Back in Time Today
The 1970s were a time of wild creativity—and that includes television. While modern shows push the envelope in many ways, nothing quite compares to the utter weirdness that aired on TV when disco ruled the airwaves. From talking hats to creepy puppets, here are 15 of the strangest shows 1970s kids still can’t forget—whether they want to or not.
1. H.R. Pufnstuf
Imagine a world where a friendly dragon is the mayor, and everything has a life of its own. H.R. Pufnstuf is a classic Krofft Brothers’ creation that defined 1970s weird TV. Jimmy, a young boy, lands on the whimsical Living Island and must constantly evade an evil witch. The show features vibrant sets, talking trees, and psychedelic puppets that seem straight out of a fever dream. Though it started in ’69, its influence bled into the ’70s, embodying an era when creativity knew no bounds. This show was a blend of fantasy, adventure, and pure imaginative delight.
2. Lidsville
Picture a world where hats are more than mere accessories; they are sentient beings with personalities. Lidsville, another brainchild of the Krofft Brothers, explores this quirky premise. When a young boy tumbles into a giant magician’s hat, he discovers a realm teeming with anthropomorphic hats led by the villainous Horatio J. HooDoo. Each episode is a whimsical journey through this offbeat universe, where every hat has a story to tell. This show is a testament to the era’s penchant for bizarre and imaginative storytelling, captivating young minds with its eccentric charm.
3. The Bugaloos
Take a dash of The Monkees, sprinkle in some glitter, and add wings, and you’ve got The Bugaloos. This British-American musical series captured hearts with its blend of music and fantasy. The Bugaloos are a band of teens who dress as insects and live in a picturesque forest. Their harmonious tunes and whimsical adventures forged an indelible mark on 1970s TV. With catchy songs and colorful costumes, the show was a visual and auditory spectacle that transported viewers to a magical realm. It was a delightful blend of music, fantasy, and youthful exuberance.
4. Sigmund and the Sea Monsters
Meet Sigmund, a sea monster with a heart of gold, escaping his fearsome family. Sigmund and the Sea Monsters offers a playful yet surreal experience with its mix of humor and fantasy. The show follows Sigmund’s adventures as he finds refuge with Johnny and Scott, two kids who befriend him. The characters’ escapades are filled with comedic moments and whimsical sea creature costumes that toe the line between charming and eerie. The series’ unique blend of adventure and lightheartedness made it a beloved staple of 1970s children’s television, leaving a legacy of fun and friendship.
5. Land of the Lost
Adventure and mystery await in Land of the Lost, a show that whisked viewers away to a prehistoric realm. The series follows the Marshall family as they navigate a world filled with dinosaurs, time portals, and eerie Sleestaks. Despite its low-budget special effects, the show’s thrilling narrative and imaginative concept kept audiences captivated. Each episode offered a new adventure, blending the excitement of exploration with the intrigue of unknown worlds. This show was a daring leap into the fantastical, creating a lasting impact with its unique storytelling style and memorable characters.
6. The Banana Splits Adventure Hour
Step into the zany universe of The Banana Splits Adventure Hour, where costumed animal characters form a rock band. With catchy tunes, comedic sketches, and animated segments, this show offered a kaleidoscope of entertainment. The band’s theme song, “Tra La La,” became an earworm for 1970s kids, lingering in their minds long after the show ended. Its blend of music, humor, and vibrant visuals created an unforgettable viewing experience that was both whimsical and fun-filled. This show was a vibrant celebration of creativity and joy, capturing the essence of the era.
7. Far Out Space Nuts
Blast off into outer space with Far Out Space Nuts, a show that combined slapstick comedy and sci-fi adventure. Starring Bob Denver from Gilligan’s Island, the series follows two clumsy NASA workers who accidentally launch into space. Each episode is a comedic romp through the cosmos, featuring bizarre alien life and wacky mishaps. The show’s campy humor and imaginative concept made it a delightful escape for viewers, blending the wonders of space exploration with lighthearted fun. It was a perfect mix of humor and adventure, capturing the spirit of 1970s television.
