1950s Color TV Shows: Pioneers of Early Color Television
The 1950s TV landscape was mostly black and white, but a surprising number of shows were filmed in color. Due to the scarcity of color TV sets, these series were often broadcast in black and white to minimize costs. Only visionary producers, anticipating color TV’s future dominance, invested in color filming.
Several notable 1950s series were filmed entirely in color, including “The Cisco Kid,” “My Friend Flicka,” “Sergeant Preston of the Yukon,” “Judge Roy Bean,” and “Northwest Passage,” marking a significant milestone in television history.
Other shows, initially black and white, eventually transitioned to color. “Adventures of Superman” adopted color in its third season (1955), and “The Lone Ranger” in its final season (1956-57). Even enduring Westerns like “Gunsmoke,” “Death Valley Days,” and “Wagon Train,” originating in the 1950s, embraced color in the following decade.
“The Cisco Kid” was notably the first TV series filmed entirely in color. Starring Duncan Renaldo as Cisco and Leo Carrillo as Pancho, it featured two Hispanic heroes aiding those facing injustice.
The show featured action-packed plots, frequent location shooting, and a strong supporting cast, sometimes including notable actors like Phyllis Coates and Peggy Stewart.
“My Friend Flicka,” produced by 20th Century Fox, was the first color TV series from a major studio. Based on a 1943 Technicolor film, it told compelling stories of a boy and his horse.
“Science Fiction Theatre” uniquely filmed its first season in color, but reverted to black and white for season two due to budget constraints. It focused on thought-provoking sci-fi themes rather than special effects.
“Sergeant Preston of the Yukon” combined studio sets with stunning outdoor shots of dog sledding in snowy landscapes. Preston’s red Royal Canadian Mounted Police uniform was particularly vibrant in color. Its action-packed adventures made it a children’s favorite.
Even “The Gene Autry Show” embraced color in its final season (1955-56). Surviving color episodes boast surprisingly sharp picture quality, offering a vivid glimpse into the golden age of Western television.
These 1950s color TV programs offer a valuable look into early color broadcasting, showcasing the innovation and artistry of television pioneers. They remain a testament to the enduring appeal of classic television.
