Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1973: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a groovy ride back to 1973, a year when bell-bottoms were in vogue, disco was on the rise, and television was pure, unadulterated gold. We’re talking about a time when the remote control was a luxury and the TV guide was your best friend. A time when the characters on the small screen felt like family, and their stories were the talk of the water cooler. So, dust off your lava lamps, adjust your rabbit ears, and prepare for a nostalgic journey as we countdown the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1973. Whether you’re a baby boomer looking to relive your prime time or a millennial eager to discover the classics, this list is your ticket to a time when TV was simpler, yet profoundly entertaining. So, without further ado, let’s rewind the tape and press play on a year that truly rocked the television world!
Go! Greenman

Go! Greenman

Release Date: 1973-11-12

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“Go! Greenman” is a thrilling tokusatsu TV series that aired from November 12, 1973, to September 27, 1974. Produced by Toho, it follows the adventures of a superhero named Greenman as he battles evil forces to protect the world. With its action-packed episodes and captivating storyline, this show is definitely a must-watch for fans of classic TV shows from 1973.

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Lone Wolf and Cub

Lone Wolf and Cub

Release Date: 1973-04-08

Genres: Action & Adventure

“Lone Wolf and Cub” is a captivating TV show set in 1973 that follows the story of Ogami Itto, a skilled swordsman who faces a tragic turn of events. After his wife and household are brutally murdered, Itto is wrongly accused of betrayal and forced to give up his prestigious position. Determined to seek justice and avenge his wife’s death, he embarks on a journey across the country with his infant son, Daigoro, in tow. With a talented cast including Kinnosuke Nakamura and Taketoshi Naitô, this gripping series promises thrilling sword fights, emotional depth, and a quest for redemption.

Cast: Kinnosuke Nakamura (Ittô Ogami) , Taketoshi Naitô (Narrator (Voice)) , Sato Takumi (Daigoro Ogami) , Ryūnosuke Kaneda (Tanomo Abe) , Kei Satō (Retsudo Yagyu)

Directors: Teruo Ishii

Writers: Goseki Kojima, Kazuo Koike

Tags: japan, assassin, samurai, revenge, child, yagyu

Ein Herz und eine Seele

Ein Herz und eine Seele

Release Date: 1973-01-15

Genres: Comedy

“Ein Herz und eine Seele” is a beloved German sitcom that premiered on January 15, 1973, and ran for about twenty episodes until November 4, 1974. It was written by Wolfgang Menge and based on the British sitcom Till Death Us Do Part. Starring Heinz Schubert, Helga Feddersen, Hildegard Krekel, and Klaus Dahlen, this show was a huge hit during its initial run and continues to be popular in reruns. It even has two episodes, Silvesterpunsch and Rosenmontagszug, that are now traditional favorites on German TV, airing on New Year’s Eve and Rosenmontag respectively.”

Cast: Heinz Schubert (Alfred Tetzlaff) , Helga Feddersen (Else Tetzlaff) , Hildegard Krekel (Rita Graf) , Klaus Dahlen (Michael Graf)

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Tags: berlin, germany, ruhr, family

O Bem-Amado

O Bem-Amado

Release Date: 1973-01-22

Genres: Soap, Comedy

“O Bem-Amado” is a Brazilian telenovela that aired in 1973 and was the first color telenovela in Brazil. Set in Rio de Janeiro, it revolves around the story of Odorico, played by Paulo Gracindo, who is a charismatic and eccentric mayor. With a talented cast including Lima Duarte and Zilka Salaberry, this show combines elements of love, mystery, and humor, making it a must-watch for fans of Brazilian television.

Cast: Paulo Gracindo (Odorico Paraguaçu) , Lima Duarte (José Tranquilino da Anunciação (Zeca Diabo)) , Zilka Salaberry (Delegada Donana Medrado) , Ida Gomes (Doroteia Cajazeira) , Dorinha Duval (Dulcineia Cajazeira) , Dirce Migliaccio (Judiceia Cajazeira) , Sandra Bréa (Telma Paraguaçu) , Emiliano Queiroz (Dirceu Borboleta) , Carlos Eduardo Dolabella (Manoel Pedreira (Neco)) , Ana Ariel (Zora Paraguaçu) , Arnaldo Weiss (Libório) , Gracindo Júnior (Jairo Portela) , Maria Cláudia (Adalgisa Portela (Gisa)) , Ruth de Souza (Francisca (Chiquinha do Parto)) , Milton Gonçalves (Zelão das Asas) , Lutero Luiz (Lulu Gouveia) , Álvaro Aguiar (Coronel Hilário Cajazeira) , Wilson Aguiar Filho (Nezinho do Jegue) , Rogério Fróes (Padre Honório) , Suzy Arruda (Florinda Fonseca (Florzinha)) , André Valli (Ernesto Cajazeira) , João Paulo Adour (Cecéu Paraguaçu) , Dilma Lóes (Anita Medrado) , Augusto Olímpio (Cabo Ananias) , Lídia Mattos (Dona Virgínia)

