The 1970s was a decade brimming with experimental TV shows, and many sitcoms from that era are remembered for their unique charm, even if their runs were short-lived. Despite their brief existence, some of these shows sparked surprisingly devoted fanbases that continued to celebrate them long after they were canceled. These sitcoms, while overlooked by mainstream audiences, carved out niche followings who appreciated their unconventional premises, quirky characters, and distinct sense of humor. Let’s revisit ten such 1970s sitcoms that, despite their brief stints on air, managed to cultivate loyal fan clubs.

1. My World and Welcome to It (1969–1970)

A brief yet unforgettable show, My World and Welcome to It blended absurd humor with the work of cartoonist James Thurber. Starring William Windom as a Thurber-esque character, this sitcom was a quirky exploration of the artist’s life and imagination. Despite its single-season run, the show garnered a devoted following that appreciated its offbeat charm and witty commentary on everyday life. Its unique style influenced later sitcoms that blended animation with live-action storytelling.

2. The Ghost & Mrs. Muir (1968–1970)

3. He & She (1967–1968)

A unique shift from the usual sitcoms of the era, He & She starred Richard Benjamin and Paula Prentiss as a married couple balancing the complexities of both their romantic and professional lives. With its witty dialogue and unconventional structure, the show resonated with audiences despite its quick cancellation. Although short-lived, He & She developed a loyal fan following, particularly in the feminist circles that admired the way it portrayed the modern woman in an equal partnership.

4. Turn-On (1969)

Turn-On, a satire from the creators of Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, was one of the most infamous short-lived shows in TV history. Its experimental format and risqué humor shocked audiences and led to its immediate cancellation after only one episode. Despite its failure to survive, Turn-On developed a cult following who appreciated its edgy, avant-garde style. The show became a touchstone for counterculture television, symbolizing the growing clash between mainstream TV and the more experimental trends of the late 1960s.

5. The Partners (1971)

Starring two rising stars, The Partners was an attempt to capitalize on the buddy-comedy genre, with a twist. Set in a law office, it paired a straight-laced attorney with his more wild and irreverent partner, creating a dynamic full of comedic tension. While the series was canceled after just one season, The Partners attracted a niche but loyal following who appreciated its sharp humor and exploration of the early ’70s legal profession. Fans held on, creating fanzines and letter-writing campaigns, hoping for a return.

6. Love, American Style (1969–1974)

Though not technically a traditional sitcom, Love, American Style brought sketch comedy and romantic elements to the small screen with great success. Its episodic format, featuring a variety of short stories revolving around love and relationships, attracted viewers who were drawn to its lighthearted take on love in the modern era. Despite its mixed critical reception and short-lived success, it maintained a dedicated fanbase that enjoyed its charm, resulting in multiple spinoffs and a continued following.

7. The New People (1969)

Set in a remote Pacific island, The New People told the story of a group of young adults who must build a new society after surviving a plane crash. The show was notable for addressing social issues such as race and identity through the lens of survival. Although The New People was canceled after only one season, it gained a surprising group of devoted fans who admired its bold exploration of social themes and the unique setting. The show’s idealism and ambition continue to be discussed in retrospectives of 1970s television.

8. The Girl with Something Extra (1973)

Starring Sally Field, The Girl with Something Extra followed a young woman with psychic abilities as she navigated her personal and professional life. Despite its early cancellation, fans gravitated toward the show for its quirky premise and Field’s magnetic performance. Though short-lived, it built a fan club that appreciated its blending of comedy and the supernatural, and it became a hallmark of Field’s early career, with many fans recalling it fondly for its charming, offbeat take on women’s empowerment.

9. Mr. T and Tina (1976)

This sitcom, one of the first to feature an Asian-American lead in a prominent role, starred Jack Soo as an immigrant who struggles to fit into American life while running a grocery store. Despite facing criticism for its stereotypes and being canceled after a few episodes, Mr. T and Tina developed a small but dedicated following, particularly within Asian-American communities. Fans appreciated the effort to introduce diverse representation in the media, despite the show’s brief run and its limited critical success.

10. The Rookies (1972–1976)

While The Rookies ran for four seasons, it became known for its sudden and surprising rise in fan support after its cancellation. The show followed the lives of three rookie police officers, exploring their experiences with crime, corruption, and personal challenges. Despite its early success, it was eventually canceled. However, its fans remained fiercely loyal, with fan clubs and conventions dedicated to celebrating the characters and the show’s gritty portrayal of law enforcement during a time of political and social upheaval in America.