In 1970, 23,400,000 households had color TVs. Even in full color, these 70’s TV shows will give you a blast from the past.
By 1978, the number of households with color televisions nearly doubled to over 56,900,000. The best 70’s TV shows aren’t necessarily playing reruns, but they hold a special place in our hearts. Plus, we can enjoy them in color.
Here are some of the best 70’s tv shows the world has ever seen. Take a look!
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The Best 70’s TV Shows
1. All in the Family
Watching All in the Family is like time-traveling to the 70’s. This classic was on the air from January 1971 to April 1979.
This show talks about a lot of 70’s social issues and political climate. All in the Family’s protagonist is Archie Bunker, a working-class family man, and raging bigot. His problematic opinions often conflict with those of his family members, including his wife Edith.
All in the Family was controversial because it talks about issues that were considered taboo in the 70’s. Antisemitism, homosexuality, women’s liberation, abortion, religion, and the Vietnam war are only a few of the controversial topics this show covers.
Some people think this show glorifies bigots while others see the show as a social commentary of the changing times. Then again, people like Archie Bunker still exist.
2. Barney Miller
Barney Miller is a sitcom that aired from January 23, 1975 to May 20, 1982 on ABC. This show takes place in a completely fictional police precinct in Greenwich Village, New York City.
Captain Barney Miller is the star of this show. The show mostly revolves around his life.
Detectives are always bringing in complaints and suspects. Each episode had a subplot that focused on detectives attempting to solve different crimes.
Once a year, there would be an episode with the detectives and Barney Miller outside of the precinct walls.
3. The Mary Tyler Moore Show
The Mary Tyler Moore Show is one of the best TV shows from the 70’s.
This show is considered influential because of its powerful female protagonist. Each episode follows the life of Mary Richards, a single woman who works as a TV producer in Minneapolis. Most shows at the time focused on men or married women.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show aired on CBS from 1970 to 1977. It sometimes explores controversial issues such as pre-marital sex, homosexuality, and feminism. However, the show is mostly comedic and lighthearted.
4. Happy Days
The 1970’s were turbulent, so some people wanted to escape to another era. That’s where Happy Days comes in.
This show was on the air from January 15, 1974, to September 24, 1984. It took place in the 1950’s.
Most episodes follow Richie Cunningham and his family, but there are other characters that make this show stand out. For instance, Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli is a leather jacket-clad ladies man who started out as a side character. As the show progressed, he became more of a central figure due to his popularity.
Have a Blast With The Past
Around 99% of households in the United States possess at least 1 television set. More televisions mean more opportunities to watch 70’s TV shows.
Around 56% of Americans pay for cable. Someday, the shows we watch today will be considered classics.
Keep calm and browse our Hall of Fame for more classics. Upgrade your entertainment experience.