Western TV shows have stood the test of time and continue entertaining and mesmerizing viewers. Here are the top 5 Western TV shows that you should add to your watchlist:
Deadwood: This critically acclaimed show follows the lives of a group of people who live and do business in the town of Deadwood, South Dakota in the 1870s. It’s known for its superb acting, intricate storylines, and attention to historical detail.
Hell On Wheels: Set during the building of the first Transcontinental Railroad in America, this show follows the lives of the people who contributed to this monumental feat. It’s known for its action-packed scenes and gripping character development.
Longmire: This show follows the life of Walt Longmire, the Sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, as he solves crimes and navigates personal hardships. It’s known for its stunning vistas, complex characters, and engaging plotlines.
Gunsmoke: Set in Dodge City, Kansas during the late 19th century is regarded as one of the most iconic Western shows of all time. It follows the life of Marshal Matt Dillon as he maintains law and order in the Wild West.
The Rifleman:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â This show follows the life of Lucas McCain, a widower raising his son in the Old West. It’s known for its iconic theme song, dramatic plots, and realistic portrayal of the hardships faced by settlers in the Wild West.
Pro-tip: Grab some popcorn and binge-watch these Western shows for an unforgettable experience.
The Golden Era of Western TV Shows
The western genre in television consists of many different shows of varying quality about cowboys, gunfighters, outlaws, lawmen, and pioneers of the American Old West. This classic American genre started in the 1950s and is still popular today, with fans of all ages.
Let’s dive into some of the greatest western TV shows ever.
Introduction to the Golden Era of Western TV Shows
The Golden Era of Western TV Shows has produced some of the greatest classics ever. Counting down some of the best Western TV Shows captures the era’s essence and allures viewers with genre’s best works to date.
The popularity of Western TV shows emerged during the 1950s and 1960s, and the period witnessed the creation of some of the most iconic characters and shows. Such TV shows depicted cowboys, gunslingers, outlaws, and sheriffs and showcased a rich American heritage, culture, and freedom. Shows like Gunsmoke, Rawhide, Bonanza, and The Lone Ranger ruled the small screen for years and enchanted audiences with their compelling narratives, acting prowess, and action-filled scenes.
Counting down some of the best Western TV Shows refreshes our memory of the past’s glorious times and unlocks a brilliant viewing experience.
Featured TV Shows of the Golden Era
The Golden Era of TV gave rise to some of the most iconic Western shows in history. As we take a trip down memory lane, let’s count down some of the best Western TV shows that graced our screens:
5. Gunsmoke: With its 20-year run, Gunsmoke became a household name for Western enthusiasts due to its compelling stories and ensemble cast.
4. Bonanza: Known for its iconic theme song and wholesome family appeal, Bonanza remained popular throughout its 14-year run.
3. Have Gun – Will Travel: Richard Boone’s portrayal of a gentleman gunfighter garnered universal acclaim and set the standard for antiheroes to come.
2. The Rifleman: Its unique premise of a single father raising a boy while dealing with outlaws captivated viewers and became a template for future Western shows.
1. The Lone Ranger: With its “Hi-Yo Silver!” catchphrase and masked vigilante protagonist, The Lone Ranger remains one of history’s most beloved Western shows.
Counting down these shows reminds us of the golden era’s significance and the way they paved the way for future TV shows.
Why did the Golden Era end?
The Golden Era of Western TV shows ended due to changing audience preferences, the rise of alternative genres, and production costs.
In the 1950s and 60s, Western TV shows dominated the airwaves and captured the imagination of viewers across America. However, by the 1970s, the popularity of Westerns began to decline, and the networks shifted their focus to other genres like cop shows and sitcoms.
Moreover, the production costs of Western TV shows were quite high due to their elaborate sets, costume designs, and location shoots. As a result, the networks found it increasingly difficult to finance these shows, and many of them were canceled due to poor ratings.
Finally, America’s changing social and cultural landscape also played a role in the decline of Westerns. As the country became more politically and socially divided, audiences began seeking more diverse and challenging forms of entertainment. As a result, western TV shows no longer held the same appeal as they once did.
Pro tip: Some of the most iconic Western TV shows of all time include Bonanza, Gunsmoke, The Lone Ranger, Rawhide, and Have Gun – Will Travel.
Did The Cast Of Gunsmoke Get Along
Westerns are a classic TV show genre that captures our imaginations and takes us back to a different time and place. Counting down the top 5 classic Western TV shows is difficult, as there are so many amazing choices. However, there are plenty of iconic Western TV shows, from bonafide classics like Gunsmoke to modern-day favorites like Westworld.
