Back in Time Today
The year 1979 was a vibrant time for television, with a lineup of charismatic figures that captivated the hearts and minds of teenagers. This period marked an era of unforgettable TV icons who not only dominated the small screen but also influenced pop culture in extraordinary ways.
Their characters became household names, and their styles were emulated by fans everywhere. From charming heroes to quirky comedians, these personalities left a lasting impression that still resonates today. Here’s a look at 20 TV icons from 1979 that teens couldn’t stop talking about.
1. Scott Baio – Chachi Arcola
Scott Baio burst onto the scene as Chachi Arcola in Happy Days, capturing the hearts of teens everywhere. His boyish charm and confident swagger made him an instant teen idol. Chachi’s leather jacket and cool demeanor were iconic, and every teen wanted to emulate his style. Baio’s portrayal was more than just a character; it was a cultural phenomenon. His charisma and relatable persona resonated deeply with young audiences. Whether it was his romantic entanglements or his comedic timing, Chachi became a symbol of youthful rebellion and charm in the late 70s.
2. Erik Estrada – Officer Frank Poncherello
Erik Estrada’s portrayal of Officer Frank Poncherello in CHiPs was nothing short of legendary. With his rugged good looks and charismatic personality, Estrada became a household name. Riding the highways of California on his motorcycle, Ponch was every teen’s dream cop. His adventures were filled with action and excitement, making him a staple of teen conversations. Estrada’s flair and charm made the character unforgettable. Teens admired his bravery and wished for his daring spirit. Ponch was not just a TV character; he was an icon of the era.
3. Shaun Cassidy – Joe Hardy
In The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Shaun Cassidy brought Joe Hardy to life with a sense of adventure and intelligence that captivated teens. His boy-next-door appeal and sharp wit made him a fan favorite. Cassidy’s portrayal was both charming and engaging, drawing audiences into the mysteries with ease. Teens admired his clever problem-solving skills and his ability to stay cool under pressure. Joe Hardy was not just a character; he was a symbol of youthful curiosity and determination, and Cassidy’s performance made him unforgettable.
4. Leif Garrett – Teen Idol
Leif Garrett was the epitome of a teen idol in 1979. As a music star and frequent TV guest, his status was solidified with legions of adoring fans. Garrett’s performances were electrifying, and his presence on television made him a captivating figure. Teens were drawn to his talent and style, often emulating his fashion and hair. His concerts were gatherings of youthful exuberance, filled with energy and excitement. Garrett’s influence extended beyond music, making him a cross-platform sensation who encapsulated the essence of teen stardom.
5. John Travolta – Vinnie Barbarino
While John Travolta was known for his role in Grease, his portrayal of Vinnie Barbarino in Welcome Back, Kotter remained iconic. Barbarino’s mix of humor and cool demeanor made him a beloved character among teens. Travolta’s performance was filled with charm and wit, making Barbarino’s catchphrases part of everyday teen lingo. His dance moves and style set trends, and teens couldn’t get enough of his antics. Vinnie Barbarino was not just a character; he was a cultural icon that left a lasting impact on 1970s television.
6. Penny Marshall – Laverne DeFazio
Penny Marshall as Laverne DeFazio in Laverne & Shirley was a comedic force that teens adored. Her quirky personality and vibrant energy brought joy and laughter to audiences. Laverne’s unique style, complete with her iconic ‘L’ monogram, became a symbol of individuality and charm. Marshall’s comedic timing and relatable character made her a beloved figure. Teens enjoyed her adventures and the relatable struggles she faced. Laverne DeFazio was more than a TV character; she was a beacon of humor and heart in the late 70s.
7. Robin Williams – Mork
Robin Williams took the world by storm as Mork from Ork in Mork & Mindy. His zany antics and comedic genius made him an overnight sensation. Teens were entranced by his witty humor and boundless energy. Mork’s unique mannerisms and catchphrases became part of pop culture, making Williams a beloved figure. His portrayal was both heartwarming and hilarious, leaving audiences in stitches. Mork was not just an alien; he was a symbol of creativity and fun, and Williams’ performance was nothing short of iconic.
8. Kristy McNichol – Buddy Lawrence
Kristy McNichol as Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence in Family captivated audiences with her relatable charm and emotional depth. As a fan favorite, McNichol brought a sense of authenticity to the role, connecting with teens on a personal level. Buddy’s struggles and triumphs were portrayed with sincerity, making her character a mirror for many young viewers. McNichol’s talent shone brightly, and her performance was both poignant and engaging. Buddy Lawrence was more than just a character; she was a reflection of youthful resilience and heart.
9. Parker Stevenson – Frank Hardy
Parker Stevenson brought charm and intellect to his role as Frank Hardy in The Hardy Boys. His portrayal blended charisma with a sense of adventure, captivating teens everywhere. Stevenson’s depiction of Frank was both engaging and thoughtful, drawing audiences into the mysteries with ease. His chemistry with co-star Shaun Cassidy added depth to the series, making it a must-watch for young audiences. Frank Hardy was not just a character; he was an icon of intelligence and bravery, brought to life by Stevenson’s unforgettable performance.
10. Linda Ronstadt – Music Icon
Linda Ronstadt was more than just a music icon; she was a crossover sensation who captured the hearts of teens. Her frequent TV appearances showcased her incredible talent and magnetic stage presence. Ronstadt’s powerful voice and unique style made her a trendsetter, influencing both music and fashion. Teens were drawn to her authenticity and charisma, making her a beloved figure. Her performances were filled with energy and emotion, solidifying her status as a cultural icon. Linda Ronstadt was not just a singer; she was a symbol of passion and artistry.
