9 Greatest Western Shows Worth Watching, Ranked for Another Trip West
A journey to Montana
1883 is a 10-part Yellowstone prequel that follows the first Duttons on their migration to Montana. The series stands on its own and does not require viewers to watch Taylor Sheridan’s other work.
Elsa Dutton, played by Isabel May, comes of age as the pioneers face natural and human threats. Shea Brennan, played by Sam Elliott, and others reflect on what brought them west, giving the adventure both action and quieter moments.
Comedy on the trail
Maverick offers a comic take on Western conventions without leaning too heavily on slapstick. James Garner initially starred as gambler Bret Maverick, with Jack Kelly joining as his brother Bart.
The series ran for five seasons and 124 episodes, changing its leading man over time. A second-season episode, “Shady Deal at Sunny Acres,” brings Bret and Bart together and is often cited as a standout Western television episode.
The Cartwright family saga
Bonanza follows the Cartwrights, a family of ranchers based in Nevada who become involved in conflicts around Virginia City. Lorne Greene played patriarch Ben, alongside Pernell Roberts as Adam, Dan Blocker as Hoss and Michael Landon as Little Joe.
The NBC series ran for 14 seasons and 431 episodes. It was also known as Ponderosa in syndication, after the family ranch, and became a major television Western.
Paladin’s clever approach
Richard Boone played Paladin, a gunslinger known as the “man in black,” across six seasons of Have Gun – Will Travel. The character takes on trouble through clients while relying on intelligence as well as skill with a gun.
Rather than always resorting to violence, Paladin looks for creative ways to resolve problems. The series is presented as a Western that has stood the test of time.
Key points
- 1883 follows the first Duttons to Montana in a 10-part standalone adventure.
- Maverick ran for five seasons and 124 episodes, featuring changing leads.
- Bonanza centered on the Cartwright family across 14 seasons and 431 episodes.
- Have Gun – Will Travel starred Richard Boone as the resourceful Paladin for six seasons.