Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1974: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a groovy trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1974 – a year of bell-bottoms, disco balls, and some of the most iconic TV shows ever aired. From laugh-out-loud sitcoms to heart-stopping dramas, 1974 had it all. It was a time when television was less about reality shows and more about, well, reality. So, whether you’re a ’70s kid looking to relive your childhood or a curious millennial eager to explore the classics, you’re in for a treat. We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1974 that will make you want to dust off your old TV set and dig out those rabbit ears. So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a nostalgic journey back to a time when TV was simple, yet oh so entertaining. Let the countdown begin!
The Written Off

The Written Off

Release Date: 1974-12-22

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“The Written Off” is a beloved Serbian TV series that aired in 1974 and gained immense popularity in former Yugoslavia. Set during World War II in Belgrade, the show follows the fictional adventures of freedom fighters. With a talented cast including Dragoslav ‘Dragan’ Nikolić and Vojislav Brajović, the series has achieved cult status and continues to captivate millions of viewers with its reruns even today.

Cast: Dragoslav ‘Dragan’ Nikolić (Prle) , Vojislav Brajović (Tihi) , Stevo Žigon (Kriger) , Miki Manojlović (Paja) , Božidar Pavićević ‘Longa’ (Dinst) , Rudolf Ulrich (Miler) , Aleksandar Berček (Čibi) , Vasa Pantelić (Krsta Mišić) , Radomir Popović (Cinkaroš) , Ljiljana Jošanović (Ženska) , Stojan Nikolić (Žandarm) , Irina Nović (Bolničarka) , Božidar Savićević (Čika Marko) , Ivan Sebalj (Bane) , Faik Ymeri (Mija) , Slobodan Novaković (Cvika) , Ivan Manojlović (General) , Nada Petričević (Ženska) , Petar Cvejić (Gestapovac) , Branislav Damnjanović (Ustaški poručnik) , Vidoje Vujović (Stražar) , Danica Aćimac (Žena) , Rade Brankov (Radnik) , Mirko Đerić (Portir) , Miomir Petrović (Portir)

Directors: Aleksandar Đorđević

Writers: Dragan Marković, Siniša Pavić

Tags: world war ii, partisan, resistance fighter, anti-nazi resistance

The Missiles of October

The Missiles of October

Release Date: 1974-09-18

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“The Missiles of October” is a captivating docudrama that aired in 1974, depicting the intense Cuban missile crisis. Starring William Devane as John F. Kennedy and Martin Sheen as Robert F. Kennedy, the TV show brings to life the events surrounding this historic moment. Based on Robert Kennedy’s book, “Thirteen Days: A Memoir of the Cuban Missile Crisis,” this gripping teleplay sheds light on the missteps and missed opportunities that could have led to a different outcome.

Cast: William Devane (John F. Kennedy – US President) , Ralph Bellamy (Adlai Stevenson – US Ambassador to UN) , Howard Da Silva (Nikita Khrushchev – Soviet Premier) , James Hong (U Thant – U.N. Secretary-General) , Martin Sheen (Atty. Gen. Robert F. Kennedy)

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Tags: cold war

Krkonošská pohádka

Krkonošská pohádka

Release Date: 1974-04-30

Genres: Kids

“Krkonošská pohádka” is a delightful TV show that aired in 1974. Starring František Peterka, Ilja Prachař, Jaroslav Satoranský, Hana Maciuchová, Zdeněk Řehoř, and Martin Růžek, this enchanting series takes viewers on a magical journey through the Krkonoše Mountains. With its release date on April 30th, 1974, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year!

