As a somewhat geeky kid of 8, I'd somehow usually manage to stay up a little late on the nights when The Richard Boone Show was on. It was in a way an echo of earlier TV classic shows like Plahouse 90, in that each week there would be a new show with a new cast, but the twist was this was all done by the show's repertory company. The company was filled with excellent actors; some of whom were already quite well known and respected, like Harry Morgan (who directed a few episodes), Jeanette Nolan, Guy Stockwell, Lloyd Bochner and the always excellent Michael Constantine. Also on hand was Robert Blake, a long time veteran but a few years away from starring roles in "In Cold Blood" and later TV's "Baretta". Part of the excitement was each week that the spotlight would shine on the chosen cast. Richard Boone added substance to the show in his tasks as narrator, sometime ensemble actor and if memory serves even worked as an episodic director on the show as well. The writing of the show was varied and of quality with some great writers in the company like Clifford Odets. It was a disappointment to me that the show did not last beyond one season. It was a gem that for some sad reason did not click with the ratings. It would be great to see the show on Nick or some cable station sometime.
Oh for the days when great writers, directors and actors populated TV with shows other than Police and Medical soaps, reality shows and sitcoms. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy many sitcoms, but I miss the variety of good dramas and even the variety shows like Ed Sullivan, Hollywood Palace, The Danny Kaye show, etc.
If you ever see this show listed or shown anywhere-- do try and catch it.
