Some classic shows were so entertaining that they could easily appeal to new audiences, even years later. These shows have timeless humor, unforgettable characters, and stories that could still make us laugh, cry, or sit on the edge of our seats today.
Which old TV shows would still be popular if they were on streaming platforms today?
1. “Gilligan’s Island” (1964-1967)
One of the most iconic shows on TV, this sitcom is about a group of people who get stranded on a deserted island after their boat crashes. The main characters include Gilligan, the funny first mate, and the Skipper, who tries to keep everyone safe.
The group includes various types of people, such as a rich couple, a movie star, and a professor. They make plans to try to escape, but they fail in a funny way.
2. “The Golden Girls” (1985-1992)
This beloved classic tells the story of four older women who live together in a house in Miami – Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia. The show focuses on their friendships, daily lives, and the funny situations they get into.
Each woman has her own personality, and they often support each other through life’s ups and downs, making the show both funny and heartwarming.
3. “Cheers” (1982-1993)
Set in a bar in Boston where everybody knows your name, the show follows the bar’s owner, Sam, and his staff, including waitress Diane and bartender Carla. Regular customers come to the bar to relax, drink, and talk about their lives.
The show is known for its humor, friendship, and the romantic tension between Sam and Diane.
4. “I Love Lucy” (1951-1957)
Starring Lucille Ball as Lucy Ricardo, “Lucy” dreams of being in show business. She often gets herself into trouble while trying to achieve her dreams, with the help (and sometimes annoyance) of her husband, Ricky, who is a bandleader.
The show is famous for its funny skits, Lucy’s wild ideas, and her close friendship with her neighbor, Ethel.
5. “The Dick Van Dyke Show” (1961-1966)
The show features comedian Dick Van Dyke as Rob Petrie, a writer for a TV show. The show revolves around Rob’s work life and home life with his wife, Laura, played by Mary Tyler Moore.
It is known for its clever jokes, funny situations, and great chemistry between the characters.
6. “Taxi” (1978-1983)
This comedy is about a group of taxi drivers working in New York City. The main character is Alex, who wants to be a successful actor but drives a taxi to pay the bills.
The show features a funny cast of characters, including a quirky dispatcher named Louie and several interesting passengers.
7. “The Andy Griffith Show” (1960-1968)
A small-town sheriff named Andy Taylor, who lives in Mayberry, is a kind and wise man who solves problems in his town with a gentle approach. His deputy, Barney Fife, is funny but often gets things wrong.
The show wholesomely highlights the simple joys of life, friendships, and the importance of community.
8. “Bewitched” (1964-1972)
This is a comedy about a witch named Samantha who marries a mortal man named Darrin. Samantha tries to live a normal life and be a good wife, but her magical powers often lead to funny situations.
Darrin wants Samantha to stop using magic, but her nose wiggle always gets her into trouble. The show mixes magic and everyday life to create entertaining stories.
9. “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1962-1971)
It covers the story of a poor family from the country who suddenly becomes rich after finding oil on their land. They move to Beverly Hills, where they face funny challenges trying to fit in with the wealthy neighbors.
The main characters, including Jed, Granny, and Ellie May, bring their country ways to the fancy city, leading to hilarious situations as they navigate their new life.
10. “Magnum, P.I.” (1980-1988)
This crime drama follows Thomas Magnum, a private investigator living in Hawaii. He solves crimes while enjoying the beautiful scenery and the local culture.
Magnum is a charming and witty character who often gets into dangerous situations but uses his intelligence to solve cases. He also works with friends, like Higgins, who manages the estate where Magnum lives, creating a mix of adventure and humor in the show.
11. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977)
This iconic sitcom is about Mary Richards, a single woman who works as a TV news producer. The show focuses on her life at work and with her friends.
Mary is strong and independent. She deals with challenges in her career and personal life in a funny and relatable way. The show was one of the first to show a single woman happily living on her own.
12. Happy Days (1974-1984)
This fun show set in the 1950s and 1960s follows the lives of Richie Cunningham and his family and friends. The most famous character is “The Fonz,” a cool guy with a leather jacket and a great sense of style.
The show is about friendship, family, and growing up, with lots of humor and heartwarming moments.
13. MAS*H (1972-1983)
Set during the Korean War, this show follows a group of doctors and nurses working in a mobile army hospital. The show mixes comedy with serious moments as the characters try to keep their spirits up while dealing with the tough realities of war.
The main character, Hawkeye, is known for his sense of humor, even in difficult times.
14. The Carol Burnett Show (1967-1978)
This comedy sketch show hosted by Carol Burnett. Each episode features different funny skits, musical numbers, and guest stars.
Carol and her cast play a variety of characters, and the show is known for making audiences laugh with its silly and clever humor. It was one of the most popular variety shows of its time.
15. All in the Family (1971-1979)
Touted as the show that “brought reality to prime-time TV,” it introduces Archie Bunker, a grumpy man with strong opinions. The show deals with serious issues like politics, race, and social change, but it does so in a funny and thought-provoking way.
Archie often clashes with his son-in-law, Mike, who has very different views, leading to funny and meaningful conversations.
16. Sanford & Son (1972-1977)
This comedy is about Fred Sanford, a junk dealer, and his son, Lamont. Fred is an old, grumpy man who always has something funny or sarcastic to say.
The show focuses on their close but often bickering relationship as they run their junkyard business. Fred’s wild ideas and schemes often get him into trouble, making the show full of humor and fun.
17. Knight Rider (1982–1986)
An action-packed show about Michael Knight, a crime-fighter with a special talking car named KITT. KITT is a high-tech car that can drive itself and has lots of cool gadgets.
Together, Michael and KITT take on bad guys and solve crimes. The show is known for its thrilling car chases and futuristic technology.
18. The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978)
Bob Hartley, a psychologist who helps people with their problems, is calm and patient, but he deals with a lot of funny situations, both with his patients and in his personal life. The show focuses on the humorous interactions Bob has with his friends, wife, and the people he tries to help.
19. Get Smart (1965-1970)
This spy comedy is about a clumsy secret agent named Maxwell Smart who works for an agency called CONTROL, trying to stop the evil organization KAOS. Even though Maxwell often makes mistakes and isn’t very good at his job, he somehow always manages to save the day.
The show is filled with silly gadgets and lots of laughs.
20. The Equalizer (1985–1989)
Robert McCall is a former secret agent who helps people in trouble. He offers his services to those who can’t get help from the police or other authorities.
Robert is tough and skilled, using his experience to protect the innocent and bring justice to those who need it. The show is serious and full of suspense as he takes on dangerous criminals.
Even after all these years, they can keep us hooked like they did when they first aired.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
