Convoy

Convoy is a 13-episode American television show set during World War II that appeared on NBC for the 1965–1966 television season. The series starred John Gavin as Commander Dan Talbot of the US Navy destroyer escort "DD181" and John Larch as civilian merchant Captain Ben Foster of the cargo ship "Flagship", who were involved with the convoy ships and their escorts that help to transport food, supplies and war materials across the Atlantic during the Battle of the Atlantic. The series also featured Linden Chiles as Steve Kirk and James T. Callahan, formerly of ABC's Wendy and Me sitcom, in the role of Lieutenant O'Connell. Among the guest stars were Dennis Hopper, Jack Palance, Barbara Rush, James Doohan, Leslie Nielsen, Horst Ebersberg, Harold Gould, and Jeremy Slate. Convoy was one of the last NBC series in black and white; the use of stock footage made color impossible. As a result, several NBC affiliates refused to clear the program, which consequently failed to climb out of the 'bottom 10' in the Nielsen ratings. The program premiered on September 17, 1965, and the last episode aired on December 10.

Directed by —, Convoy leans on a strong ensemble — John Larch, Michael Stanwood, John Gavin — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1965.