Back in Time Today
The 1970s were a golden era for television, featuring a wide array of memorable shows. Some actors seemed to pop up on every screen, yet their pervasive presence might still surprise you. Here, we rediscover 15 actors whose faces were ubiquitous on ’70s TV, often playing diverse roles across various genres. From iconic guest appearances to recurring roles, let’s explore the impressive TV journeys of these stars.
1. William Shatner
William Shatner was everywhere in the 1970s. Famous for his role as Captain Kirk on Star Trek, Shatner’s acting prowess knew no bounds. He guest-starred in The Six Million Dollar Man, The Rookies, Mission: Impossible, and Ironside, showcasing his versatility. Shatner brought a unique charm to each character, making him a sought-after guest star. His appearances were always memorable, adding depth and intrigue to the shows. Shatner’s dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure in ’70s television, and his legacy continues to influence actors today.
2. Lindsay Wagner
Before Lindsay Wagner became The Bionic Woman, she was a familiar face on ‘70s TV. Her appearances in Marcus Welby, M.D., The Rockford Files, and The Six Million Dollar Man showcased her talent and versatility. Wagner’s ability to portray complex emotional scenes endeared her to audiences, making her a standout among her peers. She effortlessly transitioned between drama and action, bringing authenticity to every role. Her performances were a testament to her commitment to acting, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and solidifying her place in TV history.
3. Gary Burghoff
Gary Burghoff, known for his role as Radar on *M*A*S*H*, was a familiar face even before the show began. He graced the screens in The Love Boat, The Partridge Family, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Burghoff’s ability to blend humor with sincerity made his characters relatable and endearing. He had a knack for bringing warmth and humanity to his roles, making his appearances memorable. His performances were marked by a subtle charm that captured the hearts of audiences, establishing him as a beloved figure in ‘70s television.
4. Bernie Kopell
Bernie Kopell, best known as Doc on The Love Boat, was a staple on ‘70s TV. He appeared in Get Smart, That Girl, The Partridge Family, and The Odd Couple. Kopell’s unique comedic timing and expressive face made him a favorite among fans and producers alike. His ability to switch between comedy and drama with ease added depth to his characters, making each appearance unforgettable. Kopell’s talent for portraying quirky yet lovable characters made him a standout in the ‘70s entertainment landscape.
5. John Ritter
John Ritter, before his iconic role in Three’s Company, was a frequent presence on ‘70s TV. He guest-starred in The Waltons, *M*A*S*H*, and Hawaii Five-O, captivating audiences with his charm and versatility. Ritter’s natural comedic talent and ability to portray complex emotions made him a standout performer. His appearances were marked by an infectious energy and warmth that resonated with viewers. Ritter’s magnetic presence and dedication to his craft left a lasting impact on television, paving the way for his future success in the industry.
6. Suzanne Somers
Before Suzanne Somers became a household name in Three’s Company, she made notable appearances in The Six Million Dollar Man, The Rockford Files, and Starsky & Hutch. Somers’ vibrant personality and striking presence made her a memorable guest star. Her ability to captivate audiences with her comedic flair and engaging performances set her apart from her contemporaries. Somers’ charm and talent were evident in every role she took on, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her contributions to ‘70s television remain cherished by fans worldwide.
7. Robert Reed
Robert Reed, known as Mike Brady from The Brady Bunch, was a versatile actor with a wide range of roles in the ‘70s. Outside of The Brady Bunch, he appeared in Mannix, The Love Boat, and Medical Center. Reed’s ability to embody diverse characters, from a caring father to a stern detective, showcased his remarkable acting skills. His dedication to his craft and nuanced performances made him a respected figure in the industry. Reed’s influence on ‘70s television remains significant, and his work continues to inspire actors today.
8. Richard Hatch
Richard Hatch, before his role in Battlestar Galactica, was a familiar face on ‘70s TV. He appeared in The Streets of San Francisco, The Love Boat, and Kung Fu, showcasing his acting range. Hatch’s ability to portray strong, dynamic characters made him a standout performer. His memorable roles were marked by a subtle intensity and charisma that captivated audiences. Hatch’s performances were a testament to his dedication and passion for acting, leaving an indelible mark on television history.
9. Loni Anderson
Before Loni Anderson became a star on WKRP in Cincinnati, she made her mark on ‘70s TV with roles in The Love Boat, S.W.A.T., and Quincy, M.E. Anderson’s stunning looks and captivating performances made her a standout guest star. Her ability to portray both comedy and drama showcased her versatility as an actress. Anderson’s charismatic presence and dedication to her craft left a lasting impression on audiences, establishing her as a beloved figure in television history.
10. Erik Estrada
Before Erik Estrada became famous as Ponch on CHiPs, he appeared on popular ‘70s shows like Hawaii Five-O and Emergency! Estrada’s rugged charm and dynamic performances made him a sought-after guest star. His ability to balance action-packed scenes with moments of humor showcased his versatility as an actor. Estrada’s captivating screen presence and dedication to his roles made him a memorable figure in ‘70s television, paving the way for his iconic role on CHiPs.
11. Farrah Fawcett
Before becoming a cultural icon on Charlie’s Angels, Farrah Fawcett appeared in The Six Million Dollar Man and The Partridge Family. Fawcett’s radiant beauty and magnetic performances made her a standout guest star. Her ability to captivate audiences with her charm and talent was evident in every role she portrayed. Fawcett’s presence on screen left a lasting impact on viewers, solidifying her status as one of the most beloved actresses of the ‘70s. Her influence on popular culture remains significant to this day.
12. Leif Garrett
Leif Garrett, a teen idol sensation, made his mark on ‘70s TV with appearances in The Odd Couple and Wonder Woman. Garrett’s youthful energy and charisma captured the hearts of audiences, making him a favorite among teens. His ability to connect with viewers through his performances showcased his talent and passion for entertainment. Garrett’s influence on ‘70s pop culture was significant, and his work continues to resonate with fans who remember the era fondly.
13. Jamie Farr
Before becoming famous as Klinger on *M*A*S*H*, Jamie Farr appeared in The Dick Van Dyke Show and Hogan’s Heroes. Farr’s comedic talent and unique sense of humor made him a standout performer. His ability to bring laughter and joy to audiences was evident in every role he took on. Farr’s memorable performances left a lasting impression on viewers, establishing him as a beloved figure in television history. His work on ‘70s TV continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
14. Joan Van Ark
Before achieving fame on Knots Landing, Joan Van Ark made her mark on ‘70s TV with appearances in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Barnaby Jones. Van Ark’s elegant presence and captivating performances made her a standout guest star. Her ability to convey complex emotions with grace and subtlety showcased her talent as an actress. Van Ark’s contributions to ‘70s television were significant, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and paving the way for her future success.
15. Ron Howard
Ron Howard, after his success on The Andy Griffith Show, continued to charm audiences on The Smith Family and Love, American Style. Howard’s natural talent and warm demeanor made him a beloved figure in the industry. His ability to transition from acting to directing showcased his multifaceted skills. Howard’s contributions to ‘70s television were significant, paving the way for his successful career in Hollywood. His work continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.