The Waltons (1972)
Earl Hamner Jr.'s landmark CBS family drama, set in Depression-era Virginia, that became one of American television's most enduring and beloved series.
The Waltons - Series Information
- Original Title: The Waltons
- First Air Year: 1972
- Last Air Year: 1981
- Created by: Earl Hamner, Jr.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-G
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 50 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 9
- Number of Episodes: 210
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 14, 1972 (United States - TV-G), September 14, 1972 (Canada - G), September 14, 1972 (Germany - 16), September 14, 1972 (France - 16), September 14, 1972 (Australia - PG), September 14, 1972 (Brazil - 12), September 14, 1972 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: CBS
- Alternative Titles: La Famille des collines (FR)
- Production Companies: Lorimar Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Waltons - Plot
The Waltons live their life in a rural Virginia community during the Great Depression and World War II.
The Waltons - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a feel for the warmth and spirit of this classic series:
The Landmark Series That Celebrates Family.
Where to Watch The Waltons
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The Waltons - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Earl Hamner, Jr.
Main Cast
- Ralph Waite
- Jon Walmsley
- Mary Elizabeth McDonough
- David W. Harper
- Earl Hamner, Jr.
- Eric Scott
- Kami Cotler
- Joe Conley
- Judy Norton
- Michael Learned
Writers
- Kathleen Hite
- John McGreevey
- Marion Hargrove
- Joanna Lee
- Dale Eunson
Executive Producers
- Lee Rich
The Waltons - FAQs
Where can you stream The Waltons online?
The Waltons is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Peacock Premium, and Philo. It can also be purchased digitally on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Is The Waltons based on a true story?
Yes. The Waltons is based on creator Earl Hamner Jr.'s own childhood growing up in Schuyler, Virginia, during the Great Depression. His autobiographical novel Spencer's Mountain and the 1963 film adaptation preceded the series, which drew directly from his family experiences.
Who are the main cast members of The Waltons?
The principal cast includes Ralph Waite as John Walton Sr., Michael Learned as Olivia Walton, Richard Thomas as John-Boy Walton, Will Geer as Grandfather, Ellen Corby as Grandmother, and the Walton children played by Judy Norton, Jon Walmsley, Mary Elizabeth McDonough, Eric Scott, David W. Harper, and Kami Cotler.
What is The Waltons TV series about?
The Waltons follows a close-knit multigenerational family living in the Blue Ridge Mountains of rural Virginia during the hardships of the Great Depression and World War II. The series centers on eldest son John-Boy's coming-of-age and his aspiration to become a writer, set against a backdrop of warmth, resilience, and community.
How many seasons and episodes does The Waltons have?
The Waltons ran for 9 seasons and 210 episodes on CBS, plus a Season 0 containing 9 special episodes. Each regular season comprised 22 to 24 episodes. The series premiered on September 14, 1972, and concluded in 1981, making it one of television's longest-running family dramas.
Did The Waltons win any major awards?
Yes. The Waltons earned numerous Emmy Awards throughout its run, including Outstanding Drama Series. Michael Learned won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series three times, and Ellen Corby and Will Geer each received Emmy recognition for their supporting roles as the grandparents.
What is the content rating for The Waltons?
The Waltons carries a TV-G rating in the United States, making it suitable for all audiences. The series contains no mature language, violence, or adult content, and has long been regarded as one of the most family-friendly dramas in American television history.
Why did Richard Thomas leave The Waltons?
Richard Thomas, who played central character John-Boy Walton, departed the series after Season 5 in 1977 to pursue film and stage opportunities. His character was written out of the show, and Robert Wightman later assumed the role of John-Boy in subsequent seasons and reunion TV movies.
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