6 Infamous TV Moments from the 70s That Were Too Controversial

The 1970s brought us groundbreaking TV shows and moments that shocked audiences. Some of these moments went too far, stirring controversy and leaving a lasting impression. Here are six infamous TV moments from the 70s that were considered too controversial for their time.

1. “Maude” – Abortion Episode

“Maude,” a popular 70s sitcom, shocked viewers with its two-part episode about abortion. Maude, played by Bea Arthur, makes the decision to terminate her pregnancy. The episode aired in 1972, just months before the landmark Roe v. Wade decision.

While the show tackled the subject with sensitivity, it still stirred outrage. Many affiliates refused to air it, and the episode sparked heated debates across the nation. It remains one of the earliest examples of a TV show addressing a controversial social issue.

2. “All in the Family” – Edith’s Assault

“All in the Family” was known for pushing boundaries, but the episode where Edith Bunker narrowly escapes a sexual assault was a standout moment. The episode, which aired in 1977, was both shocking and uncomfortable for many viewers.

It wasn’t common for sitcoms to tackle such serious topics, and the show’s decision to air it caused a strong reaction. While it was praised for its boldness, some thought the subject matter was too much for a primetime audience.

3. “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour” – Cher’s Revealing Outfits

Cher’s daring fashion choices on “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour” became a point of contention throughout the 70s. Her revealing outfits, which included midriff-baring tops and plunging necklines, were criticized by conservative audiences.

Despite the backlash, Cher remained unapologetic about her style. Her fashion choices helped cement her status as a style icon, even if they ruffled feathers at the time. The controversy only added to the allure of the show.

4. “Saturday Night Live” – Richard Pryor and Chevy Chase’s Word Association Skit

In 1975, Richard Pryor and Chevy Chase performed a skit on “Saturday Night Live” that used racial slurs in a word association game. While the skit was meant to highlight racial tensions, the language shocked many viewers.

Though the skit became iconic, it also sparked outrage for its provocative content. Some considered it bold social commentary, while others felt it crossed a line. It remains one of the most infamous moments in SNL history.

5. “The Jeffersons” – Interracial Kiss

“The Jeffersons” broke new ground when it featured one of TV’s first interracial kisses in the 70s. The moment, involving Tom and Helen Willis, was a major step forward, but it also sparked backlash from some viewers.

For many, seeing an interracial kiss on TV was controversial, even though the show handled it in a lighthearted way. Despite the criticism, “The Jeffersons” continued to push boundaries and challenge social norms throughout its run.

6. “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” – Mass Shooting Scene

“Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” a satirical soap opera, shocked audiences with its mass shooting scene in 1976. The show’s dark humor and portrayal of sensitive topics, like mental illness and violence, made it one of the most controversial TV moments of the decade.

While some viewers appreciated the show’s boldness, others found it deeply disturbing. The mass shooting scene in particular was seen as crossing the line, especially given the rising concerns about violence in media at the time.