Lejátszó szerver
Epizód
Évad
Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre
19566
DrámaWestern
Megjelenés
1956. okt. 05.
Ország
Egyesült Államok
Dick Powell Zane Grey Színháza, amelyet néha egyszerűen csak Zane Grey Színháznak neveznek, egy amerikai western antológiasorozat, amely 1956 és 1961 között futott a CBS-en.
About
Quick guide
Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre was a CBS Western anthology that ran 1956‑1961, featuring host Dick Powell and stories adapted from Zane Grey.
Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre was a CBS Western anthology that aired from 1956 to 1961. The series ran five seasons with 146 episodes, each about 25 minutes long. Dick Powell served as host and executive producer, and he appeared in several storylines. Most episodes adapted stories by the famed Western author Zane Grey, though many were original scripts after the early seasons. The show featured guest stars such as James Coburn, Gene Barry, and Robert Ryan, many of whom later became well known. It spawned several spin‑offs, including The Rifleman and Trackdown, and its production values reflected the era’s studio‑made television.
What to know
- 5 seasons, 146 episodes, 25‑minute runtime
- A CBS Western anthology with Dick Powell as host
- Early adaptations of Zane Grey stories, later original scripts
- Guest stars include James Coburn, Gene Barry, Robert Ryan
- Spin‑offs: The Rifleman, Trackdown, The Westerner
- Produced by Four Star Productions, executive produced by Powell
- A mix of drama, action, and frontier justice themes
- Episodes originally aired in black‑and‑white
Watch if
If you enjoy classic Westerns with strong character‑driven stories and a touch of 1950s style, this series offers a mix of drama and adventure, plus early appearances of future stars.
Skip if
If you prefer modern Westerns with high production values or complex serialized plots, this 1950s anthology may feel dated and episodic.
crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyintense actionlanguage somemature themesromance elementssuspenseful
Series Origins and Production
Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre launched on CBS in 1956 as a studio‑made anthology. Four Star Productions produced the show with Powell as executive producer, while writers like John McGreevey and Marion Hargrove supplied scripts. The series adapted Zane Grey's tales, later shifting to original material as Grey’s stories proved too complex for half‑hour slots.
Format and Episodes
Each 25‑minute episode presented a self‑contained Western drama, often featuring a new cast and setting. Initially based on Grey’s short stories, the show eventually relied on original scripts after the early seasons. Over five seasons the series produced 146 episodes, many of which aired on Friday evenings before moving to Thursday slots.
Host and Guest Stars
Dick Powell anchored the show, delivering a brief opening narration and occasionally starring. The series showcased future stars like James Coburn, Gene Barry, and Robert Ryan in guest roles. Powell’s presence added credibility, while the rotating cast offered a platform for emerging talent to gain visibility on network television.
Spin‑Offs and Legacy
The show gave birth to successful Westerns such as The Rifleman and Trackdown, each based on a memorable episode. These series expanded the Zane Grey universe, bringing its characters to prime‑time audiences. The anthology’s influence endures in modern Western storytelling, showcasing early examples of character depth and moral complexity.
Viewing Options
Original episodes aired on CBS and have since been released on DVD for the first four seasons. Some episodes are available on streaming services that specialize in classic television. Viewers can also find curated compilations on digital platforms or access archived broadcasts through library collections.
Cultural Impact
Rated as a strong contender in its era, the series attracted high viewership and critical praise for its storytelling. It introduced audiences to classic Western themes and served as a launchpad for actors who later became household names. Today it remains a reference point for early anthology Westerns.
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FAQ
23 Q&A
How many episodes were in the series?
The show produced 146 episodes over five seasons, airing from 1956 to 1961.
Who hosted Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre?
Dick Powell served as host and occasional star, introducing each episode and providing narration.
Were the stories based on Zane Grey books?
Initially many episodes adapted Grey’s short stories, but later writers used original scripts after the supply ran out.
When did the series first air?
The premiere episode aired on October 5, 1956, on CBS.
Which network aired the series?
CBS broadcast the show throughout its five‑season run.
Was there a sixth season of reruns?
Yes, CBS aired a sixth season composed of reruns of the best episodes.
Did the show have any spin‑offs?
The series spawned popular Westerns like The Rifleman, Trackdown, and The Westerner.
Who were some notable guest stars?
Guests included James Coburn, Gene Barry, Robert Ryan, John Wayne, and many future stars.
Can I watch the series today?
DVDs of the first four seasons are available, and some episodes stream on classic‑TV platforms.
How long is each episode?
Episodes run approximately 25 minutes, fitting a half‑hour time slot with commercials.
Did Dick Powell act in every episode?
He hosted all episodes and appeared in several as a main character, but not every episode featured him as an actor.
What was the production company?
Four Star Productions, with additional involvement from Pamric Productions and Zane Grey Enterprises.
Did the series ever win awards?
The show received positive reviews and high ratings but did not win major television awards.
Was the series in color?
Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre aired in black‑and‑white during its entire run.
Were the episodes suitable for families?
The series is generally family‑friendly, though it contains period‑appropriate violence and occasional strong language.
How did the show influence later Westerns?
It set a template for anthology Westerns and helped launch careers of actors and writers who shaped the genre.
What were the main themes?
The series explored frontier justice, morality, family, and personal redemption in a Western setting.
What was the airing schedule?
Episodes originally aired Fridays at 8:30‑9:00 p.m., later shifting to Thursday slots.
Are there any online streaming options?
Certain classic‑TV services offer episodes, and some episodes can be found on platforms like YouTube.
Did the show feature any recurring characters?
The anthology format meant most episodes were self‑contained, but some characters returned in spin‑offs.
Were there any notable writers or directors?
Notable writers included John McGreevey and Marion Hargrove; directors like Felix Feist and Budd Boetticher worked on episodes.
Did the series have a theme song?
Joseph Mullendore and Earle Dearth composed music, often featuring Western motifs that underscored episodes.
Was the show popular during its run?
The series received strong viewership and critical praise, ranking among popular shows of the era.
