Tune in for Action

Television in the 1950s was home to a stunning lineup of heroic personae. They were policemen, private eyes, Old West lawmen, spies, doctors, nurses, attorneys, even a heroic IRS agent. Their adventures, syndicated to stations nationwide, offered 1950s viewers a weekly half hour of action, mystery, and drama in which heroes always triumphed, even over limited budgets and tight shooting schedules. Many of the stars were familiar movie faces of an earlier day, enjoying the second act of their careers, or just picking up a welcome paycheck. Despite strong performances, even the best-liked of these programs were all too soon relegated to an afterlife in reruns.

In production for two years or less, the 34 shows spotlighted in this book have received scant coverage in previous works. Rich in detail of adventures both on-screen and off, this book brings programs ranging from Craig Kennedy, Criminologist to U.S. Border Patrol vividly back to life. It is enhanced by archival research, access to original scripts, rare photos, and new interviews with both featured players and descendants of the original stars. Also included are extensive cast and crew lists, sponsor information, and critical commentary. Both scholars and buffs will be enlightened and entertained by this deep dive into a seldom-explored aspect of television history.

Author Biography

David C. Tucker is the author of numerous books about classic film and television history. A retired public library administrator, he lives just outside Atlanta, Georgia.