Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1975: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a groovy ride back to 1975, a golden era of television that gave us some of the most iconic shows in history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the ’70s or a curious millennial, this nostalgic countdown is sure to tickle your fancy. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the thrilling to the downright bizarre, these fan-favorite TV shows have left an indelible mark on pop culture. So, dust off your bell-bottoms, crank up the disco ball, and get ready to revisit the top 20 TV shows of 1975. It’s a list so good, you’ll wish you had a time machine! Let’s roll the credits and dive right in.
Fawlty Towers

Fawlty Towers

Release Date: 1975-09-19

Genres: Comedy

“Fawlty Towers” is a hilarious TV show from 1975 that revolves around the chaotic life of Basil Fawlty, the owner of a hotel. Alongside his wife Sybil, chambermaid Polly, and Spanish waiter Manuel, they navigate through a series of comical situations and deal with demanding guests. With a talented cast including John Cleese, Prunella Scales, and Connie Booth, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.

Cast: John Cleese (Basil Fawlty) , Prunella Scales (Sybil Fawlty) , Connie Booth (Polly Sherman) , Andrew Sachs (Manuel) , Ballard Berkeley (Major Gowen) , Brian Hall (Terry the Chef) , Gilly Flower (Miss Tibbs) , Renee Roberts (Miss Gatsby)

Directors: John Howard Davies

Writers:

Tags: hotel, waitress, married couple, slapstick comedy, chef, waiter, sitcom, angry, torquay, workplace comedy, devon

Survivors

Survivors

Release Date: 1975-04-16

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Survivors” is a gripping British post-apocalyptic TV series that aired from 1975 to 1977. Set in a world devastated by a deadly plague called “The Death,” the show follows a group of survivors as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding society. With a talented cast including Julie Neubert, Ian McCulloch, Lucy Fleming, and more, this thrilling series offers a captivating glimpse into a world on the brink of extinction.

Cast: Julie Neubert (Wendy) , Ian McCulloch (Greg Preston) , Lucy Fleming (Jenny Richards) , Denis Lill (Charles Vaughan) , Stephen Dudley (John Millon) , John Abineri (Hubert) , Lorna Lewis (Pet) , Gordon Salkilld (Jack)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: post-apocalyptic future, epidemic, plague

Rumpole of the Bailey

Rumpole of the Bailey

Release Date: 1975-12-17

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“Rumpole of the Bailey” is a beloved British TV show from 1975 that follows the adventures of Horace Rumpole, a witty and experienced London barrister played by Leo McKern. With a stellar cast including Derek Benfield, Moray Watson, and Peter Bowles, the show revolves around Rumpole defending a wide range of clients. This popular series has even inspired a collection of short stories, novels, and radio programs, making it a must-watch for fans of legal dramas.

Cast: Leo McKern (Horace Rumpole) , Derek Benfield () , Moray Watson () , Peter Bowles () , Bill Fraser () , Rosalyn Landor () , Patricia Hodge () , Julian Curry () , Robin Bailey () , Joanna Van Gyseghem () , Peter Blythe () , Maurice Denham () , Richard Murdoch () , Jonathan Coy () , Denys Graham () , Abigail McKern (Liz Probert) , Samantha Bond (Elizabeth ‘Mizz Liz’ Probert) , Marion Mathie ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

The Good Life

The Good Life

Release Date: 1975-04-04

Genres: Comedy

“The Good Life” is a beloved British sitcom that aired from 1975 to 1978. It follows the hilarious and heartwarming story of a couple named Tom and Barbara Good, played by Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal, who decide to leave their conventional city life behind and embrace self-sufficiency in their suburban home. With a talented cast, witty writing by Bob Larbey and John Esmonde, and its ranking as the 9th best sitcom in Britain, this show is a must-watch for fans of classic comedy.

Cast: Richard Briers (Tom Good) , Felicity Kendal (Barbara Good) , Paul Eddington (Jerry Leadbetter) , Penelope Keith (Margo Leadbetter)

Directors:

Writers: John Esmonde, Bob Larbey

Tags: upper class, sitcom, self sufficient

The Sweeney

The Sweeney

Release Date: 1975-01-02

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Crime

“The Sweeney” is a thrilling TV show from 1975 that follows the story of Jack Regan, a rule-breaking officer of the Flying Squad, as he goes after criminals alongside his partner, George Carter. With the talented actors John Thaw and Dennis Waterman leading the way, this action-packed series promises to keep you on the edge of your seat as they employ unorthodox methods to catch the bad guys.

