The Most Popular TV Show From Your Birth Year (1951-1990)

14. 1958-1961: Gunsmoke

Gunsmoke originated in 1952 as a radio program. The popularity of the radio show made for a smooth adaptation to television, and audiences’ enthusiasm for the visual version of Gunsmoke proved immense.

CBS would produce a handful of Gunsmoke reboots in the 80s and 90s. Imitation may be the greatest form of flattery, but it’s not necessarily a recipe for replicating ratings. In this case, the reboots paled compared to the original, a long-running #1 hit.