Watch Follow That Man

Follow That Man is a classic 1950s television drama series that centers on the life of Steve McCall, a private investigator played by Ralph Bellamy. The show was produced by Alpha Home Entertainment and initially aired from 1953 to 1954 under the title Man Against Crime before being revamped in 1956. With its signature theme music, suspenseful storylines, and realistic portrayals of criminal activity, Follow That Man became one of the most popular detective shows of its time.

Each episode of Follow That Man presents a self-contained mystery that McCall is tasked with solving. The show's creators strove for realism in their depiction of crime, often consulting with real-life detectives to ensure that the show accurately represented the investigative process. This commitment to authenticity is evident in the show's presentation of forensic evidence, police procedures, and witness interrogation techniques.

Ralph Bellamy delivers a strong and nuanced performance as Steve McCall, a former police officer turned private detective who is renowned for his intelligence, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to justice. McCall is a complex and multifaceted character, at times displaying a gruff exterior and a no-nonsense approach to his work, while at other times revealing a more compassionate and empathetic side to his personality. Much of McCall's backstory is left to the imagination, allowing viewers to fill in the blanks and imagine the experiences that have shaped him as a person.

Supporting Bellamy in his lead role is a talented ensemble cast that includes Frank Lovejoy as Lt. Pete Broderick, McCall's former police colleague and occasional ally, and Nita Talbot as Thelma, McCall's administrative assistant and confidante. Talbot's character provides a welcome counterbalance to McCall's more hard-edged persona, injecting some warmth and humor into the show's otherwise gritty and serious tone.

The show's attention to detail extends beyond its portrayal of police work to its depiction of New York City circa the 1950s. Follow That Man was shot on location in the city, and the show's producers went to great lengths to ensure that the show captured the essence of its urban setting. From the bustling streets and crowded subway cars to the dimly lit alleyways and smoke-filled bars, the show presents a vivid and immersive look at life in the city.

Overall, Follow That Man is an engaging and well-crafted television drama that is sure to captivate fans of detective shows and classic television alike. Its realistic portrayal of crime, compelling characters, and attention to detail make it a standout example of 1950s television drama, and a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the genre.

Follow That Man is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (8 episodes). The series first aired on October 7, 1949.