The Top-Rated TV Programs in Fall/Winter of 1968 

 

The Fall and Winter of 1968 represent a unique period in American television history. With an audience eager for both entertainment and insight, television became a primary medium for exploring social issues, providing escapism, and connecting audiences to shared cultural experiences. The year 1968, marked by political and social upheaval, saw an appetite for programming that ranged from variety shows and comedies to gritty dramas and classic westerns. Many of these shows achieved high ratings, with millions tuning in each week to enjoy some of the most iconic television programs ever created. 

 

1. “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In”

Airing on NBC, Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In was a groundbreaking variety and sketch comedy show that embodied the countercultural spirit of the 1960s. Hosted by comedians Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, the show offered a fast-paced blend of satire, humor, and social commentary. Featuring an ensemble cast that included Goldie Hawn, Judy Carne, and Arte Johnson, Laugh-In became known for its rapid-fire jokes, catchphrases, and politically charged humor that often referenced current events. 

The show’s format, which included quick-cut sketches, non-sequitur jokes, and recurring gags, was unlike anything audiences had seen before. Famous catchphrases like “Sock it to me!” became cultural touchstones, and Laugh-In’s political satire was both risky and timely, resonating with an audience looking for humor in a turbulent era. As one of the highest-rated shows of the season, Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In reflected the changing social attitudes of the late 1960s and set a new standard for variety programming. 

 

2. “Gunsmoke”

By 1968, CBS’s Gunsmoke had already established itself as a staple of American television. First airing in 1955, this western drama was set in the frontier town of Dodge City and followed Marshal Matt Dillon (played by James Arness) as he maintained law and order. The show was beloved for its exploration of justice, morality, and the American West, presenting nuanced stories that often touched on ethical dilemmas and the harsh realities of frontier life. 

In the late 1960s, as westerns began to lose some of their popularity, Gunsmoke remained a top-rated show, thanks in part to its strong writing and complex characters. The show’s success was also due to its ability to adapt to changing tastes, introducing more morally complex storylines and delving into themes of humanity and redemption. During the 1968 season, Gunsmoke continued to rank highly, appealing to both older audiences who had grown up with westerns and younger viewers drawn to its intense storytelling. 

 

3. “Bonanza”

Another CBS western, Bonanza, was a ratings juggernaut in 1968, holding its place as one of the most popular programs on television. Set in Nevada’s Ponderosa Ranch, the show followed the Cartwright family—Ben (Lorne Greene) and his three sons, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe. Bonanza was notable for its family-centered themes, focusing on the Cartwrights’ relationships with one another and with the community around them. 

What set Bonanza apart was its commitment to addressing contemporary issues through the lens of the Old West. Episodes often tackled themes of racial prejudice, family loyalty, and social justice, presenting these issues in a way that resonated with a broad audience. Bonanza was also the first western to be filmed in color, a distinction that contributed to its popularity as color television became more common in American households. In 1968, the show continued to captivate viewers, drawing millions each week with its mix of action, drama, and moral lessons. 

 

4. “The Andy Griffith Show”

The Andy Griffith Show, which aired on CBS, had been a fixture of American television since 1960. Set in the fictional town of Mayberry, the show followed Sheriff Andy Taylor (played by Andy Griffith) and his interactions with the quirky residents of the small town, including his bumbling deputy, Barney Fife (played by Don Knotts). Known for its gentle humor and nostalgic portrayal of small-town life, The Andy Griffith Show provided a sense of comfort and familiarity during a time of social and political tension. 

By the 1968 season, The Andy Griffith Show had become one of the most beloved programs on television, often topping the ratings. The show’s ability to deliver warmth, humor, and moral lessons made it a favorite among audiences of all ages. In its final season, The Andy Griffith Show maintained its high ratings and finished as the number one show in the United States, leaving a lasting legacy as one of television’s most cherished sitcoms. 

 

5. “Mission: Impossible”

The action-packed drama Mission: Impossible on CBS was one of the most innovative shows of the 1968 season. Following a team of covert operatives from the Impossible Missions Force (IMF), led by Jim Phelps (Peter Graves), each episode featured a high-stakes mission to outwit enemies and thwart criminal plots. Known for its intricate plots, suspenseful storytelling, and high production values, Mission: Impossible stood out in a TV landscape dominated by westerns and comedies. 

