Maverick is currently streaming in the US on Philo and Starz Apple TV Channel, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. 5 seasons in, and the quality has not slipped. 42 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Jack Kelly is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Philo.

Maverick arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. The jokes in Maverick land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. The Maverick boys - Bret, Bart, Beau and Brent - are a clan of well-dressed dandies, gamblers who'd much rather make their money playing cards than messing up their fine clothing with actual work. Sly and clever, none of the Mavericks are much for acts of derring do, but they can be courageous when the situation calls for it. Most often, however, they live by their wits and considerable charm. Between them, Jack Kelly carries the comedy without ever forcing it. 5 seasons (1957–1962) gave the story room most shows never get. What keeps Maverick from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, Maverick respects your intelligence. Fans of The Dick Van Dyke Show will recognise the sensibility here immediately. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single week. Jack Kelly anchors an ensemble with real chemistry. Genuinely funny, consistently, across the whole run.

Maverick wrapped up in 1962, created by Roy Huggins — and 5 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.