The Best TV Shows Of The '70s, Ranked
The 1970s was an unparalleled era in television that offered some of the most pioneering series of all time. In this diverse decade, TV shows reached unprecedented creative heights, seamlessly blending humor, drama, and social commentary. The best TV shows of the 70s captivated audiences hungry for captivating storylines and complex characters. However, that makes it hard to determine the cream of the crop of 1970s TV shows. The classic series of these years provided much more than entertainment; they ignited conversations, pushed boundaries, and reflected the cultural shifts of the time, making it essential to revisit and appreciate their brilliance and continued relevance.
This curated list, a favorite among TV enthusiasts, highlights the best and most influential TV shows of the 1970s. It's a nostalgic trip back to a decade when television was reinventing itself, merging entertainment with groundbreaking narratives.
During this era, 70s TV shows like All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, and Sanford and Son revolutionized television, blending humor with critical social commentary, and tackling complex issues such as racism, poverty, and more. They set the stage for the diverse range of topics that 1970s TV shows would explore.
The decade wasn't just about heavy themes, however. Popular 70s shows like The Brady Bunch, Three’s Company, and Laverne & Shirley brought laughter and light-hearted entertainment to audiences. Action and adventure were also hallmarks of 70s television shows, with series like Charlie’s Angels, Ironside, and The Six Million Dollar Man captivating viewers with their thrilling plots. Variety shows also made a significant impact. The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour was a prime example of a show that blended music, comedy, and pop culture.
This list is a dynamic, crowd-sourced ranking, reflecting the opinions of both those who experienced these classic 70s TV shows firsthand and newer fans who have come to appreciate their enduring appeal. As you explore this collection of TV shows from the 70s, consider which ones have left a lasting impression on you. Which of these shows from the 70s deserve to be celebrated and remembered? Your votes help determine which of these series stand out as the best representations of this influential era in television history.
- 1
Set in the Korean War, this classic show expertly showcased both the humor and the heartbreak experienced by a group of dedicated army doctors. With an ensemble cast led by the incomparable Alan Alda as Hawkeye Pierce, the series became a cultural touchstone for its deft blending of comedy and drama. Memorable characters like Hot Lips Houlihan and Klinger served to further humanize the experience of war during a tumultuous time in American history. The show's enduring popularity is evident in its 11-season run and continued presence in syndication.
- Premiered: September 17, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy,War & Politics
- 2
This innovative sketch comedy series, fronted by comedic legend Carol Burnett along with Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner, captivated audiences with its hilarious skits, celebrity guest stars, and iconic musical numbers. Known for pushing boundaries through satire while also showcasing Burnett's incredible range as an entertainer, this Emmy-winning series remains a beloved classic.
- Premiered: September 11, 1967
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 3
Centered around a Midwestern family in the 1950s, this feel-good sitcom featuring Ron Howard, Henry Winkler, and Tom Bosley quickly endeared itself to audiences with its nostalgic portrayal of simpler times. The adventures of Richie Cunningham and his friends introduced viewers to beloved characters such as Fonzie – who quickly became a pop culture icon – as they navigated teenage life with humor and heart. This show's catchphrases ("Ayyyy!" and "Sit on it!") remain memorable even today.
- Premiered: January 15, 1974
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
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- 4
This detective drama starring James Garner as Jim Rockford, an ex-con turned private investigator, captivated audiences with its thrilling cases and flawed yet lovable protagonist. Known for its unique blend of character-driven storytelling and action-packed sequences, this series became a precursor to contemporary crime dramas. Garner's charismatic portrayal of Rockford cemented his place as one of television's most memorable detectives.
- Premiered: September 13, 1974
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Action,Crime,Drama
- 5
Tackling social issues with humor and poignant insight, this groundbreaking sitcom followed the lives of working-class bigot Archie Bunker (Carroll O'Connor), his long-suffering wife Edith (Jean Stapleton), their daughter Gloria (Sally Struthers), and son-in-law Mike (Rob Reiner). Its willingness to address topics such as racism, sexism, and politics resonated with viewers while challenging their preconceptions; it remains one of the most acclaimed shows in television history.
- Premiered: January 12, 1971
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 6
Set in the world of radio broadcasting, this sitcom chronicled the misadventures of a quirky ensemble cast that included Gary Sandy, Howard Hesseman, Loni Anderson, and Tim Reid at an underdog station attempting to gain prominence. With razor-sharp wit and memorable characters like Dr. Johnny Fever and Venus Flytrap, this show captured the spirit of the late '70s while providing laughter along the way.
- Premiered: September 18, 1978
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 7
Depicting life in Watts through the lens of junk dealer Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) and his son Lamont (Demond Wilson), this sitcom showcased Foxx's impeccable comedic timing while addressing themes related to race relations in America. With its unforgettable catchphrases ("You big dummy!" "I'm coming to join you Elizabeth!") and hilarious hijinks between father and son, it remains a timeless classic.
- Premiered: January 14, 1972
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
- 8
Peter Falk's portrayal of Lieutenant Columbo – a seemingly bumbling but brilliant investigator – captivated audiences with his unorthodox methods and trademark catchphrase ("Just one more thing..."). Though viewers knew "whodunit" from the start, the suspense came from watching Columbo unravel each case to reveal the culprit. This show's unique format and Falk's endearing performance continue to influence modern detective dramas.
