Best Western TV Series of All Time

Western TV series have been a staple in the entertainment industry for decades. From classic shows like Gunsmoke to modern hits like Yellowstone, the genre has evolved over time while still maintaining its roots in the Wild West. In this article, we will be discussing the best western TV series currently available for streaming.

When it comes to western TV series, there are many factors to consider. The setting, characters, and plot all play a significant role in creating a successful show. Additionally, the quality of the acting, writing, and production can make or break a series. For those interested in watching a western TV series, it’s important to pay attention to these critical factors to ensure an enjoyable viewing experience.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a western TV series is the authenticity of the setting. A good western series should transport viewers back in time to the Wild West, with accurate depictions of the landscape, architecture, and clothing of the period. The attention to detail in the setting can enhance the overall viewing experience and make the show more immersive.

After researching and watching multiple western TV series, we have compiled a list of the best shows currently available for streaming. In the following sections, we will discuss each series in detail, including the setting, characters, plot, and overall quality. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of the top western TV series and which ones are worth watching.

Best Western TV Series

We’ve scoured the vast landscape of Western TV series to bring you the very best of the best. From classic shows that have stood the test of time to newer offerings that have captured our attention, these are the Western series you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or just looking for some quality entertainment, our list has got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to saddle up with the best Western TV series out there.

The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series

If you are a fan of classic Westerns, The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series is definitely worth the purchase.

Pros

• The show’s unique combination of Western, spy thriller, and steampunk genres provides a fresh and entertaining viewing experience.
• The chemistry between Robert Conrad’s James T. West and Ross Martin’s Artemus Gordon is undeniable and makes for a great dynamic duo.
• The set includes all 104 episodes, so you can enjoy the entire series from start to finish.

Cons

• Some episodes may feel dated or contain outdated cultural references.
• The show’s treatment of Native American characters may be considered insensitive by modern standards.
• The special effects and gadgetry may seem primitive compared to modern shows.

If you’re looking for a classic Western series with a twist, The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series is a great choice. The show’s unique blend of genres and the chemistry between the two leads make for an entertaining viewing experience. However, some of the episodes may feel dated or contain insensitive content. Despite this, the set includes all 104 episodes, so you can enjoy the entire series from start to finish.

1883

If you are a fan of western TV series, then 1883 is a must-watch for you.

Pros

• The cast, including Tim McGraw, Sam Elliott, and Faith Hill, delivers excellent performances that bring the characters to life.
• The show’s production quality is top-notch, with stunning cinematography and attention to detail that transports you back to the 19th century.
• The storyline is engaging, with plenty of action, drama, and suspense to keep you hooked.

Cons

• The show contains mature content, including nudity, violence, substance use, alcohol use, foul language, and sexual content, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The pacing of the show can be slow at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced action.
• The show’s historical accuracy may not be entirely accurate, which may bother some viewers.

We were thoroughly impressed with 1883. The show’s cast, production quality, and storyline all exceeded our expectations. The performances were outstanding, and the attention to detail in the production design was impressive. The show’s storyline kept us engaged throughout, with plenty of twists and turns that kept us on the edge of our seats.

However, it’s worth noting that 1883 is not for everyone. The show contains mature content that may not be suitable for all viewers. Additionally, the pacing of the show can be slow at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced action. Finally, some viewers may take issue with the show’s historical accuracy.

Overall, we highly recommend 1883 to anyone who enjoys western TV series. It’s a well-crafted show that delivers excellent performances, stunning visuals, and an engaging storyline. If you’re looking for a new show to watch, 1883 is definitely worth checking out.

Honey West: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a classic TV show with a unique twist, then Honey West: The Complete Series might be just what you’re looking for.

Pros

• The show features a female protagonist in an action-adventure role, which was groundbreaking for its time.
• The witty dialogue and jazzy scores make for an entertaining viewing experience.
• Honey West’s arsenal of weapons and gadgets, including tear gas earrings and a lipstick microphone, add a fun element to the show.

Cons

• The show only ran for one season, so you won’t have a lot of episodes to watch.
• Some of the plotlines and dialogue may feel dated to modern audiences.
• The show’s low budget is evident in some of the production values.

