Lost Treasures of 70s Television That Deserve Attention

The 70s brought us iconic TV shows, but not every standout series held onto fame. While some shows like “The Brady Bunch” and “Happy Days” became cultural touchstones, others quietly slipped through the cracks. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore five underrated 70s TV shows that are begging for a comeback.

The New People

Imagine being stranded on a deserted island, but instead of a handful of survivors, there are 40 college students trying to rebuild society. “The New People” explored this idea with gripping social experiments and ethical struggles long before shows like “Lost.” In today’s reality TV age, its premise feels ripe for a modern comeback.

Barney Miller

Set in a New York City law enforcement precinct, “Barney Miller” was a clever, character-driven sitcom that captured the quirks of life in the 70s. With its ensemble cast and sharp writing, it tackled social issues with a light touch. While police procedurals dominate TV today, few blend comedy and drama as effectively as “Barney Miller” did.

The Fantastic Journey

This sci-fi adventure series followed a group of travelers stranded in the Bermuda Triangle, navigating through different time zones and dimensions. It had all the ingredients of a classic—time travel and a diverse group of characters. And with today’s advancements in special effects and a growing appetite for science fiction, this show could be reimagined into a binge-worthy series.

Police Woman

As one of the first primetime dramas to feature a female cop as the lead, “Police Woman” was groundbreaking. Angie Dickinson’s portrayal of Sergeant Pepper Anderson paved the way for future strong female characters in law enforcement roles, and a modern reboot could inspire new conversations about gender representation in crime dramas today.

Kolchak: The Night Stalker

Before “The X-Files” turned paranormal investigation into a phenomenon, there was “Kolchak: The Night Stalker.” Starring Darren McGavin as the relentless reporter Carl Kolchak, this show followed him as he dug into mysterious cases involving everything from vampires to zombies. Though it only lasted one season, it could easily find a fresh audience.