Mission: Impossible

Mission: Impossible follows a tight knit team of covert operatives who take on dangerous threats to national security. Instead of loud gun battles, the show builds tension through meticulous plans, disguises, and misdirection. Each mission opens with a recorded briefing that self destructs, launching the team into a puzzle of clever ruses. Led by Dan Briggs in the first season and later by Jim Phelps, the group relies on trust and precision rather than brute force. The distinctive theme by Lalo Schifrin amplifies the suspense. It aired on CBS from 1966 to 1973, then returned on ABC in the late 1980s and inspired a film franchise that began in 1996. Its format remained modular and endlessly repeatable for audiences worldwide.

Created by Bruce Geller, Mission: Impossible premiered on CBS in 1966 and ran until 1973, with Dan Briggs leading the team in early seasons and Jim Phelps taking command later. A revival followed on ABC from 1988 to 1990, continuing the format for fans.

The IMF briefing tapes and the signature Lalo Schifrin theme became instantly recognizable, shaping how spies and heist plots are depicted on screen. The concept of a disciplined, puzzle driven team influenced countless later thrillers and helped pave the path for the film series starring Tom Cruise across generations worldwide.

Critics praised its intricate plotting, tense set pieces, and ensemble dynamic, blending procedural crime drama with stylish deception. The show examined teamwork under pressure, showcased clever problem solving, and treated risk as a calculating art rather than pure action. Its balance of brains and bravado truly defines the era.

The series earned Primetime Emmy nominations during its original run, underscoring its influence on television craft. Its enduring style and clever plotting helped set a standard for TV storytelling and continues to echo in spy and heist dramas.