The 70s were a decade when families gathered to watch sitcoms together. It was the time when sitcoms became a medium for social commentary. Most of the 70s sitcom stories were about family, work life, and politics of that time. Iconic producers like Norman Lear (who died in 2023) and Garry Marshall produced some of the most popular shows of the day.
We have compiled a list of unforgettable 70s sitcoms. These shows left behind a rich legacy of characters and catchphrases you’re sure to remember!
The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978)
The Bob Newhart Show (1972) is a witty sitcom about a Chicago psychologist balancing his work and family life. Most of the show’s episodes consist of his humorous interactions with his patients.
You can stream or buy it from Amazon now.
The Brady Bunch (1969-1974)
The Brady Bunch (1969), created by Sherwood Schwartz, is an iconic American sitcom. The show explored what it was like to be a part of a large blended family.
The show is now available on different platforms, including Pluto, Prime, and Paramount+.
Sanford and Son (1972-1978)
Sanford and Son depicts the life of a black father and his son as they operate a salvage yard in Los Angeles’ Watts neighborhood. It was one of the first American sitcoms to portray a black family’s struggle and joy while using the funniest comedic timing.
All show seasons are available on Prime Video and Peacock.
Happy Days (1974-1984)
Happy Days, created by Garry Marshall, ran for many years and presented an idealized view of Midwestern life during the 1950s and 1960s. Robin Williams made his onscreen debut in the show.
You can watch all episodes of Happy Days on Prime Video and Paramount+.
Taxi (1978-1983)
Taxi showcased the depth and versatility of the sitcom format. The workplace comedy showed the life of employees of a cab company in New York. It brought light to relevant issues that people were facing in the bustling city with a blend of humor. The cast won multiple Emmy Awards.
All seasons of the show are available on PLUTO (free).
The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
The Mary Tyler Moore Show changed how women were portrayed in mainstream media. It was the first female-dominated sitcom. The show is about Mary Richards, a single woman who relocates to Minneapolis to pursue a new career and explores her dating life.
All the episodes of the show are available on Amazon Prime Video.
M*A*S*H (1972–1983)
M*A*S*H revolves around the staff of a Korean War hospital, blending war horrors with political humor. The show earned around 100 Emmy nominations, won Golden Globes, and had one of the highest-rated finales ever.
All the episodes of the show are now available on Hulu.
Barney Miller (1975–1982)
Barney Miller, created by Danny Arnold and Theodore J. Flicker, was set in the Greenwich Village Police Department. The show brought sociological and political issues to mainstream audiences. It is considered the most intelligent and literate US sitcom ever.
The show is now available on Amazon Prime.
The Jeffersons (1975–1985)
The Jeffersons effortlessly blends humor with social commentary. This spin-off of All in the Family follows George and Louise Jefferson on their journey from Queens to a luxurious Manhattan apartment. The show tackles race, class, and identity with sharp wit and heartwarming moments.
All the episodes of the show are available on Amazon Prime.
All In The Family (1971–1979)
All In The Family, produced by Norman Lear, revolutionized television with its bold humor and its take on 1970s politics and issues like racism and sexism while making audiences laugh. It remains a controversial classic that has more than 7 spinoffs, and each series’ lead actor has won an Emmy.
All the episodes of the show are available to stream on Freevee and Pluto TV.
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