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Scenes from a Marriage

Scenes from a Marriage

Release Date: 1973-04-11

Genres: Drama

“Scenes from a Marriage” is a captivating TV show from 1973 that revolves around the complex relationship of Johan and Marianne. Despite appearing to have a perfect life, their marriage is troubled, especially when Johan confesses to having an affair. As they navigate separation, divorce, and attempts at reconciliation, the lead actors Liv Ullmann and Erland Josephson deliver powerful performances that explore the deep bond and numerous obstacles that define their connection.

Cast: Liv Ullmann (Marianne) , Erland Josephson (Johan) , Bibi Andersson (Katarina) , Jan Malmsjö (Peter) , Gunnel Lindblom (Eva) , Wenche Foss (Modern) , Bertil Norström (Arne) , Anita Wall (Fru Palm, journalist) , Rossana Mariano (Eva) , Lena Bergman (Karin) , Ingmar Bergman (Press photographer (uncredited)) , Barbro Hiort af Ornäs (Fru Jacobi (uncredited))

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Writers: Ingmar Bergman

Tags: marriage, divorce, couple, extramarital affair, selfishness

Clouds of War

Clouds of War

Release Date: 1973-12-23

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“Clouds of War” is a captivating Polish series from 1973 that delves into the intriguing world of cloak and dagger. Set against the backdrop of the 70s, the show follows the dramatic struggle to maintain Polish Prussia, a feudal state dependent on the Republic since 1525. With talented lead actors Leonard Pietraszak and Ryszard Pietruski, this historical drama promises to keep you hooked from the very first episode. Tune in to witness the gripping battle for power and loyalty unfold on December 23, 1973.

Cast: Leonard Pietraszak (pułkownik Krzysztof Dowgird) , Ryszard Pietruski (Kacper Pilch, wachmistrz Dowgirda)

Directors: Andrzej Konic

Writers: Ryszard Pietruski, Antoni Guziński

Tags: miniseries, poland, 17th century

The Starlost

The Starlost

Release Date: 1973-09-22

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Starlost” is a captivating sci-fi TV show that premiered on September 22, 1973. Set aboard a colossal spacecraft called The Ark, it follows the thrilling journey of its inhabitants who are unaware that they are actually living on a ship. With a talented cast including Keir Dullea, Robin Ward, Gay Rowan, and William Osler, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as you uncover the mysteries of The Ark.

Cast: Keir Dullea (Devon) , Robin Ward (Garth) , Gay Rowan (Rachel) , William Osler (Mu Lambda 165 (aka: Host Computer))

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Ultraman Taro

Ultraman Taro

“Ultraman Taro” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1973. It follows the story of Kotaro Higashi, a boxer who tragically loses his life but is resurrected by the Mother of Ultra as Ultraman Taro. With his newly acquired powers and skills, Taro returns to Earth during a time when a new era of kaiju monsters is emerging. Starring Saburo Shinoda, Tetsurô Sagawa, Peggy Hayama, Akira Nagoya, and Keiko Ono, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of the Ultra Brothers franchise.

Cast: Saburo Shinoda (Kotaro Higashi / Ultraman Taro (voice)) , Tetsurô Sagawa (Narrator) , Peggy Hayama (Mother of Ultra (voice)) , Akira Nagoya (Captain Yutaro Asahina) , Keiko Ono (Saori Shiratori (ep. 20-53))

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Tags: kaiju

Seventeen Moments of Spring

Seventeen Moments of Spring

“Seventeen Moments of Spring” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1973. Set during World War II, it follows a Soviet spy on a mission to disrupt negotiations between Karl Wolff and Allen Dulles in Switzerland. With talented actors Vyacheslav Tikhonov and Efim Kopelyan leading the way, this thrilling series offers a unique perspective on the efforts to forge a separate peace between Germany and the Western Allies.

