Watch Route 66

Route 66 is a classic television show that aired from 1960-1964 that follows two young men, Tod Stiles (Martin Milner) and Buz Murdock (George Maharis), as they travel the country in a Chevrolet Corvette on Route 66 in search of adventure and themselves. The show aired on CBS and was known for its iconic theme song by Nelson Riddle.

Tod is a wealthy young man from a privileged background who has been thrown into the real world after his father's death. Buz is a former sailor who has seen his fair share of the world but has never truly found his place in it. Together, the two embark on a journey across the United States, taking on odd jobs and meeting a variety of characters along the way.

Route 66 is a unique show for its time, as it was one of the first to feature two young men traveling across the country without any particular destination in mind. The series was also among the first to be shot on location, with the cast and crew traveling to each new location for filming.

One of the show's strengths is the chemistry between Milner and Maharis. The two actors have a natural rapport that makes their characters' friendship feel genuine, which is essential to the show's success. A third character, Linc (Glenn Corbett), replaces Buz in the fourth and final season. Linc is a former Marine and also searches for adventure and purpose on Route 66.

The show's writers were careful to ensure that every episode had a distinct plot and didn't feel repetitive. Each installment is essentially a self-contained story that explores different aspects of American life in the 1960s. Some episodes deal with issues like racism and classism, while others are more lighthearted and focus on the characters' personal lives.

Route 66 is not a typical episodic TV show, but rather a collection of short films that tell a story. The show's structure allows for a lot of creativity in terms of storytelling, as each episode has a different plot and style. Some episodes use flashbacks and non-linear storytelling, while others are more traditional in structure. This variety keeps the show engaging and fresh throughout its four seasons.

Another notable aspect of the show is its guest stars. Many famous actors of the time appeared on Route 66, including Robert Redford, Boris Karloff, Leslie Nielsen, and Joan Crawford. These guest stars helped to draw in audiences and add to the show's appeal.

Despite its unconventional structure, Route 66 was a hit with audiences and critics alike. It was praised for its excellent writing, cinematography, and performances. The show was also notable for its use of music, with many episodes featuring live performances by musicians of the era, including Bob Dylan and Aretha Franklin.

Route 66 has become a beloved classic over the years, with many fans re-discovering the show on DVD or streaming services. Its unique format and blend of drama, comedy, and adventure continue to make it a compelling watch for audiences of all ages.

In conclusion, Route 66 is a classic era-defining TV show that follows two young men's journey across America. This unique show provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives and times of ordinary Americans in the early 1960s, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in television history. The series' unconventional structure, excellent performances and writing, and use of music and guest stars continue to make it an engaging and entertaining watch for audiences today.

Route 66 is a series that ran for 4 seasons (117 episodes) between October 7, 1960 and on Shout! Factory