The Defenders

The Defenders (1961-1965)

EndedScripted showDrama, Crime, Legal

Together, Lawrence Preston and his son Kenneth represent defendants in complex legal cases.

Network
Scheduleevery Thursday at 20:30 (60 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S04E30Only a ChildMay 13, 1965
S04E29The Bum's RushMay 6, 1965
S04E28The ProsecutorApr 29, 1965
S04E27Youths and Maidens on an Evening WalkApr 15, 1965
S04E26A Matter of Law and DisorderApr 8, 1965
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Defenders' premiere?

'The Defenders' premiered on September 16, 1961.

Who were the main characters in 'The Defenders'?

The main characters in 'The Defenders' were Lawrence Preston, Kenneth Preston, and Helen Donaldson.

What was the genre of 'The Defenders'?

'The Defenders' was a legal drama television series.

Who were the creators of 'The Defenders'?

'The Defenders' was created by Reginald Rose and Herbert Brodkin.

In what city was 'The Defenders' set?

'The Defenders' was set in New York City.

What was the premise of 'The Defenders'?

'The Defenders' followed the lives of two defense attorneys and their struggles to uphold justice in the courtroom.

Did 'The Defenders' tackle controversial social issues?

Yes, 'The Defenders' was known for addressing controversial social issues of the time in its episodes.

Who played Lawrence Preston in 'The Defenders'?

E.G. Marshall portrayed the character of Lawrence Preston in 'The Defenders'.

Who played Kenneth Preston in 'The Defenders'?

Robert Reed portrayed the character of Kenneth Preston in 'The Defenders'.

Who played Helen Donaldson in 'The Defenders'?

Joan Hackett portrayed the character of Helen Donaldson in 'The Defenders'.

Did 'The Defenders' receive critical acclaim?

Yes, 'The Defenders' received critical acclaim for its intelligent writing and powerful performances.

How many seasons did 'The Defenders' have?

'The Defenders' had a total of four seasons.

Did 'The Defenders' win any awards?

Yes, 'The Defenders' won several awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.

Were there any notable guest stars on 'The Defenders'?

Yes, 'The Defenders' featured appearances by notable guest stars such as William Shatner and Gene Hackman.

Did 'The Defenders' address political issues?

Yes, 'The Defenders' often delved into political issues, reflecting the turbulent times of the 1960s.

What was the impact of 'The Defenders' on television?

'The Defenders' was considered groundbreaking for its realistic portrayal of legal and social issues, paving the way for more socially conscious television shows.

Cast

View all cast

Characters

View all characters

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
Life After People
Running

Life After People

What would happen to planet earth if the human race were to suddenly disappear forever? Would ecosystems thrive? What remnants of our industrialized world would survive? What would crumble fastest? From the ruins of ancient civilizations to present day cities devastated by natural disasters, history gives us clues to these questions and many more in the visually stunning and thought-provoking special, Life After People.

The Couple Next Door
Running

The Couple Next Door

A young couple move to the suburbs and instantly strike up a friendship with their new neighbours. But are they a bit too friendly?

The Mega-Brands That Built America
Running

The Mega-Brands That Built America

The Mega-Brands That Built America is the newest series in History's "That Built" franchise, telling the origin stories of some of the most successful businesses in history: from mega-stores like Costco and Walmart to sporting goods giants like Spalding and Wilson, titans like Ivory Soap, Schick and Gillette, to shipping giants like Fedex and UPS, and countless more of the biggest brand names in history. Each story is told through the "That Built" franchises' signature blend of expert interviews and archival, mixed with original premium recreations. Through the eyes of the visionaries and entrepreneurs behind the brands, the series takes viewers on a journey; starting with how it all began, following the innovations, the failures, and all the incredible achievements that forever changed the way Americans live. It's everything you didn't know about the colossal brands you know so well.

The Real Housewives of Miami
Running

The Real Housewives of Miami

Excitement runs high this season as bothJoanna and Adriana plan their dream weddings, but not everything is smooth sailing as Joanna and Romain disagree about a pre-nuptial agreement and Adriana deals with the aftermath of her friends finding out the truth about her relationship with her fiancé. Lea finds new bonds forming and old friendships are put to the test as she tries to prove she is more than just a housewife. Alexia's focus remains on her two sons: Frankie who continues to make strides in his recovery from an automobile accident, and Peter, who is also going through some challenging times in his life. Even though Lisa struggles with fertility issues, she is determined to grow her family and will do whatever it takes to have a baby. Whether strolling down Lincoln Road or sipping mojitos on South Beach, these ladies prove why Miami is one of the sexiest and sultriest cities in the world on The Real Housewives of Miami.

Hazardous History with Henry Winkler
Running

Hazardous History with Henry Winkler

The eight-episode fast-paced, nostalgia-fueled series will take viewers on a thrilling ride through America's past. 

GenreHistory