In 1962, the first 90-minute TV series to ever air was "The Virginian." This groundbreaking Western drama premiered on NBC and quickly became a hit with audiences across the country. The show followed the adventures of a foreman at the Shiloh Ranch in Wyoming, played by actor James Drury, and his interactions with the various characters who passed through the ranch. The decision to make "The Virginian" a 90-minute show was a bold move at the time, as most TV series were only 30 or 60 minutes long. However, the extended format allowed for more complex storytelling and character development, making the show stand out from its competitors. The longer episodes also gave viewers a more immersive experience, allowing them to become more invested in the lives of the characters. "The Virginian" was a critical and commercial success, running for a total of nine seasons and 249 episodes. The show received numerous awards and nominations, including two Golden Globe nominations for Best TV Show and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for actor Charles Bickford. The impact of "The Virginian" on the television industry cannot be overstated. Its success paved the way for other 90-minute TV series to be produced in the future, setting a new standard for the medium. The show also helped to popularize the Western genre on television, inspiring countless other Western-themed shows to follow in its footsteps. To learn more about "The Virginian" and its place in television history, you can visit the official NBC website at www.nbc.com/the-virginian. Additionally, you can check out the show's IMDb page at www.imdb.com/title/tt0055708 for a complete list of episodes, cast members, and more. In conclusion, "The Virginian" holds a special place in TV history as the first 90-minute TV series to premiere in 1962. Its innovative format and compelling storytelling captivated audiences and set a new standard for television programming. If you're a fan of classic Westerns or just interested in the evolution of television, "The Virginian" is definitely worth checking out.

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