15 Best Western TV Pilots Of All Time, Ranked

Westerns have long been a staple of television, yet they often struggle to stand out amidst their vast history. To make an impression in this saturated genre, a show only has one episode to prove its uniqueness. These 15 TV pilots have successfully done just that.

Some pilots blend Western with other genres, such as sci-fi, crime, or horror, giving them a fresh twist. Regardless of the mix, however, these shows remain part of the Western tradition.

The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. only lasted a single season on Fox, but its pilot episode is worth watching for Bruce Campbell's performance as the witty, sarcastic cowboy. Co-created by Jeffrey Boam and Carlton Cuse, the series features Campbell's cunning and blunt personality that subtly contrasts the typical Western hero.

The Mandalorian made explicit the Western influences found in the original Star Wars films. Its pilot, written by Jon Favreau, introduces a helmeted bounty hunter who rarely speaks, reminiscent of Clint Eastwood's iconic characters. Favreau's cinematography and Ludwig Göransson's orchestrations further enhance the visual style and music of the episode.

Daybreak's pilot, written and directed by Taylor Sheridan, played a crucial role in making the Western genre dominant again in American television. Sheridan's control over the series allowed for a clear, unified intent that remained consistent throughout the first season.

Preacher, based on the Vertigo comic book series, effectively blends Western and Southern Gothic elements. Its pilot introduces morally and spiritually ambiguous characters, supernatural powers, and engaging storylines that captivate viewers in just one hour.

Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy's Westworld delves into the consequences of humanity's actions when given a playground of robots. Its pilot, in particular, subverts audience expectations and sets the stage for the show's exploration of humanity's darker impulses.