Cast: John Thaw (Det. Insp. Jack Regan) , Dennis Waterman (Det. Sgt. George Carter)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Ellery Queen

Ellery Queen

Release Date: 1975-09-11

Genres: Mystery, Drama

“Ellery Queen” is a captivating American detective mystery series that aired on NBC during the 1975-76 television season. Starring Jim Hutton as the brilliant Ellery Queen, David Wayne as his father Inspector Richard Queen, and Tom Reese as Sgt. Velie, this show follows the adventures of the fictional character Ellery Queen as he solves perplexing crimes. What makes it even more intriguing is that Ellery Queen breaks the fourth wall, engaging the audience to ponder their own solutions. It premiered on September 11, 1975, and is definitely a must-watch for mystery enthusiasts!

Cast: David Wayne (Inspector Richard Queen) , Jim Hutton (Ellery Queen) , Tom Reese (Sgt. Thomas Velie)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: new york city, detective, writer, nypd, post world war ii, murder investigation, 1940s

The Jeffersons

The Jeffersons

Release Date: 1975-01-18

Genres: Comedy

“The Jeffersons” is a hilarious sitcom that aired in 1975 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the lives of George and Louise Jefferson, a successful African-American couple who make a big move from working-class Queens to a fancy Manhattan apartment. With a talented cast including Isabel Sanford, Sherman Hemsley, and Marla Gibbs, this spin-off of “All in the Family” is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and relatable characters.

Cast: Isabel Sanford (Louise Jefferson) , Sherman Hemsley (George Jefferson) , Roxie Roker (Helen Woodroow Willis) , Franklin Cover (Thomas “Tom” Willis) , Paul Benedict (Harry Bentley) , Marla Gibbs (Florence Johnston)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: new york city, sitcom

Welcome Back, Kotter

Welcome Back, Kotter

Release Date: 1975-09-09

Genres: Comedy

“Welcome Back, Kotter” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from September 9, 1975, to June 8, 1979. Starring Gabe Kaplan and a young John Travolta, the show revolves around a high school teacher, Mr. Kotter, who returns to his alma mater to teach a group of misfit students known as the “Sweathogs.” With a live studio audience, this sitcom promises plenty of laughter and memorable moments from its talented cast.

Cast: Gabe Kaplan (Gabe Kotter) , John Travolta (Vinnie Barbarino) , John Sylvester White (Michael Woodman) , Ron Palillo (Arnold Horshack) , Robert Hegyes (Juan Epstein) , Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs (Freddie Washington) , Marcia Strassman (Julie Kotter) , Stephen Shortridge (Beau Shortridge)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Starsky & Hutch

Starsky & Hutch

Release Date: 1975-09-10

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Starsky & Hutch” is a popular TV show from 1975 that made it to the list of the 20 best voted shows of that year. It follows the adventures of street-smart Detective David Starsky and his more intellectual partner, Kenneth ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson, as they work together to protect the citizens and patrol the streets of Bay City. Starring David Soul, Paul Michael Glaser, Antonio Fargas, and Bernie Hamilton, this action-packed series is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: David Soul (Kenneth Hutchinson) , Paul Michael Glaser (David Starsky) , Antonio Fargas (Huggy Bear Brown) , Bernie Hamilton (Harold Dobey)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: police

Barney Miller

Barney Miller

Release Date: 1975-01-23

Genres: Comedy

“Barney Miller” is a hilarious American sitcom that takes place in a police station located in Greenwich Village, New York City. The show, which aired from January 23, 1975, to May 20, 1982, on ABC, follows the daily lives and humorous encounters of the station’s staff. With a talented cast including Hal Linden, Max Gail, Ron Glass, Steve Landesberg, and Ron Carey, this series is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and relatable characters.

Cast: Hal Linden (Barney Miller) , Max Gail (Stan Wojciehowicz) , Ron Glass (Ron Harris) , Steve Landesberg (Arthur Dietrich) , Ron Carey (Carl Levitt)

Directors:

Writers: R.J. Colleary

Tags: police detective, police station, workplace comedy

Space: 1999

Space: 1999

Release Date: 1975-09-04

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Space: 1999” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1975. Set in the future, it follows the crew of Moonbase Alpha who find themselves in a desperate fight for survival after a massive explosion propels the Moon into deep space. With a talented cast including Martin Landau, Barbara Bain, Catherine Schell, and Tony Anholt, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storyline and exciting space adventures.

Cast: Martin Landau (John Koenig) , Barbara Bain (Helena Russell) , Catherine Schell (Maya) , Tony Anholt (Tony Verdeschi)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: future, moon, moon landing, space, moon base, space exploration, live on the moon

Czterdziestolatek

Czterdziestolatek

Release Date: 1975-05-16

Genres: Comedy

“Czterdziestolatek” is a Polish television comedy series that aired from 1974 to 1977. It follows the story of a Warsaw family and delves into the challenges of midlife crisis, including extramarital affairs, attempts to quit smoking, and concerns about hair loss. With a talented cast and 21 episodes, this popular show explores the humorous and relatable aspects of navigating life in your forties.

Cast: Andrzej Kopiczyński (Stefan Karwowski) , Anna Seniuk (Magda Karwowska) , Roman Kłosowski (Roman Maliniak) , Irena Kwiatkowska (Kobieta pracująca) , Grażyna Woźniak (Jagoda Karwowska) , Piotr Kąkolewski (Marek Karwowski) , Leonard Pietraszak (Doktor Karol Stelmach)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman

“Wonder Woman” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1975 and quickly became a fan favorite. Starring the talented Lynda Carter as the beautiful Amazon princess, the show follows her journey to 1940s America disguised as Diana Prince, where she works alongside the charming yet trouble-prone Major Steve Trevor. Equipped with incredible powers like the strength of Hercules and the wisdom of Athena, Wonder Woman fights against evil using her golden belt, bullet-deflecting bracelets, a lasso that reveals the truth, and even an invisible supersonic plane. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves action-packed adventures and strong female characters.

Cast: Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman / Diana Prince) , Lyle Waggoner (Steve Trevor)

Directors:

Writers: William Moulton Marston

Tags: strong woman, superhero, based on comic, super power

S.W.A.T.

S.W.A.T.

Release Date: 1975-02-24

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“S.W.A.T.” is an exciting American action/crime drama series that aired from February 1975 to April 1976. Set in an unidentified California city, it follows the thrilling adventures of a Special Weapons And Tactics team. Produced by Aaron Spelling and Leonard Goldberg, this spin-off of “The Rookies” features a talented cast including Steve Forrest, Robert Urich, Rod Perry, Mark Shera, and James Coleman. Get ready for action-packed episodes as this elite team takes on dangerous missions to maintain law and order in their city.

Cast: Steve Forrest (Lt. Dan “Hondo” Harrelson) , Robert Urich (Officer Jim Street) , Rod Perry (Sgt. David “Deacon” Kay) , Mark Shera (Officer Dominic Luca) , James Coleman (Officer T.J. McCabe)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Saturday Night Live

Saturday Night Live

Release Date: 1975-10-11

Genres: Comedy, News

“Saturday Night Live” is a legendary late-night TV show that has been entertaining audiences since 1975. Created by Lorne Michaels, it features a talented and ever-changing cast who perform hilarious comedy sketches that cleverly parody current culture and politics. With celebrity hosts, opening monologues, and musical performances, this variety show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and a glimpse into pop culture.

Cast: Michael Che (Self – Various Characters) , Mikey Day (Self – Various Characters) , Colin Jost (Self – Various Characters) , Cecily Strong (Self – Various Characters) , Kenan Thompson (Self – Various Characters) , Heidi Gardner (Self – Various Characters) , Ego Nwodim (Self – Various Characters) , Chloe Fineman (Self – Various Characters) , Bowen Yang (Self – Various Characters) , Andrew Dismukes (Self – Various Characters) , Punkie Johnson (Self – Various Characters) , James Austin Johnson (Self – Various Characters) , Sarah Sherman (Self – Various Characters) , Marcello Hernandez (Self – Various Characters) , Molly Kearney (Self – Various Characters) , Michael Longfellow (Self – Various Characters) , Devon Walker (Self – Various Characters)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: live, sketch comedy, skit, late-night show, live studio audience

The Secrets of Isis

The Secrets of Isis

Release Date: 1975-09-06

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Secrets of Isis” is a groundbreaking TV show that aired in 1975. It was the first American live-action series to feature a female superhero as the lead character. Starring JoAnna Cameron, Brian Cutler, Ronalda Douglas, and Albert Reed Jr., the show captivated audiences with its thrilling adventures and empowering storyline.

Cast: JoAnna Cameron (Andrea Thomas / Isis) , Brian Cutler (Rick Mason) , Ronalda Douglas (Rennie Carol) , Albert Reed Jr. (Dr. Barnes)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: strong woman, superhero

Poldark

Poldark

Release Date: 1975-10-05

Genres: Drama

“Poldark” is a captivating period drama series that aired in 1975. Set in the backdrop of a post-war era, it delves into the intense rivalry between Ross Poldark, a former soldier, and George Warleggan, a local industrialist. This show beautifully portrays the complexities of their lives, entangled with two remarkable women. With a stellar cast including Ralph Bates, Robin Ellis, Jill Townsend, Angharad Rees, Clive Francis, Nicola Wheeler, and Judy Geeson, “Poldark” is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.

Cast: Ralph Bates (George Warleggan) , Robin Ellis (Ross Poldark) , Jill Townsend (Elizabeth Warleggan / Elizabeth Poldark / Elizabeth Chynoweth) , Angharad Rees (Demelza) , Clive Francis (Francis Poldark) , Nicola Wheeler () , Judy Geeson (Caroline Penvenen / Caroline Enys)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: england, period drama, costume drama

Switch

Switch

Release Date: 1975-09-09

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Switch” is a hilarious and action-packed detective series that aired from 1975 to 1978. Starring the dynamic duo of Eddie Albert and Robert Wagner, the show follows their adventures as private eyes who specialize in pulling off clever sting operations. With a tongue-in-cheek approach and a stellar cast including Charlie Callas, Sharon Gless, James Hong, and William Bryant, “Switch” is a must-watch for fans of thrilling and comedic TV shows.

Cast: Robert Wagner (Pete Ryan) , Eddie Albert (Frank MacBride) , Charlie Callas (Malcolm Argos) , Sharon Gless (Maggie Philbin) , James Hong (Wang) , William Bryant (Lieutenant Shilton)

Directors:

Writers:

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

One Day at a Time

One Day at a Time

Release Date: 1975-12-16

Genres: Comedy

“One Day at a Time” is a heartwarming TV show that aired in 1975. It follows the misadventures of a divorced mother, her two teenage daughters, and the new building superintendent in Indianapolis. With a talented cast including Bonnie Franklin, Valerie Bertinelli, Pat Harrington Jr., Mackenzie Phillips, Boyd Gaines, Howard Hesseman, Michael Lembeck, and Nanette Fabray, this show is sure to keep you entertained and laughing.

Cast: Bonnie Franklin (Ann Romano) , Valerie Bertinelli (Barbara Cooper) , Pat Harrington, Jr. (Dwayne Schneider) , Mackenzie Phillips (Julie Cooper) , Boyd Gaines (Mark Royer) , Howard Hesseman (Sam Royer) , Michael Lembeck (Max Horvath) , Nanette Fabray (Katherine Romano)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: single mother, sitcom

Baretta

Baretta

Release Date: 1975-01-17

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Baretta” is a popular American detective TV show that aired from 1975 to 1978. It was a revamped version of the successful series “Toma” and starred Robert Blake as the lead character. The show gained popularity for its milder approach compared to its predecessor, which had faced criticism for its realistic portrayal of police and criminal violence. With Dana Elcar also in the cast, “Baretta” became a hit among viewers when it premiered on January 17, 1975.

Cast: Robert Blake (Det. Tony Baretta) , Dana Elcar (Inspector Shiller)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: police detective

This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB.