1970s: TV and Radio

To the surprise of many, the quality of commercial programming on television improved dramatically in the 1970s. Perhaps programmers were responding to complaints about the poor quality of TV in the 1960s, or they were trying to fill the void left by the decline of political and social activism. For a number of reasons, TV shows in the 1970s tackled some difficult social problems. These shows proved that the medium of television was capable of making a contribution to the national debate about social change. The 1970s also saw the emergence of cable TV, which offered Americans alternatives to the standard programming on the big three networks.

One of the most popular programs of the decade was All in the Family (1971–79). Set in a working-class household in the Bronx, the show provided a forum for the discussion of race, sexuality, and generational tensions—all while being laugh-out-loud funny. African Americans gained an increasing presence on TV. One of the most popular shows, Sanford and Son (1972–77), focused on the lives of a black junkyard dealer (played by comedian Redd Foxx, 1922–1991) and his son. Other popular shows featuring black actors included Good Times (1974–79) and The Jeffersons (1975–85). Americans came to terms with feminism and the career woman thanks to The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–77), whose lovable lead character made working women seem less threatening.

Although there were many quality shows dealing with important issues, TV also offered plenty of light-hearted, mindless entertainment. The networks had something for everyone. Little House on the Prairie (1974–83), The Waltons (1972–81), Happy Days (1974–84), and Laverne & Shirley (1976–83) provided a nostalgic look at days gone by. Americans tuned into Charlie's Angels (1976–81) and Hawaii Five-O (1968–80) for action. For sheer escapism, Fantasy Island (1978–84) and The Love Boat (1977–86) were the shows to watch. Perhaps the silliest show of the decade was The Gong Show (1976–80), hosted by Chuck Barris (1929–). Children also were increasingly offered new programs, including such shows as The Brady Bunch (1969–74) and a variety of Saturday morning cartoons.

Radio benefited from advanced technology during the decade. Up until this decade, most radio programs had come over the AM band. But as radio stations increasingly became oriented toward playing music, many stations took their signals to the FM band, which offered much higher sound quality. These FM stations soon became more daring, offering alternative music and more interesting programming. By the end of the decade, the FM band was dominant.