The Fugitive

Richard Kimble, a respected doctor, is wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and sentenced to death. When a transport train crashes, Kimble escapes and spends the series traveling from town to town as he searches for the real killer, known only as the "one-armed man." Meanwhile Lieutenant Philip Gerard pursues him relentlessly, convinced Kimble is guilty. Episodes follow Kimble as he uses his medical skills and wits to survive, help strangers, and chase leads, all while trying to avoid capture and gather evidence that might clear his name. The show keeps the central mystery alive without revealing later twists.

Premiering in 1963, The Fugitive was created by Roy Huggins and starred David Janssen as Richard Kimble, with Barry Morse as Lieutenant Gerard and William Conrad serving as the series narrator. Its format mixed episodic cases with an ongoing storyline.

The series received steady industry recognition during its original run, drawing nominations and award attention for its writing, production values, and performances, especially Janssen's portrayal of a man under constant scrutiny and pressure.

The Fugitive left a lasting mark on popular culture, popularizing the "man on the run" premise and the idea of a recurring, named antagonist like the "one-armed man." It inspired a 1993 big-screen adaptation and its influence can be seen in later crime dramas that center on pursuit, moral ambiguity, and a protagonist carrying a powerful personal burden.

Critics and audiences praised the show for its tense storytelling and moral complexity, with a focus on justice, identity, and obsession. Performances, particularly Janssen's steady presence and Morse's relentless lawman, anchored each episode. On contemporary databases the series holds a 7.2/10 vote average from 58 votes, reflecting enduring interest among viewers who appreciate its blend of mystery, drama, and action.