In this article, we’ll look at the five best Western TV shows.
Gunsmoke
Counting down some of the best western TV shows, Gunsmoke deserves a top spot. This classic western TV show aired from 1955 to 1975 and is the longest-running prime-time drama in US television history. The show was set in Dodge City, Kansas, during the late 19th century and starred James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon, who maintained law and order in the dangerous and rowdy town.
The show tackled heavy themes and storylines, such as violence, prejudice, and morality, making it entertaining and thought-provoking. Gunsmoke was known for its talented cast, including Amanda Blake as Miss Kitty Russell, Ken Curtis as Festus Haggen, and Milburn Stone as Doc Adams.
Despite its age, Gunsmoke’s themes and messages still resonate today, cementing its place in American pop culture history.
Bonanza
Counting down some of the best western TV shows, Bonanza is on the top 5 list.
Here are the top 5 classic western TV shows:
5. Gunsmoke:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â This show follows the story of Marshal Matt Dillon and his quest to maintain law and order in Dodge City.
4. The Lone Ranger:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â This show features the masked cowboy and his partner Tonto as they fight injustice and defend the innocent.
3. Have Gun, Will Travel: This show focuses on the adventures of Paladin, a gun-for-hire who travels the wild west righting wrongs and defending the helpless.
2. The Rifleman: This show follows the story of a widowed father raising his young son in the Wild West while he also deals with his past as a gunslinger.
1. Bonanza: This show ran for 14 seasons and followed the dramatic lives of the Cartwright family, owners of the Ponderosa Ranch in Nevada. The show broke many stereotypes and was one of the first to introduce complex storylines and relatable characters.
The Lone Ranger
The Lone Ranger is an iconic classic western TV show that aired in the 1950s and has since become a beloved and popular piece of American television history. The show tells the story of a masked lawman, known as the Lone Ranger, and his trusty Native American companion, Tonto, as they fight injustice and protect the innocent in the Wild West. The Lone Ranger was known for its thrilling action scenes, compelling characters, and themes of justice, honor, and loyalty.
Here are the top 5 classic western TV shows in descending order:
5. Gunsmoke
4. Bonanza
3. The Virginian
2. Have Gun – Will Travel
1. The Lone Ranger
Pro Tip: These classic western TV shows are a must-watch for fans of the western genre or those interested in American television history.
The Rifleman
The Rifleman is a classic Western TV show that aired from 1958 to 1963 and has a loyal fan following. The show followed the adventures of Lucas McCain, a widowed father who settles in North Fork, New Mexico, with his son, Mark.
Here are the top 5 classic Western TV shows of all time:
RankShowDescription
5. Bonanza       Â
This show is about the wealthy Cartwright family and their ownership of a thousand square miles of land in Nevada.
4. Gunsmoke       Â
Set in the infamous Dodge City, Kansas, this show ran for 20 seasons and had a loyal fan following.
3. The Lone Ranger       Â
The show follows the adventures of a masked cowboy known as the Lone Ranger and his Native American friend, Tonto.
2. Have Gun – Will Travel       Â
Richard Boone stars as the sophisticated gunslinger Paladin who travels around the American Old West and uses his intelligence and wit to solve problems.
1. Rawhide       Â
Starring a young Clint Eastwood, Rawhide tells the story of a group of cattle drivers as they travel along the Sedalia Trail.
Pro Tip: Revisit these classic Western TV shows and experience the wild west in all its glory.
Have Gun – Will Travel
“Have Gun – Will Travel” is a classic Western TV show from 1957 to 1963. It follows the adventures of Paladin, a gentleman gunfighter who travels the Old West taking on various challenges and causes. The show was known for its moral complexity, subtle humor, and strong performances by Richard Boone as Paladin and supporting actors.
Here are the other top 4 classic Western TV shows, counting down some of the best:
4. Gunsmoke        A groundbreaking series from 1955 to 1975, Gunsmoke followed Marshal Matt Dillon and his deputies as they kept the peace in the frontier town of Dodge City.
3. The Lone Ranger        A masked hero who fights for justice in the Wild West, The Lone Ranger is a classic American icon. The TV series ran from 1949 to 1957 and featured Clayton Moore as the title character.
2. Bonanza        Set in the 1860s, Bonanza told the stories of the Cartwright family, who ran a ranch outside Virginia City, Nevada. The show ran from 1959 to 1973 and starred Lorne Greene, Michael Landon, Dan Blocker, and Pernell Roberts.
