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Salem's Lot 1979

“The ultimate in terror!”

★ 6.8/10 · 543 votes TV-PG Mystery 1 seasons · 2 eps Ended
Quick answer

What is Salem's Lot?

Salem's Lot is a television series that follows the story of Ben Mears upon his return to his hometown. Mears arrives with the intention of writing a book focused on the history of the Marsten House, a location widely considered to be haunted.

Type
TV series
Year
1979
Status
Ended
Episodes
2
Runtime
92 minutes
First aired
Nov 17, 1979
Last aired
Nov 24, 1979
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
CBS
Genres
Mystery
Updated
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How long to binge?

Estimate the schedule using 2 episodes and an average 92-minute runtime.

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Overview

Salem's Lot is a television series that follows the story of Ben Mears upon his return to his hometown. Mears arrives with the intention of writing a book focused on the history of the Marsten House, a location widely considered to be haunted. As the narrative progresses, individuals living in the vicinity of the mansion begin to die under mysterious circumstances. Through his investigation of these events, Mears uncovers a dark reality regarding the property. He discovers that the owner of the Marsten House is a vampire. This supernatural antagonist is actively transforming the local residents into an army of undead slaves. The series centers on the conflict that arises as Mears confronts this threat within the community. By examining the connection between the mansion and the sudden wave of deaths, the protagonist must navigate the danger posed by the vampire and the growing ranks of the undead. The plot details the discovery of this hidden menace and the subsequent struggle to understand the nature of the unfolding tragedy.

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Should you watch it?

“A novelist returns home to uncover a vampire’s deadly secret.”

Reasons to watch
  • Atmospheric 1970s television style
  • Tight mystery surrounding a haunted house
Keep in mind
  • TV-PG rating limits graphic horror
  • Pacing may feel deliberate for modern viewers

Watch it if you appreciate classic, understated vampire tales set in a small New England town.

Suitable for teen and older audiences; contains supernatural horror and mild violence.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 2 episodes

Frequently asked questions

What is the main setting of the series?

The story unfolds in the small town of Salem’s Lot and the nearby Marsten House.

Who is the protagonist?

Ben Mears, a novelist who returns to his hometown.

What supernatural threat do the characters face?

A vampire who lives in the Marsten House and creates undead slaves.

What genre does the series belong to?

It is a mystery‑horror series rated TV‑PG.

What is the tone of the series?

The series maintains an atmospheric, slow‑burn dread with understated terror.