Cast: František Peterka (Krakonoš) , Ilja Prachař (Trautenberk) , Jaroslav Satoranský (Kuba) , Hana Maciuchová (Anče) , Zdeněk Řehoř (hajný) , Martin Růžek (Narrator (voice))

Directors: Věra Jordánová

Writers: Marie Kubátová, Božena Šimková

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Porridge

Porridge

Release Date: 1974-09-05

Genres: Comedy

“Porridge” is a hilarious British sitcom that aired from 1974 to 1977, set in the fictional HMP Slade prison. Starring Ronnie Barker and Richard Beckinsale as two inmates, the show follows their misadventures and witty banter while serving their time. It became a fan favorite, ranking number seven in a BBC poll of the greatest British sitcoms, and even spawned a sequel called “Going Straight” in 1978.

Cast: Ronnie Barker (Norman Stanley Fletcher) , Richard Beckinsale (Lennie Godber) , Fulton Mackay (Mr. Mackay) , Brian Wilde (Mr. Barrowclough)

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Tags: prison, judge, england, theft, convict, warden, sitcom

Good Times

Good Times

Release Date: 1974-02-08

Genres: Comedy

“Good Times” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1974 to 1979. Set in Chicago, the show follows the lives of the Evans family and their hilarious and heartwarming adventures. With a talented cast including Jimmie Walker, Esther Rolle, and a young Janet Jackson, this spin-off of “Maude” and “All in the Family” is a must-watch for fans of classic TV shows.

Cast: Jimmie Walker (James “JJ” Evans) , Esther Rolle (Florida Evans) , Bern Nadette Stanis (Thelma Evans) , Ja’net DuBois (Wilona Woods) , Ralph Carter (Michael Evans) , Ben Powers (Keith Anderson) , Janet Jackson (Milicent ‘Penny’ Woods)

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Tags: chicago, illinois, sitcom

More Than a Game

More Than a Game

Release Date: 1974-04-17

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure, Comedy

“More Than a Game” is a captivating TV show set in the fictional town of Gradina, Serbia, during the ten-year period leading up to World War II. It delves into the lives of the town’s residents, who navigate through challenging times such as the Great Depression and the rise of fascism. The heart of the story revolves around the intense rivalry between two local football clubs, Radnicki and Gradjanski. With a talented cast including Ljiljana Derk, Danica Mirković, and Heinz Neubacher, this show, released in 1974, offers a compelling blend of historical events and gripping sports drama.

Cast: Ljiljana Derk (Prostitutka) , Danica Mirković (Prostitutka) , Heinz Neubacher () , Velibor Stanojević ‘Foka’ () , Miroslav Žužić (Boža Lažov) , Tihomir Grujin () , Ivan Bekjarev (Novinar) , Zoran Radmilović (Mihajlo ‘Miša’ Šljivić) , Slobodan Aligrudić (Agent VI antikomunističkog) , Pavle Vuisić (Aleksandar Ćopić ‘Leka Bankrot’) , Toma Kuruzović (Opančar Čolak) , Dragoljub Milosavljević ‘Gula’ (Vaga Golubović) , Milivoje Mića Tomić (Tomić Davidović ‘Šmrk-šmrk’) , Nikola Milić (Slavko Vučković ‘Cvikeraš’) , Mihajlo ‘Bata’ Paskaljević (Špijun Buda) , Vlastimir ‘Đuza’ Stojiljković (Apotekar Beli) , Ljiljana Dragutinović (Milica Živić) , Živojin ‘Žika’ Milenković (Načelnik Vasić) , Nikola Simić (Miroslav Ilić ‘Guliver’) , Petar Božović (Danilo Živić) , Slobodan Đurić (Kostolomac) , Velimir Životić (Svetozar Đorđević) , Vesna Malohodžić (Simona Šljivić) , Olga Stanisavljević (Kaliopa Ilić) , Ljubomir Ubavkić (Manojlo Tabanaš)

Directors: Zdravko Šotra

Writers: Slobodan Stojanović, Zdravko Šotra

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QB VII

QB VII

Release Date: 1974-04-29

Genres: Drama

“QB VII” is a gripping TV show from 1974 that follows the intense legal battle between a physician and a novelist. The doctor takes the novelist to court after he publishes statements accusing the physician of being involved in Nazi war crimes. With a star-studded cast including Ben Gazzara, Anthony Hopkins, and Lee Remick, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat as the truth unfolds.