- Premiered: September 15, 1971
- Network: NBC, ABC
- Genres: Crime,Drama,Mystery
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- 2Murder By The Book1,132 Votes
- 3Now You See Him965 Votes
- 9
Set in a New York City taxi company, this sitcom featured an eccentric group of cabbies portrayed by Judd Hirsch, Danny DeVito, Andy Kaufman, Marilu Henner, Tony Danza & more. The interplay between these talented actors created unforgettable moments while also exploring the human condition with warmth and humor. With its mix of comedic and dramatic storylines, this show earned numerous accolades and a devoted following.
- Premiered: September 12, 1978
- Network: ABC, NBC
- Genres: Comedy
- 10
Set in a local newsroom, this groundbreaking sitcom showcased Mary Tyler Moore as Mary Richards – a single woman navigating career success amidst personal challenges. With its talented ensemble cast that included Ed Asner, Valerie Harper, and Gavin MacLeod, it tackled topics such as gender equality and workplace dynamics while serving up laughter along the way. Its iconic opening sequence, featuring Moore tossing her hat into the air, remains etched in television history.
- Premiered: September 19, 1970
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 11
Featuring everyone's favorite mystery-solving Great Dane and his gang – Fred, Daphne, Velma, and Shaggy – this cartoon series introduced viewers to a delightful combination of spookiness and hilarity as the heroes unraveled supernatural mysteries. This show spawned numerous spin-offs and adaptations over the years; Scooby-Doo remains a beloved part of popular culture.
- Premiered: September 11, 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids,Mystery
- 12
Featuring a unique premise of two single women pretending to be a couple to share an apartment with their landlord, this raucous sitcom starred John Ritter as Jack Tripper – a man caught in the middle of hilarious misunderstandings involving his roommates Janet (Joyce DeWitt) and Chrissy (Suzanne Somers). With its mix of slapstick humor and risqué scenarios, it became one of the most popular shows during its time.
- Premiered: March 15, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
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- 13
Lee Majors starred as Steve Austin in this sci-fi action series about a former astronaut who became a bionic secret agent after a near-fatal accident. The innovative special effects used to portray Austin's superhuman abilities were revolutionary for their time; the show's catchy theme song and phrases like "We can rebuild him" left an indelible mark on pop culture.
- Premiered: March 7, 1973
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Adventure
- 14
Jim Henson's inimitable creation – The Muppets – took center stage in this innovative variety show that featured guest stars from across the entertainment spectrum. With its cleverly crafted skits, memorable songs, and endearing characters such as Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie Bear, this Emmy-winning series charmed audiences of all ages while leaving an indelible mark on television history.
- Premiered: January 30, 1974
- Network: ABC, Syndicated
- Genres: Kids
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- 2Gonzo824 Votes
- 3Swedish Chef873 Votes
- 15
Starring Bob Newhart as psychologist Dr. Robert Hartley, this sophisticated sitcom showcased the unique blend of deadpan humor and character-driven comedy that would become Newhart's trademark. Set in Chicago, it featured a talented ensemble cast that included Suzanne Pleshette, Bill Daily & Peter Bonerz; its clever writing and wry wit made it a critical and commercial success.
- Premiered: September 16, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 16
Adapted from the successful Broadway play and film, this sitcom focused on the unlikely pairing of neat freak Felix Unger (Tony Randall) and slovenly sportswriter Oscar Madison (Jack Klugman). Their hilarious interactions as mismatched roommates delighted audiences, showcasing that even polar opposites could forge a lasting friendship.
- Premiered: September 24, 1970
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 17
A snapshot of blended family life during the '70s; this classic sitcom told the story of the Brady family – Mike (Robert Reed), Carol (Florence Henderson), and their six children. Filled with moral lessons, wholesome storylines, and indelible catchphrases ("Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!"), it remains a beloved fixture in pop culture.
- Premiered: September 26, 1969
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 18
Based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's beloved book series; this heartwarming drama followed the life and adventures of the Ingalls family – Charles (Michael Landon), Caroline (Karen Grassle), Mary (Melissa Sue Anderson), Laura (Melissa Gilbert), and others - during their time on the American frontier. The show's enduring popularity stems from its timeless themes of love, family values, community spirit while also showcasing life's hardships during that era.
- Premiered: September 11, 1974
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Drama
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- 19
This intelligent police procedural focused on the daily grind of detectives working at New York City's 12th Precinct under Captain Barney Miller (Hal Linden). With its diverse ensemble cast – including Max Gail, Ron Glass, and Abe Vigoda – and sharp writing, this show expertly balanced humor with dramatic tension while addressing timely social issues within a law enforcement context.
- Premiered: January 23, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 20
This long-running western drama chronicled the adventures of the Cartwright family – patriarch Ben (Lorne Greene) and his sons Adam (Pernell Roberts), Hoss (Dan Blocker), and Little Joe (Michael Landon) – on their sprawling Nevada ranch, The Ponderosa. With its gripping storylines and memorable characters, this show became synonymous with quality television during its impressive 14-season run.
- Premiered: September 12, 1959
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Drama
- 21
A spin-off of All in the Family, this sitcom featured Sherman Hemsley and Isabel Sanford as George and Louise Jefferson – an African-American couple who "moved on up" to a luxury high-rise apartment in Manhattan. With its racially diverse cast and willingness to address social issues, it became a groundbreaking show that broke barriers while providing laughter along the way.
