Tired of television shows that seem to offer nothing new or exciting? You’re not alone! Despite the fact that the entertainment industry produces a seemingly endless stream of new content, sometimes you may find yourself wanting to step away from all the new shows and revisit classics. Luckily, there are dozens of popular television shows from previous decades that are just as relevant today as they were when they first premiered. Here are some of our top picks:
I Love Lucy (1951–1957)
Arguably one of the most famous sitcoms of all time, I Love Lucy has been happily entertaining audiences since its debut in 1951. Following the comedic misadventures of Lucy and Ricky Ricardo, this classic show is still just as hilarious today as it ever was. Its timeless jokes and uproarious physical comedy have stood the test of time, making it feel just as fresh and clever today as it did seventy years ago when it first aired.
The Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968)
The Andy Griffith Show was created as a tribute to small-town life and still packs an emotional punch with its moral lessons and simple charm. Featuring an endearing cast of characters — including Sheriff Andy Taylor, Barney Fife, and Aunt Bee — the show’s themes of friendship, loyalty, and justice still resonates as strongly today as it did when it first aired in 1960. Its quotable one-liners, memorable plotlines, and wholesome lessons make The Andy Griffith Show a timeless sitcom classic.
Seinfeld (1989–1998)
Over thirty years later, Seinfeld remains one of the funniest and most influential television shows ever created. Centered around the lives of a group of four mass-catering New Yorkers, this irreverent comedy show still stands out among the rest with its witty banter and clever storylines. Seinfeld’s lasting appeal gets funnier with each new generation of fans, and its resonance has earned it a place as one of the most celebrated sitcoms of all time.
The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
The Mary Tyler Moore Show has been an enduring source of inspiration and courage for generations of television viewers since its premiere in 1970. Following the misadventures of Mary Richards, a spunky single woman in her 30s, this groundbreaking show explored social issues through its plotlines, including feminism, career and romance, among many other topics. Its powerful themes of self-empowerment, confidence and female self-sufficiency still dignify and captivate modern audiences alike.
MAS*H (1972–1983)
MASH premiered in 1972 as a groundbreaking comedy-drama focusing on life on a US Army base in Korea during the Korean War. The show’s weird, off-the-wall humor still stands out among other classic shows, mixing shades of comedy and drama to explore the depths of human emotions and PTSD. With timeless one-liners and heartfelt stories that still stand the test of time, MASH will remain a classic for many years to come.
The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)
One of the most influential and praised television series of all time, The Twilight Zone is still as captivating as it was when it first premiered in 1959. From monster-filled episodes and morality tales to story arcs inspired by real-world events, this suspenseful science-fiction series captivates audiences with its timeless themes and endless surprises. Its stories of the supernatural and themes about the human condition remain mesmerizing to modern audiences.
Happy Days (1974–1984)
Happy Days has remained a beloved classic since its debut in 1974 due to its lighthearted sense of humor and quotable one-liners. Set in the 1950s and featuring the charming Fonzie and the Cunningham family, this sitcom provides a comforting escape as well as great life lessons about growing up. Whether you’re a fan of Fonzie’s slick moves or always wanted to try the chicken soup in Pawnee, there’s good reason why Happy Days still resonates with viewers today.
When it comes to classic television shows that are still just as relevant today, the list is practically endless. From the iconic I Love Lucy to the mind-blowing Twilight Zone, the best of yesterday’s entertainment has endured thanks to its timeless humor and moral lessons. So if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed by the seemingly-endless influx of new television shows, why not take a break and revisit some good old fashioned classics?
