Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1979: A Nostalgic Rewind!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the tape all the way back to 1979 – a year of disco, bell-bottoms, and some of the most iconic TV shows to ever grace our screens. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the thrilling to the downright bizarre, 1979 had it all. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan looking to relive the glory days, or a curious newcomer eager to explore the classics, you’re in for a treat. We’ve dusted off the archives and compiled a list of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from this unforgettable year. So, grab your popcorn, adjust your rabbit ears, and prepare to be transported back to a time when TV was less about reality shows and more about real entertainment. Let’s dive into the world of 1979 television, one unforgettable show at a time!
The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed

The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed

“The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed” is a thrilling TV show set in post-WWII Moscow, following the story of young officer Volodya Sharapov as he joins the Moscow Criminal Police. Teaming up with the experienced chief Gleb Zheglov, they embark on a mission to track down the notorious gang “Chernaya Koshka” and solve the mysterious murder of Larisa Gruzdeva. With a talented cast including Vladimir Vysotsky and Vladimir Konkin, this captivating series, released on November 11, 1979, will keep you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful plot and intriguing characters.

Cast: Vladimir Vysotsky (Глеб Жеглов) , Vladimir Konkin (Владимир Шарапов) , Aleksandr Belyavskiy (Евгений Фокс) , Armen Dzhigarkhanyan (“Горбатый”) , Sergei Yursky (Груздев) , Tatyana Tkach (Anna Petrovna Dyachkova) , Viktor Pavlov (Левченко) , Leonid Kuravlyov (“Kopchyony”) , Evgeniy Evstigneev (Петя ручников) , Larisa Udovichenko (Manka “Obligatsiya”) , Stanislav Sadalskiy (Kostya “Kirpich” Saprykin) , Valeriya Zaklunnaya (“Hunchback”‘s girlfriend) , Zinoviy Gerdt (Mikhail Mikhaylovich) , Aleksandr Abdulov (driver for the gang) , Ekaterina Gradova (Woman with “Ruchechnik”) , Ivan Bortnik (“Promokashka”) , Oleksandr Milyutin (Иван Пасюк) , Vladlen Paulus (эксперт-криминалист Родионов) , Lev Perfilov (Гриша Ушивин)

Directors: Stanislav Govorukhin

Writers: Arkadiy Vayner, Georgiy Vayner

Tags: criminal

The Sacketts

The Sacketts

Release Date: 1979-05-15

Genres: Western

“The Sacketts” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the post-Civil War era in New Mexico. Based on the novels by Louis L’Amour, it follows the adventures of the three Sackett brothers as they navigate the Wild West, seeking their fortunes, seeking justice for a family tragedy, herding cattle, and upholding law and order. With an incredible cast including Sam Elliott, Tom Selleck, and Glenn Ford, this sagebrush saga is a must-watch for fans of thrilling Western tales.

Cast: Sam Elliott (Tell Sacket) , Tom Selleck (Orrin Sackett) , Jeff Osterhage (Tyrel Sackett) , Glenn Ford (Tom Sunday) , Ben Johnson (Cap Rountree) , Gilbert Roland (Don Luis Alvarado) , John Vernon (Jonathan Pritts) , Ruth Roman (Rosie) , Jack Elam (Ira Bigelow) , Gene Evans (Benson Bigelow) , L.Q. Jones (Belden) , Paul Koslo (Kid Newton) , Mercedes McCambridge (Ma Sackett) , Slim Pickens (Jack Bigelow) , Pat Buttram (Tuthill) , James Gammon (Wes Bigelow) , Buck Taylor (Reed Carney) , Lee de Broux (Simpson) , Marcy Hanson (Laura Pritts) , Ana Alicia (Drusilla) , Wendy Rastattar (Ange Kerry) , Shug Fisher (Purgatorie Barkeep) , Frank Ramírez (Juan Torres) , Ramon Chavez (Pete Romero) , Henry Capps (Boyd)

Directors: Robert Totten

Writers: Jim Byrnes, Louis L’Amour

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D'Artagnan and Three Musketeers

