Aired: 1957 – 1963
Budget: $30,000-$40,000 per episode
“Leave it to Beaver” has made a reputation for itself as one of the most iconic shows in history. The sitcom aimed towards children had six seasons and 234 episodes and starred Barbara Billingsley, Jerry Mathers, Tony Dow, and Hugh Beaumont.
The Cleavers represent “The American Dream,” the ideal version of a 1950s family, and centered around “The Beaver.” The adventurous boy seemed to always get into trouble, whether it be at home, school, or in the neighborhood.
Felix the Cat
Aired: 1953 – 1961
Budget: $10,000 per episode
Before Mickey Mouse and Disney stole his success, Felix the Cat was the first animated character to have the same admiration as movie stars. "Felix the Cat" was a part of the silent film era, the black and white cat is one of the most recognizable cartoons in history.
Pat Sullivan, along with lead animator, Otto Messmer, kept the show going from 1929 to 1930, and in 1953 Felix cartoons began airing on American television. Felix has since starred in other television programs and two feature films.
Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
Aired: 1968 – 2001
Budget: $45 million in total
"Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" is one of the most cherished shows of all time. The show starred Fred Rogers, who invited guests to come on the show for educational segments and skits. The show was aimed at children, though many adults would tune in as well.
"Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" debuted on NET and then on NET's successor, PBS, from 1968 to 2001, making it one of the longest-running shows of all time.
Mighty Mouse Playhouse
Aired: 1955 – 1967
Budget: $50,000 per episode
"Mighty Mouse Playhouse" was a collection of short films starring the animated character Mighty Mouse. CBS ran the show for a half-hour from 1955 until 1967, making the character much more popularized than ever before.
The low-budget animation company was sold to CBS when more and more companies left behind short films and moved towards television shows. "Mighty Mouse" had a total of an astounding eighty short films throughout its run!
Speed Racer
Aired: 1967 – 1968
Budget: $120,000 per episode
"Speed Racer" got its start as a Japanese graphic novel, otherwise known as a manga. The show featured the adventures of an ambitious young pilot who became a professional racer. The Speed Racer, known in Japan as "Mach GoGoGo," debuted in America in fall 1967 and was more contemporary animation.
Some say the original episodes underwent minor editing to reach the form which aired in America while others say it underwent significant editing. Either way, the show was considered appropriate entertainment for the whole family.