8. Wonderbug
Meet Wonderbug, the fantastical car that transforms from a rusty old dune buggy into a lively crime-fighting vehicle. Three teenagers, Skip, Augie, and Kim, embark on thrilling adventures with their magical car, solving mysteries and battling villains. With its blend of action and humor, Wonderbug captured the imagination of young viewers, offering a joyride of excitement and adventure. The show’s unique premise and engaging characters made it a standout in children’s programming, blending the fantastical with the adventurous. It was a thrilling ride that left a lasting impression on its audience.
9. Dr. Shrinker
Shrink your imagination with Dr. Shrinker, a show where a mad scientist uses a shrinking ray on unsuspecting teenagers. Trapped on a remote island, the shrunken teens navigate a world of giant props and oversized obstacles. Each episode showcases their clever attempts to escape and return to normal size. The show’s imaginative sets and quirky concept offered a unique viewing experience, blending adventure and comedy in a delightful package. It was a whimsical journey into a miniature world, captivating audiences with its clever storytelling and creative visual effects.
10. Magic Mongo
Rub the bottle and unleash the chaos with Magic Mongo, a show featuring an unconventional genie. When three teens find Mongo’s bottle on the beach, they discover his magical powers come with a twist: hilarity ensues. Mongo’s attempts to grant wishes often lead to zany situations, adding a comedic flair to the series. The show’s lighthearted tone and engaging characters made it a favorite among young viewers, offering a mix of magic and humor. It was a fun-filled adventure that showcased the unpredictable nature of genie magic, leaving audiences entertained and amused.
11. The New Zoo Revue
Join Henrietta Hippo and Freddie the Frog in The New Zoo Revue, a show that combined education and entertainment. With its human-sized animal puppets, the series delivered life lessons through engaging skits and songs. The show’s playful tone and colorful visuals made learning fun, captivating young audiences with its unique approach. Each episode offered valuable messages, wrapped in whimsical performances and catchy tunes. It was an enchanting blend of education and amusement, creating a memorable viewing experience that left a positive impact on its viewers.
12. The Great Space Coaster
All aboard The Great Space Coaster, a whimsical ride through the cosmos with an eclectic cast of puppet characters. Though it premiered in the early ’80s, its late ’70s vibe made it a cultural touchstone of the era. The show featured a roller coaster that transported viewers to space, offering a unique mix of adventure and puppetry. Its imaginative concept and engaging storytelling captivated audiences, blending science fiction with playful antics. It was a cosmic journey that invited viewers to explore the wonders of the universe, sparking curiosity and imagination.
13. Monster Squad
Enter the world of Monster Squad, where classic monsters team up to fight crime in a groovy, Scooby-Doo-style format. Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Wolfman join forces with a young detective, creating a unique blend of horror and humor. The show’s quirky premise and charming characters offered a fresh take on monster tales, mixing mystery with comedy. It was a fun and spooky adventure that captivated audiences, blending the supernatural with the everyday. This show was a delightful mix of chills and chuckles, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.
14. Ark II
Hop aboard Ark II, a high-tech RV navigating a post-apocalyptic world to rebuild civilization. Led by a team of young scientists and their talking chimpanzee, the show tackled ecological themes with a futuristic twist. Each episode explored new challenges and adventures, blending action with social commentary. The show’s innovative concept and environmental themes made it ahead of its time, offering a unique perspective on the future. It was a daring exploration of humanity’s potential, capturing the imagination with its blend of science fiction and adventure.
15. The Lost Saucer
Journey through time with The Lost Saucer, a show featuring androids in a flying saucer on a quest through different eras. Starring Ruth Buzzi and Jim Nabors, the series tackled contemporary issues with a sci-fi twist. Each episode presented new adventures, often highlighting environmental and societal themes. The show’s imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking narratives offered a unique viewing experience, blending humor and science fiction. It was an engaging exploration of time and space, captivating audiences with its blend of entertainment and insight.