12 Beloved Sitcoms from the ’70s That Are Worth Revisiting

The 1970s was a golden age for sitcoms, with many shows making lasting impressions on audiences. These sitcoms captured the spirit of the times and brought laughter into millions of homes. If you’re looking for a nostalgic TV trip, these 12 sitcoms from the ’70s are definitely worth revisiting.

1. All in the Family

All in the Family broke new ground in the 70s, tackling controversial social issues through its main character, Archie Bunker. Known for his blunt and often offensive views, Archie was the unlikely hero of the show, and his interactions with family and friends sparked important conversations.

Though its humor pushed boundaries, All in the Family was also relatable, showcasing family dynamics and generational clashes. Watching it today, the show still holds up as both funny and thought-provoking, a reflection of a changing America.

2. MASH*

Set during the Korean War, MASH* combined comedy and drama, following a group of military doctors who coped with the horrors of war through humor. Its blend of light-hearted moments and serious themes made it stand out from other sitcoms of its time.

The show’s clever writing and memorable characters, like Hawkeye and Hot Lips, kept audiences engaged for 11 seasons. Revisiting MASH* today, the balance between laughter and deeper commentary is still impressive, making it a timeless piece of TV history.

3. The Mary Tyler Moore Show

Mary Richards, an independent woman working as a TV producer, became a role model for many viewers when The Mary Tyler Moore Show aired. The series focused on her career, friendships, and navigating life as a single woman, which was a fresh and bold concept for the time.

Its humor was sharp, and the ensemble cast brought the workplace and personal life dynamics to life. Today, The Mary Tyler Moore Show feels as relevant as ever, with its exploration of career, friendship, and self-discovery still resonating.

4. Good Times

Good Times followed the Evans family, a working-class African-American family living in a Chicago housing project. The show stood out for addressing social issues like poverty, race, and inequality while mixing in plenty of humor, often centered around the quick-witted son J.J., known for his famous catchphrase, “Dyn-o-mite!”

The show’s balance of lighthearted family moments with real-life struggles gave it emotional weight. Revisiting Good Times offers a nostalgic look at a family facing challenges with love and laughter, making it a meaningful sitcom that still entertains.

5. The Brady Bunch

The Brady Bunch became the quintessential blended family sitcom of the 70s. With six kids, two parents, and a housekeeper, the show revolved around everyday family issues, from sibling rivalries to school crushes. Its wholesome nature and catchy theme song made it a pop culture staple.

Though sugary sweet at times, The Brady Bunch captured the idealized family life of the era. Watching it today, it’s hard not to smile at the simple, feel-good plots and the iconic characters who became part of TV history.

6. Happy Days

Happy Days took viewers back to the 1950s and followed the Cunningham family and their friends, including the cool and unforgettable Fonzie. It was a feel-good show about teenage life, relationships, and family, with the Fonz’s “Ayyy!” becoming one of the most iconic catchphrases in TV history.

The nostalgia for the 50s gave Happy Days a unique charm, and its focus on family and friendship still resonates today. With its lighthearted humor and lovable characters, it’s easy to see why Happy Days remains a beloved classic.

7. Sanford and Son

Sanford and Son brought audiences into the world of junk dealer Fred Sanford and his son Lamont. Fred’s sharp-tongued, stubborn personality made for comedic clashes with Lamont, and their father-son dynamic was the heart of the show, mixing humor with moments of genuine emotion.

Fred’s insults and exaggerated antics kept viewers laughing, but the show also tackled deeper themes like family loyalty and generational differences. Watching Sanford and Son today still brings plenty of laughs, making it a timeless comedy.

8. The Jeffersons

A spin-off from All in the Family, The Jeffersons followed George and Weezy Jefferson as they “moved on up” to a deluxe apartment in Manhattan. The show explored class differences and racial issues while focusing on the Jeffersons’ adjustment to their new life of luxury.

George’s arrogant but loveable personality clashed with his neighbors and friends, creating plenty of comedic moments. The Jeffersons remains a standout for its humor, memorable characters, and its exploration of social themes still relevant today.

9. Three’s Company

Three’s Company followed the comedic misadventures of Jack Tripper, who lived with two female roommates, Janet and Chrissy. To keep their living arrangement, Jack had to pretend to be gay to satisfy their conservative landlord, Mr. Roper, leading to endless misunderstandings and farcical situations.

The show’s slapstick humor and over-the-top situations made it a standout sitcom, but its exploration of friendship and gender roles gave it depth. Watching Three’s Company today still brings laughter with its ridiculous yet lovable scenarios.

10. Laverne & Shirley

Laverne & Shirley was a spinoff of Happy Days and followed two single women working in a Milwaukee brewery. Laverne was the tough, street-smart one, while Shirley was the more naive optimist. Together, their friendship and escapades made for plenty of laughs.

The show’s focus on female friendship and independence was refreshing for its time, and Laverne and Shirley’s chemistry made the series stand out. Watching it today, it’s easy to appreciate the humor and heart that made this show such a hit in the 70s.

11. Welcome Back, Kotter

Set in a high school, Welcome Back, Kotter followed teacher Gabe Kotter and his unruly group of students, known as the “Sweathogs.” The students’ antics and Kotter’s unconventional teaching methods created plenty of comedic moments, but the show also had heart, highlighting the importance of education and second chances.

The diverse group of students, each with their own quirks, made the show engaging and relatable. Watching it today, the humor and life lessons still hold up, making Welcome Back, Kotter a feel-good sitcom worth revisiting.

12. WKRP in Cincinnati

WKRP in Cincinnati revolved around the misfit staff of a struggling radio station. The show blended humor with a behind-the-scenes look at the radio industry, with quirky characters like the laid-back DJ Dr. Johnny Fever and the bumbling station manager Mr. Carlson.

The ensemble cast and clever writing made the show a hit, while the absurd situations kept audiences laughing. Revisiting WKRP in Cincinnati today offers a nostalgic look at both radio’s golden age and the zany workplace comedy that’s still enjoyable to watch.