1. The Paul Lynde Show (1972–1973)
Paul Lynde had a unique comedic style, and after his success on Hollywood Squares, he landed his own show, playing a cranky father dealing with the eccentricities of suburban life. Think of it as a sarcastic take on All in the Family. Unfortunately, the show only lasted one season, but it’s a hilarious time capsule of Lynde’s sarcastic humor.
2. Temperatures Rising (1972–1974)
This medical comedy had a lot of potential—it starred Cleavon Little as Dr. Jerry Noland, a charismatic doctor in a wacky hospital setting. But despite its quirky charm, Temperatures Rising struggled with network changes and retooling each season, so it never really found its footing. It’s a forgotten gem for fans of the slapstick hospital comedy genre.
3. The Girl with Something Extra (1973–1974)
This show starred Sally Field as a newlywed with ESP—a setup that mixed comedy with supernatural flair. Her character could read minds, which created all kinds of misunderstandings with her husband, played by John Davidson. Despite Field’s popularity, the concept just didn’t stick, and it ended after one season.
4. When Things Were Rotten (1975)
A parody take on the Robin Hood legend created by Mel Brooks? Yes, please! Starring Dick Gautier as Robin, this one-season wonder was a slapstick spoof loaded with Brooks’ trademark irreverent humor. Unfortunately, it didn’t have staying power, but if you’re a fan of Brooks’ style, it’s worth revisiting.
5. Hot L Baltimore (1975)
Based on a play by Lanford Wilson, Hot L Baltimore took place in a rundown hotel and followed an eccentric group of residents. Controversial for its frank discussions about relationships and sexuality, it was a bit ahead of its time and lasted only one season. For those who appreciate offbeat, character-driven sitcoms, this one’s worth a watch.
6. The Texas Wheelers (1974)
Starring a young Mark Hamill and Gary Busey, this quirky sitcom followed the Wheeler family in rural Texas. Their father was an unreliable, often-absent dad, leading the kids to fend for themselves. Despite its unique premise, the show didn’t resonate with viewers and ended after just eight episodes.
7. Lotsa Luck (1973–1974)
Created by Carl Reiner and starring Dom DeLuise, this show was about a bachelor named Stanley who worked in a bus company’s lost and found. With his quirky family and chaotic job, Stanley’s life was a series of funny, relatable misfortunes. It didn’t last long, but DeLuise’s charm makes it a fun one-season wonder.
8. The Dumplings (1976)
Here’s one that almost no one remembers. The Dumplings followed a lovable, chubby married couple who ran a delicatessen. With a warm-hearted approach to marriage and humor, it offered a different vibe from other sitcoms. Created by The Mary Tyler Moore Show’s James L. Brooks and Allan Burns, it only lasted one season but had an earnest charm.
9. Doc (1975–1976)
Not to be confused with later shows of the same name, this sitcom starred Barnard Hughes as a small-town doctor who relocated to New York City. He tried to balance his rural, caring doctor’s demeanor with the hustle and bustle of the big city. It had a modest following but just wasn’t popular enough to stay on the air.
10. Fay (1975–1976)
In Fay, Lee Grant starred as a newly single woman starting fresh after a divorce. It was a show that touched on dating, independence, and feminism, which was bold for its time. Lee Grant gave a stellar performance, but despite her talent, the show didn’t last beyond one season.
11. Roll Out (1973–1974)
Set during World War II, Roll Out tried to capitalize on the popularity of M*A*S*H. Instead of doctors, it followed African American soldiers working in a supply unit in France. Created by Larry Gelbart and Gene Reynolds, who had also worked on M*A*S*H, it didn’t capture the same magic, but it offered a different perspective on the war era.
12. The Good Life (1971–1972)
Starring Larry Hagman and Donna Mills, this sitcom was about a couple who ditched their corporate jobs to become live-in servants for a wealthy family. The premise had potential, with a “fish out of water” appeal, but it struggled to find an audience and was canceled after one season. Still, it’s a charming series with a unique storyline worth a retro revisit.
