Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1972: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Fasten your seatbelts, folks, we’re about to take a groovy trip down memory lane! Remember when bell-bottoms were all the rage, disco was the hottest thing on the radio, and the small screen was dominated by unforgettable characters and compelling storylines? Welcome to 1972, a golden year in television history. From the gritty streets of “Kojak” to the laugh-out-loud antics of “M*A*S*H”, this was a time when TV truly had something for everyone. So, dust off your lava lamps, crank up the 8-track player, and prepare to revisit the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from this iconic year. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this nostalgic countdown is sure to entertain, surprise, and maybe even inspire a binge-watch or two. So, without further ado, let’s rewind the tape and dive into the best of 1972 television!
Banacek

Banacek

Release Date: 1972-09-13

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Banacek” is a captivating detective TV series that aired from 1972 to 1974. Starring the talented George Peppard, the show follows the adventures of a clever investigator named Banacek. Set in the 1970s, this intriguing series was part of the NBC Wednesday Mystery Movie anthology and became the only one to continue beyond its first season.

Cast: George Peppard (Thomas Banacek) , George Murdock (Cavanaugh) , Ralph Manza (Jay Drury) , Murray Matheson (Felix Mulholland) , Christine Belford (Carlie Kirkland)

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Tags: boston, massachusetts, theft, private detective

Love Thy Neighbour

Love Thy Neighbour

Release Date: 1972-04-13

Genres: Comedy

“Love Thy Neighbour” is a beloved British sitcom that aired from 1972 to 1976, making it one of the best-voted TV shows of 1972. Set in a neighborhood, the show follows the hilarious and sometimes controversial interactions between two neighboring couples, played by talented actors Jack Smethurst, Rudolph Walker, Nina Baden-Semper, and Kate Williams. With its witty humor and memorable characters, it’s no wonder this sitcom became so popular, even spawning a film adaptation and a sequel series set in Australia.

Cast: Jack Smethurst (Eddie Booth) , Kate Williams (Joan Booth) , Rudolph Walker (Bill Reynolds) , Nina Baden-Semper (Barbie Reynolds) , Tommy Godfrey (Arthur) , Keith Marsh (Jacko) , Paul Luty (Nobby Garside)

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Tags: friendship, married couple, racism, sitcom

M*A*S*H

M*A*S*H

Release Date: 1972-09-17

Genres: War & Politics, Drama, Comedy

“M*A*S*H” is a beloved TV show that aired in 1972 and was voted as one of the best that year. Set in the midst of the Korean war, it follows the hilarious and heartwarming adventures of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. With a talented cast including Alan Alda, Mike Farrell, Loretta Swit, Jamie Farr, Harry Morgan, David Ogden Stiers, and William Christopher, the show captures the doctors, nurses, administrators, and soldiers as they navigate the challenges of wartime life with their own brand of humor and camaraderie.

Cast: Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce) , Mike Farrell (B. J. Hunnicutt) , Loretta Swit (Margaret Houlihan) , Jamie Farr (Maxwell Klinger) , Harry Morgan (Sherman Potter) , David Ogden Stiers (Charles Winchester) , William Christopher (Father Mulcahy)

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Tags: based on novel or book, surgeon, korean war, us army, doctor, american abroad, military, sitcom, military hospital, medical drama, field hospital, army camp

Emergency!

Emergency!

Release Date: 1972-01-22

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Emergency!” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1972 and made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. It follows the heroic crew of Los Angeles County Fire Department Station 51, including a dedicated paramedic team, as they respond to emergencies in their area. With a talented cast led by Robert Fuller, Julie London, and Randolph Mantooth, this show promises action-packed episodes filled with intense rescue missions and medical drama.

