I Spy

The series was noted for its relatively-grounded, realistic approach to espionage and the influx of Cold War politics, compared to the more fantastical approaches of spy fiction of the day. The series did not feature a fixed locale, instead utilizing location shooting across the United States and the world.

The creative forces behind the show were writers Friedkin and Fine and cinematographer Fouad Said. Together they formed Triple F Productions under the aegis of Desilu Productions where the show was produced. Fine and Friedkin (who previously wrote scripts for radio's Broadway Is My Beat and Crime Classics under producer-director Elliott Lewis) were co-producers and head writers, and wrote the scripts for 16 episodes, one of which Friedkin directed. Friedkin also dabbled in acting and appeared in two episodes in the first season. Actor–producer Sheldon Leonard, known for playing gangster roles in the 1940s and 1950s, was the executive producer (receiving top billing before the title in the series' opening title sequence).

Bill Cosby won three acting Emmy Awards over the course of the series, while composer Earle Hagen won Outstanding Achievement in Musical Composition. The series accumulated an additional 15 Emmy nominations during its run, including three nods for Outstanding Drama Series. It also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Program in 1967.