The 20 Greatest TV Shows of the 1970s

The 1970s were a turning point for television. Building on the lessons learned in the ’60s – what viewers enjoyed and didn’t – the industry naturally focused on successful formulas. Despite this relatively straightforward approach, with only three major networks and familiar genres like sitcoms, cartoons, dramas, and the news, the decade proved surprisingly influential in shaping the future of TV.

We’ve already chosen the top shows from every other decade, and now it’s the 1970s’ turn to showcase its greatest television programs.

‘MAS*H’ (1972–1983)

MAS*H was a TV show about a team of army doctors working during the Korean War. It followed the same feel as the original 1970 movie. For a long time, the final episode was the most-watched TV show ever in America – and that really speaks to how popular and well-loved it was.

‘Dallas’ (1978–1991)

Dallas is a landmark television drama that follows the intense conflicts within the rich and powerful Ewing family in Texas. Over time, J.R. Ewing became the show’s central figure, and his relentless drive for success fueled much of the drama. This led to one of the most famous cliffhangers in television history: when J.R. was shot, viewers were left wondering who was responsible, and the mystery captivated the nation for months.

‘Laverne & Shirley’ (1976–1983)

Laverne & Shirley was a funny and energetic TV show starring Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams. The show followed two friends, Laverne and Shirley, who worked at a brewery in Milwaukee and shared an apartment. It was set in the 1950s and focused on their everyday lives and friendship. In fact, the show started as a spin-off from another popular series, Happy Days.

‘Mork & Mindy’ (1978–1982)

The sitcom Mork & Mindy introduced us to Mork, an alien from Ork who unexpectedly entered Mindy’s life, creating a funny and heartwarming story about an unlikely romance. The show was a perfect platform for Robin Williams to showcase his incredible comedic talent, allowing him to experiment with a style that felt limitless. For fans of Williams’ unique brand of humor, Mork & Mindy offers valuable insight into his comedic process. Interestingly, the series began as a spin-off of Happy Days.

‘Little House on the Prairie’ (1974–1983)

The classic Western drama Little House on the Prairie followed the Ingalls family as they farmed in the late 1800s. While the show had a simple setting, it used the Midwest as a backdrop for stories that really connected with viewers. It was a beloved family show that tackled important issues of the time, like racism, drug abuse, and alcoholism, but it also knew how to be lighthearted and funny when appropriate.

‘Sanford and Son’ (1972–1977)

Redd Foxx played Fred Sanford, a constantly scheming older man always looking for a quick buck. His son, Lamont, frequently had to gently explain to him that these get-rich-quick schemes weren’t realistic. While the show’s humor might feel a bit edgier by today’s standards, it’s important to remember the different social climate of the 1970s. Sanford and Son was groundbreaking for its portrayal of African American characters in a sitcom.

‘Taxi’ (1978–1983)

The show Taxi became popular largely because it was relatable and funny. It featured a fantastic cast – including Jeff Conaway, Danny DeVito, Judd Hirsch, Carol Kane, Andy Kaufman, and Christopher Lloyd – who played New York City taxi drivers constantly getting into amusing trouble with their dispatcher during the night shift.

‘The Muppet Show’ (1976–1981)

Premiering in 1976, The Muppet Show wasn’t easily categorized – it blended the styles of sketch comedy and variety shows, but offered something truly unique. It cleverly combined elements typically found in children’s programming with a sophistication that appealed to all ages. Each episode featured guest stars, but it was the original sketches created specifically for the Muppets themselves that viewers still remember fondly. The show remains incredibly popular today, as proven by the success of its recent revival.

‘Wonder Woman’ (1975–1979)

It’s surprising that the TV show Wonder Woman only ran for three seasons. Given how beloved it is and its lasting impact, you’d expect there to be more episodes available. However, the series starring Lynda Carter, which followed Diana Prince as she battled Nazis and other villains, told its complete story in just 60 episodes of classic superhero action.

‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ (1970–1977)

Starring Mary Tyler Moore, The Mary Tyler Moore Show centers around Mary Richards, a single, working woman who’s a producer at a news station. The show follows her professional life and her sometimes-challenging relationship with her boss. What made it special for its time – and continues to resonate today – is its well-developed characters and strong storylines. Many consider the series finale to be one of the greatest ever, and it’s still regarded as one of the best workplace comedies ever created.

2026-03-31 20:04

‘M*A*S*H’ (1972–1983)