The Best TV Shows Of The '70s, Ranked

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.