- Premiered: January 18, 1975
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy,Comedy
- 22
This action-packed series followed cousins Bo (John Schneider) and Luke Duke (Tom Wopat) as they raced around rural Georgia in their iconic car, The General Lee, while evading corrupt law enforcement officers. Filled with car chases, jumps, stunts, and memorable characters such as Daisy Duke (Catherine Bach) and Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke), this show became an instant hit with viewers craving excitement.
- Premiered: January 26, 1979
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Adventure,Comedy
- 23
This popular crime drama showcased Paul Michael Glaser as David Starsky and David Soul as Ken Hutchinson – two streetwise detectives working the streets of Bay City. Known for its iconic red Ford Gran Torino nicknamed "The Striped Tomato," adrenaline-fueled car chases, eclectic fashion choices, and the enduring partnership between Starsky and Hutch, this show paved the way for future buddy cop dramas.
- Premiered: April 30, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 24
This beloved spin-off from Happy Days followed the comedic exploits of two best friends – Laverne DeFazio (Penny Marshall) and Shirley Feeney (Cindy Williams) – as they navigated life, love, and work in Milwaukee. Known for its catchy theme song ("Schlemiel! Schlimazel!"), slapstick humor, and strong female leads, this sitcom remains a fan favorite.
- Premiered: January 27, 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 25
Lynda Carter donned the iconic red, white, and blue costume in her portrayal of Wonder Woman/Diana Prince – an Amazonian warrior princess fighting for justice during World War II. With its empowering feminist themes, thrilling action sequences, and memorable villains; this series paved the way for future superheroines on television.
- Premiered: April 21, 1976
- Network: ABC, CBS
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Fantasy
- 26
Set in a Brooklyn high school, this sitcom followed the lovable and sarcastic teacher Gabe Kotter (Gabe Kaplan) as he returned to his alma mater to educate the "Sweathogs" – a group of underachieving students. With memorable characters like Vinnie Barbarino (John Travolta), this show struck a chord with viewers through its unique mix of humor, heart, and relatable classroom situations.
- Premiered: September 9, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 27
This action-packed crime drama – featuring Kate Jackson, Farrah Fawcett-Majors, and Jaclyn Smith as private detectives working for an enigmatic figure named Charlie – captivated audiences with its stunning visuals, glamorous fashion choices, and thrilling storylines. The show's legacy continues through numerous reboots and adaptations; it remains synonymous with female empowerment in pop culture.
- Premiered: March 21, 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Crime,Drama,Mystery
- 28
An offbeat sci-fi comedy that featured Robin Williams in his breakout role as Mork alongside Pam Dawber as Mindy, this series explored universal themes such as friendship and love through the lens of an alien trying to understand Earth's culture. With Williams's boundless energy and improvisational skills at the helm, it quickly became a hit with viewers.
- Premiered: September 14, 1978
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy,Fantasy
- 29
Bill Bixby starred as Dr. David Banner, a scientist who transforms into the powerful green-skinned creature known as The Incredible Hulk (played by Lou Ferrigno) when enraged. This action-packed series saw Banner on the run while searching for a cure for his condition; it remains an early example of superhero storytelling on television and an inspiration for future Marvel adaptations.
- Premiered: March 10, 1978
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Fantasy,Science Fiction
- 30
Starring Barbara Eden as Jeannie – a 2,000-year-old genie – alongside Larry Hagman as her astronaut master Major Anthony Nelson; this magical comedy showcased the hijinks that ensued when Jeannie's well-intentioned wishes led to misunderstandings and chaos. Its mix of slapstick humor and romantic tension made it a hit during its five-season run.
- Premiered: September 15, 1965
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy,Comedy,Fantasy
- 31
Set in Hawaii, this fast-paced crime drama starred Jack Lord as Steve McGarrett – a determined detective leading an elite state police unit in their pursuit of justice. With its exotic locales, gripping cases, memorable catchphrase ("Book 'em Danno!"), and timeless theme song, this show remains an enduring favorite with fans worldwide.
- Premiered: September 20, 1968
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime,Drama
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- 32
Starring Jack Klugman as Dr. Quincy, a medical examiner with a keen eye for solving crimes, this groundbreaking detective drama combined elements of mystery-solving with forensic science in its storylines. Often addressing social issues within each episode, this show paved the way for future forensics-focused crime dramas like CSI.
- Premiered: October 3, 1976
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 33
This action-packed medical drama followed the lives of Los Angeles County Fire Department's Station 51 and Rampart Hospital staff as they worked together to save lives during emergencies. With its realistic portrayal of first responders and engaging storylines, this series helped pave the way for future medical dramas like ER and Grey's Anatomy.
- Premiered: January 15, 1972
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Medical,Action,Drama
- 34
A police procedural drama following two Los Angeles Police Department officers – veteran Pete Malloy (Martin Milner) and rookie Jim Reed (Kent McCord) – as they patrolled the streets of L.A., Adam-12 offered viewers an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of police officers. With its combination of action, drama, and character development, this series played a significant role in shaping the future of cop shows on television.
- Premiered: September 21, 1968
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Action,Crime,Drama
- 35
Combining romance, adventure, and comedy; this ensemble series took place aboard the luxury cruise ship Pacific Princess. Each episode featured new guest stars caught in various romantic entanglements alongside the ship's crew – including Captain Stubing (Gavin MacLeod), Doc (Bernie Kopell), Gopher (Fred Grandy), Isaac (Ted Lange), and Julie (Lauren Tewes). The Love Boat's episodic format became a staple for prime-time television during its nine-season run.
