The Defenders

The Defenders (1961-1965)

EndedScripted showDrama, Crime, Legal

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

Streaming

Watch Now

Network
Scheduleevery Thursday at 20:30 (60 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S04E30Only a ChildMai 13, 1965
S04E29The Bum's RushMai 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.
The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys
Running

The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys

The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys follows patriarch Steve McBee, the hard-working founder of the family business, and his four sons: Steven Jr. the business-minded heir apparent, Cole the underdog who works hard in the field, Jesse the quiet cowboy, and Brayden who has the least interest in farming.

GenreDrama
EastEnders
Running

EastEnders

Set in the East End of London, the show focuses on the tensions between love and family with stories ranging from hard-hitting social issues, to personal, human tragedies. And there's plenty of funny moments too. 

Classic characters old and new across thousands of episodes have shared a drink in The Queen Vic, shed tears of despair or joy, sat on Arthur's bench in the Square... and at some point or other they probably crossed paths with Ian Beale.

GenreDrama
Contraband: Seized at the Border
Running

Contraband: Seized at the Border

The border between the USA and Mexico is the busiest in the world. This series follows the work of America's Customs and Border Protection agency, whose job is to defend the border and stop terrorists, drugs and illegal weapons from entering the country.

GenreCrime
90 Day Fiancé
Running

90 Day Fiancé

90 Day Fiancé offers a unique look into the world of international dating and matrimony. Using a unique 90-day fiance visa, the K-1 visa, four women and two men will travel to the U.S. to live with their overseas partners for the first time. The couples must marry before their visas expire in 90 days, or the visiting partner will have to return home. They'll have to overcome language barriers, culture shock and skeptical friends and family -- all with a clock that starts ticking the moment they step foot on U.S. soil. The stakes are incredibly high as these couples are forced to make a life-altering decision: get married or send their international mate home.

FROM
Running

FROM

FROM unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter. As the unwilling residents fight to keep a sense of normalcy and search for a way out, they must also survive the threats of the surrounding forest – including the terrifying creatures that come out when the sun goes down. In season two, hidden truths about the nature and terrifying origins of the town begin to emerge, even as life for its residents is plunged into chaos by the arrival of mysterious newcomers.