Wow! Where do I begin? Sonny and Cher, Laugh-In, Ed Sullivan, Archie Bunker, The Jeffersons, MASH, Starsky and Hutch, Magnum PI, Gilligan’s Island, and so many more.
When I think back to the television I grew up with, it really was something special. The shows were funny, clever, and sometimes a little outrageous. They reflected the time we lived in, and that’s what made them great.
Of course, a lot of those shows wouldn’t make it on air today. Times have changed and so have expectations about what’s appropriate. Humour back then was often full of teasing and playful remarks. It wasn’t meant to offend anyone. It was just part of the easygoing spirit of the time, and people usually took it that way.
Take The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour. Cher’s outfits were bold for the era, but she looked stunning, and no one could wear them quite like her. The banter between Sonny and Cher was quick and funny. They teased each other in a way that made audiences laugh right along with them.
Then there was All in the Family with Archie Bunker. That show pushed boundaries and got people talking about real issues, even if it made some uncomfortable. It was a reflection of the world at that time. You might not agree with everything that was said, but it showed the value of honest conversation — and a good laugh.
MASH is still one of my favourites. It balanced humour with heartfelt moments and showed that laughter could exist even in the toughest situations. Some of the jokes would probably raise eyebrows today, but it was done with heart and purpose.
Looking back, I realize those shows were more than just entertainment. They were part of the culture, part of how we connected and laughed together. They might not fit into today’s world the same way, but they remind me of a simpler, more relaxed time.
It really was a wonderful time to grow up.
As Tigger would say, “TTFN, Ta-ta for now!”