Cast: Robert Fuller (Kelly Brackett) , Julie London (Dixie McCall) , Bobby Troup (Joe Early) , Randolph Mantooth (John Gage) , Kevin Tighe (Roy DeSoto) , Tim Donnelly (Chet Kelly) , Mike Stoker (Fireman Mike Stoker) , Marco López (Fireman Marco Lopez) , Michael Norell (Captain Hank Stanley) , Ron Pinkard (Dr. Morton) , Vince Howard (Police Officer Vince)

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Tags: los angeles, california, paramedic, firefighter, medical drama

The One Who Loves Justice: Moonlight Mask

The One Who Loves Justice: Moonlight Mask

Release Date: 1972-01-10

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“The One Who Loves Justice: Moonlight Mask” is a popular TV show that aired in 1972. Starring unknown lead actors, this action-packed series follows the adventures of Moonlight Mask, a hero dedicated to fighting for justice. With its release on January 10th, this show quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of the year 1972.

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Kung Fu

Kung Fu

“Kung Fu” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1972 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the thrilling journey of a skilled Shaolin Monk who roams the American West, relying solely on his mastery of Kung Fu. With an incredible cast including David Carradine, Keye Luke, Philip Ahn, John Blyth Barrymore, and Keith Carradine, this action-packed series is a must-watch for anyone seeking adventure and martial arts prowess.

Cast: David Carradine (Kwai Chang Caine) , Keye Luke () , Philip Ahn (Master Kan) , John Blyth Barrymore () , Keith Carradine ()

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Tags: martial arts, kung fu, shaolin monk, wild west

Eight Hours Don’t Make a Day

Eight Hours Don’t Make a Day

Release Date: 1972-10-29

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Eight Hours Don’t Make a Day” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1972. Directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, it offers a refreshing take on a working-class family drama in West Germany. The story revolves around Jochen, a young toolmaker, and his journey through everyday challenges, love, and camaraderie with his fellow workers. With a stellar cast including Gottfried John, Hanna Schygulla, and Luise Ullrich, this series provides a critical yet optimistic perspective on social realities of the time.

Cast: Gottfried John (Jochen Epp) , Hanna Schygulla (Marion Andreas) , Luise Ullrich (Grandma) , Werner Finck (Gregor) , Wolfried Lier (Wolf) , Irm Hermann (Irmgard Erlkönig) , Kurt Raab (Harald) , Wolfgang Schenck (Franz Miltenberger) , Wolfgang Zerlett (Manfred Müller) , Herb Andress (Rüdiger) , Rudolf Waldemar Brem (Rolf Schwein) , Anita Bucher (Käthe Epp) , Grigorios Karipidis (Guiseppe Giuliano) , Renate Roland (Monika Epp) , Margit Carstensen (Erste Hausfrau)

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Sanford and Son

Sanford and Son

Release Date: 1972-01-14

Genres: Comedy

“Sanford and Son” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1972. It follows the misadventures of a grumpy junk dealer and his exasperated son. Starring Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson, this comedy series promises plenty of laughs as the duo navigates through their daily escapades.

Cast: Redd Foxx (Fred G. Sanford) , Demond Wilson (Lamont Sanford)

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Tags: remake, los angeles, california, sitcom

The Bob Newhart Show

The Bob Newhart Show

Release Date: 1972-09-16

Genres: Comedy

“The Bob Newhart Show” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from September 16, 1972, to April 1, 1978. Comedian Bob Newhart takes on the role of a psychologist who navigates the challenges of his patients and colleagues in a relatable and comedic way. With a talented cast including Suzanne Pleshette, Bill Daily, Marcia Wallace, and Peter Bonerz, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its live audience format.

Cast: Bob Newhart (Robert Hartley) , Suzanne Pleshette (Emily Hartley) , Bill Daily (Howard Borden) , Marcia Wallace (Carol Kester Bondurant) , Peter Bonerz ()

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Tags: chicago, illinois, psychologist, sitcom, mental health professional

Colditz

Colditz

Release Date: 1972-10-19

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Colditz” is a thrilling British TV series that aired from 1972 to 1974. Set during World War II, it follows a group of Allied prisoners of war held at the supposedly escape-proof Colditz Castle. With a talented cast including David McCallum, Bernard Hepton, and Christopher Neame, the show explores their relentless attempts to break free while also delving into the complex relationships formed between the prisoners and their German captors. If you’re into gripping war dramas and captivating escape stories, this is definitely a must-watch!