- Premiered: September 24, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Drama,Romance
- 36
A satirical spy comedy following Maxwell Smart (Don Adams), a bumbling secret agent who managed to save the day despite his ineptitude. Known for its iconic catchphrases ("Missed it by that much!" "Would you believe...?") and inventive gadgets, this Emmy-winning series remains a beloved classic that has influenced modern spy comedies. Though it mostly ran in the ‘60s, Get Smart crossed into the new decade in its final season.
- Premiered: September 18, 1965
- Network: NBC, CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 37
Featuring Erik Estrada as Ponch and Larry Wilcox as Jon Baker; this action-packed series followed two motorcycle officers from the California Highway Patrol (CHiPs) as they patrolled the highways of Los Angeles. Known for its high-speed chases, camaraderie between Ponch and Jon, and light-hearted humor, this show became a staple of '70s television programming.
- Premiered: September 15, 1977
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Action,Crime,Drama
- 38
A spin-off from The Six Million Dollar Man, this action-packed series starred Lindsay Wagner as Jaime Sommers – a former tennis pro who received bionic implants after a skydiving accident. With her newfound abilities - super strength, speed, and hearing - she embarked on covert missions for the government while balancing personal relationships. This show further expanded the popularity of bionic-themed TV shows during its time.
- Premiered: January 14, 1976
- Network: ABC, NBC
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Science Fiction
- 39
Following the musical escapades of a family band led by their widowed mother Shirley Partridge (Shirley Jones), alongside her five talented children including Keith (David Cassidy) & Laurie (Susan Dey), this sitcom combined catchy tunes with lighthearted family adventures. The Partridge Family quickly became synonymous with '70s pop culture due to its hit songs like "I Think I Love You."
- Premiered: September 25, 1970
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 40
This live sketch comedy show revolutionized television with its cutting-edge humor, iconic characters, celebrity guest hosts, and musical acts. Created by Lorne Michaels and featuring an ever-changing ensemble cast known as "The Not Ready for Prime Time Players," Saturday Night Live has served as a launching pad for numerous comedic talents while remaining an enduring staple of American television.
- Premiered: October 11, 1975
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
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- 2Alex Trebek6,365 Votes
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- 41
This educational animated series aimed at teaching children about topics like grammar, math, history, and science through catchy songs and memorable characters. With iconic tunes like "Conjunction Junction" and "I'm Just a Bill," Schoolhouse Rock became an integral part of many children's education while also providing entertainment.
- Premiered: January 6, 1973
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Kids
- 42
Hosted by Mr. Roarke (Ricardo Montalbán) and his sidekick Tattoo (Hervé Villechaize), this anthology series welcomed guests to a mysterious island where their wildest dreams could come true – often with unexpected consequences. Each episode featured multiple storylines involving guests' fantasies, providing a sense of escapism and intrigue for viewers.
- Premiered: January 14, 1978
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Adventure,Drama,Fantasy
- 43
Set during World War II, this sitcom showcased Bob Crane as Colonel Hogan and his team of Allied prisoners-of-war plotting elaborate schemes against their German captors led by Colonel Klink (Werner Klemperer) and Sergeant Schultz (John Banner). With its unique blend of wartime tension and humorous hijinks, Hogan's Heroes became an enduring favorite among viewers.
- Premiered: September 17, 1965
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Sitcom, Military, Comedy
- 44
Focusing on the Evans family living in a Chicago housing project, this sitcom tackled issues such as poverty, racism, and unemployment with humor and heart. Starring Esther Rolle, John Amos, and Jimmie Walker, Good Times remains notable for its honest portrayal of African-American family life during the 1970s.
- Premiered: February 1, 1974
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
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- 45
Set during the Great Depression and World War II, this family drama followed the Waltons, a close-knit clan living in rural Virginia. With its focus on love, morality, and faith, The Waltons struck a chord with viewers yearning for simpler times and wholesome storytelling.
- Premiered: September 14, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama
- 46
A unique blend of comedy and soap opera parody; this groundbreaking series featured an ensemble cast – including Katherine Helmond, Richard Mulligan, and Cathryn Damon – navigating various outlandish storylines involving murder, adultery, alien abduction and more. With its satirical sensibilities and unforgettable characters like Jessica Tate (Helmond) and Benson DuBois (Robert Guillaume), Soap pushed boundaries while garnering critical acclaim.
- Premiered: September 13, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy,Soap
- 47
A timeless classic that delighted both children and adults alike; this animated series featured the never-ending rivalry between Tom the cat and Jerry the mouse. Known for its high-energy chase sequences and cleverly executed slapstick gags without relying on dialogue, The Tom and Jerry Show remains one of history's most beloved cartoons.
- Premiered: September 6, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 48
Spun off from the 1974 Martin Scorsese movie Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, this sitcom chronicled the life of Alice Hyatt (Linda Lavin), a widowed mother working as a waitress at Mel's Diner while pursuing her dreams of becoming a singer. With its strong ensemble cast that included Vic Tayback, Beth Howland, Polly Holliday, Alice provided humor and heart through relatable characters and situations.