D’Artagnan and Three Musketeers

Release Date: 1979-12-25

Genres: Action & Adventure

“D’Artagnan and Three Musketeers” is a thrilling TV show set in 17th century France. It follows the courageous musketeers as they face off against the powerful Cardinal Richelieu and the deceitful Milady. With a star-studded cast and its release in 1979, this action-packed series is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Mikhail Boyarskiy (Dartanyan) , Venyamin Smekhov (Athos) , Igor Starygin (Aramis) , Valentin Smirnitskiy (Porthos) , Irina Alfyorova (Costance Bonacieux) , Alisa Freyndlikh (Queen Anne of Austria) , Margarita Terekhova (Milady de Winter) , Oleg Tabakov (King Louis XIII) , Lev Durov (de Treville) , Aleksandr Trofimov (Cardinal Richelieu) , Leonid Kanevskiy (Monsieur Bonacieux) , Vladimir Balon (Jussac) , Yelena Tsyplakova (Katie) , Boris Klyuev (Rochefort) , Aleksei Kuznetsov (Buckingham) , William De Vital (Mushketeer) , Yuriy Dubrovin (La Chesnaye) , Anatoliy Khodyushin () , E. Kovderer () , I. Krinsky () , Serhii Kustov () , Valery Lysenkov () , G. Makovej () , Valeriy Myshastyy (Father of d’Artagnan) , N. Pavlyuk ()

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Writers: Alexandre Dumas

Tags: based on novel or book, musical, musketeer, swashbuckler, foreign language adaptation, palace intrigue, 17th century

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Release Date: 1979-09-10

Genres: War & Politics, Drama, Mystery

“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” is a gripping TV show that takes us back to the Cold War era. It follows George Smiley, a retired master spy who is called back into action to uncover a mole within the Circus, a top-level intelligence agency. With an incredible cast led by Alec Guinness, this 1979 release keeps you on the edge of your seat as Smiley delves into his past and navigates the treacherous world of espionage to expose the mole before it’s too late.

Cast: Alec Guinness (George Smiley) , Michael Jayston (Peter Guillam) , Anthony Bate (Oliver Lacon) , George Sewell (Mendel) , Bernard Hepton (Toby Esterhase) , Ian Richardson (Bill Haydon) , Hywel Bennett (Ricki Tarr) , Terence Rigby (Roy Bland) , Ian Bannen (Jim Prideaux) , Michael Aldridge (Percy Alleline) , Alec Sabin (Fawn) , Alexander Knox (Control) , Beryl Reid (Connie Sachs) , Joss Ackland (Jerry Westerby) , Warren Clarke (Alwyn) , Thorley Walters (Tufty Thessinger) , John Standing (Sam Collins) , Patrick Stewart (Karla) , Siân Phillips (Ann Smiley)

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Writers: Arthur Hopcraft, John le Carré

Tags: great britain, espionage, spy, cold war, traitor, kgb, miniseries, mole

Prisoner: Cell Block H

Prisoner: Cell Block H

Release Date: 1979-02-26

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Prisoner: Cell Block H” is a gripping Australian soap opera that takes place in the Wentworth Detention Centre, a fictional women’s prison. With a talented cast including Gerda Nicolson, Maggie Kirkpatrick, and Janet Andrewartha, this show delves into the lives of the inmates and the challenges they face behind bars. Released in 1979, it quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of the year, captivating audiences with its compelling storyline and talented actors.

Cast: Gerda Nicolson (Ann Reynolds) , Maggie Kirkpatrick (Joan “The Freak” Ferguson) , Janet Andrewartha (Reb Kean) , Elspeth Ballantyne (Meg Morris / Meg Jackson) , Louise Siversen (Lou Kelly) , Glenda Linscott (Rita Connors) , Lois Collinder (Alice “Lurch” Jenkins) , Julia Blake (Nancy McCormack) , Gerard Maguire (Jim Fletcher) , Pepe Trevor (Lexie Patterson) , Joy Westmore (Joyce Barry / Joyce Pringle) , Peter Adams (Bob Moran) , Kylie Belling (Sarah West)

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Tags: prison, women’s prison, working class

Roots: The Next Generations

Roots: The Next Generations

Release Date: 1979-02-18

Genres: Drama

“Roots: The Next Generations” is a captivating television miniseries that aired in 1979. It continues the fictionalized story of Alex Haley’s family, spanning from 1882 to the 1960s in Tennessee, USA. With a stellar cast including Georg Stanford Brown, Olivia de Havilland, and Henry Fonda, this sequel to the 1977 miniseries is based on Haley’s novel and features additional material. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the compelling saga of an American family.

