Back in Time Today
The 1970s and 1980s were a golden era of television, bringing forth iconic shows and unforgettable characters.
Among these characters, many sidekicks managed to capture the audience’s hearts, even outshining the main characters they were meant to support.
These sidekicks, with their unique personalities and memorable performances, became stars in their own rights. In this post, we celebrate 15 such TV sidekicks from the ’70s and ’80s who left an indelible mark on pop culture.
1. Huggy Bear from ‘Starsky & Hutch’
Huggy Bear, played by Antonio Fargas, was the stylish informant in ‘Starsky & Hutch’. His vibrant fashion and street-smart attitude made him a fan favorite. Huggy’s tips often provided crucial leads to the main characters, Starsky and Hutch, showcasing his significance to the show’s plot.
Despite being a sidekick, Huggy’s charisma and humor often stole the scene. Audiences were drawn to his clever quips and resourcefulness. His character reflected the vibrant street culture of the ’70s, adding authenticity to the series.
Antonio Fargas’s portrayal of Huggy Bear has left a lasting legacy, making him an iconic TV sidekick.
2. Edith Bunker from ‘All in the Family’
Edith Bunker, portrayed by Jean Stapleton, was the heart of ‘All in the Family’. Her unwavering kindness and patience balanced the often controversial opinions of her husband, Archie Bunker. Edith’s gentle wisdom and compassion resonated with viewers.
Her character offered a soothing contrast to the show’s tense moments, often diffusing arguments with her innocent yet insightful comments. Edith’s unique perspective and unwavering love for her family endeared her to audiences.
Jean Stapleton’s performance made Edith a beloved character, symbolizing warmth and tolerance amid the show’s social critiques.
3. Fonzie from ‘Happy Days’
Arthur Fonzarelli, or the Fonz, played by Henry Winkler, became the epitome of cool in ‘Happy Days’. His leather jacket and motorcycle were iconic, and his catchphrase “Ayyy!” became synonymous with the show.
Fonzie’s character evolved from a supporting role to a central figure due to his immense popularity. His loyalty and unexpected wisdom made him relatable and beloved by viewers. Fonzie’s interactions with Richie and the gang added depth to the show’s dynamics.
Henry Winkler’s portrayal of Fonzie turned the character into a cultural icon, forever remembered as one of TV’s greatest sidekicks.
4. Tattoo from ‘Fantasy Island’
Tattoo, played by Hervé Villechaize, was the enthusiastic and loyal assistant to Mr. Roarke on ‘Fantasy Island’. His signature call, “The plane! The plane!”, greeted guests each episode, becoming a highlight of the show.
Tattoo’s energy and charm brought a sense of wonder and excitement to the island’s mysteries. His interactions with guests and Mr. Roarke added humor and warmth to the series.
Hervé Villechaize’s unforgettable performance made Tattoo a standout character, his enthusiasm and charm leaving a lasting impression on fans of the show.
5. Willona Woods from ‘Good Times’
Willona Woods, played by Ja’net DuBois, was the sassy and outspoken neighbor on ‘Good Times’. Her bold fashion and quick wit made her a standout character, often providing comic relief.
Willona’s unwavering support for the Evans family showcased her loyalty and kindness. Her strong personality and hilarious comebacks endeared her to audiences, adding depth and richness to the show.
Ja’net DuBois’s performance as Willona left a lasting impact, her character becoming a symbol of strength, friendship, and humor in the face of adversity.
6. Della Street from ‘Perry Mason’
Della Street, portrayed by Barbara Hale, was the efficient and resourceful secretary to Perry Mason. Her intelligence and dedication were crucial to solving the legal mysteries on the show.
Della’s calm demeanor and keen insight helped Mason navigate complex cases, often providing key information that led to breakthroughs. Her loyalty and professionalism were unmatched.
Barbara Hale’s portrayal of Della Street showcased the importance of strong female roles in television, proving that sidekicks could be as impactful as their leading counterparts.
7. Louie De Palma from ‘Taxi’
Louie De Palma, played by Danny DeVito, was the gruff and manipulative dispatcher on ‘Taxi’. His sharp tongue and scheming nature made him a memorable character.
Despite his often abrasive demeanor, Louie’s interactions with the taxi drivers provided humor and unexpected depth. His complex personality revealed glimpses of vulnerability, adding layers to his role.
