1. Kolchak: The Night Stalker (1974–1975)
Before The X-Files made the paranormal mainstream, there was Kolchak: The Night Stalker. Darren McGavin played a rumpled reporter chasing after vampires, werewolves, and government coverups in a show that was way ahead of its time. It only lasted one season, but its influence can still be felt in nearly every monster-of-the-week series that came after.
With today’s appetite for true crime and supernatural thrillers, Kolchak is more relevant than ever. A reboot could easily blend horror, conspiracy, and investigative journalism in a way that feels fresh and timely. Imagine a grizzled podcaster or online journalist chasing urban legends that turn out to be real. The bones of the original are still solid—it just needs a new coat of eerie paint.
2. The Partridge Family (1970–1974)
It was colorful, catchy, and full of charm, but The Partridge Family faded out after just four seasons. The musical sitcom gave us David Cassidy in his heartthrob prime and a family band that toured in a bus that looked like a paint store exploded. It was a pop culture juggernaut for a minute, but never got the long life some of its peers did.
A modern reboot could go deeper than bubblegum pop and turn the Partridges into a TikTok-era family trying to navigate online fame and personal dynamics on the road. Plus, let’s be honest, we could use more musical shows that aren’t just competitions. A new generation deserves to hear “I Think I Love You” with a Gen Z twist.
3. Soap (1977–1981)
This one pushed buttons in all the right ways. Soap was a wild, hilarious parody of daytime soap operas, and it wasn’t afraid to be bizarre, controversial, or downright absurd. Billy Crystal’s role as Jodie was groundbreaking, and the tangled plotlines made every episode unpredictable.
It was clever and ahead of its time, but its sharp satire would absolutely sing in a reboot. Imagine it set against today’s reality TV culture, celebrity scandals, and social media meltdowns. A new version could take the same layered storytelling and use it to poke fun at modern culture while still embracing the chaos that made it great. We could all use a little more wonderfully weird TV.
4. The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour (1971–1974)
When Sonny and Cher hit the stage together, it was pure chemistry. Their variety show had music, sketches, celebrity guests, and a ton of heart. Even after their divorce, the two tried to keep the magic alive with a follow-up show, but it never quite recaptured that original spark.
Today, with the rise of musical comedy, sketch revivals, and throwback variety vibes, the format is ripe for a comeback. A new comedic duo—or even siblings or best friends—could bring back that blend of humor and harmony. The world’s a little heavy right now, and something lighthearted, stylish, and musical like The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour would feel like a breath of fresh air.
5. Barney Miller (1975–1982)
Okay, technically Barney Miller had a decent run, but it still feels like it ended too soon. Set in a New York police precinct, the show wasn’t about car chases or explosions—it was about people. It found humor in bureaucracy, paperwork, and the absurdity of day-to-day policing, all while dealing with real issues underneath the laughs.
With today’s focus on character-driven workplace comedies and the public’s shifting view of law enforcement, Barney Miller could make a smart, thoughtful return. A reboot could dive deeper into social dynamics while still celebrating the original’s deadpan wit and warm camaraderie. And that theme song? Still a bop.
6. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
Mary Richards changed everything. A single woman with a career, friends who were like family, and a wardrobe that was pure ‘70s chic, she showed that you didn’t need a man to have a full, fabulous life. The show wrapped up gracefully, but part of us always wanted more.
A reboot could pick up in today’s fast-paced media world, where a modern “Mary” might work at a digital news outlet, balancing integrity with clickbait culture. It would be such a joy to see a new ensemble of smart, funny women navigating friendship, ambition, and the occasional newsroom chaos. We need that blend of optimism and realism again.
7. The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries (1977–1979)
Teen sleuths solving mysteries in bell-bottoms? Yes, please. This show gave us Shaun Cassidy and Parker Stevenson as the Hardy brothers and Pamela Sue Martin as Nancy Drew in alternating episodes. It was fun, suspenseful, and just spooky enough to give kids goosebumps.
Mystery stories are always in style, and a reboot could lean into the true crime boom while keeping it youth-focused and stylish. With the right tone—think Stranger Things meets Veronica Mars—this could become a hit all over again. Plus, we could use more wholesome-yet-compelling shows that actually let teens be smart and resourceful.