Cast: Vyacheslav Tikhonov (Max Otto von Stirlitz / Maksim Maksimovich Isaev) , Efim Kopelyan (Narrator (voice))

Directors: Tatyana Lioznova

Writers: Robert Rozhdestvenskiy, Yulian Semyonov, Vsevolod Yezhov, Semyon Klebanov

Tags: spy, world war ii, miniseries, woman director

Toma

Toma

Release Date: 1973-03-21

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“Toma” is a gripping American crime drama series that aired on ABC from 1973 to 1974. Starring Tony Musante, the show follows the thrilling adventures of a determined detective as he tackles various criminal cases. With its release in March 1973, “Toma” quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Tony Musante ()

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The Water Margin

The Water Margin

Release Date: 1973-10-02

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“The Water Margin” is a captivating Japanese TV series that aired in 1973. Based on a renowned Chinese novel, it takes us back to the Song Dynasty, where we follow the thrilling adventures of 108 outlaws. Led by Lin Chung, they challenge the local government official, Kao Chiu, in a tale filled with action, philosophy, and memorable quotes. With a talented cast and its release date in October 1973, this show is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: Atsuo Nakamura (Lin Chung) , Sanae Tsuchida (Hu San-Niang) , Kei Satō (Kao Chiu) , Takeshi Ôbayashi (Sung Chiang) , Toshio Kurosawa (Tai Sung) , Makoto Satō (Yang Zhi) , Teruhiko Aoi (Shi jin) , Isamu Nagato (Lu Ta) , Daijirô Harada (Hua Rong)

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Writers: Shi Nai’an

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Match Game

Match Game

Release Date: 1973-07-02

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“Match Game” is a beloved TV show that aired in 1973 and quickly became a hit. Hosted by Gene Rayburn, this five-day-a-week syndicated game show featured two contestants who competed to match fill-in-the-blank phrases with those of the celebrities, including Richard Dawson, Brett Somers, and Charles Nelson Reilly. With its entertaining format and witty banter, “Match Game” was a must-watch for fans of game shows in the ’70s.

Cast: Gene Rayburn (Self – Host) , Richard Dawson (Self) , Brett Somers (Self) , Charles Nelson Reilly (Self)

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Tags: game show

Teskedsgumman

Teskedsgumman

Release Date: 1973-01-06

Genres: Kids, Comedy

“Teskedsgumman” is a delightful TV show that aired in 1973 and was one of the best voted shows of that year. Starring Birgitta Andersson, Carl-Gustaf Lindstedt, Brigitta Steenhouwer, Silvija Bardh, and Jane Nordahl, this charming series follows the adventures of its titular character. While the official description is not provided, we can expect a heartwarming and entertaining storyline from this beloved show.

Cast: Birgitta Andersson (Teskedsgumman) , Carl-Gustaf Lindstedt (gubben) , Brigitta Steenhouwer (Stina) , Silvija Bardh (Fru Pettersson) , Jane Nordahl (Anna)

Directors: Christina Lagerson

Writers: Alf Prøysen

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The Wombles

The Wombles

Release Date: 1973-02-05

Genres: Animation, Family

“The Wombles” is a charming stop-motion animated British TV series that aired from 1973 to 1975. It follows the adventures of lovable creatures called Wombles, who live in Wimbledon Common and have a knack for recycling and cleaning up the environment. The show features the talented voice acting of Bernard Cribbins and showcases the creative work of Graham Clutterbuck and Ivor Wood. With its delightful characters and important message about taking care of our planet, “The Wombles” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of viewers for decades.

Cast: Terrence Scammell () , Bernard Cribbins () , Rick Jones () , Sonja Ball ()

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Tags: london, england, garbage, recycling, based on children’s book, city park, anthropomorphic puppets, repurposing

The New Perry Mason

The New Perry Mason

Release Date: 1973-09-16

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“The New Perry Mason” is a revival of the popular TV series from 1973, based on Erle Stanley Gardner’s brilliant defense attorney. Starring Monte Markham, Sharon Acker, Albert Stratton, Harry Guardino, and Dane Clark, this show brings back the beloved character in a fresh and exciting way. Get ready to dive into the world of courtroom drama as Perry Mason fights for justice once again.

Cast: Monte Markham (Perry Mason) , Sharon Acker (Della Street) , Albert Stratton (Paul Drake) , Harry Guardino (Hamilton Burger) , Dane Clark (Lt. Arthur Tragg)

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Writers: Erle Stanley Gardner

Tags: based on novel or book, lawyer, courtroom, perry mason, murder suspect

Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em

Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em

Release Date: 1973-02-15

Genres: Comedy

“Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em” is a hilarious TV show from 1973 that follows the adventures of Frank Spencer, a well-meaning but accident-prone young man. Starring Michael Crawford and Michele Dotrice, this comedy series is sure to keep you entertained with Frank’s enthusiastic and often disastrous attempts to navigate through life. Tune in and get ready for a good laugh!”