Cast: Ben Gazzara (Abe Cady) , Anthony Hopkins (Adam Kelno) , Leslie Caron (Angela Kelno) , Dan O’Herlihy (David Shawcross) , Robert Stephens (Robert Highsmith) , Lee Remick (Lady Margaret) , Juliet Mills (Samantha Cady) , Anthony Quayle (Tom Banniester) , Milo O’Shea (Dr. Stanilaus Lotaki) , Jack Hawkins (Justice Gilroy) , Kristoffer Tabori (Ben Cady) , Julian Glover (Zaminski) , Vladek Sheybal (Sobotnik) , Anthony Andrews (Stephen Kelno) , Alan Napier (Semple) , John Gielgud (Clinton-Meek) , Edith Evans (Dr. Parmentier) , Geoffrey Keen (Magistrate Griffin) , Michael Gough (Dr. Fletcher)

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Writers: Edward Anhalt, Leon Uris

Tags: nazi, war crimes, lawyer

Albert & Herbert

Albert & Herbert

Release Date: 1974-01-16

Genres: Comedy

“Albert & Herbert” is a hilarious Swedish comedy series that aired from 1974 to 1982, with a spin-off in 1995. It revolves around the lives of a father and son who are scrap-dealers, living together in a rundown wooden house. Sten-Åke Cederhök and Tomas von Brömssen brilliantly portray the main characters, while Lennart Lundh joins in for the first six episodes. Set in Gothenburg, this adaptation of the popular BBC series “Steptoe and Son” is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and charming characters.

Cast: Sten-Åke Cederhök (Albert) , Tomas von Brömssen (Herbert) , Lennart Lundh (Herbert) , Carl-Einar Häckner (Robert)

Directors: Bo Hermansson

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Tags: albert och herbert

Happy Days

Happy Days

Release Date: 1974-01-15

Genres: Comedy

“Happy Days” is a beloved TV show that aired in 1974 and takes us back to the 1950s in Milwaukee. It follows the Cunningham family as they navigate life with the cool and charming Fonzie, who rides a motorcycle and has a way with the ladies. With a talented cast including Henry Winkler, Tom Bosley, Marion Ross, Anson Williams, Scott Baio, and Ted McGinley, this show is sure to bring back nostalgic vibes and plenty of laughs.

Cast: Henry Winkler (Arthur Fonzarelli) , Tom Bosley (Howard Cunningham) , Marion Ross (Marion Cunningham) , Anson Williams (Potsie Weber) , Scott Baio (Chachi Arcola) , Ted McGinley (Roger Phillips)

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Tags: retro, sitcom, 1950s

American Music Awards

American Music Awards

Release Date: 1974-02-19

Genres: Talk

“The American Music Awards is an exciting annual TV show that celebrates the best in music. Unlike the Grammys, which are decided by industry professionals, the AMAs are determined by a public poll and music buyers. With its first episode airing on February 19, 1974, this show has been a favorite among music enthusiasts for decades.”

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Tags: awards show, music

Ultraman Leo

Ultraman Leo

“Ultraman Leo” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1974. It follows the story of Ultraman Leo, an Ultra from the fallen Planet L77, who comes to Earth after his planet is destroyed. Blending into human society as Gen Ohtori, he becomes a gym instructor for children but is forced to take action when the Alien Magma threatens Earth. With his incredible martial arts skills, Ultraman Leo fights to protect our planet alongside his close friend Ultraseven.

