My Favorite TV Series’ Intros

In the old days of Television, and even up to the mid-nineties,  most TV series had a musical opening or intro that would be played each week.  The intro would often provide a foundation for the series, introduce or re-introduce us to the main characters, and provide some basic atmosphere.  But on network TV, the musical intro has gone the way of the dinosaur.  The main reason for this, as far I am concerned is the free up more time for commercials.  And while these intros were never really needed, I miss them.  Today I give you some of my favorite intros from TV series in the past.  Tomorrow, I will post some of the more recent series intros (all of which are on cable TV, by the way). 

In no particular order, my favorites of the past include:

Bonanza - This one was a no-brainer for inclusion.

Cheers - One of the best theme songs ever, IMHO.

M*A*S*H - The best TV series based on a movie ever.

Flipper - Just listen to the words to this theme song without laughing out loud.  I dare you.

Gilligan’s Island - The all-time classic theme song.  Everybody knows the words to this one!

Hill Street Blues - A great piece of music, period.

Lost in Space - This was one of my favorite TV shows when I was a kid.  Yes, I was a nerd even then.  “Danger, Will Robinson, danger!”

Twin Peaks - This opening and accompanying music perfectly sets the stage for the upcoming episode.  There has not been such an atmospheric or cinematic series on TV since Twin Peaks.  The first season was phenomenal . . . the second, not so much.

How about you, my gentle readers, what are favorite series intros?