If you grew up in the ’70s, you probably remember watching some pretty bizarre kids’ TV shows that made you laugh, scratch your head, or wonder just what you were looking at. The ’70s was a time when TV was getting more experimental, and kids’ programming took some wild turns. From quirky puppets to offbeat cartoons, some of the most unique and strange shows were born during this era, and they definitely left an imprint on a generation.
While many of these shows have faded into the depths of TV history, for those who grew up with them, the memories remain as vivid as ever. Some of the weirdest, most unforgettable moments in kids’ TV came from shows that could only have existed in the ’70s. So, let’s take a trip back in time and remember those bizarre shows that we couldn’t stop watching, no matter how strange they seemed.
The Banana Splits Adventure Hour
The Banana Splits Adventure Hour was a psychedelic variety show featuring a rock band composed of costumed characters. Each character, including Fleegle the dog and Snorky the elephant, played an instrument.
The show was a mix of live-action and animated segments. It even included bizarre skits and slapstick comedy. Kids were captivated by the bright colors and catchy tunes.
Its unique blend of music, comedy, and adventure made it a standout series. Even today, it remains a nostalgic oddity cherished by those who grew up watching it.
H.R. Pufnstuf
H.R. Pufnstuf was a show about a boy named Jimmy and his adventures on a magical island. This island was ruled by a friendly dragon-like character, Pufnstuf, who was always there to help Jimmy.
The show featured vivid sets and anthropomorphic characters, making it a visual treat. However, it was the quirky villains and their comical plans that added to the show’s weirdness.
The creativity and imagination in its storytelling made it a beloved classic, despite—or perhaps because of—its strange premise.
Sigmund and the Sea Monsters
Sigmund and the Sea Monsters centered on a kindly sea monster, Sigmund, who befriended two human boys. Unlike his monstrous family, Sigmund was gentle and kind-hearted.
The show was set by the sea, featuring adventures and misadventures with Sigmund trying to fit into the human world. Its charm lay in the friendship and loyalty between Sigmund and the boys.
Sigmund’s attempts to hide from his family and the hijinks ensued brought about plenty of laughs and a few heartfelt moments.
The Bugaloos
The Bugaloos was a musical show featuring a group of teenage bug musicians. With their catchy tunes, they lived in Tranquility Forest, a psychedelic paradise.
The show was part fantasy, part rock-n-roll, with the Bugaloos often facing off against the evil Benita Bizarre. Her extravagant attempts to capture the band provided endless entertainment.
This colorful and music-filled series was a celebration of creativity and imagination. It left a lasting legacy as a beloved, albeit strange, piece of 1970s television.
Lidsville
Lidsville followed young Mark as he discovered a land of living hats after falling into a magician’s hat. Each hat had its own personality, creating a bizarre yet fascinating world.
The show blended comedy and fantasy, with Mark and his hat friends facing the evil magician, Horatio J. HooDoo. The hats’ antics and the magical elements made the show a unique adventure.
Despite its odd concept, Lidsville became a cult classic, remembered for its eccentric characters and imaginative stories.
Land of the Lost
Land of the Lost was a sci-fi adventure about a family trapped in a prehistoric, alternate universe. The show featured dinosaurs, mysterious aliens called Sleestaks, and time-travel elements.
The family’s quest to survive and find a way home was filled with suspense and imaginative storytelling. The special effects, though rudimentary by today’s standards, captivated young audiences.
The blend of science fiction and adventure made it a standout among children’s programming. It remains a fond memory for many who grew up in the 70s.
Wonderbug
Wonderbug was part of the Krofft Supershow and revolved around a magical dune buggy that could transform and talk. This anthropomorphic car, named Wonderbug, was the star.
With its young human friends, Wonderbug fought villains and solved mysteries, often transforming into different vehicles. Its whimsical nature and catchphrase-laden dialogues were a hit.
The idea of a talking car thrilled audiences, and the blend of humor and action kept them coming back for more adventures.
The New Zoo Revue
The New Zoo Revue was an educational show featuring anthropomorphic animals like Doug the owl and Freddie the frog. Each episode tackled various social issues through songs and sketches.
The show’s charm lay in its simple lessons and catchy tunes. It was both educational and entertaining, offering valuable life lessons to its young audience.
Although it had a touch of weirdness, its positive messages and fun characters made it a beloved show for children of the era.
Dr. Shrinker
Dr. Shrinker was part of the Krofft Supershow, featuring a mad scientist who invented a shrink ray. His goal was to shrink people for his diabolical plans.
The shrunken characters, trying to reverse the process and escape, provided the core conflict. The show was a mix of suspense and humor, with exaggerated villains and quirky heroes.
Its unique premise and blend of science fiction and comedy made it a standout, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Electra Woman and Dyna Girl
Electra Woman and Dyna Girl featured two female superheroes battling villains with their high-tech gadgets. The duo worked for a magazine by day and fought crime by night.
The show was a colorful blend of superhero action and comedy. With their ElectraCar and advanced technology, they took on bizarre villains in each episode.
Its combination of empowerment and campy fun made it a cult favorite. It showcased a new kind of superheroine for young audiences of the 70s.
Far Out Space Nuts
Far Out Space Nuts was a comedic sci-fi show about two bumbling astronauts who accidentally launched into space. Their misadventures on alien planets provided endless laughs.
The quirky aliens they encountered and their comical attempts to return home were highlights. The show’s slapstick humor and silly situations made it a fun watch.
Its unique brand of comedy set in space made it a memorable series, capturing the imagination of its young viewers.
The Great Space Coaster
The Great Space Coaster was a variety show blending live-action with puppetry. It featured a group of characters traveling through space on a magical roller coaster.
The show offered music, sketches, and guest stars, creating an engaging mix of entertainment. The puppet characters, like Goriddle Gorilla, added to its charm.
Its imaginative setting and entertaining content made it a favorite for children seeking adventure and fun in their TV shows.
Captain Kangaroo
Captain Kangaroo was a mainstay in children’s television, featuring the kindly Captain and his whimsical friends. The show focused on gentle lessons using stories, songs, and skits.
Its simple, kind-hearted approach made it a beloved series. The charming puppets, like Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit, were fan favorites.
Despite its straightforward style, the show’s warmth and educational value left a lasting legacy, endearing it to generations.
The Lost Saucer
The Lost Saucer was about two androids, Fum and Fi, who accidentally took two children on a journey through time and space in their saucer-shaped spaceship.
Each episode featured a new adventure, with the group trying to find their way back to the present. The comedic elements and futuristic setting made it a unique show.
The blend of science fiction and light-hearted comedy captured the imaginations of 70s kids, making it a memorable series.
The Wombles
The Wombles were environmentally-conscious creatures dedicated to cleaning up litter and recycling. Living in Wimbledon Common, they taught kids about the importance of caring for the environment.
Each Womble had a distinct personality, contributing to the show’s appeal. Their adventures were both entertaining and educational, promoting positive environmental messages.
The series’ charm and valuable lessons made it a standout of the 70s. Its legacy continues to inspire environmental consciousness to this day.
Davey and Goliath
Davey and Goliath was a stop-motion animated series featuring a boy named Davey and his talking dog, Goliath. The show focused on moral lessons and values.
Set in a suburban American landscape, each episode tackled everyday issues, teaching honesty, kindness, and faith. The charming animation and heartfelt stories resonated with families.
Its timeless themes and gentle storytelling made it a classic, remembered for its positive impact on young viewers.