26 Forgotten Sitcoms That Were Once Very Popular
Ah, sitcoms! The laughter, the canned applause, the bygone days when we rushed home to catch our favorite shows. While some sitcoms have remained household names, others have slipped through the cracks of our collective memory.
Join me on a nostalgic journey as we reminisce about 26 sitcoms that once ruled our TV screens but are now tucked away in the annals of television history.
Who knows, you might just find a forgotten gem worth rewatching!
1. “WKRP in Cincinnati”
Remember when radio was king? “WKRP in Cincinnati” took us behind the scenes at a struggling radio station. Dr. Johnny Fever spinning records and Les Nessman’s news antics brought the chaos of broadcasting to life.
The show’s humor was as electric as a live broadcast, with characters as varied as a playlist. And let’s not forget that turkeys can’t fly!
For a sitcom about radio, it had viewers tuning in—every week.
2. “Perfect Strangers”
Cousin Larry and Balki’s odd couple dynamic was a recipe for hilarity in “Perfect Strangers.” Balki’s naivety and Larry’s skepticism clashed like cymbals in a marching band.
Every episode was a dance of cultural misunderstandings and slapstick comedy. Who could forget the “Dance of Joy”?
Their journey from strangers to friends charmed audiences, proving friendship transcends differences.
Dust off this gem and enjoy the antics anew.
3. “Designing Women”
The Sugarbaker women were fierce, fabulous, and not afraid to speak their minds in “Designing Women.” Julia’s commanding monologues were legendary, while Suzanne’s beauty queen antics added flair.
This sitcom tackled social issues with wit sharper than a sewing needle.
Their Southern charm and cutting humor made us feel like part of the family. It’s a design worth revisiting!
4. “Murphy Brown”
“Murphy Brown” redefined the workplace sitcom. Tough-as-nails journalist Murphy Brown wasn’t afraid to ruffle feathers—or hair.
Her newsroom was a circus of quirky characters and real-world issues. The laughs were as sharp as Murphy’s wit.
Candice Bergen’s portrayal made Murphy a feminist icon, inspiring aspiring journalists everywhere.
Drop by “FYI” sometime and soak in the headlines!
5. “Family Ties”
“Family Ties” was a comedic tug-of-war between hippie parents and their Reagan-loving son. Alex P. Keaton’s conservative views clashed hilariously with his parents’ liberal ideals.
The show blended humor with heartfelt moments, exploring family dynamics with a light touch.
It was the perfect snapshot of 1980s America. Who wouldn’t want to visit the Keatons again?
6. “Night Court”
Step into the eccentric world of “Night Court,” where justice was served with a side of laughter. Judge Harry Stone’s courtroom was a parade of oddballs and zany cases.
Bull’s childlike innocence and Dan’s sleazy charm added to the hilarity.
The blend of slapstick and satire made it a late-night favorite. Court is now in session for a rewatch!
7. “The Hogan Family”
“The Hogan Family” captured the chaos of raising three teenage boys. Valerie Harper’s departure led to Sandy Duncan stepping in, but the family’s heart remained intact.
The sitcom was a delightful mix of comedy and heartfelt family moments.
Who could resist the antics of the Hogan boys and their quirky housekeeper?
It’s a family reunion worth attending!
8. “The Wonder Years”
The Wonder Years” was a nostalgic trip through the 1960s, seen through Kevin Arnold’s eyes. His journey from childhood to adolescence was filled with humor and heartache.
Narrated by an adult Kevin, the show offered wisdom with a wink.
Whether it was family dinners or first crushes, each episode resonated with authenticity.
Stroll back to the Arnolds’ neighborhood.
9. “ALF”
Who could forget ALF, the wisecracking alien with a taste for cats? This sitcom brought extraterrestrial humor to suburbia.
The Tanner family’s attempts to hide ALF from the government were laugh-out-loud funny.
ALF’s antics were as unpredictable as a UFO sighting, keeping viewers hooked.
Beam ALF back into your orbit!
10. “Wings”
Taking off from a small Nantucket airport, “Wings” brought sibling rivalry to new heights. Joe and Brian Hackett’s airline adventures were full of turbulence and laughs.
With a cast of eccentric characters, the show was a comedy runway success.
Whether it was love triangles or mechanical mishaps, “Wings” soared effortlessly.
Fasten your seatbelt for nostalgia!
11. “Coach”
“Coach” was a touchdown in the world of sitcoms. Hayden Fox’s antics on and off the football field were a comedic playbook.
Balancing sports and personal life, Coach Fox tackled life’s challenges with humor and heart.
With a team of lovable misfits, every episode scored points.
Ready for a locker room pep talk?
12. “Bosom Buddies”
Before Tom Hanks was a Hollywood icon, he was in “Bosom Buddies,” a sitcom about two men posing as women.
