Mission: Impossible (1988)

The classic spy franchise returns — Peter Graves leads a new Impossible Missions Force through 35 episodes of covert action on ABC.

Mission: Impossible - Series Information

  • Original Title: Mission: Impossible
  • First Air Year: 1988
  • Last Air Year: 1990
  • Created by: Bruce Geller
  • Type: TV Series
  • Genres: Drama, Action, Adventure, Crime
  • Content Rating (US): TV-PG
  • Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
  • Number of Seasons: 2
  • Number of Episodes: 35
  • Status: Ended
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • First Air Date: October 23, 1988 (United States - TV-PG), October 23, 1988 (Germany - 12), October 23, 1988 (France - NR), October 23, 1988 (Mexico - B)
  • Networks: ABC
  • Alternative Titles: Новата мисия невъзможна (BG), The New Mission: Impossible (US), In geheimer Mission (DE)
  • Production Companies: Jeffrey Hayes Productions, CBS Studios
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Mission: Impossible - Plot

Mission: Impossible is an American television series that chronicles the missions of a team of secret American government agents known as the Impossible Missions Force. The show is a revival of the 1966 TV series of the same name. The only actor to return for the series as a regular cast member was Peter Graves who played Jim Phelps, although two other cast members from the original series returned as guest stars. The only other regular cast member to return for every episode was the voice of "The Tape", Bob Johnson.

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Mission: Impossible - Cast & Crew

Creator(s)

  • Bruce Geller

Main Cast

  • Peter Graves
  • Thaao Penghlis
  • Antony Hamilton
  • Phil Morris
  • Jane Badler
  • Bob Johnson
  • Terry Markwell
  • Greg Morris
  • Adrian Wright
  • Rowena Wallace

Writers

  • Allan Balter
  • Arthur Weiss
  • Frank Abatemarco
  • Robert Hamner
  • Chip Hayes

Mission: Impossible - FAQs

How does the 1988 Mission: Impossible differ from the original?

The 1988 revival retained Peter Graves as Jim Phelps and Bob Johnson as the voice on the tape, but introduced an entirely new IMF team. The tone and structure echoed the original 1966 series, though it was produced in Australia and reflected late-1980s production values and storytelling sensibilities.

Where can you watch Mission: Impossible (1988)?

Streaming availability for Mission: Impossible (1988) varies by region and platform. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options in your area, including any rental, purchase, or subscription streaming services currently carrying the series.

Who are the main cast members of Mission: Impossible (1988)?

Peter Graves leads the cast as Jim Phelps, joined by Thaao Penghlis, Antony Hamilton, Phil Morris, Jane Badler, Bob Johnson, Terry Markwell, Greg Morris, Adrian Wright, and Rowena Wallace. Phil Morris, son of original cast member Greg Morris, also appeared alongside his father.

When did Mission: Impossible (1988) first air?

The revived series premiered on October 23, 1988, on ABC. It ran for two seasons, concluding in 1990, with a total of 35 episodes spread across Season 1 (19 episodes) and Season 2 (16 episodes).

How many seasons does Mission: Impossible (1988) have?

The 1988 revival ran for two seasons. Season 1 comprised 19 episodes and Season 2 followed with 16 episodes, bringing the total to 35 episodes. The series ended in 1990 and was not renewed for a third season.

Was Mission: Impossible (1988) filmed in Australia?

Yes, the 1988 revival was primarily filmed in Australia, a notable departure from the original series. The production took advantage of Australian locations and crew, giving the show a distinctive visual texture while keeping its globe-trotting espionage premise intact.

What genre is Mission: Impossible (1988)?

The series blends Drama, Action, Adventure, and Crime into a classic spy-thriller format. Each episode follows the Impossible Missions Force as they execute elaborate covert operations, combining suspense, disguise, and tactical intrigue in the tradition of the original 1966 series.

What are shows similar to Mission: Impossible (1988)?

Fans of the series often enjoy MacGyver (1985), Nikita (2010), Berlin Station (2016), and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (1964). The Avengers (1961) and Crime Story (1986) also share that blend of stylish espionage, ensemble teamwork, and high-stakes covert action.

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