal” is a captivating legal drama that premiered in 2004 and quickly became a fan favorite. Led by the brilliant James Spader and the iconic William Shatner, the show follows a group of high-priced civil litigators in an upscale Boston law firm. With a focus on both their professional and personal lives, this spin-off of “The Practice” offers a compelling glimpse into the world of emotionally challenged but brilliant attorneys.

Cast: James Spader (Alan Shore) , William Shatner (Denny Crane) , Candice Bergen (Shirley Schmidt) , John Larroquette (Carl Sack) , Tara Summers (Katie Lloyd) , Christian Clemenson (Jerry Espenson)

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Tags: boston, massachusetts, male friendship, lawyer, spin off, law firm

Veronica Mars

Veronica Mars

Release Date: 2004-09-22

Genres: Mystery, Drama, Comedy

“Veronica Mars” is a captivating TV show set in the fictional town of Neptune, California. It follows the life of Veronica Mars, a student who juggles her high school and college years while secretly working as a private investigator alongside her detective father. Starring Kristen Bell, Enrico Colantoni, and Jason Dohring, this thrilling series debuted on September 22, 2004, and has been voted as one of the best TV shows of that year.

Cast: Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars) , Enrico Colantoni (Keith Mars) , Jason Dohring (Logan Echolls)

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Tags: high school, detective, private investigator, teenage romance, neo-noir, female private detective

Rescue Me

Rescue Me

Release Date: 2004-07-21

Genres: Drama

“Rescue Me” is a gripping TV show that takes us into the lives of the brave firefighters of 62 Truck in New York City. Led by the talented Denis Leary, the series delves into the daily challenges and life-or-death situations these heroes face, while also exploring the deep bonds and dark humor they use to cope with their emotions. With a stellar cast and its release in 2004, this show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Denis Leary (Tommy Gavin) , Adam Ferrara (Chief ‘Needles’ Nelson) , Michael Lombardi (Mike Silletti) , Steven Pasquale (Sean Garrity) , Andrea Roth (Janet Gavin) , John Scurti (Kenneth ‘Lou’ Shea) , Daniel Sunjata (Franco Rivera) , Larenz Tate (Bart ‘Black Shawn’ Johnston) , Callie Thorne (Sheila Keefe)

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Tags: new york city, fire brigade, irish-american, dark comedy, alcoholism, divorce, guilt, ghost, drunkenness, firefighter, post 9/11

Hustle

Hustle

Release Date: 2004-02-24

Genres: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Hustle” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 2004 and features a talented group of con artists based in London. Led by Adrian Lester, Robert Glenister, Matt Di Angelo, Kelly Adams, Robert Vaughn, and Rob Jarvis, this motley crew pulls off daring and intricate stings that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of 2004!

Cast: Adrian Lester (Michael Stone) , Robert Glenister (Ashley Morgan) , Matt Di Angelo (Sean Kennedy) , Kelly Adams (Emma Kennedy) , Robert Vaughn (Albert Stroller) , Rob Jarvis (Eddie)

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Writers: Bharat Nalluri

Tags: fake identity, con artist, thief, breaking the fourth wall, co-workers relationship, inside man, grifter, fixer

The L Word

The L Word

Release Date: 2004-01-18

Genres: Drama

“The L Word” is a captivating TV show that aired in 2004 and revolves around a group of lesbian friends living in Los Angeles. With an incredible cast including Jennifer Beals, Katherine Moennig, and Mia Kirshner, the show delves into their struggles with both love and career. If you’re looking for a compelling and diverse series that explores the complexities of relationships, “The L Word” is a must-watch.

Cast: Jennifer Beals (Bette Porter) , Katherine Moennig (Shane McCutcheon) , Mia Kirshner (Jenny Schecter) , Leisha Hailey (Alice Pieszecki) , Laurel Holloman (Tina Kennard) , Daniela Sea (Moira/Max Sweeney) , Pam Grier (Kit Porter) , Rose Rollins (Tasha Williams) , Marlee Matlin (Jodi Lerner) , Rachel Shelley (Helena Peabody)

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Tags: female friendship, lesbian relationship, los angeles, california, lgbt, lesbian

CSI: NY

CSI: NY

Release Date: 2004-09-22

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“CSI: NY” is one of the best-voted TV shows of 2004, following the thrilling investigations of a team of NYPD forensic scientists and police officers known as “Crime Scene Investigators”. Starring Gary Sinise, Anna Belknap, Sela Ward, Carmine Giovinazzo, Hill Harper, Eddie Cahill, Robert Joy, and A.J. Buckley, this captivating series takes you into the world of crime-solving in New York City. Premiering on September 22, 2004, it’s a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

