Dragnet is an American media franchise created by actor and producer Jack Webb, following Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Detective Joe Friday and his partners as they conduct by-the-book police work and solve crimes in Los Angeles. Originating as a radio drama on NBC in 1949, Dragnet has been adapted into several successful television shows and films, though the franchise's popularity has reduced since Webb's death in 1982. Its name is derived from the police term "dragnet", a system of coordinated measures for apprehending criminals or suspects.
Dragnet opening frame from the 1950s television series
Webb and Morgan in 1968
John Randolph Webb was an American actor, television producer, director, and screenwriter, most famous for his role as Joe Friday in the Dragnet franchise, which he created. He was also the founder of his own production company, Mark VII Limited.
Jack Webb as Joe Friday in Dragnet (1957)
Webb with Harry Morgan in Dragnet 1968
Jack Webb and Walter Strenge on the set of Dragnet, 1966
Jack Webb with first wife Julie London and daughters Stacey and Lisa, 1953