Actors put in countless hours of hard work to bring characters to life, but sometimes the true shining stars of live-action TV shows aren’t even human. Adorable animals, whether they are expressive creatures or lovable puppets, have stolen the spotlight with their incredible training and captivating performances. Over the years, a wide variety of animals such as dogs, cats, and horses have graced our screens, winning the hearts of millions.
There is a fabulous array of shows that feature animals in prominent roles. Comedies bring the laughs by incorporating talking animals, while dramas use animals and pets to add a touch of humanity to certain characters. Children’s shows educate young viewers about animals, and then there are those shows that take a unique and unconventional approach by using animals in unexpected ways.
These shows showcase animals as either the main characters or as essential members of the supporting cast. With a diverse range of shows spanning different eras, viewers of all ages can find something they’ve watched and adored. So, let’s dive into the captivating world of animal-starring shows and discover where your beloved live-action animal shows rank.
(Note: The “most divisive” section has been omitted as per the request.)
1. The Lone Ranger
Animal: Silver, the horse, played by White Cloud.
Premiered: September 15, 1949
Actors: Clayton Moore, Jay Silverheels, John Hart
2. Flipper
Animal : Flipper, played by Kathy, the bottlenose dolphin.
Premiered: September 19, 1964
Actors: Luke Halpin, Tommy Norden, Brian Kelly
3. Lassie
Animal: Lassie, played by Pal.
Premiered: September 12, 1954
Actors: Tommy Rettig, Jan Clayton, George Cleveland
4. The Addams Family
Animal: Kitty-Cat, a lion, played by Zamba.
Premiered: September 18, 1964
Actors: Carolyn Jones, John Astin, Jackie Coogan
5. Married… with Children
Animal: Buck, played by a Briard of the same name.
Premiered: April 5, 1987
Actors: Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate
6. Sabrina the Teenage Witch
Animal: Salem Saberhagen, played by a puppet and voiced by Nick Bakay.
Premiered: September 20, 1996
Actors: Melissa Joan Hart, Caroline Rhea, Beth Broderick
7. Frasier
Animal: Eddie, played by Moose.
Premiered: September 16, 1993
Actors: Kelsey Grammer, John Mahoney, Jane Leeves
8. Mister Ed
Animal: Mister Ed, played by Bamboo Harvester.
Premiered: October 1, 1961
Actors: Allan Lane, Alan Young, Connie Hines
9. Green Acres
Animal: Mignon, played by two different dogs.
Premiered: September 15, 1965
Actors: Eddie Albert, Eva Gabor, Pat Buttram
10. The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin
Animal: Rin Tin Tin, played by a German Shepherd of the same name.
Premiered: 1954
Actors: Lee Aaker, James Brown, Rin Tin Tin II
11. The Beverly Hillbillies
Animal: Duke, played by Stretch.
Premiered: September 26, 1962
Actors: Buddy Ebsen, Irene Ryan, Donna Douglas