1. Rawhide       Â
Starring Clint Eastwood as trail boss Gil Favor, Rawhide followed a group of cattle drivers as they made their way across the American West. The show ran from 1959 to 1966 and was known for its gritty realism and memorable performances.
Pro tip: If you’re a fan of classic Western TV shows, you can still catch episodes on streaming services like Amazon Prime and Hulu.
Top 5 Modern Western TV Shows
Western TV shows have been a major part of television since the dawn of television. From the classic shows of the 1950s and 1960s to more modern shows set in different periods and cultures, Western TV shows have a diverse range of characters, themes and plots.
This article will count down some of the best modern Western TV shows. Let’s dive in!
Deadwood
Deadwood is a highly acclaimed and influential western TV show that took the genre by storm with its gritty realism, complex characters, and intricate storytelling.
Set in the late 1800s in the gold-mining town of Deadwood, South Dakota, the show follows the intersecting lives of various characters, including the ambitious saloon owner Al Swearengen, the righteous lawman Seth Bullock, and the infamous gunslinger Wild Bill Hickok.
Ranking among the top 5 modern western TV shows, Deadwood is known for its stellar writing, unforgettable performances, and its realistic portrayal of the harsh realities of life in the American West. Each season builds upon the last, resulting in a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion.
Whether you’re a fan of westerns or not, Deadwood is a must-watch show that sets the standard for the genre.
Pro Tip: If you haven’t seen Deadwood yet, be prepared to become a die-hard fan.
Hell on Wheels
With the classic appeal of the Old West combined with modern storytelling techniques, modern Western TV shows have captured audiences from all walks of life. Here are the top 5 modern Western TV shows, counting down some of the best Western TV shows to date:
5. Godless: This limited series follows a town of all women who band together after their men die in a mining accident. This show is Western drama at its best, featuring a star-studded cast and beautiful cinematography.
4. Longmire: Based on a mystery book series, Longmire follows a Wyoming sheriff as he battles corruption and navigates small-town politics.
3. Yellowstone: This series follows the Dutton family, owners of the largest ranch in the United States, as they ward off developers and others who want their land. Starring Kevin Costner, Yellowstone is a thrilling and dramatic take on modern Westerns.
2. Deadwood:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Set in a lawless South Dakota town, Deadwood is an intense and gritty series that explores the intersection of law, order, and power in the Wild West.
1. Justified: Timothy Olyphant stars in this series as a U.S. Marshal reassigned to his hometown of Harlan, Kentucky. Justified is the perfect modern take on the classic Western genre, featuring sharp dialogue, relatable characters, and thrilling action sequences.
Longmire
Longmire is a modern Western TV show that has captured the hearts of many viewers with its gripping storyline and strong ensemble cast. In this article, we count down some of the best Western TV shows of recent times that are worth watching.
5. Justified
4. Deadwood
3. Yellowstone
2. The Magnificent Seven
1. Longmire
These shows have something unique to offer, from complex characters to stunning cinematography and powerful storytelling. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Western genre or a newcomer, these shows are guaranteed to keep you entertained and engaged.
So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a wild ride in the Wild West!
Justified
Counting down some of the best western TV shows, here are the top 5 modern western TV shows that are worth your time:
1. Deadwood:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Set in the 1870s, Deadwood tells the story of a camp in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota. With a talented ensemble cast, this show is known for its raw and gritty portrayal of the uncivilized West.
2. Yellowstone: This modern Western-drama series revolves around the Dutton family, who operate the largest contiguous ranch in the United States. Starring Kevin Costner, the show explores themes of family dysfunction, politics, and environmentalism.
3. Hell on Wheels: This show is set in the aftermath of the Civil War, and it follows former Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon, who sets out to avenge his wife’s death. Living in Hell on Wheels, a mobile settlement involved with constructing the First Transcontinental Railroad, Bohannon goes on a journey that takes him beyond the battlefields of the Civil War.
4. Longmire: Based on the Walt Longmire Mystery novels by Craig Johnson, Longmire follows the adventures of Walt Longmire, a sheriff in Wyoming, who is recovering from the death of his wife. The show is noted for its procedural-style mystery plots and stunning Wyoming landscapes.
5. Godless: Set in the 1800s, Godless follows the story of a ruthless outlaw named Frank Griffin, who is on a quest to find his former protege, Roy Goode, who betrayed him. The show is known for its strong performances and compelling exploration of the changing West.
Pro tip: If you’re a fan of western TV shows, these modern takes on the genre should be on your watchlist.
