Shows of the Western genre thrived on television during the 1950s. They owed their copious numbers and success to the ease of production (one dusty main street set could be used over and over; tumbleweed optional) and the audience’s fascination with the Wild West. Maverick proved to be a cut above the rest because there were horses, yes and guns, yes and saloon fights, of course—but there was also witty comedy and an unlikely hero spicing up the old formula.

Bret Maverick was a card shark who embraced a self-centered philosophy of life. In the dangerous and lawless West, he didn’t feel the need to rush to the rescue of helpless widows and orphans. Rich widows and orphans he might help, especially if there was a reward involved. Bret glided by with a devil-may-care attitude that served to keep him alive when trouble came around. He preferred to talk his way out of nasty situations because his sub par marksmanship left a lot to be desired.

In contrast to Bret stood his brother, Bart, holder of all the prim, conservative Maverick genes. The two brothers rode through the West looking to get rich through gambling and confidence games in towns with foreboding names like Apocalypse and Oblivion. Along the way they met other con men and one alluring con woman who liked to challenge the brothers to a battle of wits.

James Garner played the title character and other than Jack Kelly’s Bart, two more Maverick relatives joined the cast in later episodes: Roger Moore’s Beau and Robert Colbert’s Brent. After the series was canceled, interest persisted in the charming character of Maverick and many spin-off TV movies aired throughout the 70s and 80s, leading to a film adaptation starring Mel Gibson in the lead role.