Danny DeVito’s performance as Louie De Palma turned the character into a beloved anti-hero, his antics and one-liners becoming iconic in television history.
8. Barney Rubble from ‘The Flintstones’
Barney Rubble, voiced by Mel Blanc, was Fred Flintstone’s loyal best friend. His cheerful personality and easy-going nature provided a perfect balance to Fred’s often hot-headed demeanor.
Barney’s adventures with Fred highlighted the duo’s strong friendship, often leading to comedic escapades. His supportive nature and infectious laugh made him a beloved character among viewers.
Mel Blanc’s iconic voice work brought Barney Rubble to life, ensuring his place as an unforgettable sidekick in animated television history.
9. Dr. Watson from ‘Sherlock Holmes’
Dr. John Watson, portrayed by David Burke and later Edward Hardwicke, was the steadfast companion to Sherlock Holmes. His medical expertise and storytelling skills were vital to their crime-solving duo.
Watson’s loyalty and bravery complemented Holmes’s brilliance, making them an iconic team. His narration brought a human touch to their adventures, engaging audiences with his perspective.
Both Burke and Hardwicke’s portrayals of Dr. Watson enriched the character, highlighting his significance as a sidekick who truly outshone in his own subtle, supportive way.
10. Kimberly Drummond from ‘Diff’rent Strokes’
Kimberly Drummond, played by Dana Plato, was the compassionate and nurturing sister in ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. Her understanding nature and willingness to help her adopted brothers were central to the show’s themes.
Kimberly’s character often addressed serious topics, providing wisdom beyond her years. Her interactions with her family highlighted her maturity and empathy.
Dana Plato’s performance as Kimberly made her a beloved and memorable character, whose kindness and strength resonated with audiences, cementing her place as a standout sidekick.
11. Pamela Barnes Ewing from ‘Dallas’
Pamela Barnes Ewing, portrayed by Victoria Principal, was a key character in ‘Dallas’. Her marriage to Bobby Ewing linked her to the powerful Ewing family, and her strong-willed nature made her a fan favorite.
Pam’s character navigated the complex dynamics of the Ewing family, often standing her ground against formidable opponents. Her resilience and grace under pressure earned her respect and admiration.
Victoria Principal’s portrayal of Pamela added depth to the series, her character’s journey resonating with viewers and making her one of the show’s standout sidekicks.
12. George Costanza from ‘Seinfeld’
George Costanza, played by Jason Alexander, was Jerry Seinfeld’s neurotic best friend in ‘Seinfeld’. His exaggerated personality and endless schemes provided endless comedy.
George’s flaws and insecurities were relatable, making him an endearing character despite his often selfish motives. His friendship with Jerry was central to the show’s humor and dynamics.
Jason Alexander’s performance as George made him one of TV’s most iconic sidekicks, his antics and memorable quotes leaving a lasting legacy in comedic television.
13. Klinger from ‘M*A*S*H’
Maxwell Klinger, played by Jamie Farr, was the cross-dressing corporal in ‘M*A*S*H’. His outrageous outfits were part of his scheme to get discharged, bringing humor to the series.
Klinger’s antics and resilience in the face of war added a unique layer to the show’s commentary on military life. His loyalty and surprising resourcefulness made him a beloved character.
Jamie Farr’s portrayal of Klinger infused the character with warmth and humor, ensuring his place as a standout sidekick in television history.
14. The Great Gazoo from ‘The Flintstones’
The Great Gazoo, voiced by Harvey Korman, was the tiny alien who appeared in ‘The Flintstones’. His advanced technology and sarcastic wit added a new dimension to the show.
Gazoo’s interactions with Fred and Barney often led to comedic situations, his superior intellect clashing with their simple-minded antics. His character brought a futuristic twist to the prehistoric setting.
Harvey Korman’s voice work made The Great Gazoo a memorable character, his unique presence adding humor and intrigue to the classic animated series.
15. Cooter Davenport from ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’
Cooter Davenport, played by Ben Jones, was the trustworthy mechanic in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’. His mechanical skills and helpful nature made him an essential ally to the Duke boys.
Cooter’s resourcefulness and loyalty often saved the day, helping the Dukes out of tight spots. His down-to-earth charm and friendliness made him a favorite among fans.
Ben Jones’s portrayal of Cooter brought authenticity to the Southern setting, his character’s ingenuity and warmth solidifying his status as an iconic sidekick.