As someone who loves classic TV shows, we were excited to check out Honey West: The Complete Series. The show’s premise is unique for its time, featuring a female private eye who is skilled in martial arts and uses an arsenal of gadgets to solve cases. Anne Francis is excellent in the lead role, bringing a sense of glamour and sex appeal to the character while also portraying her as tough and independent.

One of the things we enjoyed most about the show was the witty dialogue and jazzy scores. The banter between Honey and her partner Sam is often amusing, and the music adds to the show’s cool vibe. We also appreciated the show’s use of gadgets, which adds a fun element to the show. Honey’s arsenal includes an exploding compact, a garter belt gas mask, and other items that are both practical and amusing.

Of course, there are some downsides to the show. The fact that it only ran for one season means that there aren’t a lot of episodes to watch. Some of the plotlines and dialogue may feel dated to modern audiences, and the show’s low budget is evident in some of the production values.

Overall, we would recommend Honey West: The Complete Series to fans of classic TV shows who are looking for something a little different. The show’s unique premise, witty dialogue, and fun gadgets make it an entertaining watch.

Alias Smith and Jones: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of classic Westerns, then Alias Smith and Jones: The Complete Series is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The series features a strong cast of recurring characters and an outstanding roster of guest stars, making each episode a treat.
• The silver tongue of Heyes/Smith and the fast draw of Curry/Jones make for some thrilling action scenes.
• The 90-minute pilot episode is included, giving viewers a chance to see how the series began.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the pacing slow in certain episodes.
• The show’s humor may not be to everyone’s taste.
• The replacement of Pete Duel with Roger Davis as Hannibal Heyes mid-season may be jarring for some viewers.

We were impressed with the picture quality of this set, considering the episodes are over 50 years old. The show’s premise of two outlaws trying to go straight and earn a pardon from the Governor provides an interesting twist on the classic Western formula. The chemistry between the two leads, Ben Murphy and Pete Duel (and later, Roger Davis), is undeniable and helps to carry the show through its weaker moments.

One thing to note is that the show’s humor can be hit or miss, depending on your personal taste. Some viewers may find the jokes and gags a bit cheesy, while others will appreciate the lighthearted tone. Additionally, the replacement of Pete Duel with Roger Davis as Hannibal Heyes mid-season may be jarring for some viewers, but we found that Davis does a good job of stepping into the role.

Overall, we highly recommend Alias Smith and Jones: The Complete Series to fans of classic Westerns. With its strong cast, thrilling action scenes, and unique premise, it’s a standout in the genre.

West Wing: The Complete Series Collection

If you’re looking for a TV series that provides an insightful look into the inner workings of the White House, then the West Wing: The Complete Series Collection is a must-have.

Pros

• The series won 26 Emmys, including 4 for Outstanding Drama Series, and it’s easy to see why. The acting, writing and production are all top-notch.
• The show provides an in-depth look at the political process and the challenges faced by the President and his staff. It’s both informative and entertaining.
• The characters are well-developed and likable, and you’ll find yourself invested in their personal and professional lives.

Cons

• The series is quite long, with 112 hours and 10 minutes of content spread over 45 discs. It may be a bit overwhelming for some viewers.
• While the show is fictional, it can be a bit idealistic at times. It doesn’t always provide a realistic portrayal of politics and government.
• The packaging for the DVD set has received some criticism, with some viewers finding it flimsy and difficult to navigate.

Overall, we highly recommend the West Wing: The Complete Series Collection. It’s an engaging and informative look at the inner workings of the White House, with well-developed characters and top-notch production values. If you’re a fan of political dramas or just looking for a great TV series to binge-watch, this is definitely one to check out.

Rawhide: The Complete First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth -amp; Sixth Seasons (Season 1 / Season 2 / Season 3 / Season 4 / Season 5 / Season 6) – 174 Episodes on 47 DVDs [Clint Eastwood Western TV Series]

If you’re a fan of classic western TV series, Rawhide: The Complete First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth -amp; Sixth Seasons is a must-have addition to your collection. With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars and over 16 ratings, this series is a fan favorite.

Pros

• The series includes all six seasons and 174 episodes, providing hours of entertainment.
• The show features a talented cast, including a young Clint Eastwood in one of his most iconic roles.
• The DVD set is well-packaged and includes all episodes on 47 discs.

Cons

• The video and audio quality may not be up to modern standards, as the show was originally aired in the 1950s and 60s.
• Some viewers may find the show’s pacing slow compared to modern TV shows.
• The set may take up a lot of shelf space due to the large number of discs.