- Premiered: August 31, 1976
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 49
Starring Telly Savalas as the tough, no-nonsense New York City Police Department detective Lieutenant Theo Kojak, this gritty crime drama captivated audiences with its realistic portrayal of police work and compelling storylines. Known for his distinctive bald head, ever-present lollipop, and iconic catchphrase ("Who loves ya, baby?"), Kojak became a symbol of '70s television cool and left an indelible mark on the genre of cop shows.
- Premiered: October 24, 1973
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 50After striking oil in the Ozarks, the Clampetts move to Beverly Hills.
- Premiered: September 26, 1962
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 51Marshal Matt Dillon maintains law and order in Dodge City.
- Premiered: September 10, 1955
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama
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- 52Preparing children socially and academically for school.
- Premiered: November 10, 1969
- Network: PBS, HBO, HBO Max
- Genres: Kids
- 53
This epic space saga set in a distant star system followed Commander Adama (Lorne Greene) leading the last remnants of humanity aboard the titular spaceship Battlestar Galactica in search of Earth after their colonies were destroyed by robot-like adversaries called Cylons. Known for its thrilling space battles, movie-quality special effects, and intricate storytelling, this series earned a dedicated following and inspired numerous reboots and spin-offs.
- Premiered: September 17, 1978
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Action,Fantasy,Science Fiction
- 54Hee Haw is an American television variety show featuring country music and humor with fictional rural Kornfield Kounty as a backdrop. It aired on CBS-TV from 1969–1971 before a 20-year run in local syndication. The show was inspired by Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, the major difference being that Hee Haw was far less topical, and was centered on country music and rural Southern culture. Hosted by country artists Buck Owens and Roy Clark for most of the series' run, the show was equally well known for its voluptuous, scantily-clad women in stereotypical farmer's daughter outfits and country-style minidresses, and its cornpone humor. Hee Haw's appeal, however, was not limited to a rural audience. It was successful in all of the major markets, including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. Other niche programs such as The Lawrence Welk Show and Soul Train also rose to prominence in syndication during the era. Like Laugh-In, the show minimized production costs by taping all of the recurring sketches for a season in batches, setting up for the Cornfield one day, the Joke Fence another, etc.
- Premiered: 1969
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Variety show,Sketch,Comedy
- 55A variety show with one-liners, comedy sketches and musical numbers.
- Premiered: January 22, 1968
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
- 56Widower Steve Douglas raises a trio of boys.
- Premiered: September 29, 1960
- Network: ABC, CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 57A Buddhist monk flees to the United States in search of his long-lost brother.
- Premiered: February 22, 1972
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Drama,Sport
- 58Two brothers from Harlem are adopted by wealthy Philip Drummond.
- Premiered: November 3, 1978
- Network: NBC, ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 59Ann Romano struggles with her job and raising two headstrong daughters.
- Premiered: December 16, 1975
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 60The oil-rich Ewings endure daily troubles.
- Premiered: April 2, 1978
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama
- 61Urban teens learn lessons about life.
- Premiered: September 1, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 62A butler deals with life at the governor's mansion.
- Premiered: September 13, 1979
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 63The Justice League of America battles crime.
- Premiered: September 8, 1973
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 64A rookie joins a police veteran to track down criminals in the Bay Area.
- Premiered: September 16, 1972
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 65Humorous skits from the British comedy troupe.
- Premiered: October 5, 1969
- Network: BBC One
- Genres: Comedy
- 66A hero from the 20th century awakens in the 25th century and keeps the universe safe from villains.
- Premiered: September 20, 1979
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Science Fiction
- 67
The Flintstone Comedy Hour
Mel Blanc, Don Messick, John StephensonThe Flintstone Comedy Hour is a one-hour Saturday morning cartoon anthology series produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions. The program originally aired on CBS as an hour-long show from September 9, 1972 to September 1, 1973 on CBS. The show's first half-hour featured two shorts with Fred & Barney, gags and horoscopes, one short with the cast of Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm and two songs performed by the new Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm band called "The Bedrock Rockers" followed by four new episodes and reruns of The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show in the second half-hour. The show also featured bad-luck Schleprock, Moonrock, Penny, Wiggy and the Bronto Bunch from The Pebbles and Bamm Bamm Show. Mickey Stevens replaced Sally Struthers as the voice of Pebbles in four new episodes of The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show and in brief in-between segments, Struthers at the time being fully committed to her role as Gloria Stivic on All in the Family. This was the final spin-off to feature Alan Reed as the voice of Fred Flintstone before Reed's death in 1977.- Premiered: 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Animation, Comedy
- 68Guest stars perform in comedy skits and songs.
- Premiered: September 16, 1965
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy,Music
- 69Baretta is an American detective television series which ran on ABC from 1975 to 1978. The show was a milder version of a successful 1973–74 ABC series, Toma, starring Tony Musante as chameleon-like, real-life New Jersey police officer David Toma. While popular, Toma received intense criticism at the time for its realistic and frequent depiction of police. When Musante left the series after a single season, the concept was retooled as Baretta, with Robert Blake in the title role.
- Premiered: January 17, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime, Action, Police procedural, Drama
- 70A collection of short supernatural plays.
- Premiered: December 16, 1970
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Science Fiction
- 71A father deals with the lives of his eight independent children.
