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Racket Squad 1951

★ 6.5/10 · 4 votes TV-PG DramaAction & AdventureCrime 3 seasons · 98 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is Racket Squad?

Racket Squad is an American TV crime drama series. The series stars Reed Hadley as a fictional detective working for the San Francisco, California Police Department.

Type
TV series
Year
1951
Status
Ended
Episodes
98
Runtime
30 minutes
First aired
Jun 7, 1951
Last aired
Sep 7, 1953
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
CBS
Genres
Drama, Action & Adventure, Crime
Updated
Availability by region

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Overview

Racket Squad is an American TV crime drama series. The series stars Reed Hadley as a fictional detective working for the San Francisco, California Police Department. It was initially broadcast in syndication before being picked up by CBS. The show was filmed at Hal Roach Studios in Culver City, California. Racket Squad was sponsored by Philip Morris, a cigarette manufacturer. As a result of the sponsorship, a pack of Philip Morris cigarettes appeared on the desk of the main character at the beginning and end of each episode, and there were occasional scenes of characters smoking the brand.

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Should you watch it?

“Detective Captain Braddock busts cons in gritty 1950s San Francisco.”

Reasons to watch
  • Classic 1950s crime storytelling
  • Reed Hadley's charismatic lead performance
  • Authentic San Francisco police setting
Keep in mind
  • Visible cigarette product placement from its Philip Morris sponsor
  • Black‑and‑white production may feel dated to modern viewers

Watch it if you enjoy straightforward 1950s police dramas with a nostalgic feel.

The series includes adult crime themes and period smoking, making it appropriate for mature audiences.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 13 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 49 episodes
Season 3 · 36 episodes

Frequently asked questions

When did Racket Squad first air?

It premiered in 1951, initially in syndication for one season before CBS broadcast three additional seasons.

Who plays the main detective?

Reed Hadley stars as Captain John Braddock, the fictional San Francisco police detective.

What city does the series take place in?

The show is set in San Francisco, California, following Braddock’s police work.

Where was the series filmed?

Production took place at Hal Roach Studios in Culver City, California.

Which company sponsored the series?

Philip Morris sponsored the series, and its cigarette packs appear on Braddock’s desk in episodes.