(Credit to New On Brit Box)
Written by Colleen Bement, Editor
Devoted sci-fi fans know that the 1970s was an amazing decade for television. Some of the most beloved and influential science fiction TV shows of all time aired during this period and it captivated audiences with stories about aliens, robots, spaceships, and far-off galaxies. Some consider it to be a golden age where creativity exploded with imagination. Here we take a look at some of the best science fiction TV shows that graced our screens in the 70s.
Space:1999 – This classic show from this era is “Space: 1999” which ran from 1975 to 1977. Created by “Thunderbirds” famed Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, this ahead-of-its-time sci-fi series took place on Moonbase Alpha after a massive nuclear explosion causes it to be propelled out of Earth orbit into deep space. The 311 men and women (and one child, LOL) come across dangerous alien lifeforms and mysterious planets with no control over the moon’s trajectory. Led by Commander Koenig (Martin Landau) and Doctor Helena Russell (Barbara Bain), “Space: 1999” brought audiences thrilling adventures along with its beautiful yet eerie soundtrack composed by composer Barry Gray. It is certainly a favorite of Elon Musk’s. The SpaceX genius plans to build a base on the moon and call it Moonbase Alpha!
Battlestar Galactica – Another great 70s sci-fi series was “Battlestar Galactica” which ran from 1978 to 1979. The story followed a rag-tag fleet of survivors who escaped a brutal attack by robotic Cylons intent on wiping out humanity. Led by Commander Adama (Lorne Greene), this space drama told stories filled with human drama and suspenseful action sequences that kept viewers hooked throughout its short but impressive run. What is also remarkable is the remake that starred Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell. The four seasons of brilliance launched the careers of Katee Sackhoff, Jamie Bamber, James Callis, Tricia Helfer, Tahmoh Penikett, and more.
Doctor Who – The ‘Doctor Who’ franchise was also in full swing during the 70s with Tom Baker starring as the titular Time Lord from 1974 to 1981. Since 1963 there have been 15 Doctors played by favorites such as David Tennant, and Matt Smith, and accompanied by companions such as Sarah Jane Smith, Rose Tyler, Martha Jones, Donna Noble, and Amy Pond, and the list is practically endless! “Doctor Who” went on many exciting adventures across space and time in his trademark TARDIS police box. Featuring memorable villains such as the Daleks and Cybermen, it is no wonder why “Doctor Who” has been entertaining generations of fans.
Who is your favorite Doctor?
Logan’s Run – A futuristic society is portrayed in this unique show where people no longer live longer than thirty years due to overpopulation problems; upon reaching their thirtieth birthday they must participate in ‘Carousel’ – an event which grants those lucky few a second chance at life while those less fortunate must surrender themselves to certain death at ‘the Deep Sleep’. As Logan searches for ‘Sanctuary’ he finds himself getting deeper into trouble along with his companion Jessica in this fast-paced 70s cult classic sci-fi series.
Honorable Mention: Star Trek – AKA “Star Trek: TOS (The Original Series). Although it was created in 1966, it was the reruns in the 70s that made it popular. Gene Roddenberry created one of the most successful tv franchises in history with his ground-breaking sci-fi series. “Star Trek” has been an iconic series since its inception in 1966 running through 1969. It is hands down one of the most influential shows of all time with its approach to social issues. It tackled topics such as racism and sexism head-on at a time when such themes were rarely addressed on television. It also presented a vision of an optimistic future where technology is used for the benefit of humanity, instead of its destruction.
The incredible list of spin-offs is listed below, and no doubt, there are more to come!
The Animated Series
The Next Generation
Deep Space Nine
Voyager
Enterprise
Discovery
Short Treks
Picard
Lower Decks
Prodigy
Strange New Worlds
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