- Premiered: March 15, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy,Drama
- 72McCloud is an American television police drama that aired on NBC from 1970 to 1977. The series starred former Gunsmoke regular Dennis Weaver, and for six of its seven years on the air it aired as part of the NBC Mystery Movie wheel series that was produced for the network by Universal Television. The show was centered around Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud of Taos, New Mexico, who was on loan to the New York City Police Department as a special investigator.
- Premiered: September 16, 1970
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime Fiction, Police procedural, Drama
- 73A single father and his children encounter prehistoric life.
- Premiered: September 7, 1974
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Kids
- 74
The ABC Sunday Night Movie
Art CarneyThe ABC Sunday Night Movie is a television program that aired on Sunday nights, first for a brief time in 1962 under the title Hollywood Special to supposedly replace an open time slot for a cancelled TV show, "Bus Stop", which was cancelled after March 1962. It then began airing regularly under its more commonly known title from late 1964 to 1998, on ABC. From 2004 on, it has aired sporadically as a special program, now titled "ABC Sunday Movie of the Week", though as of the 2011-12 television season, the only films in this timeslot are aired under the Hallmark Hall of Fame banner, which transferred to ABC in that season. However, starting with the 2014-15 television season, The Hallmark Hall of Fame is no longer on broadcast television in any form for good. As a result of this, the Sunday Night Movie is now exclusively relegated to 2 special holiday movies, The Sound of Music every holiday season and The Ten Commandments every Easter. The ABC Sunday Night Movie was replaced in 1998 with The Wonderful World of Disney although the Sunday Night Movie initially continued to air alongside TWWOD for its final season.- Premiered: 1964
- Genres: Anthology
- 75Penrod Pooch leaps into action as Hong Kong Phooey to fight villains.
- Premiered: September 7, 1974
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 76The Flip Wilson Show is an hour-long variety show that aired in the U.S. on NBC from September 17, 1970 to June 27, 1974. The show starred American comedian Flip Wilson; the program was one of the first American television programs starring a black person in the title role to become highly successful with a white audience. Specifically, it was the first successful network variety series starring an African American. During its first two seasons, its Nielsen ratings made it the nation's second most watched show. The show consisted of many skits over 60 minutes. It also broke new ground in American television by using a 'Theatre-in-the-Round' stage format, with the audience seated on all sides of a circular performance area. Wilson was most famous for creating the role of Geraldine Jones, a sassy, modern woman who had a boyfriend named Killer. Flip also created the role of Reverend Leroy, who was the minister of the Church of What's Happening Now!. New parishioners were wary of coming to the church as it was hinted that Reverend Leroy was a con artist. Wilson popularized such catchphrases as "What you see is what you get", and "The devil made me do it!".
- Premiered: 1970
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Talk show, Variety show
- 77The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour is an American variety show starring American pop-singer Cher and her husband Sonny Bono. The show ran on CBS in the United States, when it premiered in August 1971. The show was canceled May 1974, due to the couple's divorce, though the duo would reunite in 1976 for the identically-formatted The Sonny & Cher Show, which ran until 1977.
- Premiered: 1971
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Variety show, Comedy
- 78Fred Flintstone and Friends is a 30–minute weekday animated series produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions which aired in syndication beginning October 3, 1977. Packaged by Columbia Pictures Television during the 1977–78 television season, the series was available for barter syndication through Claster Television through the mid-1980s.
- Premiered: 1977
- Genres: Animation
- 79Private eye works with his widowed daughter-in-law to solve cases.
- Premiered: January 28, 1973
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 80Basil Fawlty handles the trials and tribulations of running a hotel.
- Premiered: September 19, 1975
- Network: BBC Two
- Genres: Comedy
The Best Fawlty Towers EpisodesSee all- 1The Psychiatrist93 Votes
- 2The Hotel Inspectors54 Votes
- 3Communication Problems104 Votes
- 81A paralyzed police veteran becomes a special consultant to the force.
- Premiered: September 14, 1967
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 82
ABC Movie of the Week
Jill ClayburghThe ABC Movie of the Week was a weekly television anthology series, featuring made-for-TV movies, that aired on the ABC network in various permutations from 1969 to 1976, though ABC continued to premiere new TV films every Sunday prime time night until 2005.- Premiered: 1969
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Anthology
- 83McMillan & Wife was a lighthearted American police procedural that aired on NBC from September 17, 1971, to April 24, 1977. Starring Rock Hudson and Susan Saint James in the title roles, the series premiered in 90-minute episodes as part of the wheel series NBC Mystery Movie, in rotation with Columbo and McCloud. Initially airing on Wednesday night, the original lineup was shifted to Sundays in the second season, where it aired for the rest of its run. This was the first element to be created specially for the Mystery Movie strand.
- Premiered: September 17, 1971
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime Fiction, Police procedural, Drama
- 84A private detective uses force to solve crimes.
- Premiered: September 16, 1967
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 85Widow Lucy Carter works for her brother-in-law in Los Angeles.
- Premiered: September 23, 1968
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 86Newsmagazine with features focusing on people, and events in the news and behind the headlines.
- Premiered: September 24, 1968
- Network: CBS
- Genres: News
- 87Miniseries based on a novel about slaves in America.
- Premiered: January 23, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Drama
- 88Chico and the Man is an American sitcom which ran on NBC for four seasons, from September 13, 1974, to July 21, 1978. It stars Jack Albertson as Ed Brown, the cantankerous owner of a run down garage in an East Los Angeles barrio, and Freddie Prinze as Chico Rodriguez, an upbeat, optimistic Chicano young man who comes in looking for a job. It was the first U.S. television series set in a Mexican-American neighborhood.
