A Decade by Decade Review of the Best TV Shows and Programs

Choosing the best TV shows and programs from each decade is no easy task. Each decade brings its unique flavor and while it's tempting to list one grand champion per decade, the journey of television itself is quite fascinating. Let's take a dive into the decades from the 1950s up to the present, exploring the cultural impact, writing, and acting that made each decade so special.

1950s: The Dawn of a Golden Age

Among the many shows that began their journey in this formative era, I Love Lucy undoubtedly stands out. While the 1950s saw the birth of television, it was I Love Lucy that broke new ground. Not only was it the first 'three-camera' production filmed in front of a live audience with the resulting performances preserved, but it also paved the way for what we recognize as modern television comedy today. Lucy's iconic influence cannot be overstated, making this show both a cultural milestone and the clear choice for the 1950s.

1960s: The Golden Haze of Color

The 1960s saw a transformation in television, from black and white to color, and with it came a plethora of groundbreaking series. While there were many outstanding programs, The Dick Van Dyke Show stands out. The sharp writing and exceptional performances by everyone involved, including Carl Reiner and Roberts and Natalie, make this show a standout. Additionally, The Dick Van Dyke Show tackles radio comedy with a Broadway flair, all while exploring themes of marriage and the American dream. Notably, shows like Julia were groundbreaking, introducing an African-American single mother, widowed, and nurse, a revolutionary figure for the time.

1970s: Norman Lear’s Revolution

The 1970s are closely associated with Norman Lear, a master of social commentary through television. Programs like All in the Family, The Jeffersons, and Happy Days were not just popular; they helped shape society. However, The Mary Tyler Moore Show was perhaps the funniest and most entertaining show of the decade. The show's success laid the groundwork for the Mary Tyler Moore School of Production, cementing its legacy and entertainment value. The show's humor and relatability made it a beloved staple of American television.

1980s: The Era of Fluff and Quality

The 1980s marked a significant shift in television. While many shows can be categorized as 'fluff,' there are several that stood out. Among my personal favorites are Newhart and WKRP in Cincinnati. Newhart introduced the gift shop setting in a unique way, while WKRP in Cincinnati tackled serious and often controversial issues with humor and poise. However, the decade was a bit of a mixed bag, with many shows failing to capture the imagination of audiences as much as they could have.

1990s: Friends, Seinfeld, and Frasier

The 1990s saw a plethora of quality programs. Shows like Friends, Seinfeld, and Frasier were some of the most popular and critically acclaimed series of the decade. While Friends and Seinfeld are often mentioned, Seinfeld typically tops the polls due to its innovative approach and clever writing. Seinfeld's place in television history is secure, and it's not hard to see why: the show is a hit both with casual viewers and critics. Meanwhile, Frasier's witty dialogue and brilliant cast also deserve mention.

The 2000s and Beyond: Scary Adventures and Modern Classics

The 2000s and modern era have thrown up some truly innovative and culturally significant shows. Scrubs, The Office, My Name is Earl, Big Bang Theory, and Modern Family are all terrific and have made it into the Smithsonian Institution. While Scrubs and The Office often take the spotlight, the impact of Big Bang Theory in terms of both its audience and cultural impact is undeniable. These shows have established a legacy, making it difficult to choose a single 'best' show for the decade. However, the close competition in this period highlights how much quality television programming has evolved.

Ultimately, these decisions are subjective and influenced by individual tastes. There are many great shows from each decade, and it's challenging to pick just one. Nonetheless, the historical significance and impact of these programs cannot be denied. Whether based on societal impact, cultural significance, or pure entertainment value, these shows and programs are a testament to the evolution and richness of television.

!-- Google SEO Tags --

Keywords: best tv shows by decade, iconic television programs, iconic shows