Cast: Ryu Manatsu (Gen Ôtori / Ultraman Leo) , Koji Moritsugu (Dan Moroboshi / Ultraseven) , Keiko Yamada (Momoko Yamaguchi) , Takeshi Itō (Takeshi Nomura) , Mina Tominaga (Kaoru Umeda) , Yū Fujiki (Seiji Omura) , Tetsurô Sagawa (Narrator)

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Tags: japan, superhero, extraterrestrial, extraterrestrial life form, kaiju, giant, extraterrestrial life, ultraman

Kolchak: The Night Stalker

Kolchak: The Night Stalker

Release Date: 1974-09-13

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Kolchak: The Night Stalker” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1974. It follows the adventures of a determined newspaper reporter in Chicago who investigates mysterious crimes that the police won’t touch. With a mix of supernatural and science fiction elements, this show keeps you on the edge of your seat as the lead character, played by Darren McGavin, uncovers the truth behind these bizarre cases.

Cast: Darren McGavin (Carl Kolchak) , Simon Oakland (Tony Vincenzo) , Jack Grinnage (Ron Updyke)

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Tags: monster, news reporter, official cover-up

The Rockford Files

The Rockford Files

Release Date: 1974-09-13

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“The Rockford Files” is a highly acclaimed TV show from 1974 that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. It revolves around the life of Jim Rockford, a grumpy yet lovable private investigator based in Los Angeles. Wrongly convicted of a crime, Rockford now takes on cases that others refuse, with the help of his tough father, his lawyer girlfriend, and some questionable acquaintances from his past. Starring James Garner and Noah Beery Jr., this show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling detective stories.

Cast: James Garner (Jim Rockford) , Noah Beery Jr. (Joseph “Rocky” Rockford)

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Tags: private investigator, los angeles, california, private detective, ex-con

Rising Damp

Rising Damp

Release Date: 1974-09-02

Genres: Comedy

“Rising Damp” is a hilarious TV show from 1974 that takes place in a run-down bedsit. The story revolves around Rigsby, a cowardly landlord whose delusions are constantly shattered by his enduring tenants. With a talented cast including Leonard Rossiter, Frances de la Tour, and Don Warrington, this show is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and relatable characters.

Cast: Leonard Rossiter (Rigsby) , Frances de la Tour (Ruth) , Don Warrington (Philip)

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Tags: northern england, cat, africa, flat, con man, racist, rent, yorkshire, conservative, lust, right wing, miser, liberal, spinster, sitcom

The Six Million Dollar Man

The Six Million Dollar Man

“The Six Million Dollar Man” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1974. It follows the exciting adventures of Steve Austin, a former astronaut who becomes a secret agent after being enhanced with cybernetic technology. With his bionic arm, legs, and artificial eye, Steve fights against enemy agents, aliens, and even mad scientists, all while working for the OSI under the command of Oscar Goldman and the supervision of scientist Rudy Wells. Starring Lee Majors, Martin E. Brooks, and Richard Anderson, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and espionage.

Cast: Lee Majors (Steve Austin) , Martin E. Brooks (Dr. Rudy Wells) , Richard Anderson (Oscar Goldman)

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Tags: bionic

Janosik

Janosik

Release Date: 1974-07-26

Genres: Action & Adventure

“Janosik” is a captivating Polish TV series that aired in 1974, telling the thrilling tale of a renowned outlaw from Polish folklore. Set in the highlands, this show follows Janosik as he fearlessly steals from the wealthy to aid the less fortunate. With an impressive cast and 13 exciting one-hour episodes, this series is a must-watch for fans of historical legends and action-packed adventures.

Cast: Marek Perepeczko (Janosik) , Bogusz Bilewski (Waluś Kwiczoł) , Witold Pyrkosz (Jędruś Pyzdra) , Ewa Lemańska (Maryna) , Marian Kociniak (murgrabia) , Mieczysław Czechowicz (hrabia Hortvath) , Janusz Bukowski (zbójnik Wróblik) , Jerzy Cnota (zbójnik Gąsior) , Janusz Kłosiński (zbójnik Kuśmider) , Marian Łącz (zbójnik Słowak)

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Writers: Tadeusz Kwiatkowski

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It Ain't Half Hot Mum

It Ain’t Half Hot Mum

Release Date: 1974-01-03

Genres: Comedy, War & Politics

“It Ain’t Half Hot Mum” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1974. Set during World War II, it follows a group of misfits who form a terrible concert party and entertain the troops in the steamy jungles of Burma. With a talented cast including Windsor Davies, Melvyn Hayes, and Don Estelle, get ready for a laughter-filled journey through the challenges and comedic adventures of this unique group.

