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Peter Gunn is a classic American television series that aired on NBC from 1958 to 1961. Produced by Craig Stevens, this private detective series quickly became popular due to its stylishness, film-noir sensibility, and contemporary jazz score. The show centered around Peter Gunn, a suave investigator who was always ready to unravel the mystery behind a crime.

The series was set in a fictional town of "River City," where Gunn (played by Craig Stevens) lived and worked. Gunn was a tough and resourceful private detective who always seemed to find himself in dangerous situations. He was cool-headed, suave, sharp-minded, and had a great sense of humor. Armed with a .38 gun, he was always ready to take on any criminal who crossed his path.

Gunn's companion was a beautiful and smart nightclub singer Edie Hart. She was played by the actress Lola Albright. Edie always had a soft spot for Gunn, but the relationship between them never went beyond flirting. The two had a great onscreen chemistry that added to the show's charm.

The show was directed by Blake Edwards, who went on to direct famous films such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, The Pink Panther, and Days of Wine and Roses. The unique aspect of Peter Gunn was its use of jazz music as the show's primary score. The show's opening theme was a classic piece composed by Henry Mancini, who was a prominent composer in Hollywood. The music set the mood for the show's dark and edgy atmosphere.

Each episode of Peter Gunn was a stand-alone story, focusing on a different crime. The show's plots were always engaging and kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Gunn often found himself in the middle of dangerous situations, making his investigations thrilling and intense. The show had a Film Noir-like cinematography, which gave it a visual appeal, showcasing the stylized world of private detectives.

The series was known for its great supporting cast, including a corrupt lieutenant of the police, Jacoby, played by Herschel Bernardi. The police lieutenant was always skeptical of Gunn's methods but never failed to seek his help in finding the perpetrators of the crime.

Another recurring character was Mother, played by Minerva Urecal. Mother was a middle-aged woman who looked after a bar that was often visited by Gunn. She ran the place with an iron hand and was always ready to meddle in Gunn's cases. Her character added comic relief that balanced out the series' dark storyline.

Peter Gunn was an innovative show that influenced many other private detective series that followed the 1960s. Its use of jazz, stylized cinematography, engaging plots, and sharp wit made it popular among audiences worldwide. It was nominated for many awards and won Emmys for its cinematography and art direction.

In its short run of three years, Peter Gunn achieved cult status due to its unique style and engaging plots. It remains popular among audiences who appreciate the golden age of television. Craig Stevens' portrayal of Peter Gunn is still considered one of the best portrayals of private detectives on television. The show is a must-watch for anyone who loves mystery, film noir, and jazz.

To sum it up, Peter Gunn was a classic television series that captivated audiences with its innovative visuals, thrilling plots, excellent acting, and great music. The show's legacy still lives on, making it a timeless classic that continues to entertain viewers today.

Peter Gunn is a series that ran for 3 seasons (114 episodes) between September 21, 1958 and on Brainstorm Media