Based on the travels and discoveries of oddity-hunter Ripley, this show looked at the people, places and events that made up the stranger side of human history.

Subjects have included Nikola Tesla, The Bermuda Triangle, The Elephant Man, and Mad King Ludwig.

The series featured Palance or a co-host showcasing strange events, places of odd significance, trivia, and a commercial bumper (broadcasting) of original art from Ripley's comics.

In a few cases, such as the assassination of Rasputin, Palance reenacted the event in period costume and a stage set.

The series was predated by two 1981 specials hosted by Palance on May 3, 1981 (directed by Ronald Lyon) and November 6, 1981.