Cast: Windsor Davies (Battery Sergeant-Major ‘Shut Up’ Williams) , Melvyn Hayes (Bombardier ‘Gloria’ Beaumont) , Don Estelle (Gunner ‘Lofty’ Sugden) , Donald Hewlett (Colonel Charles Reynolds) , Michael Knowles (Captain Jonathan Ashwood) , John Clegg (Gunner ‘Padoruski’ Graham) , Dino Shafeek (Char Wallah Muhammed) , Mike Kinsey (Gunner ‘Nosher’ Evans) , Kenneth MacDonald (Gunner ‘Nobby’ Clark) , Stuart McGugan (Gunner ‘Atlas’ Mackintosh) , Michael Bates (Rangi Ram) , Christopher Mitchell (Gunner ‘Parky’ Parkin) , George Layton (Bombardier ‘Solly’ Solomons)

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Tags: army, entertainer, asia, world war ii, india, military, sitcom, 1940s, period sitcom, indian

The Hidden Force

The Hidden Force

Release Date: 1974-09-09

Genres: Drama

“The Hidden Force” is a captivating TV show set in the Dutch East Indies during 1974. It follows the story of the Van Oudyck family, who find themselves entangled in a mysterious and powerful force that combines tropical magic, cultural differences, and a lack of understanding. With a talented cast including Bob de Lange, Pleuni Touw, and Willem Nijholt, this show promises to take you on a thrilling journey through the complexities of colonial life in the East Indies.

Cast: Bob de Lange (Van Oudijck) , Pleuni Touw (Leonie) , Willem Nijholt (Theo) , Astrid Ceuleers (Doddi) , Ton Kuyl (Paul van Hove) , Petra Laseur (Eva Eldersma) , Rien Frederiksz (Soenario) , Caro Van Eyck (De raden-ajoe pangéran) , Indra Kamadjojo (De regent van Ngadjiwa) , Hans Dagelet (Addy de Luce) , Elly Ruimschotel (Mevrouw van Does) , Lex van Delden (Eldersma) , Piet Kamerman (Dr. van Doorn) , Ingeborg Elzevier (Mevrouw van Doorn) , Rudolf Lucieer (Frans van Helderen) , Cisca Triezenberg (Ida van Helderen)

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Tags: based on novel or book, paranormal phenomena, black magic, indonesia, miniseries, colonialism, 19th century, java, indonesia

Rozhdyonnaya revolyutsiey

Rozhdyonnaya revolyutsiey

Release Date: 1974-11-10

Genres: Mystery, Drama, Crime

“Rozhdyonnaya revolyutsiey” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1974 and features an incredible cast including Yevgeni Zharikov, Natalya Gvozdikova, Viktor Shulgin, Vadim Medvedev, Uldis Pūcītis, Sergei Ivanov, and Kostiantyn Artemenko. Set against the backdrop of a revolution, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storyline. Tune in to witness the magic unfold on November 10, 1974, and discover why it made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Yevgeni Zharikov (Николай Фомич Кондратьев) , Natalya Gvozdikova (Мария Ивановна Кондратьева) , Viktor Shulgin (Алексей Бушмакин) , Vadim Medvedev (Нил Алексеевич Колычев) , Uldis Pūcītis (Степан Петрович Сергеев) , Sergei Ivanov (Афиноген Полюгаев) , Kostiantyn Artemenko (‘Gorodskoy’)

Directors: Hryhorii Kokhan

Writers: Aleksei Nagornyj, Geliy Ryabov

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