The Greatest Shows of the 1970s, Ranked
It's '70s TV shows that were when television really pushed the limits of what could be shown. This list of the best TV shows from the 1970s ranks the decade's shows from best to worst based on your votes and votes from other television fans. Shows in the '70s, like All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, and Sanford and Son changed the face of television by including social commentary in between the laughs-a-minute. These shows pushed the limits of what could be discussed on television more than ever before. They were the foundation for what shows could get away with and talk about in later decades, including subjects like poverty, racism, abortion, rape, and abuse.
Lighter sitcoms like The Brady Bunch, Three’s Company, and Laverne & Shirley were also huge hits due to their entertainment factor. Action shows were also extremely popular in the '70s, with shows like Charlie’s Angels, Ironside, and The Six Million Dollar Man bringing in huge ratings. Variety shows also made their mark on television, including the massive hit The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour.
What are your favorite tv shows from the '70s? Which top series from the 1970s deserve to be remembered for years to come? This list includes the highest-rated and most talked-about shows that aired in the '70s, so vote up the best shows of the decade.
- 1Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
- Premiered: September 17, 1972
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy,War & Politics
Set in the Korean War, this iconic 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, this 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.
- 2Ron Howard, Henry Winkler, Tom Bosley
- Premiered: January 15, 1974
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Comedy
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.
- 3Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, Rob Reiner
- Premiered: January 12, 1971
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
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.
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- 4James Garner, Noah Beery, Joe Santos
- Premiered: September 13, 1974
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Action,Crime,Drama
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.
- 5Carol Burnett, Harvey Korman, Lyle Waggoner
- Premiered: September 11, 1967
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy
An 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.
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- 6Don Messick, Casey Kasem, Frank Welker
- Premiered: September 11, 1976
- Network: ABC
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids,Mystery
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 they unraveled supernatural mysteries. This show spawned numerous spin-offs and adaptations over the years; Scooby-Doo remains a beloved part of popular culture.
