The Rifleman

Watch The Rifleman

  • TV-PG
  • 1960
  • 5 Seasons
  • 8.3  (4,918)

The Rifleman is a Western drama television series that aired on ABC from 1958 to 1963. The show's main protagonist is Lucas McCain, a sharpshooting widower, played by Chuck Connors, who moves to the fictional town of North Fork with his son, Mark, played by Johnny Crawford.

The show was set in the late 1800s and showcased the lawless nature of the Wild West. Lucas, a former Union soldier and proficient with a rifle, often found himself in the midst of danger and used his skills to protect his family and the townspeople of North Fork. He was a man who lived by his principles and never hesitated to do what was right, despite the consequences. This earned him respect among the townspeople, and he was often called upon to resolve conflicts and disputes.

The show's supporting cast included Paul Fix, who portrayed Marshal Micah Torrance, the town's lawman, and who often aided Lucas in his struggles. The show also had a revolving door of guest stars, most of whom were Hollywood veterans like Sammy Davis Jr., Dennis Hopper, and James Coburn.

The Rifleman was a unique western show in that it focused primarily on the father-son relationship between Lucas and Mark. The bond between the two was strong and provided a heartwarming backdrop to the show's action-packed episodes. Mark was a curious and adventurous child who idolized his father and often found himself in dangerous situations. Lucas served as both his protector and mentor and instilled in him the values of honesty and courage.

The show's iconic opening credits showcased Lucas firing a rifle at incredible speed, accompanied by the memorable theme song composed by Herschel Burke Gilbert. The show was shot in black and white, which gave it a classic feel, and the cinematography and visuals were impressive for the time.

The Rifleman was hugely popular during its run, and it continues to have a cult following to this day. The show's popularity can be attributed to its timeless themes of family, honor, and justice. The show's writing and acting were top-notch, and the dynamic between Lucas and Mark was unforgettable.

In conclusion, The Rifleman was a Western drama television series that aired on ABC from 1958 to 1963. The show's focus on the father-son relationship between Lucas and Mark, along with its action-packed episodes and memorable theme song, made it one of the most beloved Westerns in television history. The show's legacy continues to live on, and it remains a favorite among fans of the Western genre.

The Rifleman is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (185 episodes). The series first aired on September 30, 1960.

The Rifleman
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Seasons
Old Tony
26. Old Tony
April 8, 1963
A recluse is the only one who can save Lucas and Mark when they get caught up in quicksand.
Which Way'd They Go?
25. Which Way'd They Go?
April 1, 1963
Lucas' help is needed when a group of lawmen have difficulty capturing a gang of outlaws.
Old Man Running (aka The Wanted Man)
24. Old Man Running (aka The Wanted Man)
March 18, 1963
When an old man running from the law asks Lucas for help, he is forced to turn him away.
The Guest
23. The Guest
March 11, 1963
Lucas and Mark's new friend is a killer for hire.
Requiem at Mission Springs
22. Requiem at Mission Springs
March 4, 1963
Mark is temporarily paralyzed following a devastating accident.
The Bullet
21. The Bullet
February 25, 1963
Lucas finds a bullet and presents it as evidence at a convict's hearing.
End of the Hunt
20. End of the Hunt
February 18, 1963
Lucas' heads out to seek revenge, but his want to get even nearly costs him his life.
And the Devil Makes Five
19. And the Devil Makes Five
February 11, 1963
When a poisonous snake makes its way into the prison, a prisoner uses the opportunity to plan his escape.
Hostages to Fortune
18. Hostages to Fortune
February 4, 1963
Lucas is worried when he hears rumors that Mark may be running with a gang of bandits.
The Sixteenth Cousin
17. The Sixteenth Cousin
January 28, 1962
When a Japanese man arrives in North Fork to visit, he is hounded by townspeople.
The Sidewinder
16. The Sidewinder
January 21, 1963
Mark is threatened by a young boy.
Suspicion
15. Suspicion
January 14, 1963
A sign painter is accused of murder.
Incident at Line Shack Six
14. Incident at Line Shack Six
January 7, 1963
An Indian is wanted for the murder at a mining camp.
Conflict
13. Conflict
December 24, 1962
Following a conflict, Lucas loses his self-confidence.
The Anvil Chorus
12. The Anvil Chorus
December 17, 1962
When a man becomes deputy for the day, his new found power goes to his head.
Gun Shy
11. Gun Shy
December 10, 1962
After an accident, Mark becomes afraid of Lucas' gun.
Squeeze Play
10. Squeeze Play
December 3, 1962
When the railroad informs Lucas that they will need to buy his property in order to put a line through, Lucas refuses to sell.
The Most Amazing Man
9. The Most Amazing Man
November 26, 1962
Lucas is challenged by a boastful young man.
Mark's Rifle
8. Mark's Rifle
November 19, 1962
Mark becomes friends with a man from the circus.
The Assailants
7. The Assailants
November 12, 1962
Lucas must race to stop an assassination plot.
I Take This Woman
6. I Take This Woman
November 5, 1962
An Irishman woos Lou.
Death Never Rides Alone
5. Death Never Rides Alone
October 29, 1962
A retired gunfighter decides to settle down in North Fork.
Quiet Night, Deadly Night
4. Quiet Night, Deadly Night
October 22, 1962
Lucas and a wanted outlaw are quarantined in a hotel together.
Lou Mallory
3. Lou Mallory
October 15, 1962
The townsmen are in awe when a beautiful woman buys the hotel.
Waste (2)
2. Waste (2)
October 8, 1962
Lucas is able to break free from the bandits that are holding him hostage just in time to deliver a baby.
Waste (1)
1. Waste (1)
October 1, 1962
Lucas, Micah and Mark are taken hostage by a gang of bandits.
Description
Where to Watch The Rifleman
The Rifleman is available for streaming on the ABC website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Rifleman on demand at Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime, Philo, Hulu, Vudu, Starz, FuboTV, The Roku Channel Free, Crackle, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, Peacock and Plex.
  • Premiere Date
    September 30, 1960
  • IMDB Rating
    8.3  (4,918)