Whether it be comedies, dramas, fantasy, westerns, or variety shows, the 1960s were varied, exciting, and filled with series after series that helped shape society and television in significant ways.
As a result, each television genre showcased the best of both worlds. And we then see how much the shows of the 1960s influenced what was to come. Exploring each genre and its highly-rated, acclaimed, and groundbreaking shows is fun and fascinating.
One of the best and first sitcoms that feature a fish-out-of-water scenario, The Beverly Hillbillies, centered on the mountain Clampett family who strikes oil and decides to move to Beverley Hills, California, with their newfound wealth.
This sweet and hilarious family sitcom began with what was called a typical American man and woman meeting and falling in love. Except, on their wedding night, Samantha tells her husband Darrin her secret. She is anything but ordinary. She is a witch.
It established the sitcom blueprint that focused on wholesome family hijinks with a different kind of family, influencing many similar shows in the years to come.
One of the greatest sitcoms of all time, The D Van Dyke Show was a perfect blend of intelligently written comedy with slapstick humor, showcasing the individual talents of its cast in witty, heartfelt, and hilarious scenarios.