Yellowstone
Yellowstone is a popular modern western TV show that follows the wealthy Dutton family who controls the largest contiguous ranch in the United States in Montana. This family drama is filled with conflicts, betrayals, and cowboy battles. Its stunning cinematography and well-written script has given it a huge fan following.
Here are a few more modern western TV shows counting down some of the best western TV shows.
Deadwood       Â
This show is set in a lawless, gold-mining town in South Dakota during the late 1800s. It’s known for its gritty realism and complex characters.
Longmire       Â
This show is about a Wyoming sheriff who tries to maintain law and order in a changing world. It’s known for its breathtaking scenery and grizzled cast of characters.
Hell on Wheels       Â
This show is set during the construction of the first transcontinental railroad in America. It’s known for its intense action scenes and compelling storyline.
Justified       Â
This show is about a US Marshal reassigned to his hometown in Kentucky who enforces the law in unconventional ways. It’s known for its fast-paced action and witty dialogue.
Westworld       Â
Although not a traditional western, Westworld is set in a futuristic, western-themed amusement park where guests can live out their wildest fantasies without consequence. It’s known for its mind-bending plot twists and visually stunning effects.
Pro Tip: Binge-watch these amazing modern western TV shows this weekend for a true cowboy experience!
Top 5 Underrated Western TV Shows
When it comes to classic western TV shows, there is no shortage of outstanding titles. We compiled a list of the best western-themed TV shows, but today let’s look at some less popular titles that should not be overlooked.
Here we will discuss the top 5 underrated western TV shows that should be on your radar.
The Virginian
The Virginian is one of the most underrated Western TV shows ever, full of action, drama, and moral dilemmas. The show was set in the late 1800s and followed the story of a Wyoming ranch foreman, simply known as the Virginian, as he navigated the challenges of running a cattle ranch and maintaining a code of honor in a changing world.
In addition to The Virginian, several other Western TV shows are underrated gems:
5. Longmire: A modern Western series about a Wyoming sheriff who solves crimes with the help of his dedicated team.
4. Deadwood:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Set in a gold-mining camp in the late 1800s, this series explores the lives of outlaws, saloon owners, and lawmen.
3. Justified: Based on Elmore Leonard’s short story, this series follows a US Marshal who enforces the law in his rural Kentucky hometown.
2. Hell on Wheels: Set after the Civil War, this series tells the story of constructing the first transcontinental railroad in the US.
1. Have Gun – Will Travel: One of the most iconic Western TV shows of all time, this series followed the adventures of a sophisticated gunslinger who traveled the American frontier solving problems with his wits and pistol.
These underrated Western TV shows are worth checking out for anyone who loves the genre.
Maverick
Maverick is a classic and highly underrated Western TV show from 1957 to 1962. Starring James Garner as the charming and smooth-talking Bret Maverick, the show followed his adventures as a gambler and con artist in the American Wild West.
Here are 5 other underrated Western TV shows that are worth checking out:
The Virginian        1962-1971
The Rifleman        1958-1963
The Big Valley        1965-1969
Branded        1965-1966
Cheyenne        1955-1963
These shows may have gotten less mainstream attention than some of their more popular counterparts. However, they are no less entertaining, with memorable characters, gripping storylines, and themes that still resonate today. Take advantage of discovering these hidden gems!
Branded
Counting down some of the best western TV shows, here are the top 5 underrated ones you should add to your watchlist.
1. Hell on Wheels:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â The show revolves around constructing the first transcontinental railroad and features a diverse cast of characters and their struggles.
2. Longmire: This modern western crime drama follows Walt Longmire, a Wyoming sheriff, and his team as they solve crimes and deal with personal struggles.
3. Deadwood: Set in the 1870s, the show tells the story of the town of Deadwood, South Dakota, and its inhabitants, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.
4. Justified: Based on a short story by Elmore Leonard, the show follows Raylan Givens, a U.S. Marshal, as he returns to his hometown of Harlan, Kentucky, and deals with old and new enemies.
5. Godless: This western mini-series is set in a town populated only by women after a mining accident kills all the men. The women must defend themselves against outlaws and others seeking to exploit them.
These 5 western TV shows are some of the best and most underrated, and they offer great storytelling, unique characters, and authentic settings that any western fan will love.
Rawhide
Rawhide is an underrated Western TV show that deserves more recognition. The show aired from 1959 to 1966 and followed a group of cattle drivers facing various challenges and adventures on their journey.
