Watch Death Valley Days

Death Valley Days was a popular American television series that ran for over 18 years from 1952 to 1970. The show was created by Ruth Woodman and produced by Proven Entertainment, and it told the stories of the American West through a series of episodic dramas. The show was hosted by Stanley Andrews for the first thirteen seasons, and later by Ronald Reagan for three seasons. Each episode was a standalone story, often based on real-life events or people, and set in the rugged terrain of Death Valley and the surrounding areas.

Some episodes focused on famous historical figures such as Wyatt Earp and Jesse James, while others explored the lives of ordinary settlers and pioneers who faced danger and hardship in the harsh desert environment. The show also frequently depicted the struggles of Native American tribes and their interactions with the white settlers.

One of the unique aspects of Death Valley Days was its use of location shooting. Many episodes were filmed on location in the actual places where the stories took place, adding a sense of authenticity to the show. The vast and stunning landscapes of the American West in Death Valley and its surrounding areas became a character in the series itself, adding to the show’s western authenticity.

The show was also notable for its portrayals of women as strong and capable characters in a time and place where women were often marginalized. These independent and determined women not only held their own against the tough and grizzled cowboys and pioneers but also sometimes outdid them with their resourcefulness and bravery.

Throughout its run, Death Valley Days showcased a plethora of notable actors and actresses, including Jeanne Cooper, James Best, Strother Martin, Angie Dickinson, and James Coburn, among many others. The show employed a rotation of writers to pen the episodes, allowing for a diversity of voices and perspectives.

Aside from its entertainment value, Death Valley Days is also notable for its documentation of the history and mythology of the American West. Through its stories, the show captured the spirit of the times, including the struggles and triumphs of the pioneers, the rich history of the Native American peoples, and the legends that have come to define the West.

In 1970, Death Valley Days came to an end after an impressive 18-year run. Its influence can still be seen today, as many modern Western TV shows and films continue to draw inspiration from the show's iconography, themes, and aesthetic.

In conclusion, Death Valley Days was a beloved and long-running television series that chronicled the history and mythology of the American West through its captivating stories and iconic landscapes. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

Death Valley Days is a series that is currently running and has 18 seasons (646 episodes). The series first aired on September 30, 1952.