"The Virginian", also known as "The Men from Shiloh", is an American Western television series starring James Drury and Doug McClure. Set in the late 1800s, the series revolves around the lives of the people who live and work on the Shiloh Ranch in Wyoming. While the titular character, the Virginian (James Drury), remains something of an enigma, the show is known for its exploration of the rugged frontier and the complex characters who inhabit it. The Virginian was deliberately never given a first name in the series. While it was set in Wyoming, most of the filming took place in California.

A classic Western television series that stars Steve McQueen as Josh Randall, a bounty hunter who roams the American West in search of wanted criminals. Set in the late 1800s, "Wanted: Dead or Alive" stands out for its focus on Randall's moral code, as he often grapples with the ethical implications of his profession. One particularly interesting fact is that Randall carries a modified Winchester rifle known as the "Mare's Leg," which became an iconic symbol of the series and helped to establish Steve McQueen as a Western star.

"Rawhide" is an American Western TV series starring Eric Fleming and Clint Eastwood. The show tells the story of a cattle drive from San Antonio, Texas, to Sedalia, Missouri, in the 1860s. Most of the show is centered on Gil Favor (Eric Fleming), the trail boss, and Rowdy Yates (Clint Eastwood), the ramrod. It is know for launching Clint Eastwood's career. Eastwood wasn't the first choice for Rowdy Yates; he was a last-minute replacement. In 1963, Eric Fleming rejected an offer of $27,500 per episode to continue the show for a seventh season, and was written out.

An iconic Western series that follows Marshal Matt Dillon, played by James Arness, as he maintains law and order in the rough-and-tumble town of Dodge City, Kansas. Set in the late 1800s, "Gunsmoke" is known for its realistic depiction of frontier life, its complex characters, and its exploration of moral dilemmas. One remarkable detail is that "Gunsmoke" began as a radio drama before transitioning to television, and it ran for an impressive 20 seasons, making it one of the longest-running prime-time drama series in television history.

A classic Western series that tells the story of the Cartwright family, led by patriarch Ben Cartwright, played by Lorne Greene, and his three sons, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe, as they manage their vast ranch, the Ponderosa, near Virginia City, Nevada. "Bonanza" is known for its strong moral values, family-oriented storylines, and its focus on the challenges and opportunities of frontier life. A cool fact is that "Bonanza" was one of the first television shows to be broadcast in color, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Nevada and becoming a symbol of the American West.

Combining elements of the Western, spy, and science fiction genres, "The Wild Wild West" follows Secret Service agents James West, played by Robert Conrad, and Artemus Gordon, portrayed by Ross Martin, as they investigate crimes and foil villains in the American West during the late 1800s. The show is known for its inventive gadgets, elaborate stunts, and a unique blend of action and humor. One particularly intriguing fact is that the series was groundbreaking for its time, incorporating elements of steampunk and introducing a sense of adventure that set it apart from more traditional Westerns.

"Maverick" is an American Western television series starring James Garner as Bret Maverick, and later Jack Kelly as his brother Bart Maverick. The show is known for its lighthearted and humorous approach to the Western genre, featuring two brothers who are professional poker players traveling throughout the American West in search of high-stakes games. What sets "Maverick" apart from other Western shows of its time is its emphasis on wit and charm, as Bret and Bart often try to outsmart their opponents rather than resorting to violence. Did you know that the show was so popular that James Garner left after a dispute with Warner Bros. over his salary?

A modern Western crime drama, "Justified" stars Timothy Olyphant as Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, a cool and charismatic lawman who returns to his home state of Kentucky. Givens finds himself facing off against his childhood friends and family members, who are now involved in criminal activities. The series is known for its sharp writing, memorable characters, and the way it blends modern crime drama with the atmosphere of the American West. An interesting fact about "Justified" is that it's based on the short story "Fire in the Hole" by Elmore Leonard, and Leonard served as an executive producer on the show, ensuring that his vision was faithfully adapted.

A mind-bending series, "Westworld" blurs the lines between reality and artificiality through the story of a futuristic Western-themed amusement park populated by android 'hosts.' As the hosts begin to deviate from their programming, the park descends into chaos and the guests find themselves in mortal danger. The series is a unique blend of Western aesthetics and science fiction, exploring themes of consciousness, free will, and the nature of humanity. One striking fact about "Westworld" is its impressive production design, with vast sets recreating the American West and intricate costumes that add to the show's immersive atmosphere.

Starring Robert Taylor as Walt Longmire, the dedicated and enigmatic sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, "Longmire" offers a modern take on the classic Western hero. Following the death of his wife, Longmire returns to his duties, investigating major crimes within his jurisdiction while grappling with personal grief. The series stands out for its beautiful Wyoming setting, well-developed characters, and a blend of procedural crime-solving with the rich backdrop of Native American culture and tradition. A remarkable detail is that "Longmire" is based on the novels by Craig Johnson, who serves as a consultant for the show, ensuring authenticity in its depiction of modern Western life.

A compelling series that charts the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad across the United States. "Hell on Wheels" delivers a raw and ambitious portrayal of the American West in the 1860s. The series follows Cullen Bohannon, played by Anson Mount, a former Confederate soldier seeking revenge for the murder of his wife. Bohannon's journey takes him to the mobile town of Hell on Wheels, a lawless encampment of workers, prostitutes, and opportunists that follows the railroad's progress. The show stands out for its grand scope and examination of the social and political forces that shaped the American West. One memorable fact is that the series was filmed in Alberta, Canada, using authentic techniques to recreate the look and feel of the 1860s.

Considered by many to be a masterpiece of the Western genre, "Deadwood" transcends typical tropes with its Shakespearean dialogue and complex characters. Created by David Milch, the series plunges into the muddy, lawless camp of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the 1870s gold rush. The show's gritty realism, combined with powerhouse performances from Timothy Olyphant as Seth Bullock and Ian McShane as Al Swearengen, creates a captivating and often brutal portrayal of frontier life. The show is unafraid to tackle the difficult moral questions of civilization, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent Westerns. Did you know that many of the characters are based on real historical figures?