Cast: David McCallum (Flt. Lt. Simon Carter) , Bernard Hepton (Kommandant) , Christopher Neame (Lt. Dick Player) , Edward Hardwicke (Capt. Pat Grant) , Peter Penry-Jones (P.O. Peter Muir) , Jack Hedley (Lt. Col. John Preston)

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Tags: world war ii, pow escape, 1940s

Are You Being Served?

Are You Being Served?

Release Date: 1972-09-08

Genres: Comedy

“Are You Being Served?” is a hilarious classic comedy that takes place in the declining Grace Brothers department store. With a talented cast including Frank Thornton, John Inman, Mollie Sugden, Wendy Richard, Nicholas Smith, Mike Berry, and Arthur English, this show premiered on September 8, 1972, and quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year. Get ready for laughs as you follow the quirky and amusing adventures of the store’s eccentric staff.

Cast: Frank Thornton (Captain Peacock) , John Inman (Mr. Humphries) , Mollie Sugden (Mrs. Slocombe) , Wendy Richard (Miss Brahms) , Nicholas Smith (Mr. Rumbold) , Mike Berry (Mr. Spooner) , Arthur English (Mr. Harman)

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Tags: department store, camp, sitcom, workplace comedy

The Streets of San Francisco

The Streets of San Francisco

Release Date: 1972-09-23

Genres: Crime, Drama, Action & Adventure

“The Streets of San Francisco” is a gripping crime drama that aired in 1972. Set in the vibrant city of San Francisco, it follows the partnership between two police officers, Lt. Stone and Inspector Keller, as they tackle murder cases and other serious crimes. With Karl Malden and Michael Douglas leading the cast, this show promises an exciting blend of detective work and a heartwarming mentorship dynamic between the seasoned Lt. Stone and the young Inspector Keller.

Cast: Karl Malden (Mike Stone) , Michael Douglas (Steve Keller) , Richard Hatch (Dan Robbins)

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Tags: police, police detective, older man younger man relationship, police inspector, homicide detective, police lieutenant

The Rookies

The Rookies

Release Date: 1972-09-11

Genres: Drama, Crime

“The Rookies” is a gripping American crime drama series that aired from 1972 to 1976. Set in a fictional Southern California Police Department, the show follows the thrilling adventures of three rookie police officers as they navigate the challenges of law enforcement in an unidentified city. With a talented cast including Georg Stanford Brown, Sam Melville, Bruce Fairbairn, Kate Jackson, and Gerald S. O’Loughlin, this TV show is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

Cast: Georg Stanford Brown (Terry Webster) , Sam Melville (Mike Danko) , Bruce Fairbairn (Chris Owens) , Kate Jackson (Jill Danko) , Gerald S. O’Loughlin (Lt. Ed Ryker)

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The Waltons

The Waltons

Release Date: 1972-09-14

Genres: Drama

“The Waltons” is a heartwarming TV show set in a rural Virginia community during the challenging times of the Great Depression and World War II. It follows the lives of the Walton family as they navigate through the ups and downs of life, portraying their strong bond and resilience. With a talented cast including Ralph Waite, Jon Walmsley, Mary Beth McDonough, and more, this beloved series first aired on September 14, 1972, and quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Ralph Waite (John Walton Sr.) , Jon Walmsley (Jason Walton) , Mary Beth McDonough (Erin Walton) , David W. Harper (Jim-Bob Walton) , Earl Hamner, Jr. (Narrator) , Eric Scott (Ben Walton) , Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton) , Joe Conley (Ike Godsey) , Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton)

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Tags: small town, world war ii, big family, great depression, family, 1940s, 1930s

ABC Afterschool Special

ABC Afterschool Special

Release Date: 1972-10-04

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“ABC Afterschool Special” is a popular American television anthology series that aired from 1972 to 1997. It featured a variety of episodes, often tackling controversial topics like illiteracy, substance abuse, and teenage pregnancy, in a way that was engaging for children and teenagers. The show won an impressive 51 Daytime Emmy Awards during its 25-year run and has been released on DVD, although the DVDs are currently out of print.

