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The Fugitive 1963

“He has lost everything but hope.”

★ 7.3/10 TV-PG Action & AdventureDramaMystery 4 seasons · 120 eps Ended

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Overview

The Fugitive is an American crime drama television series created by Roy Huggins. Produced by QM Productions and United Artists Television, the program aired on ABC from September 17, 1963, until August 29, 1967. The series stars David Janssen as Dr. Richard Kimble, a physician who is falsely convicted of his wife's murder and sentenced to receive the death penalty. While being transported to death row, Kimble's train derails and crashes. This accident provides him the opportunity to escape custody and begin a cross-country search for the actual killer, who is identified as a one-armed man. Throughout his journey, Dr. Kimble is pursued by the authorities, most notably by Police Lieutenant Philip Gerard, who remains determined to capture him. The show follows Kimble as he attempts to maintain his freedom while continuing his investigation to prove his innocence. The series features other cast members including William Conrad, Barry Morse, and Paul Birch. It remains a notable example of the crime drama genre from the 1960s.

Should you watch it?

“A wrongly convicted doctor escapes custody to hunt for the true killer while evading the law.”

Reasons to watch
  • compelling lead performance
  • high-stakes cat-and-mouse narrative
Keep in mind
  • episodic pacing
  • repetitive premise

Watch it if you enjoy classic crime dramas centered on a man fighting to prove his innocence.

The series contains themes of crime and pursuit typical of 1960s television dramas.

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Cast

Episode guide

Season 1 · 30 episodes
Season 2 · 30 episodes
Season 3 · 30 episodes
Season 4 · 30 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who created the series?

The series was created by Roy Huggins.

Who stars as Richard Kimble?

David Janssen stars as Dr. Richard Kimble.

What is the premise of the show?

A doctor wrongly convicted of his wife's murder escapes custody to find the real killer.

Which network aired the show?

The series aired on ABC.

Who pursues Kimble?

Kimble is pursued by authorities, most notably Police Lieutenant Philip Gerard.