The show’s trademark theme song, composed by Lalo Schifrin, became iconic, and its influence on future espionage stories remains undeniable. The series attracted a large following, appealing to viewers who enjoyed the intricate schemes and the “spy game” format that Mission: Impossible perfected. Its high ratings in 1968 reflected America’s fascination with espionage and adventure, fueled in part by the Cold War climate and the popularity of spy films like James Bond. 

 

6. “Here’s Lucy”

After the success of I Love Lucy and The Lucy Show, Lucille Ball continued her reign on CBS with Here’s Lucy, which premiered in 1968. In this sitcom, Ball played Lucy Carter, a widow working in Los Angeles with her brother-in-law, played by longtime co-star Gale Gordon. Here’s Lucy also featured Ball’s real-life children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., making the show a family affair that added an extra layer of charm. 

Lucille Ball was a television institution by the time Here’s Lucy premiered, and her comedic timing and physical humor remained as sharp as ever. Here’s Lucy was a hit with audiences, becoming one of the highest-rated new shows of the season. Ball’s enduring popularity and the show’s lighthearted family humor made it a favorite in 1968, reflecting the public’s ongoing love affair with one of television’s most beloved personalities. 

 

7. “Mayberry R.F.D.”

As The Andy Griffith Show concluded in 1968, CBS introduced Mayberry R.F.D., a spin-off that continued the story of Mayberry. The show starred Ken Berry as Sam Jones, a local farmer who becomes a central figure in the town’s social life. Mayberry R.F.D. retained many of the characters and elements from The Andy Griffith Show, bringing familiar faces and a sense of continuity to viewers. 

Though it was initially viewed with some skepticism, Mayberry R.F.D. became a ratings success in its own right. The show captured the same warmth and humor that had endeared audiences to Mayberry, providing a comforting glimpse into small-town life. As one of the top-rated new shows, Mayberry R.F.D. demonstrated the enduring appeal of wholesome, family-centered programming in 1968. 

 

8. “The Red Skelton Hour”

A staple of variety television, The Red Skelton Hour on CBS remained one of the top-rated programs in the Fall/Winter of 1968. Known for his slapstick humor and memorable characters, comedian Red Skelton was a beloved figure in American entertainment. Each episode featured Skelton performing sketches, often with recurring characters like Freddy the Freeloader and Clem Kadiddlehopper, alongside musical performances and celebrity guests. 

Skelton’s humor was rooted in a classic vaudeville style, appealing to audiences of all ages. In 1968, The Red Skelton Hour continued to perform well in the ratings, providing a blend of laughter and nostalgia that resonated with viewers during a time of societal change. 

 

9. “Hawaii Five-O”

Hawaii Five-O, a police procedural that premiered on CBS in 1968, quickly became a hit. Set in Hawaii, the show followed Detective Steve McGarrett (played by Jack Lord) and his team as they investigated crimes ranging from murder to espionage. Hawaii Five-O’s lush island setting, combined with its serious tone and action-packed plots, set it apart from other crime dramas of the time. 

The show’s memorable theme song and iconic catchphrase, “Book ’em, Danno,” became part of popular culture, and Hawaii Five-O established itself as one of the era’s top crime dramas. The show’s success in 1968 reflected audiences’ interest in action-oriented programming with exotic settings and complex narratives, making Hawaii Five-O an enduring part of television history. 

 

A Defining Moment in Television 

The Fall/Winter season of 1968 stands as one of television’s golden moments, reflecting the diversity and depth of programming that resonated with audiences during a time of national and global upheaval. Shows like Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In and Mission: Impossible provided timely, relevant commentary, while The Andy Griffith Show and Bonanza offered familiarity and comfort. 

These top-rated programs captured the complexities of North American society, providing both entertainment and reflections on broader themes that were particularly poignant during a turbulent time. The legacy of these shows lives on, as many continue to be celebrated, referenced, and remembered as iconic pillars of television history. In the Fall and Winter of 1968, these programs not only shaped the viewing habits of millions but also became an Iconic part of the cultural fabric!