Cast: Gary Sinise (Mac Taylor) , Anna Belknap (Lindsay Monroe) , Sela Ward (Jo Danville) , Carmine Giovinazzo (Danny Messer) , Hill Harper (Sheldon Hawkes) , Eddie Cahill (Donald Flack, Jr.) , Robert Joy (Sid Hammerback) , A.J. Buckley (Adam Ross)

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Tags: new york city, detective, spin off, nypd, crime lab, forensic, murder investigation, crime investigation, police procedural

The Slave Isaura

The Slave Isaura

Release Date: 2004-10-18

Genres: Soap, Drama

“The Slave Isaura” is a captivating TV show that aired in 2004 and was voted as one of the best that year. Set in the 19th century, it tells the story of Isaura, a young woman born to a slave mother and a tenant on a farm. Despite her excellent education and fair complexion, Isaura is constantly reminded of her slave status, making for a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. Starring Bianca Rinaldi, Leopoldo Pacheco, and Theo Becker, this show is a must-watch for those interested in historical dramas with powerful performances.

Cast: Bianca Rinaldi (Isaura dos Anjos Sales / Elvira Vaz) , Leopoldo Pacheco (Leôncio Almeida) , Theo Becker (Álvaro Mendonça) , Mayara Magri (Tomásia) , Jackson Antunes (Miguel) , Patrícia França (Rosa) , Deo Garcez (André) , Maria Ribeiro (Malvina) , Paulo Figueiredo (Coronel Sebastião Cunha) , Miriam Mehler (Gioconda) , Ewerton de Castro (Belchior) , Jonas Mello (Seu Chico) , Fernanda Nobre (Helena) , Lugui Palhares (Dr. Diogo) , Gabriel Gracindo (Henrique) , Paula Lobo Antunes (Aurora) , André Fusko (Gabriel) , Sylvia Bandeira (Perpétua) , Caio Junqueira (Geraldo) , Renata Dominguez (Branca) , Aldine Muller (Estela) , Ivan de Almeida (João) , Chica Lopes (Joaquina) , Christovam Netto (Bernardo) , Bárbara Garcia (Moleca)

Directors: Herval Rossano, Emílio Di Biasi, Flávio Colatrello Jr.

Writers: Tiago Santiago, Anamaria Nunes, Altenir Silva

Tags:

Entourage

Entourage

Release Date: 2004-07-18

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Entourage” is a highly acclaimed TV show that premiered in 2004 and was voted as one of the best that year. It follows the life of film star Vince Chase as he navigates the glamorous yet shallow world of Los Angeles, surrounded by his loyal group of friends and his reliable agent. With a talented cast including Kevin Connolly, Adrian Grenier, Kevin Dillon, Jerry Ferrara, Jeremy Piven, Perrey Reeves, Rex Lee, Debi Mazar, Emmanuelle Chriqui, and Rhys Coiro, this show offers an entertaining glimpse into the ups and downs of the entertainment industry.

Cast: Kevin Connolly (Eric Murphy) , Adrian Grenier (Vincent Chase) , Kevin Dillon (Johnny “Drama” Chase) , Jerry Ferrara (Turtle) , Jeremy Piven (Ari Gold) , Perrey Reeves (Melissa Gold) , Rex Lee (Lloyd Lee) , Debi Mazar (Shauna Roberts) , Emmanuelle Chriqui (Sloan McQuewick) , Rhys Coiro (Billy Walsh) , Scott Caan (Scott Lavin)

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Writers: Jerry Ferrara, Wesley S. Nickerson III, Matt Wolpert, Kenny Neibart, Matthew Salsberg, Ben Nedivi

Tags: movie business, male friendship, celebrity, womanizer, money, wealth, hollywood, los angeles, california, group of friends, beverly hills, aspiring actor, film industry

The 4400

The 4400

Release Date: 2004-07-11

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The 4400” is an intriguing TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2004. It revolves around the sudden reappearance of 4400 individuals who were previously presumed dead or missing. These people haven’t aged physically, but some of them possess extraordinary abilities, like superhuman strength and a mysterious healing touch. As a government agency tracks them down after a murder is committed, the show promises a thrilling and captivating storyline. Starring Jacqueline McKenzie, Joel Gretsch, Patrick John Flueger, Megalyn Echikunwoke, Chad Faust, Billy Campbell, Conchita Campbell, and Jenni Baird, “The 4400” premiered on July 11, 2004.