Cast: Georg Stanford Brown (Tom Harvey) , Olivia de Havilland (Mrs. Warner) , Henry Fonda (Col. Frederick Warner) , Paul Koslo (Earl Crowther) , Avon Long (Chicken George Moore) , Lynne Moody (Irene Harvey) , Greg Morris (Beeman Jones) , Marc Singer (Andy Warner) , Richard Thomas (Jim Warner) , Fay Hauser (Carrie Barden) , Brian Stokes Mitchell (John Dolan) , Debbi Morgan (Elizabeth Harvey) , Kathleen Doyle (Lucy Damson) , Ja’net DuBois (Sally Harvey) , Slim Gaillard (Sam Wesley) , Harry Morgan (Bob Campbell) , Roger E. Mosley (Lee Garnet) , Stan Shaw (Will Palmer) , Irene Cara (Bertha Palmer Haley) , James Daly (R.S.M. Boyce) , Ossie Davis (Dad Jones) , Ruby Dee (Queen Victoria Haley) , Dorian Harewood (Simon Haley) , Kene Holliday (Detroit) , George Voskovec (Mr. Goldstein)

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Writers: Alex Haley

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Benson

Benson

Release Date: 1979-09-13

Genres: Comedy

“Benson” is a classic TV show from 1979 that revolves around the life of a butler working at the governor’s mansion. With a talented cast including Robert Guillaume, James Noble, Inga Swenson, Missy Gold, René Auberjonois, and Billie Bird, this series promises to deliver a delightful blend of comedy and drama. Tune in to witness the hilarious and sometimes chaotic adventures that unfold in this beloved show.

Cast: Robert Guillaume (Benson DuBois) , James Noble (Governor Eugene Xavier Gatling) , Inga Swenson (Gretchen Kraus) , Missy Gold (Katie Gatling) , René Auberjonois (Clayton Endicott III) , Billie Bird (Rose Cassidy)

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The Dukes of Hazzard

The Dukes of Hazzard

Release Date: 1979-01-26

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Comedy

“The Dukes of Hazzard” is a beloved TV show from 1979 that follows the adventures of cousins Bo and Luke Duke, along with their trusty car “General Lee.” Together with their cousin Daisy and Uncle Jesse, they constantly find themselves in trouble with the authorities of Hazzard County, including the conniving Boss Hogg and Sheriff Coltrane. With a mix of action, comedy, and a touch of country music from Waylon Jennings, this show is a must-watch for fans of classic TV.

Cast: Tom Wopat (Luke Duke) , John Schneider (Bo Duke) , Catherine Bach (Daisy Duke) , Denver Pyle (Jesse Duke) , Ben Jones (Cooter Davenport) , Sorrell Booke (Boss Hogg) , James Best (Rosco P. Coltrane) , Sonny Shroyer (Enos Strate) , Waylon Jennings (The Balladeer)

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Tags: farm, uncle, cousin cousin relationship

Sapphire & Steel

Sapphire & Steel

Release Date: 1979-07-10

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Sapphire & Steel is a captivating British TV series that aired from 1979 to 1982. Starring David McCallum as Steel and Joanna Lumley as Sapphire, the show combines science-fiction and fantasy elements to create an intriguing storyline. Created by Peter J. Hammond, the series follows the adventures of the time-traveling duo as they solve mysteries and confront supernatural phenomena. If you’re a fan of thrilling and imaginative television, this is definitely a show worth checking out!”

Cast: David McCallum (Steel) , Joanna Lumley (Sapphire)

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Not The Nine O'Clock News

Not The Nine O’Clock News

Release Date: 1979-10-16

Genres: Comedy

“Not The Nine O’Clock News” is a hilarious sketch comedy show that aired in 1979. It cleverly satirizes the news and culture of the late 70s and early 80s, introducing us to talented actors like Rowan Atkinson, Mel Smith, Griff Rhys Jones, Pamela Stephenson, and Chris Langham. If you’re in the mood for some classic comedy that will transport you back in time, this is definitely a show worth checking out!

Cast: Rowan Atkinson () , Mel Smith () , Pamela Stephenson () , Griff Rhys Jones () , Chris Langham ()

Directors:

Writers: Rowan Atkinson

Tags: satire, sketch comedy

You Can't Do That on Television

You Can’t Do That on Television

Release Date: 1979-02-03

Genres: Comedy

“You Can’t Do That on Television” is a Canadian sketch comedy TV show that first aired in 1979. It featured talented pre-teen and teenaged actors, including future stars like Alanis Morissette. The show had a unique format with each episode revolving around a different theme, and it became extremely popular, even launching the careers of many performers. It aired on Ottawa’s CTV station and later gained international recognition.