- Premiered: 1974
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Sitcom, Comedy
- 89Scooby teams up with guest stars to investigate mysteries.
- Premiered: September 9, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids,Mystery
- 90Adventures of an all-girl musical group.
- Premiered: September 12, 1970
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 91Cannon is a CBS detective television series produced by Quinn Martin which aired from March 26, 1971 to March 3, 1976. The primary protagonist is the title character, private detective Frank Cannon, played by William Conrad. He also appeared on two episodes of Barnaby Jones. Cannon is the first Quinn Martin-produced series to be aired on a network other than ABC. A "revival" television film, The Return of Frank Cannon, was aired on November 1, 1980. In total, there were 124 episodes.
- Premiered: September 14, 1971
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime, Action, Police procedural, Drama
- 92Speed Buggy is a Saturday morning cartoon produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions and broadcast on CBS from September 8, 1973 to August 30, 1975.
- Premiered: September 8, 1973
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Animation
- 93Raj, Rerun and Dwayne hang out at Rob's Place.
- Premiered: August 5, 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
- 94A housemother guides four girls at a school for young women.
- Premiered: August 24, 1979
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
- 95The Mod Squad, a groundbreaking crime drama that premiered in 1968, flipped the script on the cop genre by introducing a trio of hip, young undercover agents from different walks of life. The cops Pete Cochran (Michael Cole), Julie Barnes (Peggy Lipton), and Lincoln "Linc" Hayes (Clarence Williams III) - rebel with their troubled pasts while being recruited by the police to infiltrate youth culture. The series tackles social issues of the time such as racism, drug abuse, and counterculture movements, The Mod Squad is notable for its diverse cast and cultural relevance.
- Premiered: September 24, 1968
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 96Police Woman is an American television police drama starring Angie Dickinson that ran on NBC for four seasons, from September 13, 1974, to March 29, 1978.
- Premiered: September 13, 1974
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime Fiction, Drama, Action
- 97A crew fights for survival in the aftermath of a blast that pushes the moon out of its orbit.
- Premiered: September 4, 1975
- Network: ITVMNF
- Genres: Adventure,Drama,Science Fiction
- 98
Return to the Planet of the Apes
Henry Corden, Austin Stoker, Richard BlackburnReturn to the Planet of the Apes is a short-lived animated series, by DePatie-Freleng Enterprises in association with 20th Century Fox Television, based upon Planet of the Apes by Pierre Boulle. Boulle's novel had previously inspired five films and a TV series, beginning with the 1968 film Planet of the Apes starring Charlton Heston. Unlike the film, its sequels, and the 1974 live action TV series, which involved a primitive ape civilization, Return to the Planet of the Apes depicted a technologically advanced society, complete with automobiles, film, and television; as such it more closely resembled both Boulle's original novel and early concepts for the first Apes movie which were changed due to budgetary limitations in the late 1960s. Produced following the last of the big-screen features and a short-lived live-action television series, this series was among the last Planet of the Apes projects for several years following a number of comic books from Marvel Comics and a series of audio adventures from Power Records in 1974.- Premiered: 1975
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Animation, Science Fiction
- 99Outspoken Maude Finley gets involved in controversial situations.
- Premiered: September 12, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 100The Midnight Special is an American late-night musical variety series that aired on NBC during the 1970s and early 1980s, created and produced by Burt Sugarman. It premiered as a special on August 19, 1972, then began its run as a regular series on February 2, 1973; its last episode was on May 1, 1981. The ninety-minute program followed the Friday night edition of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Like its syndicated late-night cousin Don Kirshner's Rock Concert, the show typically featured guest hosts, except for a period from July 1975 through March 1976 when singer Helen Reddy served as the regular host. Wolfman Jack served as the announcer and frequent guest host. The program's theme song, a traditional folk song called "Midnight Special", was performed by Johnny Rivers. The Midnight Special was noted for featuring musical acts performing live, which was unusual since most television appearances during the era showed performers lip-synching to prerecorded music. The series also occasionally aired vintage footage of older acts. As the program neared the end of its run in the early 1980s, it began to frequently use lip-synched performances rather than live.
- Premiered: 1973
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Variety show
- 101Monday night football action from the NFL.
- Premiered: September 21, 1970
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Sports
- 102A special unit tackles violent situations.
- Premiered: February 24, 1975
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime,Drama
- 103The ex-MASH surgeon is chief of surgery at a San Francisco hospital.
- Premiered: September 23, 1979
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama
- 104Yogi's Gang is a 30-minute animated series and the second incarnation of Hanna-Barbera's Yogi Bear which aired 16 half-hour episodes on ABC from September 8, 1973, to December 29, 1973. The show began as Yogi's Ark Lark, a special TV movie on The ABC Saturday Superstar Movie in 1972. Fifteen original episodes were produced for broadcast on ABC, with the hour-long Yogi's Ark Lark thrown in as a split-in-half two-parter. After a successful run on Saturday mornings, episodes of Yogi's Gang were serialized on the syndicated weekday series, Fred Flintstone and Friends in 1977. In the late 1980s, repeats were shown on USA Cartoon Express and later resurfaced on Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network and Boomerang.
