1. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
It’s hard to believe that a show as groundbreaking and beloved as The Mary Tyler Moore Show ended after just seven seasons. Sure, it had a good run, but fans weren’t ready to say goodbye to Mary, Lou, and the gang at WJM. The finale wrapped things up beautifully, but there was still so much potential to explore Mary’s post-newsroom life or even spin off more characters beyond Rhoda and Lou Grant.
Mary Richards was the kind of character who could’ve led us through the rapidly changing landscape of the late ’70s and even the early ’80s. Watching her navigate new relationships, shifting workplace dynamics, or even dip into producing would’ve been gold. There’s a reason this show is considered iconic—it managed to be both funny and socially relevant without losing its heart. A revival in the ’80s could’ve been a gentle update, giving us closure without tarnishing its legacy. It deserved one more chapter.
2. Soap (1977–1981)
Soap was unlike anything else on television at the time, and maybe that’s why it struggled to keep its footing with network executives. A bold parody of daytime soap operas, the show balanced absurd humor with surprisingly emotional storytelling, all while pushing boundaries around race, sexuality, and mental health. It was ahead of its time in a way that made some people uncomfortable—but for fans, that’s exactly what made it special.
The show ended on a cliffhanger that never got resolved, leaving characters like Jessica Tate in limbo. With just four seasons under its belt, Soap didn’t get the sendoff it deserved. It had more stories to tell and so many threads left hanging. A proper comeback or even a miniseries in the mid-’80s could’ve given fans some closure—and brought back that chaotic charm that only Soap could deliver.
3. The Rockford Files (1974–1980)
James Garner made Jim Rockford one of the most likable detectives on TV, and the show’s mix of mystery and wit gave it a unique charm. But despite strong viewership and critical acclaim, The Rockford Files quietly ended after six seasons due to Garner’s health issues and burnout from the demanding production schedule. The show had more life left in it, especially with such a loyal fan base.
Even though there were a few TV movies in the ’90s, it wasn’t quite the same. A proper continuation in the early ’80s could’ve seen Rockford taking on bigger cases or mentoring a younger investigator. The character had room to grow, and Garner still had the charisma to carry the show further. It ended just as it was hitting its stride.
4. Kolchak: The Night Stalker (1974–1975)
This one-season wonder paved the way for future supernatural dramas like The X-Files, but it was canceled far too quickly. Darren McGavin’s portrayal of Carl Kolchak, the persistent reporter who kept stumbling upon vampires, werewolves, and other monsters, was endlessly watchable. The premise had limitless potential, and each episode was a blend of horror, mystery, and dry humor.
The network didn’t quite know what to do with it, and the show’s inconsistent tone probably didn’t help its case. But with a bit more time and a bigger budget, Kolchak could’ve become a cult classic instead of just a footnote. A late-’70s comeback with tighter storytelling and serialized arcs might’ve launched it into the stratosphere. It was canceled before it even had a chance to find its rhythm.
5. The Bob Newhart Show (1972–1978)
Bob Newhart’s dry, deadpan delivery made this sitcom a standout, and the ensemble cast was one of the strongest of the decade. As psychologist Dr. Bob Hartley, Newhart anchored a show that was smart, subtle, and always funny. It ran for six solid seasons, but when it ended, it wasn’t because of low ratings—it was just time, according to Newhart.
Still, the show felt like it had more to give. Watching Bob and Emily adjust to middle age, career changes, or even starting a family could’ve taken the show into interesting territory. Fans loved the characters and the everyday charm of it all. A follow-up season or reunion in the early ’80s would’ve felt like slipping into a comfortable sweater.
6. Police Woman (1974–1978)
Angie Dickinson broke ground as Sgt. Pepper Anderson, one of the first female leads in a TV police drama. Police Woman was a huge success early on, but by the end of its fourth season, the writing was on the wall and the show wrapped with little fanfare. It’s a shame, because the character and concept had a lot more room to grow.
In an era when more shows were starting to spotlight strong female leads, Police Woman could’ve been leading the charge into the ’80s. A revival with updated themes and more complex cases would’ve been right in line with where TV was headed. Dickinson had the presence and the following to pull it off, but the chance slipped away. It was canceled just before its next big evolution.
