The 10 “Best” TV Programmes of the 1960s -

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Introduction to the Best TV Programmes of the 1960s

Here’s a fun party game that will keep you up all night. Set you and your guests the task of deciding on the 10 best TV programmes of …[you choose]. In this case the the task is to choose the 10 best TV programmes of the 1960s. As we get older, it seems we like a little nostalgia more and more, even if our memories are not quite what they were.

A few ground rules. The programmes had to be aired in the 1960s – they may have aired earlier and/or later, but they must have been on your screens in the 1960s. Soap operas are excluded. The programmes can originate from anywhere in the world. https://www.retrowow.co.uk/television/60s_television.html

The 1960s were a golden age of television in the UK, with many iconic shows debuting during this decade. From science fiction to comedy, these programs not only entertained millions but also shaped the television landscape. Here’s a look at ten of the best TV shows from the 1960s, highlighting what made them special and why they remain beloved.

1. Doctor Who (1963-present)

Aired: Premiered on November 23, 1963.
Stars: William Hartnell, the first actor to play the Doctor, set the stage for the character’s future incarnations. Hartnell went on to appear in various films and TV shows until his health declined.
About: The series follows the Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey, who travels through time and space in the TARDIS, a time machine that appears from the outside as a British police box.
Popularity: Viewers loved its imaginative storytelling, innovative special effects, and the iconic character of the Doctor, who has been portrayed by many actors over the decades.

End: The show was cancelled in 1989 due to declining ratings and production issues but was revived in 2005 and continues to be popular.
Unusual Fact: The first episode was delayed by a news broadcast covering the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

2. The Avengers (1961-1969)

Aired: Ran from January 7, 1961, to May 21, 1969.
Stars: Patrick Macnee starred as John Steed, and Diana Rigg joined as Emma Peel in the series’ most famous partnership. Diana Rigg went on to have a successful career in film, stage, and TV, including roles in Game of Thrones.
About: The show featured secret agent John Steed and his various partners fighting against bizarre and dangerous threats.
Popularity: It was loved for its mix of espionage, eccentric characters, and stylish presentation.

End: It ended due to high production costs and changes in the television landscape.
Unusual Fact: The show’s budget was often so tight that Diana Rigg had to buy her own clothes for her role.

3. The Prisoner (1967-1968)

Aired: Aired from September 29, 1967, to February 1, 1968.
Stars: Patrick McGoohan, who also created the series, starred as Number Six. McGoohan became known for his intense roles and later worked on various projects in the US.
About: A former secret agent is held captive in a mysterious village where he is known only as Number Six and is constantly under surveillance.
Popularity: Audiences appreciated its surreal narrative and philosophical themes exploring freedom and identity.

End: Concluded after 17 episodes due to McGoohan’s vision for a finite story arc.
Unusual Fact: The show’s finale was so controversial that McGoohan had to go into hiding for a short time due to viewer backlash.

4. The Forsyte Saga (1967)

Aired: Broadcast from January 7 to July 1, 1967.
Stars: Eric Porter starred as Soames Forsyte. He continued to have a prolific career in film and TV, including roles in The Lost Boys and Nicholas and Alexandra.
About: Based on John Galsworthy’s novels, the series explored the lives of an upper-middle-class British family.
Popularity: It was acclaimed for its faithful adaptation of the novels and high production values.
End: It ended after adapting all the source material.
Unusual Fact: The series was the first BBC drama to be sold to the Soviet Union.

5. Z-Cars (1962-1978)

Aired: Premiered on January 2, 1962, and ended on September 20, 1978.
Stars: Frank Windsor and Stratford Johns were among the lead actors. Frank Windsor continued acting in various TV series, including Softly, Softly and Casualty.
About: A police procedural set in the fictional town of Newtown, focusing on the activities of police officers.
Popularity: Praised for its gritty realism and portrayal of working-class life.

End: The series concluded as changing tastes in television led to new formats.
Unusual Fact: The show was one of the first to use location filming extensively, adding to its realistic feel.

6. Thunderbirds (1965-1966)

Aired: Aired from September 30, 1965, to December 25, 1966.
Stars: The show featured marionette puppets rather than human actors, with voices provided by actors such as Shane Rimmer and Sylvia Anderson.
About: The series follows International Rescue, a secret organization dedicated to saving lives using technologically advanced vehicles and equipment.
Popularity: Known for its futuristic designs and exciting storylines, it became a cultural icon.
End: Canceled after two seasons due to financial issues with the production company.
Unusual Fact: The series inspired a real-life International Rescue Corps, which helps in disaster relief efforts worldwide.

7. Steptoe and Son (1962-1965, 1970-1974)

Aired: First aired on January 4, 1962, with its final episode on December 26, 1974.
Stars: Wilfrid Brambell played Albert Steptoe, and Harry H. Corbett played Harold Steptoe. Corbett became a notable actor in British TV and film.
About: A sitcom about a father-and-son duo of rag-and-bone men living in London, dealing with their constant bickering and misadventures.
Popularity: Loved for its humor and the chemistry between the lead actors.
End: Ended as the creators wanted to pursue new projects.
Unusual Fact: The show’s success led to two feature films and a failed US remake titled Sanford and Son.

8. The Saint (1962-1969)

Aired: Broadcast from October 4, 1962, to February 9, 1969.
Stars: Roger Moore starred as Simon Templar. Moore later became world-famous for playing James Bond in seven films.
About: The series follows the adventures of Simon Templar, a suave and sophisticated criminal who targets corrupt individuals.
Popularity: Viewers enjoyed its blend of action, humor, and Moore’s charismatic performance.

End: Concluded as Roger Moore moved on to the James Bond franchise.
Unusual Fact: The theme music from The Saint was used as the ringtone for the Saint’s phone in the series, making it an early example of multimedia branding.

9. The Benny Hill Show (1955-1991)

Aired: Aired intermittently, with its most notable period in the 1960s.
Stars: Benny Hill was the primary star, a comedian known for his slapstick humor and musical performances. He remained a beloved figure in British comedy until his death.
About: A sketch comedy show featuring a mix of slapstick, visual gags, and comedic sketches.
Popularity: Famous for its fast-paced humor and memorable characters, including the “fast-running” skits.
End: Canceled in 1991 due to changing tastes and criticisms of its comedic style.
Unusual Fact: The “Yakety Sax” tune, used during chase scenes, became synonymous with the show’s comedy style and is still associated with comedic chases today.

10. Callan (1967-1972)

Aired: Aired from July 8, 1967, to April 1, 1972.
Stars: Edward Woodward starred as David Callan. Woodward went on to have a successful career, including the lead role in The Equalizer.
About: A gritty spy drama about a reluctant secret agent working for a shadowy government department.
Popularity: Known for its realistic depiction of espionage and complex character development.
End: Ended as the creators felt they had exhausted the narrative possibilities.
Unusual Fact: The show featured an episode that was “wiped” by the BBC and later rediscovered in a mislabeled film canister, leading to its eventual recovery and broadcast.

Conclusion: The Best TV programmes of the 1960s?

These ten shows are a testament to the innovative spirit and enduring legacy of 1960s British television. They continue to be celebrated for their creativity, ground-breaking narratives, and memorable characters. But are they the best TV programmes of the 1960s?

So, what is your favourite programme of the 1960s? Leave a comment.