- Premiered: September 8, 1973
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation, Variety show, Comedy
- 105Donny & Marie is an American variety show which aired on ABC from January 1976 to January 1979. The show stars brother and sister pop duo Donny Osmond and Marie Osmond. Donny had first become popular singing in a music group with his brothers, The Osmonds, and Marie was one of the youngest singers to reach #1 on the Billboard Country Music charts. The siblings were offered a weekly show by ABC-TV President Fred Silverman after he saw the duo co-host a week on The Mike Douglas Show which followed their series of popular remakes of oldies, such as "I'm Leaving It Up To You", "Morning Side Of The Mountain", "Deep Purple" and "Make The World Go Away". Donny and Marie were the youngest entertainers in TV history to host their own variety show. A year later, The Keane Brothers would break this record.
- Premiered: 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Talk show, Variety show
- 106Rhoda Morgenstern returns home to New York City and reconnects with her meddling family.
- Premiered: September 9, 1974
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
- 107Batman and Robin fight crime in Gotham City with help from allies Batgirl and Bat-Mite.
- Premiered: February 10, 1977
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Action,Animation,Fantasy
- 108
NBC Mystery Movie
Peter Falk, Susan Saint James, Patrick McGoohanThe NBC Mystery Movie is the umbrella title of an American television series produced by Universal Studios, that was broadcast by NBC from 1971-77. At times, it was divided into two versions that were broadcast concurrently during different nights of the week: The NBC Sunday Mystery Movie and The NBC Wednesday Mystery Movie. The NBC Mystery Movie was a "wheel show", or "umbrella program" that rotated several programs within the same time period throughout the season. For its initial 1971-72 season, it featured a rotation of three detective dramas that were broadcast on Wednesday nights for 90 minutes, from 8:30-10:00 p.m. in the Eastern Time Zone.- Premiered: 1971
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Crime Fiction
- 109A kindly California doctor treats a wide variety of patients.
- Premiered: September 23, 1969
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Drama
- 110Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels is an animated series created by Joe Ruby and Ken Spears and produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions from September 10, 1977 to June 21, 1980 on ABC. The first and second seasons were originally broadcast as segments on the package shows Scooby's All-Star Laff-A-Lympics and Scooby's All-Stars from 1977 to 1979 and the third season featured Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels in their own half-hour timeslot in 1980.
- Premiered: September 10, 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation, Children's series, Comedy
- 111Unforgettable true crime mysteries, exclusive newsmaker interviews and investigative reports.
- Premiered: June 6, 1978
- Network: ABC
- Genres: News
- 112A mysterious traveler can visit any point in space and time.
- Premiered: November 23, 1963
- Network: BBC One
- Genres: Adventure,Drama,Fantasy,Science Fiction
- 113The All-New Super Friends Hour is an American animated television series about a team of superheroes which ran from September 10, 1977, to September 2, 1978, on ABC. It was produced by Hanna-Barbera and is based on the Justice League and associated comic book characters published by DC Comics.
- Premiered: 1977
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation, Children's series, Adventure, Science Fiction, Fantasy
- 114Lou Grant is an American television drama series starring Ed Asner in the title role as a newspaper editor. This drama series was a spinoff from a sitcom, The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Aired from 1977 to 1982, Lou Grant won 13 Emmy Awards, including "Outstanding Drama Series". Asner won the Emmy Award for "Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series" in 1978 and 1980. In doing so, he became the only person to win an Emmy Award for both "Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series" and "Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series" for portraying the same character. Lou Grant also won two Golden Globe awards, a Peabody award, an Eddie award, three awards from the Directors Guild of America, and two Humanitas prizes.
- Premiered: September 20, 1977
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama
- 115Scooby-Doo's nephew, Scrappy, helps solve mysteries.
- Premiered: September 22, 1979
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Animation,Kids,Mystery
- 116Vega$ is an American detective television drama series that aired on ABC from 1978 until 1981. It was produced by Aaron Spelling. The series was filmed in its entirety in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is believed to be the first television series produced entirely in Las Vegas. The show stars Robert Urich as private detective Dan Tanna, who drove around the streets of Las Vegas in a red 1957 Ford Thunderbird solving crimes and making Las Vegas a better place for residents and tourists alike.
- Premiered: 1978
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Crime Fiction, Police procedural, Drama
- 117The animated adventures of Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock and the crew of the Starship Enterprise.
- Premiered: September 8, 1973
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Fantasy,Kids,Science Fiction
- 118The White Shadow (CBS, 1978) is an American drama television series. The show follows Ken Reeves (Ken Howard), a white former professional basketball player who takes a job coaching basketball at an impoverished urban high school with a racially mixed basketball team.
- Premiered: November 27, 1978
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Drama, School
- 119Room 222 was an American comedy–drama television series produced by 20th Century Fox Television that aired on ABC for 112 episodes from September 17, 1969, until January 11, 1974. The show was broadcast on Wednesday evenings at 9 for its first two seasons before settling into its best-remembered time slot of Friday evenings at 9, following The Brady Bunch and The Partridge Family, and preceding The Odd Couple and Love, American Style. In 1970 Room 222 earned Emmy Awards in three categories: Outstanding New Series, Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
- Premiered: September 17, 1969
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- 120
The New Dick Van Dyke Show
Dick Van Dyke, Hope Lange, Marty BrillDick Preston hosts an Arizona talk show and later moves to California.- Premiered: September 18, 1971
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