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Maude

Maude

Release Date: 1972-09-12

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Maude” is a highly acclaimed TV show from 1972 that revolves around the life of Maude Findlay, a well-educated and upper middle-class woman who embodies the feminist ideals of her time. Set in suburban Tuckahoe, New York, the series follows Maude as she navigates her fourth marriage to Walter, while also dealing with her divorced daughter Carol and her grandson Phillip. With a stellar cast including Bea Arthur, Bill Macy, Adrienne Barbeau, Rue McClanahan, and Conrad Bain, “Maude” offers a captivating portrayal of a strong and independent woman challenging societal norms.

Cast: Bea Arthur (Maude Findlay) , Bill Macy (Walter Findlay) , Adrienne Barbeau (Carol Traynor) , Rue McClanahan (Vivian Harmon) , Conrad Bain (Arthur Harmon)

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Tags: female protagonist, middle age, sitcom, social issues, independent woman

Rainbow

Rainbow

Release Date: 1972-10-16

Genres: Comedy, Kids

“Rainbow” is a beloved children’s puppet programme that aired in 1972. Set in the Rainbow House, it follows the adventures of George, Bungle, Zippy, and their friends, offering a delightful mix of music and stories. With its release on October 16th, this TV show quickly became a favorite among viewers, earning its spot as one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Malcolm Lord (Bungle) , Roy Skelton (Zippy / George (voice)) , Geoffrey Hayes (Himself)

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Tags: puppet, anthropomorphism, educational

The Price Is Right

The Price Is Right

Release Date: 1972-09-04

Genres: Reality

“The Price Is Right” is a classic TV show that has been entertaining audiences since its release in 1972. Hosted by Drew Carey and featuring George Gray, Rachel Reynolds, James William O’Halloran, and Amber Lancaster, this game show is all about guessing the prices of various retail items. With a wide variety of fun games and contests, it’s a show that keeps you on your toes and brings out your inner shopaholic. So, if you’re looking for some excitement and a chance to win big, “The Price Is Right” is the show for you!

Cast: Drew Carey () , George Gray () , Rachel Reynolds () , James William O’Halloran () , Amber Lancaster ()

Directors: Paul Alter

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Tags: game show, big game, worth, celebrity game, tv games

Van der Valk

Van der Valk

Release Date: 1972-09-13

Genres: Drama

“Van der Valk” is a captivating British TV series that premiered in 1972. Set in the Netherlands, it follows the adventures of Dutch detective Commissaris “Piet” van der Valk, brilliantly portrayed by Barry Foster. Based on the popular novels by Nicolas Freeling, this thrilling crime drama promises an intriguing storyline and a captivating atmosphere that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Barry Foster (Commissaris Simon “Piet” Van der Valk) , Meg Davis (Arlette Van Der Valk) , Ronald Hines (Hoofd Commissaris Samson) , Richard Huw (Wim Van der Valk)

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Mastermind

Mastermind

Release Date: 1972-09-11

Genres: Talk

“Mastermind” is a classic British quiz show that premiered in 1972 and quickly became a fan favorite. Hosted by Bill Wright, the show features four to five contestants who face challenging questions in two rounds: one on their chosen specialized subject and another on general knowledge. Known for its intimidating setting and serious atmosphere, “Mastermind” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its ominous theme music and captivating format.

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Tags: quiz, knowledge

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