During the 1950s, television shows came into their own as a form of home entertainment. This also allowed them to be the most effective tools for influencing the public’s opinion on the most pertinent issues of the decade. After World War II, technology saw a great boost, making room for improvement in the quality of appliances. The country also experienced a boom in its economy coupled with an increase in the number of middle-class men, making luxury items such as televisions more accessible.
It was during the ‘50s that the first color broadcast was shown on national television, specifically during the 1954 Tournament of Roses Parade. While the color was used on an occasional basis afterward, it wasn’t until the mid-1960s that black and white programming became all but obsolete.
Westerns, game shows, variety shows, and sitcoms were among the most widely watched programs on TV during the ‘50s. Take a look at some of the classic shows from the period that were most enjoyed by viewers.
A variety show mainly of a musical and comedic nature, the show starred Arthur Godfrey, Sally Marr, and Lenny Bruce. It commenced broadcasting during the last ‘40s and ended its television run in 1958. It started as a radio program before getting adapted as a TV show, much like most of the shows in the era.
This sitcom, starring Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, and Jackie Gleason ran for only a year, from 1955 to 1956. While the show ended up being short-lived, it is still considered the third greatest TV show of all time (according to TV Guide). The show’s concept built on its audience following with the help of Gleason’s variety shows, more specifically The Jackie Gleason Show, during the first half of the ‘50s.
Showing on television from 1949 to 1957, The Lone Ranger was one of the first ABC hits and is considered one of its most popular shows of the decade. It starred Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger with Jay Silverheels portraying the role of Tonto.
The Ed Sullivan Show premiered at the beginning of 1948, first launched as The Toast of the Town. It was officially renamed The Ed Sullivan Show in 1955, though it had already been called that for years by fans. It is considered the most famous TV variety show in history and played a hand in introducing many stars in the entertainment industry to the American audience. It ceased its run on TV in 1971.
The Jack Benny Show was televised by CBS from 1950 until 1964. It is considered one of the best comedy programs, with roots tracing back to its radio counterpart. Jack Benny and his lineup of actors and actresses piqued the interest of their audience with sketch comedy laughs and punchlines.
I Love Lucy needs no introduction as this classic sitcom (running from 1951 to 1957) has been widely recognized for its brilliant content. Starring Lucille Ball, Vivian Vance, and Desi Arnaz, the sitcom has proven that it is timeless, with reruns still being shown on TV today. The sitcom holds the number two spot in TV Guide’s list of greatest TV shows of all time (second only to Seinfeld).