An anthology series is a radio or television series that has a different story and a different set of characters in every episode. Typically, the only constant is the host, who introduces and concludes each program. In addition, some series also have a permanent troupe of character actors. Anthology series have typically been used to present science fiction, horror, suspense, and mystery genres. However, they have also been used to present serious dramatic productions, such as adaptations of plays, films, and other dramatic works. Many popular old-time radio programs were anthology series. In the history of television, live anthology dramas were especially popular in the "Golden Age," from the early to mid-1950s. During summers in the 1970s and 1980s, American television networks would often run comedy anthology series which consisted of unbought television pilots. Examples of horror, science fiction, mystery, and suspense radio series:
- Escape
- Twilight Zone (radio and television)
- The Whistler
- Suspense (radio)
- Inner Sanctum Mysteries
- Lights Out
- Journey to the Unknown
Examples of these genres in television:
Examples of radio drama anthology series:
- Lux Radio Theater
- Cavalcade of America
- The Screen Guild Theater
- Screen Director's Playhouse (radio and television)
- The United States Steel Hour (radio and television)
- Ford Theatre (radio and television)
- Academy Award Theater
- The Campbell Playhouse
- CBS Radio Workshop
- Arch Oboler's Plays
- 2000X
Examples of television drama anthology series:
- Fireside Theater
- Danger (TV series)
- Thriller (US TV series)
- Espionage (TV series)
- Kraft Television Theater
- Masterpiece Theatre
- Playhouse 90
- Lux Video Theater
- Loretta Young Theatre
- Barbara Stanwyck Theatre
- Fred Astaire Theatre
- The Danny Thomas Hour
- Lamp Unto My Feet
Examples of romantic comedy television series:
Examples of drama/comedy television series:
