Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1978: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a groovy ride back to 1978, an era when disco was king, bell-bottoms were in, and television was a treasure trove of unforgettable shows. Before the days of binge-watching and streaming, we had to wait a whole week for the next episode of our favorite series. Can you imagine? So, dust off your lava lamps, adjust your rabbit ear antennas, and prepare for a nostalgic journey as we countdown the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1978. From laugh-out-loud sitcoms to edge-of-your-seat dramas, these shows not only defined a year, but an entire generation. So, without further ado, let’s rewind the tape and revisit the shows that had us glued to our screens and talking around the water cooler the next day. Ready? Let’s roll!
Matador

Matador

Release Date: 1978-11-11

Genres: Drama

“Matador” is a Danish TV series that aired from 1978 to 1982. Set in the fictional Danish town of Korsbæk between 1929 and 1947, it follows the lives of various characters, with a focus on the rivalry between two businessmen and their families. Directed by Erik Balling and featuring a talented cast, the show combines melodrama and Danish humor to accurately portray a turbulent period in Denmark’s history, including the Great Depression and Nazi Germany’s occupation. It has become a beloved and popular example of Danish television.

Cast: Holger Juul Hansen (Hans Christian Varnæs) , Malene Schwartz (Maude Varnæs) , Helle Virkner (Elisabeth Friis) , Jørgen Buckhøj (Mads Andersen-Skjern) , Ghita Nørby (Ingeborg Skjern) , Kirsten Olesen (Agnes Jensen) , Elin Reimer (Laura Larsine Sørensen) , Jesper Langberg (Kristen Andersen-Skjern) , Karin Nellemose (Misse Møhge) , Ove Sprogøe (Dr. Louis Hansen) , Buster Larsen (Oluf Larsen) , Bent Mejding (Jørgen Varnæs) , Kurt Ravn (Lauritz Jensen) , Lily Broberg (Katrine Larsen) , Sonja Oppenhagen (Vicki Hachel) , John Hahn-Petersen (Mr. Stein) , Anne Jensen (Gudrun) , Susse Wold (Birgitte Graa) , Per Pallesen (Severin Boldt)

Directors: Erik Balling

Writers: Lise Nørgaard

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Monkey

Monkey

“Monkey” is a beloved TV show from 1978 that follows the adventures of Buddhist priest Tripitaka and his three disciples Monkey, Pigsy, and Sandy. Sent by Buddha, they embark on a journey from China to India to retrieve the sacred Buddhist scriptures, with the aim of bringing peace to the world. With a talented cast including Masaaki Sakai, Masako Natsume, and Shiro Kishibe, this show is a delightful blend of fantasy, adventure, and spirituality that captivated audiences during its release.

Cast: Masaaki Sakai (Monkey) , Masako Natsume (Tripitaka) , Shiro Kishibe (Sandy) , Toshiyuki Nishida (Pigsy) , Takayuki Akutagawa (Narrator) , Shunji Fujimura (Horse) , David Collings (Voice of Monkey) , Gareth Armstrong (Voice of Sandy) , Peter Woodthorpe (Voice of Pigsy) , Miriam Margolyes (Narator) , Andrew Sachs (Voice of Horse / Yu-Lung)

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Writers: Wu Cheng’en

Tags: martial arts, kung fu, based on novel or book, buddhism, legend, mythology, mongolia, monkey, journey to the west, saiyuki, chinese mythology

Message from Space: Galactic Wars

Message from Space: Galactic Wars

Release Date: 1978-07-08

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Message from Space: Galactic Wars” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1978. Set in the 15th solar system, it follows the invasion of the Stressos and the brave resistance led by Ryû, Ayato, and Baru, a man-ape. Their fight against the invaders is aided by the enigmatic Eolia, who travels on a magnificent three-masted space ship. With a talented cast including Ryō Nishida, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Akira Oda, this show promises an exciting adventure through the depths of space.

Cast: Ryō Nishida (Baru) , Hiroyuki Sanada (Hayato) , Akira Oda (Ryu) , Yôko Akitani (Sofia) , Shinzo Hotta (Koger) , Jiro Shirai (Igar) , Ritsuko Fujiyama (Kunoi) , Iwao Tabuchi (TONTO (voce))

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Tags: space war, space western, spaceship

Against the Wind

Against the Wind

Release Date: 1978-09-12

Genres: Drama

“Against the Wind” is a captivating Australian mini-series that takes us back to the historical events of 1978. Set against the backdrop of British rule in Ireland and the development of New South Wales and Australia, this gripping drama follows the lives of Jonathan Garrett, played by the talented Jon English, and his companions as they navigate through challenging times. With an impressive cast, including Mary Larkin, Kerry McGuire, and Bryan Brown, this award-winning series offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is now available on DVD for viewers in Australia, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and North America.

Cast: Jon English (Jonathan Garrett) , Mary Larkin (Mary Mulvane) , Kerry McGuire (Polly McNamara) , Warwick Sims (Ensign Greville) , Hu Pryce (Jonas Pike) , Gerard Kennedy (Dinny O’Byrne) , Frederick Parslow (Captain Wiltshire) , Bryan Brown (Michael Connor) , Julia Blake (Cook) , Frank Gallacher (Will Price)

Directors: George T. Miller, Simon Wincer

Writers: Paul Davies, Peter A. Kinloch, Ian Jones, Bronwyn Binns, Tony Morphett, Cliff Green, Tom Hegarty

Tags: australia, miniseries, rum rebellion, first settlers

Pennies from Heaven

Pennies from Heaven

Release Date: 1978-03-07

Genres: Drama

“Pennies from Heaven” is a captivating 1978 BBC television drama serial written by Dennis Potter. Set in the 1930s, this unique show combines reality with a touch of dark fantasy as the characters burst into miming to popular songs from that era. With a talented cast including Bob Hoskins, Cheryl Campbell, and Gemma Craven, this series takes you on a mesmerizing journey through a world where dreams and reality intertwine.

Cast: Bob Hoskins (Arthur Parker) , Cheryl Campbell (Eileen) , Gemma Craven (Joan Parker) , Kenneth Colley (The Accordion Man) , Jenny Logan (Irene) , Hywel Bennett (Tom) , Peter Cellier (Bank Manager) , Bill Dean (Alf) , Philip Locke (Farmer) , Bella Emberg (Mrs Corder) , John Ringham (Sergeant) , Roger Brierley (Estate Agent) , Roy Boyd (Bert) , Michael Bilton (Dad) , Freddie Jones (Headmaster) , Tony Caunter (Cafe Proprietor) , Keith Marsh (Will) , Peter Bowles (Prosecuting Counsel) , Nigel Havers (Conrad Baker) , Ronald Fraser (Major Archibald Paxville) , Philip Jackson (Dave) , Yolande Palfrey (Blind Girl) , Paddy Joyce (Tramp) , Rosemary Martin (Marjorie) , Robert Putt (Jumbo)

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Tags: london, england, accordion, surreal, miniseries, traveling salesman, 1930s

All Creatures Great and Small

All Creatures Great and Small

Release Date: 1978-01-08

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“All Creatures Great and Small” is a beloved British TV series that aired in 1978. Based on the books by veterinary surgeon Alf Wight, who wrote under the name James Herriot, the show follows the adventures of a young vet in the picturesque countryside. With a talented cast including Lynda Bellingham, Robert Hardy, Christopher Timothy, Peter Davison, and Jean Heywood, this heartwarming series is sure to captivate animal lovers and fans of British television.

Cast: Lynda Bellingham (Helen Herriot) , Robert Hardy (Siegfried Farnon) , Christopher Timothy (James Herriot) , Peter Davison (Tristan Farnon) , Jean Heywood (Mrs Alton)

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Tags: veterinarian, country life, yorkshire, based on memoir or autobiography

Centennial

Centennial

“Centennial” is a captivating TV show that takes us on a journey through the growth of Centennial, Colorado, showcasing the lives of its courageous residents. Spanning two centuries, from the 1700s to the late 1970s, this series explores the economic and cultural development of the town. With an incredible cast including Robert Conrad, Richard Chamberlain, and Raymond Burr, “Centennial” offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of a community.

Cast: Robert Conrad (Pasquinel) , Richard Chamberlain (Alexander McKeag) , Raymond Burr (James Clark) , Sally Kellerman (Lise Bockweiss) , Barbara Carrera (Clay Basket) , Richard Crenna (Colonel Frank Skimmerhorn) , Donald Pleasence (Sam Purchas) , Alex Karras (Hans Brumbaugh) , Lynn Redgrave (Charlotte Buckland Seccombe) , Chad Everett (Major Maxwell Mercy) , Stephanie Zimbalist (Elly Zendt) , Brian Keith (Sheriff Axel Dumire) , Dennis Weaver (R.J. Poteet) , Mark Harmon (Captain John McIntosh) , Cliff DeYoung (John Skimmerhorn) , Gregory Harrison (Levi Zendt) , Pernell Roberts (General Asher) , Timothy Dalton (Oliver Seccombe) , Andy Griffith (Professor Lewis Vernor) , David Janssen (Narrator) , Lois Nettleton (Maude Wendell) , Cristina Raines (Lucinda McKeag Zendt) , Anthony Zerbe (Mervin Wendell) , Merle Haggard (Cisco Calendar) , William Atherton (Jim Lloyd)

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Writers: James Michener

Tags: epic, based on novel or book, colorado, fur trapping, miniseries, wild west, family saga

A.E.S. Hudson Street

A.E.S. Hudson Street

Release Date: 1978-03-16

Genres:

“A.E.S. Hudson Street” is a hilarious American comedy TV show that aired on ABC in 1978. Set to tickle your funny bone, this show follows the misadventures of a group of talented actors including Bob Dishy, F. Murray Abraham, and Susan Peretz. Tune in on Thursday nights at 9:30 pm to enjoy this laughter-filled half-hour sitcom.

Cast: Bob Dishy () , F. Murray Abraham () , Allan Miller () , Ralph Manza () , Susan Peretz () , Stefan Gierasch () , Rosanna DeSoto () , Gregory Sierra () , William Cort () , Ray Stewart ()

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The Kenny Everett Video Show

The Kenny Everett Video Show

Release Date: 1978-07-03

Genres: Comedy

“The Kenny Everett Video Show, which aired from 1978 to 1981, was a popular British comedy and music program. Hosted by the talented Kenny Everett, it brought laughter and entertainment to viewers with its unique blend of humor and musical performances. With its catchy tunes and hilarious sketches, this show was definitely a must-watch during its time!”

Cast: Kenny Everett (Self / Various Characters)

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Writers: Barry Cryer, Ray Cameron, Kenny Everett

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Going Straight

Going Straight

Release Date: 1978-02-24

Genres: Comedy

“Going Straight” is a hilarious BBC sitcom that serves as a spin-off from the popular show “Porridge.” Starring Ronnie Barker as Norman Stanley Fletcher, the series follows his journey to become an honest member of society after being released from Slade Prison. With a talented cast including Nicholas Lyndhurst, Richard Beckinsale, and Patricia Brake, this six-episode series, released in 1978, attracted over 15 million viewers and even won a BAFTA award. Sadly, hopes for a further series were dashed due to Beckinsale’s untimely death.

Cast: Nicholas Lyndhurst (Raymond) , Ronnie Barker (Norman Stanley Fletcher) , Patricia Brake (Ingrid) , Richard Beckinsale (Lenny Godber) , David Swift (Mr McEwan)

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Tags: daughter, sequel, family, ex-con, sitcom, teenage son

WKRP in Cincinnati

WKRP in Cincinnati

Release Date: 1978-09-18

Genres: Comedy

“WKRP in Cincinnati” is a hilarious and quirky TV show that aired in 1978. Set in a Cincinnati radio station, the series follows the adventures of a group of eccentric characters as they navigate the switch from calm music to lively rock ‘n’ roll. With a new programming director, a burned-out veteran DJ, a neurotic newsman, an eager beaver, a sleazy salesman, a blonde bombshell receptionist, and a domineering station manager, this show promises a lot of laughs and unexpected moments. Starring Gary Sandy, Howard Hesseman, Tim Reid, Loni Anderson, Frank Bonner, Gordon Jump, Richard Sanders, and Jan Smithers, “WKRP in Cincinnati” is a must-watch for fans of classic TV shows.

Cast: Gary Sandy (Andy Travis) , Howard Hesseman (Dr. Johnny Fever) , Tim Reid (Venus Flytrap) , Loni Anderson (Jennifer Marlowe) , Frank Bonner (Herb Tarlek) , Gordon Jump (Arthur Carlson) , Richard Sanders (Les Nessman) , Jan Smithers (Bailey Quarters)

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Tags: radio, sitcom, workplace comedy

Holocaust

Holocaust

Release Date: 1978-04-16

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Holocaust” is a gripping TV show set in 1935 Berlin, Germany, during the rise of the Nazi regime. It follows the intertwined lives of Karl Weiss, a Jewish painter, and Inga Helms, a Christian woman, as they navigate the horrors of World War II and the devastating impact of the Holocaust. With a stellar cast including Meryl Streep, this powerful drama sheds light on the tragic events of the time and the personal struggles faced by individuals caught in the maelstrom of history.

Cast: Tom Bell (Adolf Eichmann) , Joseph Bottoms (Rudi Weiss) , Tovah Feldshuh (Helena Slomová) , Rosemary Harris (Berta Palitz Weiss) , Tony Haygarth (Heinz Müller) , Michael Moriarty (Erik Dorf) , Deborah Norton (Marta Dorf) , George Rose (Lowy) , Robert Stephens (Uncle Kurt Dorf) , Meryl Streep (Inga Helms Weiss) , Sam Wanamaker (Moses Weiss) , David Warner (Heydrich) , Fritz Weaver (Dr. Josef Weiss) , James Woods (Karl Weiss)

Directors:

Writers: Gerald Green

Tags: berlin, germany, husband wife relationship, based on novel or book, nazi, warsaw ghetto, ss (nazi schutzstaffel), holocaust (shoah), world war ii, jew persecution, auschwitz-birkenau concentration camp, male friendship, miniseries, historical drama, 1940s, warsaw, poland, 1930s

Spider-Man

Spider-Man

“Spider-Man” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1978 and follows the adventures of Takuya Yamashiro, a former motorcycle racer turned superhero. Join him as he battles the notorious Iron Cross Army, swinging and slinging his way through action-packed episodes. While it may not be the Spiderman we’re used to, this fun and frantic series is definitely worth a watch, and the best part is, it’s free!

Cast: Shinji Tôdô (Takuya Yamashiro) , Mitsuo Andô (Professor Monster) , Yukie Kagawa (Amazoness) , Rie Rinehart (Rita) , Tina Margo (Bella) , Toru Ohira (Narrator) , Rika Miura (Hitomi Sakuma (voice)) , Izumi Oyama (Shinko Yamashiro (voice)) , Yoshiharu Yabuki (Takuji Yamashiro) , Noboru Nakaya (Jūzō Mamiya) , Hirofumi Koga (Spider-Man (suit actor))

Directors:

Writers: Saburo Yatsude

Tags: superhero, based on comic, mecha, giant robot, henshin heroes, tokusatsu

Taxi

Taxi

Release Date: 1978-09-12

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Taxi” is a hilarious and heartwarming TV show set in 1978 New York City. It revolves around Louie De Palma, a grumpy taxi dispatcher, and the quirky group of drivers who work for him. As they navigate the chaotic streets, they form an unlikely bond, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. With a talented cast including Judd Hirsch, Danny DeVito, Marilu Henner, Tony Danza, Andy Kaufman, Christopher Lloyd, and Carol Kane, this show is a must-watch for its witty humor and endearing characters. Premiering on September 12, 1978, it quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of the year.

Cast: Judd Hirsch (Alex Reiger) , Danny DeVito (Louie De Palma) , Marilu Henner (Elaine O’Connor-Nardo) , Tony Danza (Tony Banta) , Andy Kaufman (Latka Gravas) , Christopher Lloyd (Reverend Jim “Iggy” Ignatowski) , Carol Kane (Simka Gravas)

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Writers: Earl Pomerantz, David Davis, Michael J. Leeson, Ian Praiser, Barton Dean, Stan Daniels, Holly Holmberg Brooks, Ellen Sandler, Dennis Danzinger, Ed. Weinberger

Tags: new york city, taxi driver, sitcom

Vega$

Vega$

Release Date: 1978-09-20

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Vega$ is a thrilling detective drama series that aired from 1978 to 1981. Set in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, it follows the adventures of private detective Dan Tanna, played by the talented Robert Urich. With his iconic red 1957 Ford Thunderbird, Tanna solves crimes and brings justice to the bustling streets of Las Vegas, making it a safer place for both locals and tourists. Produced by Aaron Spelling, this show is believed to be the first ever to be entirely filmed in Las Vegas, adding an authentic touch to its captivating storyline.”

Cast: Robert Urich (Dan Tanna) , Bart Braverman (Bobby ‘Binzer’ Borso) , Phyllis Davis (Beatrice Travis) , Greg Morris (Lt. David Nelson) , Naomi Stevens (Sgt. Bella Archer) , Tony Curtis (Roth)

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Tags: las vegas, private detective

Blake's 7

Blake’s 7

Release Date: 1978-01-02

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Blake’s 7” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1978. Set in a futuristic world, it follows a group of convicts and outcasts who bravely rebel against the oppressive Terran Federation. With an advanced alien spaceship as their secret weapon, they engage in a guerrilla war, making for an action-packed and suspenseful series. The show features an incredible cast, including Josette Simon, Michael Keating, Paul Darrow, Peter Tuddenham, Steven Pacey, and Glynis Barber.

Cast: Josette Simon (Dayna Mellanby) , Michael Keating (Vila Restal) , Paul Darrow (Kerr Avon) , Peter Tuddenham (Slave / ORAC) , Steven Pacey (Del Tarrant) , Glynis Barber (Soolin)

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Tags: spacecraft, crew, space, convict

Battlestar Galactica

Battlestar Galactica

Release Date: 1978-09-17

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Battlestar Galactica” is an exciting sci-fi TV show that aired in 1978. It follows Commander Adama and his crew aboard the battlestar Galactica as they lead a group of human survivors in their quest to find Earth, a legendary planet. With a talented cast including Lorne Greene, Dirk Benedict, and Richard Hatch, this show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling space adventures.

Cast: Lorne Greene (Commander Adama) , Dirk Benedict (Lt. Starbuck) , Richard Hatch (Capt. Apollo) , Maren Jensen (Lt. Athena) , Herbert Jefferson Jr. (Lt. Boomer) , Terry Carter (Colonel Tigh) , Noah Hathaway (Boxey) , Tony Swartz (Flight Sargeant Jolly) , John Colicos (Count Baltar) , Patrick Macnee (Opening Credit Announcer (voice)) , Laurette Spang (Cassiopeia)

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Tags: space opera, cybernetic

Mork & Mindy

Mork & Mindy

Release Date: 1978-09-14

Genres: Comedy

“Mork & Mindy” is a beloved American science fiction sitcom that aired from 1978 to 1982 on ABC. Starring the legendary Robin Williams as Mork, an alien from the planet Ork, and Pam Dawber as his human friend and roommate Mindy McConnell, this hilarious show follows Mork’s adventures on Earth after arriving in a small, egg-shaped spaceship. With its witty humor and unforgettable characters, it’s no wonder that one of its episodes even made it to TV Guide’s list of the 100 Greatest Episodes of All Time.

Cast: Robin Williams (Mork) , Pam Dawber (Mindy McConnell) , Conrad Janis (Fred McConnell) , Ralph James (Orson (Voice))

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Tags: alien

Butterflies

Butterflies

Release Date: 1978-11-10

Genres: Comedy

“Butterflies” is a delightful TV show from 1978 that revolves around Ria Parkinson, a housewife and mother who yearns for excitement in her life. She often escapes her mundane routine by meeting with a wealthy businessman named Leonard. With a clueless dentist husband, two unemployed sons, and a cast of charming characters, this show offers a humorous and relatable portrayal of family dynamics and the desire for something more. Starring Wendy Craig, Geoffrey Palmer, Nicholas Lyndhurst, and a talented ensemble, “Butterflies” premiered on November 10, 1978, and is sure to keep you entertained with its witty storytelling.

Cast: Wendy Craig (Ria Parkinson) , Geoffrey Palmer (Ben Parkinson) , Nicholas Lyndhurst (Adam Parkinson) , Andrew Hall (Russell Parkinson) , Bruce Montague (Leonard Dunn) , Michael Ripper (Thomas) , Joyce Windsor (Ruby) , Brian Murphy () , Patrick McAlinney () , Cindy Oswin ()

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Tags: adultery, housewife, family, dentist, sitcom, bored housewife, butterfly collector

The White Shadow

The White Shadow

Release Date: 1978-11-27

Genres: Drama

“The White Shadow” is an American drama TV show that aired from November 27, 1978, to March 16, 1981. Starring Ken Howard, Kevin Hooks, Byron Stewart, Timothy Van Patten, Stoney Jackson, Ed Bernard, Erik Kilpatrick, Nathan Cook, Ira Angustain, and Ken Michelman, this series follows the story of a former professional basketball player who becomes a high school basketball coach in a racially diverse inner-city school. With its engaging storyline and talented cast, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1978.

Cast: Ken Howard (Ken Reeves) , Kevin Hooks (Morris Thorpe) , Byron Stewart (Warren Coolidge) , Timothy Van Patten (Mario ‘Salami’ Pettrino) , Stoney Jackson (Jesse B. Mitchell) , Ed Bernard (Jim Willis) , Erik Kilpatrick (Curtis Jackson) , Nathan Cook (Milton Reese) , Ira Angustain (Ricky Gomez) , Ken Michelman (Abner Goldstein) , Joan Pringle (Sybil Buchanan) , Jason Bernard (Jim Willis) , Wolfe Perry (Teddy Rutherford)

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Writers: Mark Tinker, Steven Bochco

Tags: high school, sports, basketball, los angeles, california

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