
Have Gun – Will Travel premiered on CBS in 1957 and quickly garnered significant popularity, consistently ranking third or fourth in the Nielsen ratings during its first four seasons. Its success was notable enough to lead to a popular radio adaptation beginning in 1958—a rare transition at the time. The series boasted 225 episodes during its six-year run, featuring contributions from notable writers, including Gene Roddenberry, and was helmed by prominent producers and directors. Initially lauded for its intelligent scripts and charismatic lead, Richard Boone, the show stood out in the Western genre for blending action with thoughtful storytelling.
Over time, Have Gun – Will Travel has maintained a positive reputation among fans and critics alike. While not always at the forefront of mainstream Western nostalgia, it is often celebrated as a sophisticated and influential series. Today, it is regarded largely as a cult classic, appreciated for its nuanced characters and storytelling that transcended many Western tropes. It remains accessible through channels like Encore-Western, where new audiences continue to discover its quality and legacy.