Top Cat, known as T.C. to his alley cat friends, is a mischievous prankster who lives in a trash can in the alley ways of New York City. He and his alley-cat cohorts think of get rich schemes and assorted pranks which are mostly involving and aimed at Officer Dibble, their nemesis and friend. T.C. manages to get out of his tight situations with hilarity and charm and even helps Dibble on occasion who is underscored by his overbearing sergeant.

Like it's prime time animated series predecessor, The Flintstones who were based on The Honeymooners, Top Cat was loosely based around a popular situation comedy show The Phil Silvers Show. If you watch Top Cat, you would be able to make comparisons. Top Cat is definitely the Sergeant Bilko character and the other cats are the equivalent to Bilko's Platoon. Benny the Ball was even voiced by Maurice Gosfield who played Private Doberman.

The animated series was filmed in color but was originally broad casted in black and white and made it's debut on September 27, 1961 on ABC. It ran for one season then was slated in the Saturday morning cartoon line up in the years 1962-1969. After that it was sent into syndication.

Although not one of Hanna-Barbera's most prominent animated series, it remains to this day among fan favorites.

Top Cat Opening Theme

Top Cat
The most effectual
Top Cat
Who's intellectual

Close friends get to
Call him TC
Providing its
With dignity

Top Cat
The indisputable
Leader of the gang

He's the boss, he's a VIP
He's a championship
He's the most tip top
Top Cat

Yes, he's the chief, he's the king
But above everything
He's the most tip top
Top Cat