Cast: Jacqueline McKenzie (Diana Skouris) , Joel Gretsch (Tom Baldwin) , Patrick John Flueger (Shawn Farrell) , Megalyn Echikunwoke (Isabelle Tyler) , Chad Faust (Kyle Baldwin) , Billy Campbell (Jordan Collier) , Conchita Campbell (Maia Rutledge Skouris) , Jenni Baird (Meghan Doyle)

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Tags: washington dc, usa, paranormal phenomena, time travel, superhuman, missing person

King Solomon's Mines

King Solomon’s Mines

“King Solomon’s Mines” is an exciting adventure TV show released in 2004, starring Patrick Swayze, Alison Doody, and Roy Marsden. It follows renowned safari hunter Allan Quatermain as he embarks on a perilous journey into the African jungles to find a man who vanished while searching for the legendary King Solomon’s Mines. Filled with mystery, danger, and the promise of unimaginable riches, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Patrick Swayze (Allan Quartermain) , Alison Doody (Elizabeth Maitland) , Roy Marsden (Captain Good) , John Standing (Dr. Sam Maitland) , Gavin Hood (Bruce McNabb) , Sidede Onyulo (Umbopa) , Ian Roberts (Sir Henry) , Nick Boraine (Ivan Fleekov) , Hakeem Kae-Kazim (Twala) , Lesedi Mogoathle (Gagool) , Godfrey Lekala (Khiva) , Mesia Gumede (Ventvogel) , Langley Kirkwood (Sergei) , Robert Whitehead (Bitter) , Douglas Bristow (Bushell) , Errol Ballantine (Praytor) , Graham Hopkins (Austin) , Morné Visser (Petre) , Ronald France (British Magistrate)

Directors: Steve Boyum

Writers: Steven H. Berman, H. Rider Haggard, Adam Armus, Nora Kay Foster

Tags: treasure, riddle, treasure hunt, treasure map, falling in love, archaeologist, archeology, allan quatermain

Joey

Joey

Release Date: 2004-09-09

Genres: Comedy

“Joey” is a hilarious TV show that premiered in 2004 and follows the adventures of the lovable and still-single Joey, played by Matt LeBlanc. After moving to Hollywood to pursue his acting dreams, Joey reunites with his high-strung sister Gina, portrayed by Drea de Matteo, and moves in with his genius nephew Michael, played by Paulo Costanzo. With a cast of talented actors and a witty storyline, this show is sure to keep you entertained with Joey’s people smarts and comedic charm.

Cast: Matt LeBlanc (Joey Tribbiani) , Drea de Matteo (Gina Tribbiani) , Andrea Anders (Alex Garrett) , Paulo Costanzo (Michael Tribbiani) , Jennifer Coolidge (Bobbie Morganstern) , Miguel A. Núñez, Jr. (Zach Miller)

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Writers: Marta Kauffman, David Crane

Tags: los angeles, california, spin off, uncle nephew relationship, aspiring actor, sitcom

Salem's Lot

Salem’s Lot

Release Date: 2004-06-20

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“Salem’s Lot” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 2004. Set in the picturesque town of Jerusalem’s Lot, it follows a writer with a haunted past who uncovers a dark terror that has taken over the town. With an impressive cast including Rob Lowe, Rutger Hauer, and Donald Sutherland, this gripping series will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Cast: Rob Lowe (Ben Mears) , Rutger Hauer (Kurt Barlow) , Donald Sutherland (Richard Straker) , James Cromwell (Donald Callahan) , Samantha Mathis (Susan Norton) , Andre Braugher (Matt Burke) , Robert Mammone (Dr. James Cody) , Dan Byrd (Mark Petrie) , Christopher Morris (Mike Ryerson) , Andy Anderson (Charlie Rhodes) , Robert Grubb (Larry Crockett) , Steven Vidler (Sheriff Perkins) , Penny McNamee (Ruth Crockett) , Brendan Cowell (Dud Rogers) , Todd MacDonald (Floyd Tibbits) , Bree Desborough (Sandy McDougall) , Paul Ashcroft (Royce McDougall) , Elizabeth Alexander (Ann Norton) , Julia Blake (Eva Prunier) , Martin Vaughan (Ed ‘Weasel’ Craig) , André de Vanny (Danny Glick) , Zac Richmond (Ralphie Glick) , Rebecca Gibney (Marjorie Glick) , Joe Petruzzi (Tony Glick) , Tara Morice (Joyce Petrie)

Directors: Mikael Salomon

Writers: Stephen King, Peter Filardi

Tags: based on novel or book, vampire, priest, miniseries, hospital, horror

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