Cast: Christine McGlade () , Les Lye () , Adam Greydon Reid () , Lisa Ruddy () , Alasdair Gillis () , Ruth Buzzi () , Klea Scott () , Alanis Morissette () , Matthew Godfrey () , Vanessa Lindores () , Vik Sahay () , Abby Hagyard ()

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The Facts of Life

The Facts of Life

Release Date: 1979-08-24

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“The Facts of Life” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1979 to 1988, making it the longest-running sitcom of the 1980s. Set in an all-female boarding school in Peekskill, New York, the show follows Edna Garrett, played by Cloris Leachman, as she becomes a housemother at the school. With a talented cast including Lisa Whelchel, Kim Fields, Mindy Cohn, Nancy McKeon, Mackenzie Astin, and Sherrié Austin, this show is a must-watch for fans of heartwarming and hilarious sitcoms.

Cast: Cloris Leachman (Beverly Ann Stickle) , Lisa Whelchel (Blair Warner) , Kim Fields (Tootie Ramsey) , Mindy Cohn (Natalie Green) , Nancy McKeon (Joanne Jo Polniaczek) , Mackenzie Astin (Andy Moffett) , Sherrié Austin (Pippa McKenna)

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Tags: boarding school, wealthy, sitcom, all girls school

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century

“Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1979. It follows the story of Buck Rogers, an astronaut from the 20th century who wakes up 500 years later due to a mishap. As he returns to a post-nuclear war Earth, Buck teams up with starfighter pilot Colonel Wilma Deering and their trusty robot companion Twiki to protect our planet and battle evil across the galaxy. With a talented cast including Gil Gerard and Erin Gray, this show is a must-watch for fans of action-packed adventures set in the future.

Cast: Gil Gerard (Buck Rogers) , Erin Gray (Wilma Deering) , Wilfrid Hyde-White (Dr. Goodfellow) , Thom Christopher (Hawk) , Jay Garner (Admiral Efram Asimov) , Felix Silla (Twiki)

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Tags: future, time travel, extraterrestrial, alien invasion, space opera, planetary romance

Tales of the Unexpected

Tales of the Unexpected

Release Date: 1979-03-24

Genres: Drama

“Tales of the Unexpected” is a captivating British TV show that aired in 1979. With its anthology format, each episode tells a different story filled with suspense, dark humor, and a surprising twist at the end. The series, featuring renowned guest stars, was even written and presented by the famous author Roald Dahl in its early episodes.

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Tags: anthology

Salem's Lot

Salem’s Lot

Release Date: 1979-11-17

Genres: Mystery, Drama

“Salem’s Lot” is a thrilling TV show from 1979 that follows Ben Mears, a writer who returns to his hometown to investigate the haunted Marsten House. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a shocking truth – the mansion’s owner is a vampire, transforming the townspeople into his undead minions. Starring David Soul, James Mason, and Bonnie Bedelia, this chilling series will keep you on the edge of your seat with its supernatural twists and turns.

Cast: David Soul (Ben Mears) , James Mason (Richard K. Straker) , Lance Kerwin (Mark Petrie) , Bonnie Bedelia (Susan Norton) , Lew Ayres (Jason Burke) , Julie Cobb (Bonnie Sawyer) , Elisha Cook Jr. (Gordon ‘Weasel’ Phillips) , George Dzundza (Cully Sawyer) , Ed Flanders (Dr. Bill Norton) , Clarissa Kaye-Mason (Majorie Glick) , Geoffrey Lewis (Mike Ryerson) , Barney McFadden (Ned Tibbets) , Kenneth McMillan (Constable Parkins Gillespie) , Fred Willard (Larry Crockett) , Marie Windsor (Eva Miller) , Reggie Nalder (Kurt Barlow) , Barbara Babcock (June Petrie) , Bonnie Bartlett (Ann Norton) , Joshua Bryant (Ted Petrie) , James Gallery (Father Donald Callahan) , Robert Lussier (Deputy Constable Nolly Gardner) , Brad Savage (Danny Glick) , Ronnie Scribner (Ralphie Glick) , Ned Wilson (Henry Glick)

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Writers: Paul Monash, Stephen King

Tags: based on novel or book, vampire, home, return, menace, antiquary, house, miniseries, writer, new england, hometown, horror

Hart to Hart

Hart to Hart

Release Date: 1979-09-22

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Crime

“Hart to Hart” is a captivating TV show from 1979 that follows the thrilling adventures of Jonathan and Jennifer Hart, a wealthy couple who lead a double life as amateur detectives. With Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers as the lead actors, and the witty Lionel Stander as their sidekick, this show promises a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and intrigue. Tune in to witness the Harts’ exciting escapades as they solve crimes while navigating their glamorous lifestyle.