Rawhide was unique for its time as it combined elements of action, drama, and humor, making it a hit with audiences. Additionally, the show featured a diverse cast, including the legendary Clint Eastwood in one of his first starring roles.
Although Rawhide may not be as well-known as other Western TV shows, it remains a classic that has stood the test of time. Its themes of resilience, camaraderie, and the rugged wild West continue to captivate audiences today.
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of Western TV shows, give Rawhide a watch. You won’t be disappointed by its iconic entertainment.
Wanted: Dead or Alive
Wanted: Dead or Alive! Here are the top 5 underrated Western TV shows worth your time if you’re a genre fan. Counting down from our fifth pick:
5. The Virginian: The Virginian tells the story of a foreman on a ranch in Wyoming in the late 1800s. The show is notable for its strong writing and character development.
4. The Rifleman: The Rifleman follows the adventures of a father and son in the Old West, featuring a distinctive firearm and iconic opening theme.
3. Rawhide: Rawhide focuses on a group of cattle drivers and their struggles across the American Frontier.
2. Maverick: Starring James Garner, this show featured a charming and witty gambler who often found himself in trouble.
1. Have Gun – Will Travel: Topping the list, Have Gun – Will Travel was set in the late 1800s and followed a gunfighter who solved problems for clients using his wit and cunning.
The Legacy of Western TV Shows
Western TV shows have been a staple of the American media landscape for decades. Since the 1950s, Westerns such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and The Big Valley have delighted viewers of all ages, and remain a source of nostalgia for many.
In this article, we’ll be counting down some of the best Western TV shows, looking at the legacy they have left behind.
Western TV Shows’ contribution to the Western Genre
Western TV shows have significantly contributed to the Western genre with their depictions of the Wild West, its characters, and its stories. Counting down some of the best Western TV shows, we can see the genre’s lasting impact on popular culture.
Bonanza       Â
One of the longest-running Western TV shows ever, aired from 1959 to 1973, chronicling the adventures of the wealthy Cartwright family.
Gunsmoke       Â
Another long-running Western TV series that aired from 1955 to 1975 focused on the life of Marshal Matt Dillon and the citizens of Dodge City.
Deadwood       Â
A critically acclaimed Western TV series set in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota, in the late 1800s.
The Lone Ranger       Â
This classic Western TV show followed the adventures of the masked man and his Native American sidekick, Tonto, as they fought for justice in the Wild West.
These shows and many others firmly established Westerns as an enduring genre that continues to captivate audiences today.
TV Shows that evolved from Western TV Shows
The legacy of Western TV shows has profoundly influenced the evolution of television programming, inspiring the creation of numerous shows across different genres. One emerging trend is the adaptation and development of popular Western TV shows, creating new and exciting programs.
Here are some TV shows that evolved from Western TV shows:
1) Breaking Bad – Show creator Vince Gilligan took inspiration from the character arc of Walter White, similar to the transformation of a classic Western antihero.
2) Battlestar Galactica – This sci-fi classic was a revamp of the popular Western show “Wagon Train.”
3) Firefly – Joss Whedon’s space western program was a unique take on the Western genre set in a futuristic space-age setting.
Counting down some of the best Western TV shows led to the production of many successful TV shows that continue to captivate audiences today.
Fanbase for Western TV Shows to this day
Western TV shows have continued to captivate audiences to this day, with a loyal fanbase remaining devoted to the genre. Counting down some of the best Western TV shows of all time, from classic favorites to modern takes on the genre, here are top picks:
5. Deadwood: Known for its gritty realism, compelling characters, and sharp writing, this series follows the growth of a lawless gold-mining town.
4. Gunsmoke:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â A classic among Western TV shows, Gunsmoke was a staple of American television for 20 years. It follows the adventures of Marshal Matt Dillon, a lawman in the Wild West.
3. Hell on Wheels: Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, this show tells the story of the transcontinental railroad building, with a cast of complex and intriguing characters.
2. The Lone Ranger: A beloved classic from the early days of television, The Lone Ranger follows the adventures of a mysterious lone cowboy and his trusty Native American sidekick as they fight for justice in the Old West.
1. Westworld: A modern take on the Western genre, Westworld is a science fiction series that explores themes of free will, human nature, and morality. The show takes place in a high-tech amusement park filled with androids designed to fulfill the fantasies of its wealthy guests.
Pro tip: These five TV shows are a great place to start if you’re just exploring the Western genre. They offer a range of styles and tones, from classic to modern, and will introduce you to some of the genre’s most memorable characters and stories.
