1. Susan Dey
Susan Dey became a household name in the ’70s as the sweet, sensible Laurie Partridge on The Partridge Family. Her role on the show made her an icon of teen TV, with fans across the country tuning in every week to watch her adventures with her fictional family. Dey’s transition from a TV star to a film actress wasn’t as smooth as some of her contemporaries, but she still carved out a place for herself in Hollywood. After The Partridge Family ended, she starred in a handful of movies, but none quite matched her TV fame. Dey’s shift to drama in L.A. Law in the ’80s was a huge career boost, but many still remember her from her light-hearted days on the family-friendly show.
What really sets her apart, though, is how her fame in the ’70s was intertwined with the cultural shift happening at the time. As a symbol of wholesome, girl-next-door charm, she epitomized the teen idol for an entire generation. Yet, as the years passed, Dey moved on from the spotlight, leaving behind a fan base that still cherishes the memories of her television stardom. Today, Susan Dey’s name might not be as recognizable to younger audiences, but for those who remember The Partridge Family, she will always be Laurie.
2. Fred Williamson
Fred Williamson, best known for his role in Black Caesar and other blaxploitation films, was a massive star in the ’70s. His powerful presence on screen and undeniable charisma made him a box office draw, but beyond the tough-guy roles, Williamson was also a professional football player. His fame during the ’70s stemmed not only from his acting but also his real-life athletic career, making him a rare crossover star. Though many might remember him for his work in genre films like Hammer and Hell Up in Harlem, his influence extended into the sports world and pop culture at large.
Williamson’s stardom may have dwindled in the decades that followed, but his legacy from the ’70s still holds a place in both the film and sports communities. He went on to direct and produce later in his career, but the impact he had during the golden age of blaxploitation still resonates. Though younger generations may not know him by name, fans of ’70s cinema will forever associate him with the era’s unique energy and bold storytelling.
3. David Cassidy
David Cassidy was not only the heartthrob of The Partridge Family, but he was also one of the biggest pop stars of the ’70s. As Keith Partridge, he crooned hits like “I Think I Love You,” and captivated millions with his good looks and catchy tunes. Cassidy was one of the top teen idols of the decade, and his concerts were filled with screaming fans who couldn’t get enough of his voice and charm. But while his fame soared to incredible heights, his life off-screen was filled with struggles that often overshadowed his public persona.
Though Cassidy tried to transition to adult roles and music in the ’80s, the world had moved on, and his peak was clearly tied to the ’70s. As the years passed, his teen idol image faded, and with it, his presence in mainstream media. However, for those who remember him in his prime, David Cassidy remains an unforgettable star from the era, whose talent and heartache are part of the fabric of ’70s pop culture.
4. Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett is often remembered for her iconic red swimsuit poster, which became an emblem of ’70s pop culture. Her role as Jill Munroe on Charlie’s Angels made her an instant TV star, but her impact went far beyond just the small screen. With her stunning beauty, effortless style, and grounded charm, Farrah quickly became a symbol of freedom and confidence. She was everywhere in the ’70s, from magazine covers to commercials, and even had a significant role in film.
Despite her early dominance in the ’70s, Fawcett’s career started to see a shift as she sought more dramatic and challenging roles. Her departure from Charlie’s Angels in 1977 signified a move toward more serious acting, but her success on TV and her iconic status from that era still define her place in history. While her star faded somewhat by the ’80s, her legacy remains intact, and she’ll always be associated with the boldness of the ’70s.
5. Leif Garrett
Leif Garrett was another teen idol who soared to fame in the ’70s with his good looks and musical talent. His pop career took off with hits like “I Was Made for Dancin’,” and he became the quintessential boy next door for millions of young fans. Though he appeared in TV shows and movies, it was his music that made him a teen sensation. His posters plastered bedroom walls, and his face was featured in countless teen magazines.
However, as the ’70s ended and the ’80s came around, Garrett’s stardom began to wane. His transition from teen idol to adult actor didn’t have the same success, and his personal struggles, including battles with addiction, made headlines that overshadowed his earlier fame. While Garrett may not have the same level of recognition today, he was undeniably one of the standout stars of the ’70s, with a presence that defined a generation’s cultural landscape.
6. Jimmie Walker
Jimmie Walker, best known for his role as J.J. Evans on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times, was a major figure in the ’70s entertainment scene. His catchphrase, “Dyn-o-mite!” became part of the cultural lexicon, and his role as the wisecracking, optimistic character brought him widespread popularity. Jimmie was not just a TV star; he also appeared in commercials, stand-up comedy, and various TV specials, making him a versatile personality of the decade.
While Walker’s fame remained linked to his Good Times role, his career after the show ended didn’t maintain the same momentum. In later years, his comedic style became somewhat outdated, and younger audiences may not recognize his name today. But for those who lived through the ’70s, Jimmie Walker’s impact on the TV landscape is undeniable, and his infectious energy still brings back memories of the time when he ruled the small screen.
