CHECKMATE (1960-62)Created by thriller writer Eric Ambler, and filmed on the streets of San Francisco, Checkmate revolves around investigators Don Corey (Anthony George), and Jed Sills (Doug McClure), aided by criminologist Dr. Carl Hyatt (Sebastian Cabot). Lauded as one of the best dramas of the 1960s, Checkmate was highlighted by great scripts, locations, and casting -- with guest stars ranging from Charles Laughton, Joan Fontaine, and Peter Lorre, to Cyd Charisse, Tony Randall, and Jack Benny.
The show's haunting theme was composed by "Johnny Williams" -- who went on to a stellar career as film composer John Williams, scoring and serving as music director for more than one hundred films, including the likes of Star Wars, Superman: The Movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Catch Me If You Can, Minority Report, Schindler's List, Jurassic Park, Home Alone, JFK, et al. With 45 Academy Award nominations, he is the Academy's most nominated living person. Williams has five Oscars, seven British Academy Awards (BAFTA), twenty Grammys, four Golden Globes, four Emmys, and numerous Gold and Platinum records. He holds the title of Boston Pops Laureate Conductor, following his retirement in December 1993 after 14 seasons. Williams has also written many concert pieces, including two symphonies.
CHECKMATE on DVD:
Checkmate: Best of Season One
Checkmate: Best of Season Two
Related links:
Checkmate (Thrilling Detective)
Checkmate (TV series) (Wikipedia)
John Williams Official Site
John Williams (Wikipedia)
OPENING CREDITS
More TV Themes:
DRAGNET
THE EQUALIZER (w/ CALLAN)
GET SMART
HARDY BOYS / NANCY DREW MYSTERIES
HART TO HART
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