As someone who has watched Rawhide: The Complete First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth -amp; Sixth Seasons, we highly recommend this series to any fans of classic westerns. The show features a talented cast and provides hours of entertainment with its six seasons and 174 episodes. The packaging is well-done, with all episodes included on 47 discs. However, the video and audio quality may not be up to modern standards, and some viewers may find the pacing slow. Overall, if you’re a fan of classic westerns, this is a must-have addition to your collection.

1923: A Yellowstone Origin Story: Season One

If you’re a fan of Yellowstone and its prequels, you’ll definitely want to check out 1923: A Yellowstone Origin Story.

Pros

• The series introduces a new generation of the Dutton family and explores the early twentieth century when pandemics, historic drought, the end of Prohibition and the Great Depression all plague the mountain west.
• The show is executive produced by Taylor Sheridan, co-creator of Yellowstone, and stars Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford.
• This release features all 8 episodes of season one plus over 2 hours of special features including an extended making-of featurette, a powerful exploration of Teonna Rainwater’s harrowing journey, and an exclusive sit-down interview with video editor Chad Galster.

Cons

• The series ends on a cliffhanger, which may leave you wanting more.
• The show can be intense at times, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some viewers have criticized the historical accuracy of the show.

We highly recommend 1923: A Yellowstone Origin Story for fans of the Yellowstone franchise. The show offers a fresh take on the Dutton family and their struggles, and the performances by Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford are top-notch. The special features also provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of the show.

In the show, you’ll witness the Dutton family’s early struggles with pandemics, drought, and the Great Depression, all set against the stunning backdrop of the mountain west. The show’s attention to detail and historical accuracy make it a must-watch for fans of Westerns and historical dramas.

However, the series does end on a cliffhanger, which may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. Additionally, the show can be intense at times, so it may not be suitable for all viewers. Some viewers have also criticized the historical accuracy of the show, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a strictly factual portrayal of the time period.

Overall, we think 1923: A Yellowstone Origin Story is a fantastic addition to the Yellowstone franchise and well worth a watch.

Gunsmoke: The Complete Series

We highly recommend purchasing Gunsmoke: The Complete Series for any Western TV series enthusiast. This legendary show is a must-have for any collection.

Pros

• All 635 episodes from all 20 seasons are remastered and restored, making for a high-quality viewing experience.
• Great bonus features like episodic previews, original cast sponsor spots, audio commentaries, featurettes, and more.
• The definitive complete collection that no Gunsmoke enthusiast can do without.

Cons

• The set includes 143 discs, which can be overwhelming to organize and store.
• The product is quite heavy, making it difficult to move around.
• Some customers reported missing or defective discs upon arrival.

Gunsmoke: The Complete Series is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. The show’s exciting adventures and unforgettable characters will keep you entertained for hours on end. The remastered and restored episodes make for a high-quality viewing experience that is unmatched by other Western TV series. The bonus features included in the set, such as episodic previews and audio commentaries, provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the show.

However, the set includes a staggering 143 discs, which can be overwhelming to organize and store. Additionally, the product is quite heavy, making it difficult to move around. Some customers reported missing or defective discs upon arrival, which can be frustrating.

Overall, Gunsmoke: The Complete Series is an excellent investment for any Western TV series enthusiast. The show’s timeless tales and unforgettable characters make for an entertaining and educational viewing experience. With the bonus features included in the set, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the show’s impact on television history.

Laredo: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a classic western TV series with a blend of comedy and drama, Laredo: The Complete Series is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The cast is wonderful, with each character having their own distinctive personality and strengths and weaknesses.
• The gorgeous color photography and western ambiance make the show visually stunning.
• The serio-comic scripts strike a great balance between humor and serious law keeping.

Cons

• The show may not be for everyone, as it has a specific blend of comedy and drama that may not appeal to all viewers.
• The humor can be a bit rough around the edges and may not be suitable for all audiences.
• The show may feel a bit dated to some viewers, as it was originally released in the 1960s.

We recently watched Laredo: The Complete Series and were thoroughly impressed with the quality of the show. The cast is fantastic, with each character bringing their own unique personality and quirks to the table. The show strikes a great balance between humor and serious law keeping, making it a great watch for those who enjoy both genres.