Cast: Robert Wagner (Jonathan Hart) , Stefanie Powers (Jennifer Hart) , Lionel Stander (Max)

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Tags: journalist, husband wife relationship, detective, amateur detective, investigation, murder, theft, millionaire

Trapper John, M.D.

Trapper John, M.D.

Release Date: 1979-09-23

Genres: Drama

“Trapper John, M.D.” is a heartwarming American medical drama that aired from September 1979 to September 1986. It is a spin-off of the popular film MASH and follows the story of a beloved doctor who becomes a mentor and father figure in San Francisco, California. With a talented cast including Pernell Roberts, Gregory Harrison, and Madge Sinclair, this show is sure to captivate you with its touching storyline and memorable characters.

Cast: Pernell Roberts (“Trapper” John McIntyre) , Gregory Harrison (George Alonzo ‘Gonzo’ Gates) , Madge Sinclair (Ernestine Shoop, R. N.) , Charles Siebert (Stanley Riverside III) , Brian Stokes Mitchell (Justin “Jackpot” Jackson) , Timothy Busfield (J.T. McIntyre Jr.) , Lorna Luft (Libby Kegler) , Kip Gilman (Jacob Christmas)

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Tags: san francisco, california, hospital, doctor, medical drama

To the Manor Born

To the Manor Born

Release Date: 1979-09-30

Genres: Comedy

“To the Manor Born” is a delightful sitcom that aired in 1979 and quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of the year. It revolves around the amusing love-hate dynamic between Audrey fforbes Hamilton, an upper-class woman who reluctantly sells her manor house to Richard DeVere, a nouveau rich businessman. With a stellar cast including Penelope Keith and Peter Bowles, this show promises plenty of laughs and entertaining moments as these two characters navigate their new circumstances.

Cast: Ben Aris (Spalding) , Peter Bowles (Richard DeVere) , Penelope Keith (Audrey fforbes-Hamilton) , Angela Thorne (Marjory Frobisher) , Daphne Oxenford (Mrs. Polouvicka) , Michael Bilton (Ned) , John Rudling (Brabinger) , Daphne Heard (Mrs. Polouvicka) , Gerald Sim () , Alexander Armstrong (Adam fforbes-Hamilton)

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Tags: middle class, rural area, manor, sitcom

Knots Landing

Knots Landing

Release Date: 1979-12-27

Genres: Drama, Soap

“Knots Landing” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1979. Set in a small California community, it follows the daily lives and interactions of five families residing on a cul-de-sac. With a talented cast including Michele Lee, Ted Shackelford, Kevin Dobson, William Devane, Nicollette Sheridan, Michelle Phillips, Stacy Galina, and Kathleen Noone, this series promises to take you on a rollercoaster of domestic adventures and misdeeds.

Cast: Michele Lee (Karen MacKenzie) , Ted Shackelford (Gary Ewing) , Kevin Dobson (M. Patrick McKenzie) , William Devane (Greg Sumner) , Nicollette Sheridan (Paige Matheson) , Michelle Phillips (Anne Matheson) , Stacy Galina (Kate Whittaker) , Kathleen Noone (Claudia Whittaker)

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Tags: los angeles, california, spin off

Minder

Minder

Release Date: 1979-10-29

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Action & Adventure

“Minder” is a hilarious comedy drama series that aired in 1979. It follows the adventures of Terry McCann, a former boxer with a criminal record, and Arthur Daley, a shrewd second-hand car dealer. Together, they get involved in various business schemes, with Arthur often hiring Terry as a bodyguard. The show stars George Cole, Gary Webster, and Glynn Edwards, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for some entertaining 70s TV!

Cast: George Cole (Arthur Daley) , Gary Webster (Ray) , Glynn Edwards (Dave)

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Tags: london, england, police, businessman, fight, gangster, bodyguard, flat, boxer, import, love-hate relationship, money, urban, car salesman, caper comedy, con, dealer, small time crook, scheme, cigar smoker, export

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