In a hilarious twist, they lived in an all-female apartment complex.
The show was a comedic commentary on gender roles and friendship.
It’s a buddy comedy with a twist worth revisiting!
13. “The Bob Newhart Show”
Bob Newhart’s dry wit was the beating heart of “The Bob Newhart Show.” As a psychologist, Bob navigated a sea of eccentric patients and colleagues.
His unbelievable delivery made every punchline a bullseye.
The sitcom excelled in understated comedy, keeping viewers chuckling in therapy.
Schedule a session with Dr. Hartley today!
14. “The Facts of Life”
“The Facts of Life” taught us that growing up isn’t always easy, but it’s certainly entertaining.
Mrs. Garrett’s wisdom guided the girls through life’s twists and turns.
The show’s real charm was its ability to tackle serious topics with humor and sensitivity.
Learn the facts of life all over again!
15. “Charles in Charge”
“Charles in Charge” put a charming spin on household management. Charles, the college student-turned-nanny, juggled his own life while keeping the family in line.
His knack for problem-solving made every episode delightful.
With humor and warmth, Charles held the family together.
Put Charles back in charge of your viewing list!
16. “Growing Pains”
“Growing Pains” was the quintessential family sitcom. The Seaver family’s ups and downs captured the essence of suburban life.
Mike’s rebellious antics and Jason’s fatherly wisdom were the perfect blend of mischief and heart.
The laughs and lessons made it a beloved favorite.
Check in with the Seavers once more!
17. “Silver Spoons”
“Silver Spoons” was a lavish look into the life of a rich kid and his playful father. Ricky’s adventures were a mix of extravagance and childhood wonder.
The mansion was a playground for both kids and dreams.
With humor as rich as the decor, it offered a delightful peek into wealth and whimsy.
Step into the mansion again!
18. “Taxi”
This show took viewers on a comedic ride through the daily grind of New York cabbies. The Sunshine Cab Company was home to a motley crew of characters.
The sitcom’s humor was as unpredictable as traffic on Broadway.
From Louie’s gruff demeanor to Latka’s quirks, “Taxi” was a fare worth every minute.
Hail a cab back to the depot!
19. “Laverne & Shirley”
“Laverne & Shirley” was a laugh-a-minute tour of friendship and frolics. These best friends tackled life’s challenges with gusto and giggles.
From brewery antics to apartment mishaps, their escapades were a comedy cocktail.
Their friendship bubbled like soda pop.
Join Laverne & Shirley for another round of fun!
20. “The Golden Girls”
“The Golden Girls” proved that age is just a number when it comes to comedy. Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia’s escapades were as golden as their friendship.
Their humor was timeless, with wit sharper than a coconut.
Whether it was cheesecake or dating disasters, each episode sparked a laugh riot.
Thank you for being a friend—again!
21. “Diff’rent Strokes”
“Diff’rent Strokes” brought humor and heart to the tale of two brothers from Harlem adopted by a wealthy businessman.
Arnold’s catchphrase, “What’chu talkin’ ‘bout, Willis?” became a cultural touchstone.
The show tackled important issues with warmth and wit.
Experience the strokes of genius again with the Drummond family!
22. “Mad About You”
It was a love letter to married life. Paul and Jamie Buchman’s relationship was filled with comedic charm and relatable moments.
Their New York City apartment was a stage for laughter and love.
With a blend of humor and tenderness, the sitcom captured partnership’s essence.
Fall madly in love with it all over again!
23. “The Jeffersons”
“The Jeffersons” moved on up to our hearts with humor and sass. George and Louise’s rise to success was a comedic triumph.
Their dynamic was as lively as the streets of New York.
With sharp wit and social commentary, each episode left a lasting impression.
Join the Jeffersons in their deluxe apartment once more!
24. “Three’s Company”
It was a comedy of errors and misunderstandings. Jack, Janet, and Chrissy’s living arrangement was a recipe for laughter.
Their landlord’s suspicions added spice to the mix.
With slapstick humor and witty dialogue, the sitcom defined classic comedy.
Come and knock on their door once more!
25. “Cheers”
“Cheers” was the place where everybody knew your name—and your drink order. Sam, Diane, and the gang’s camaraderie was as refreshing as a cold beer.
The bar was a haven for laughs and life lessons.
With a cast of characters as rich as a stout, “Cheers” built a sitcom sanctuary.
Pull up a stool and join the fun again!
26. “Happy Days”
Finally, “Happy Days” was a nostalgic ride through the 1950s, with the Fonz leading the way. Richie, Potsie, and Ralph’s adventures were a jukebox of laughs.
The sitcom’s feel-good vibe was as catchy as a rock ‘n’ roll tune.
A trip to Arnold’s was always in order.
Relive the happiest days with the Cunningham family!