The 1970s brought us some of the most captivating and iconic TV dramas of all time. These shows not only dominated the small screen back then, but they continue to hold a special place in our hearts, making us want to binge-watch and even experience reboots. The decade was a treasure trove of excitement, far beyond just Farrah Fawcett haircuts and skinny jeans. It was a time of groundbreaking dramas that left audiences on the edge of their seats, both in the United States and the United Kingdom.
In the 70s, TV trends took a thrilling turn. The once beloved western genre gradually faded away, with only Bonanza and Gunsmoke managing to survive into the new decade. Instead, two genres emerged as the frontrunners: crime shows and science fiction dramas. The stars of crime dramas became legendary figures, known for their stylish feathered hair and serious demeanor. Detectives like Kojak and Columbo became household names, celebrated for their clever tactics and mind-boggling tricks to outsmart criminals. Meanwhile, science fiction shows like Wonder Woman and Battlestar Galactica opened the doors to a whole new world of gripping drama that would continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
The range of dramas in the 70s was truly remarkable. We were treated to heartwarming period pieces that the whole family could enjoy, such as The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie. At the same time, we were enthralled by intense medical dramas like Quincy, M.E., which kept us glued to our screens with their gripping storylines. These shows encapsulated the spirit of the decade and left an indelible mark on the history of television.
Now, it’s your turn to join in on the fun. Which 1970s drama TV shows do you think deserve the crown? Did your personal favorites make the cut? Share your thoughts on the most captivating dramas of the ’70s.
(Note: We won’t be discussing the most polarizing show, Knots Landing, in this conversation.)
1. Little House on the Prairie
Starring: Michael Landon, Karen Grassle, Melissa Gilbert, Melissa Sue Anderson, Karl Swenson
11-Sep-74
2. The Rockford Files
Actors: James Garner, Noah Beery, Joe Santos, Gretchen Corbett, Stuart Margolin
13-Sep-74
3. Columbo
Actors: Peter Falk, Mike Lally, John Finnegan, Bruce Kirby, Shera Danese
15-Sep-71
4. The Waltons
Actors: Jon Walmsley, Mary Beth McDonough, Eric Scott
14-Sep-72
5. Quincy, M.E.
Actors: Jack Klugman, Garry Walberg, Robert Ito, Val Bisoglio, John S. Ragin
3-Oct-76
6. Kojak
Actors: Telly Savalas, George Savalas, Kevin Dobson, Dan Frazer, Mark Russell
24-Oct-73
7. Dallas
Actors: Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, Victoria Principal, Charlene Tilton
2-Apr-78
8. Hawaii Five-O
Actors: Jack Lord, James MacArthur, Kam Fong, Al Harrington, Herman Wedemeyer
20-Sep-68
9. Charlie’s Angels
Actors: Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith, Farrah Fawcett, David Doyle, Cheryl Ladd
21-Mar-76
10. Starsky and Hutch
Actors: Paul Michael Glaser, David Soul, Bernie Hamilton, Antonio Fargas, Marki Bey
30-Apr-75
11. The Streets of San Francisco
Actors: Karl Malden, Michael Douglas, Richard Hatch, Darleen Carr
16-Sep-72