11. Henry Winkler – The Fonz
Henry Winkler’s portrayal of The Fonz in Happy Days was perhaps the most iconic of the decade. His cool demeanor and effortless charm made him a teen sensation. The leather jacket, the thumbs-up, and the catchphrase ‘Ayy!’ became cultural staples. Winkler’s performance was both endearing and impactful, resonating with teens on a profound level. The Fonz was not just a character; he was a symbol of rebellion and coolness, and Winkler’s charisma made him unforgettable. Teens everywhere wanted to be like The Fonz, solidifying his legendary status.
12. Lynda Carter – Wonder Woman
Lynda Carter embodied the ultimate female superhero as Wonder Woman, captivating audiences with her strength and grace. Her portrayal was both empowering and inspirational, making her a role model for teens. Carter’s performance was filled with poise and determination, bringing the beloved comic book character to life. Teens admired her bravery and resilience, making Wonder Woman a symbol of female empowerment. Carter’s portrayal was iconic, setting the standard for future female heroes. Wonder Woman was not just a character; she was a phenomenon that inspired a generation.
13. Mark Hamill – Luke Skywalker
While Mark Hamill gained fame as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, his presence on television made him a staple of teen fandom. Hamill’s appearances in specials and guest roles showcased his versatility and charm. His portrayal of Luke was both heroic and relatable, resonating with young audiences. Teens admired his journey and the strength of his character, making him a beloved figure. Hamill’s influence extended beyond the silver screen, making him a cross-platform icon. Luke Skywalker was not just a character; he was a symbol of hope and adventure.
14. Farrah Fawcett – Jill Munroe
Though Farrah Fawcett left Charlie’s Angels in 1977, her image and appeal remained red-hot in 1979. As Jill Munroe, Fawcett’s glamorous style and charisma captivated audiences. Her iconic hairstyle became a trend, and her portrayal was both elegant and adventurous. Fawcett’s influence extended beyond the show, making her a cultural icon. Teens admired her beauty and strength, making Jill Munroe a beloved character. Fawcett was not just a TV star; she was a symbol of 1970s glamour and empowerment, leaving a lasting impression on pop culture.
15. John Schneider – Bo Duke
John Schneider debuted as Bo Duke in The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and was an immediate hit. His portrayal was filled with charm and a sense of adventure that resonated with teens. Bo’s antics and daring spirit made him a beloved character, and Schneider’s performance was both engaging and entertaining. His chemistry with co-star Tom Wopat added to the show’s appeal, making it a must-watch for young audiences. Bo Duke was not just a character; he was a symbol of fun and excitement in the late 70s.
16. Greg Evigan – B.J. McKay
Greg Evigan as B.J. McKay in B.J. and the Bear brought a unique blend of adventure and humor to the screen. His portrayal was both charismatic and engaging, making him a teen idol. B.J.’s journeys with his chimpanzee companion were filled with excitement, capturing the imaginations of young audiences. Evigan’s performance was lively and entertaining, adding a sense of fun to the series. B.J. McKay was not just a character; he was a symbol of freedom and adventure, brought to life by Evigan’s charismatic portrayal.
17. Kate Jackson – Sabrina Duncan
Kate Jackson as Sabrina Duncan in Charlie’s Angels was the epitome of class and intelligence. Her portrayal was both sophisticated and engaging, capturing the admiration of teens everywhere. Sabrina’s problem-solving skills and cool demeanor made her an iconic figure. Jackson’s performance was filled with poise and grace, making her character a role model for young audiences. Sabrina Duncan was not just a character; she was a symbol of empowerment and elegance, brought to life by Jackson’s unforgettable portrayal.
18. Robert Wagner – Jonathan Hart
Robert Wagner as Jonathan Hart in Hart to Hart was the epitome of suave and charm. His portrayal was both engaging and sophisticated, making him a favorite among teens. Jonathan’s adventures were filled with intrigue and excitement, capturing the imaginations of young audiences. Wagner’s performance was charismatic and endearing, adding to the show’s allure. Jonathan Hart was not just a character; he was a symbol of elegance and adventure, brought to life by Wagner’s captivating portrayal.
19. Jaclyn Smith – Kelly Garrett
Jaclyn Smith as Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels was a vision of elegance and strength. Her portrayal was both captivating and inspiring, making her a beloved figure among teens. Smith’s character was filled with grace and intelligence, setting a standard for female empowerment. Her performance was engaging and relatable, drawing audiences into the world of intrigue and adventure. Kelly Garrett was not just a character; she was a symbol of empowerment and beauty, brought to life by Smith’s unforgettable portrayal.
20. Melissa Gilbert – Laura Ingalls
Melissa Gilbert as Laura Ingalls in Little House on the Prairie was a beloved figure among young viewers. Her portrayal was filled with warmth and sincerity, capturing the hearts of audiences. Laura’s adventures and struggles were portrayed with depth and authenticity, making her a relatable character. Gilbert’s performance was both heartwarming and engaging, drawing audiences into the world of the prairie. Laura Ingalls was not just a character; she was a symbol of resilience and hope, brought to life by Gilbert’s remarkable portrayal.