One of the standout features of Laredo is the gorgeous color photography and western ambiance. The show truly captures the essence of the Old West and is visually stunning to watch. The serio-comic scripts are also a highlight, as they strike a perfect balance between humor and serious law keeping.

While Laredo is a great show, it may not be for everyone. The blend of comedy and drama may not appeal to all viewers, and the humor can be a bit rough around the edges and may not be suitable for all audiences. Additionally, the show may feel a bit dated to some viewers, as it was originally released in the 1960s.

Overall, we highly recommend Laredo: The Complete Series to fans of classic western TV shows. It’s a great watch with a wonderful cast, stunning visuals, and a perfect blend of humor and serious law keeping.

Live – Greetings From The West

If you’re a fan of Dan Fogelberg, this live recording is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The concert features many of Fogelberg’s hit songs recorded live for the first time.
• The short stories Fogelberg tells about some of the songs add a personal touch to the concert.
• The DVD includes bonus features, such as interviews with Fogelberg and his band.

Cons

• The video and sound quality could be better, as the early ’90s technology limits the viewing experience.
• The song selection could have been better, as some fans may have wanted to hear different songs.
• The concert has a heavy emphasis on social commentary, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

We were impressed with the concert overall, as it showcased Fogelberg’s musical talent and gave us a glimpse into his personal life through his stories. The bonus features were a nice touch, and we appreciated the effort put into creating this live recording. However, the video and sound quality could have been better, and some fans may have wanted to hear different songs. Despite these minor drawbacks, we still highly recommend Live – Greetings From The West to any Dan Fogelberg fan looking to expand their collection.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best Western TV series, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you get the most out of your viewing experience. Here are some key features to keep in mind when making your selection:

Genre

The Western genre is broad and can include everything from classic tales of cowboys and outlaws to modern dramas set in the Wild West. Consider the type of Western you prefer and look for series that fit that category.

Cast

The cast of a Western series can greatly impact the show’s success. Look for series with strong and diverse casts that bring depth and authenticity to the characters.

Plot

A good Western series should have a compelling plot that keeps you engaged throughout. Look for series with well-written storylines that offer a mix of action, drama, and suspense.

Setting

The setting of a Western series is crucial to its success. Look for series that accurately depict the time period and location, with attention to detail in costumes, props, and scenery.

Production Value

The production value of a Western series can greatly impact its overall quality. Look for series with high-quality cinematography, sound design, and special effects that enhance the viewing experience.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you find the best Western TV series to suit your preferences and provide an enjoyable viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Western TV series are considered classics from the 1960s?

Some of the most iconic Western TV series from the 1960s include “Bonanza,” “Gunsmoke,” “The Virginian,” and “The Wild Wild West.” These shows were hugely popular during their time and continue to be celebrated for their memorable characters, gripping storylines, and timeless appeal.

What are the top-rated Western TV series available on Netflix?

Netflix has a variety of Western TV series to choose from, but some of the top-rated ones include “Godless,” “Hell on Wheels,” “Longmire,” and “The Ranch.” These shows offer a mix of drama, action, and humor, and are sure to satisfy any fan of the Western genre.

Which modern Western TV shows are critically acclaimed?

In recent years, several Western TV series have garnered critical acclaim for their innovative storytelling and compelling characters. Some of the most highly-regarded shows in this category include “Deadwood,” “Justified,” “Yellowstone,” and “Westworld.” These shows push the boundaries of what a Western can be, and are well worth checking out.

What are the must-watch Western TV series for binge-watching?

If you’re in the mood for a Western TV series marathon, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Some of the most binge-worthy shows in this genre include “Breaking Bad,” “Deadwood,” “Hell on Wheels,” and “Longmire.” These shows offer a mix of action, drama, and suspense, and are sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.

Can you list the most historically accurate Western television shows?

While many Western TV series take liberties with historical accuracy, there are a few that strive to be as authentic as possible. Some of the most historically accurate Western TV shows include “Deadwood,” “Hell on Wheels,” and “Into the West.” These shows are praised for their attention to detail and commitment to portraying the Old West as it really was.

What are the latest Western TV series releases to look out for?

There are always new Western TV series being released, and some of the most anticipated ones include “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” “Godless,” and “Yellowstone.” These shows promise to bring fresh perspectives and exciting new stories to the Western genre, and are definitely worth keeping an eye on.