Cast: Michael Crawford (Frank Spencer) , Michele Dotrice (Betty Spencer)

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Tags: marriage, sitcom

Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?

Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?

Release Date: 1973-01-09

Genres: Comedy

“Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?” is a beloved British sitcom that aired from 1973 to 1974, following the success of its predecessor, “The Likely Lads.” Created by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, the show features 26 episodes over two series, with a Christmas special in 1974. The story revolves around the lives of two friends, played by Rodney Bewes and James Bolam, and their humorous adventures in the changing times of the 1970s. It’s worth noting that the cast reunited for a radio adaptation in 1975 and even had a feature film spin-off in 1976. However, due to a misunderstanding involving the press, Bewes and Bolam have not spoken since, adding an intriguing layer to the show’s history.

Cast: Rodney Bewes (Bob Ferris) , James Bolam (Terry Collier)

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Tags: friendship, northern england, marriage, middle class, sequel, friends, working class, sitcom

Barnaby Jones

Barnaby Jones

Release Date: 1973-01-28

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Barnaby Jones” is a captivating detective series that aired from January 28, 1973, to April 3, 1980. Starring Buddy Ebsen and Lee Meriwether as a father-in-law and daughter-in-law duo, the show follows their thrilling adventures as they run a private detective firm in Los Angeles. With the addition of Mark Shera to the cast, this midseason replacement quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of 1973.

Cast: Buddy Ebsen (Barnaby Jones) , Lee Meriwether (Betty Jones) , Mark Shera (JR Jones)

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Tags: private detective

World on a Wire

World on a Wire

Release Date: 1973-10-14

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery

“World on a Wire” is a captivating TV show from 1973 that follows cybernetics engineer Fred Stiller as he unravels a mind-boggling corporate conspiracy tied to a virtual reality computer project. With a stellar cast including Klaus Löwitsch, Mascha Rabben, and Karl-Heinz Vosgerau, this sci-fi thriller takes you on a thrilling journey through a world where nothing is as it seems. Get ready to be hooked from the moment it premiered on October 14, 1973.

Cast: Klaus Löwitsch (Fred Stiller) , Mascha Rabben (Eva Vollmer) , Karl-Heinz Vosgerau (Herbert Siskins) , Adrian Hoven (Professor Henry Vollmer) , Ivan Desny (Günther Lause) , Ingrid Caven (Secretary Uschi) , Barbara Valentin (Gloria Fromm) , Günter Lamprecht (Fritz Walfang) , Margit Carstensen (Maya Schmidt-Genter) , Wolfgang Schenck (Franz Hahn) , Karl Scheydt (Inspector Stuhlfahrt) , Karsten Peters (Guide) , Elma Karlowa (Cafeteria Manager) , Ernst Küsters (Bodyguard) , Solange Pradel (Singer) , Katrin Schaake (Computer Lab Assistant) , Rudolf Waldemar Brem (Hospital Orderly) , Rudolf Lenz (Hartmann) , Rainer Hauer (Inspector Lehner) , Christine Kaufmann (Party Guest) , Corinna Brocher (Employee) , Peter Kern (Hospital Orderly) , Heinz Meier (Secretary of State Von Weinlaub) , Christiane Maybach (Woman at the Bar) , Kurt Raab (Mark Holm)

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Writers: Daniel F. Galouye, Fritz Müller-Scherz, Rainer Werner Fassbinder

Tags: computer program, virtual reality, dystopia, simulation, super computer, computer simulation, miniseries, cyberpunk, cybernetics, human–computer interaction, brain-computer interface

The Snoop Sisters

The Snoop Sisters

Release Date: 1973-12-19

Genres: Mystery, Comedy

“The Snoop Sisters” is a captivating American mystery TV show that aired in 1973-1974 as part of the NBC Wednesday Mystery Movie lineup. Starring renowned actors Helen Hayes, Lou Antonio, Mildred Natwick, Bert Convy, Lawrence Pressman, Art Carney, and Charlie Callas, this series follows the thrilling adventures of two sisters who become amateur detectives. With its intriguing storyline and talented cast, “The Snoop Sisters” is definitely a must-watch for mystery enthusiasts.

Cast: Helen Hayes (Ernesta Snoop) , Lou Antonio (Barney) , Mildred Natwick (Gwendolyn Snoop Nicholson) , Bert Convy (Lt. Steve Ostrowski) , Lawrence Pressman (Lieutenant Ostrowski) , Art Carney (Barney) , Charlie Callas (Charlie)

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Tags: sibling relationship, detective, amateur detective, writer, elderly

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