Forgotten ’60s TV Shows That Deserve a Revival

Remember when television was a magical box that transported us to new worlds every evening? As someone who spent countless hours glued to the TV set during the swinging sixties, I’ve compiled a list of forgotten gems that deserve another chance to shine. These shows may have slipped through the cracks of time, but they represent some of the most innovative and entertaining programming from that golden age of television.

1. T.H.E. Cat (1966-1967)

This stylish noir series starred Robert Loggia as Thomas Hewitt Edward Cat, a former circus aerialist and reformed cat burglar who used his unique skills as a bodyguard-for-hire. The show was ahead of its time with its moody atmosphere, jazzy soundtrack, and action-packed sequences. Despite lasting only one season, T.H.E. Cat influenced many later series with its sophisticated blend of acrobatics and crime drama.

2. The Time Tunnel (1966-1967)

Before Doctor Who became a global phenomenon, this Irwin Allen production captured our imaginations with its tale of two scientists lost in time. Each week, Dr. Tony Newman and Dr. Doug Phillips found themselves transported to different historical events, from the sinking of the Titanic to the Battle of Little Big Horn. The show’s innovative special effects and compelling historical narratives made it a unique viewing experience.

3. Way Out (1961)

Hosted by Roald Dahl, this supernatural anthology series was CBS’s answer to The Twilight Zone. The show featured dark, psychological tales with twisted endings that would keep viewers up at night. Though it only ran for 14 episodes, Way Out showcased some of the most creative and disturbing storytelling of the era, with performances from future stars like Richard Thomas and Martin Sheen.

4. Honey West (1965-1966)

Anne Francis starred as television’s first female private detective, breaking ground for future series like Charlie’s Angels. Honey West was a martial arts expert who used high-tech gadgets and had a pet ocelot named Bruce. The show was revolutionary for featuring a strong, independent female lead who could handle herself in any situation, though it sadly lasted only one season.

5. The Outer Limits (1963-1965)

While The Twilight Zone gets most of the attention, The Outer Limits pushed the boundaries of science fiction television with its darker themes and more sophisticated storytelling. The show’s “monster of the week” format belied complex narratives about humanity’s place in the universe. The series featured early appearances by future stars like Robert Duvall and Leonard Nimoy.

6. Stoney Burke (1962-1963)

Jack Lord starred in this gritty rodeo drama years before Hawaii Five-O made him a household name. The show followed the adventures of a rodeo rider chasing the Golden Buckle of the champion, offering a realistic look at the dangerous world of professional rodeo. The series featured outstanding performances and authentic rodeo footage that set it apart from typical Western fare.

7. Run, Buddy, Run (1966)

This unique comedy series followed Buddy Overstreet, an ordinary guy who accidentally overhears a secret mob meeting and spends the rest of the series on the run. The show combined elements of comedy and thriller genres in a way that was ahead of its time. Despite its innovative premise and strong performances, it only lasted 13 episodes.

8. Coronet Blue (1967)

This mysterious drama starred Frank Converse as a man who is found floating in New York Harbor with no memory except the cryptic phrase “coronet blue.” The show’s central mystery and atmospheric filming captured viewers’ imaginations, though they never got to learn the truth behind the protagonist’s identity as the series was canceled before its secrets could be revealed.

9. Mr. Terrific (1967)

This quirky superhero comedy featured Stephen Strimpell as a mild-mannered gas station attendant who gained superpowers by taking a special pill. The show was a lighthearted take on the superhero genre, predating The Greatest American Hero by more than a decade. Its campy style and humor made it a fun alternative to more serious superhero fare.

10. Search (1969)

This innovative series combined espionage with cutting-edge technology, following the adventures of World Securities Corporation agents who used advanced surveillance equipment to solve cases. The show was notable for its use of then-futuristic technology and its rotating cast of lead actors. Its blend of spy drama and science fiction elements was unique for its time.

11. The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1968-1970)

Based on the 1947 film, this charming series starred Hope Lange as a widow who moves into a seaside cottage haunted by the spirit of a cantankerous sea captain. The show perfectly balanced supernatural elements with heartwarming family moments and clever comedy. Lange won two Emmy Awards for her role, yet the show remains surprisingly overlooked in discussions of classic TV.

12. It’s About Time (1966-1967)

From the creative mind of Sherwood Schwartz came this quirky comedy about two astronauts who accidentally travel back to prehistoric times. The show featured a memorable theme song and delightfully absurd situations as modern men tried to adapt to cave life. While it only lasted one season, its fish-out-of-water premise and catchy opening tune left an indelible mark on viewers.

13. The Immortal (1969-1971)

Christopher George starred as Ben Richards, a test driver whose blood contains a unique antibody that prevents aging and cures diseases. The series explored themes of immortality and human nature as Richards constantly evaded those who wanted to exploit his gift. This thought-provoking show predated many modern discussions about medical ethics and the pursuit of eternal life.

14. Judd for the Defense (1967-1969)

Carl Betz won an Emmy for his portrayal of Clinton Judd, a flamboyant Houston lawyer who took on controversial cases across the country. The series tackled serious social issues of the time, including civil rights, anti-war protests, and corruption. Its willingness to address complex moral and legal questions set it apart from other legal dramas of the era.

15. The Psychiatrist (1970-1971)

Roy Thinnes starred as Dr. James Whitman, a compassionate psychiatrist who used unconventional methods to help his patients. The show was groundbreaking in its sensitive portrayal of mental health issues and addiction, subjects rarely addressed on television at the time. Steven Spielberg directed one of the episodes, marking one of his earliest television works.

16. The Trials of O’Brien (1965-1966)

Peter Falk starred as Daniel O’Brien, a sharp-witted criminal defense attorney in New York City, years before he became famous as Columbo. The show combined clever legal drama with elements of comedy, showcasing Falk’s unique ability to balance humor and intensity. Despite excellent writing and strong performances, this sophisticated series lasted only 22 episodes, making it a true hidden gem of 60s television.

17. The Rogues (1964-1965)

This sophisticated caper series featured a rotating cast of stars including David Niven, Charles Boyer, and Gig Young as cousins who used their con artist skills to swindle deserving villains. The show’s premise of charming criminals who targeted only the wicked was revolutionary for its time. With its international locations and clever plots, The Rogues brought European flair to American television, though it ran for just one season.