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Highway to Heaven

Highway to Heaven is an American fantasy drama television series created by and starring Michael Landon.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Highway to Heaven is an American fantasy drama television series created by and starring Michael Landon. It aired on NBC from 1984 to 1989 and follows a probationary angel and a former police officer as they help people in need.

Premise

The series centres on Jonathan Smith, an angel on probation who travels the country helping people. He is joined by Mark Gordon, an ex-police officer whose life is changed by Jonathan's mission.

Production and broadcast

Highway to Heaven was created by Michael Landon and aired on NBC from 1984 to 1989. It ran for five seasons and produced 111 episodes.

Cast and characters

Michael Landon played Jonathan Smith, while Victor French played Mark Gordon. Their partnership formed the core of the series.

Themes

Episodes often focused on moral and social issues, including forgiveness, loss, prejudice, greed, and compassion. The show mixed dramatic and sometimes lighter storytelling.

Key facts

  • The series stars Michael Landon as Jonathan Smith, a probationary angel sent to Earth.
  • Victor French co-stars as Mark Gordon, a retired policeman who helps Jonathan with his assignments.
  • It aired on NBC for five seasons and 111 episodes.
  • The show combines fantasy with moral and human-interest storylines.
  • Its episodes often addressed themes such as kindness, prejudice, grief, and redemption.
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Canadian context

The series was broadcast in Canada on some television outlets and remains familiar to Canadian viewers through classic television reruns and streaming availability, but it is primarily an American production.

Frequently asked questions

What is Highway to Heaven about?
It follows a probationary angel, Jonathan Smith, and his companion Mark Gordon as they help troubled people under guidance from God.
Who created Highway to Heaven?
The series was created by Michael Landon, who also starred as Jonathan Smith.
When did Highway to Heaven air?
It aired on NBC from September 19, 1984, to August 4, 1989.
How many episodes does Highway to Heaven have?
The series ran for 111 episodes over five seasons.
Who starred in Highway to Heaven?
The main stars were Michael Landon and Victor French.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway_to_Heaven
    Supports: Original run, creators, main cast, genre, episode count, premise
  2. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/highway-to-heaven/1000177766/
    Supports: Premise, network, genre, run dates, themes
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086730/
    Supports: Creator, cast, release date, country of origin, series premise
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/highway_to_heaven
    Supports: Network, genre, release date, creator, synopsis