Can You Identify These Beloved TV Shows from the 1960s and 70s?

Before streaming services and binge-watching became the norm, television was a shared cultural experience that brought families together in their living rooms each week.

In this nostalgic journey through the golden age of television, we explore 13 groundbreaking series that helped shape the entertainment landscape we know today. From the spy-thriller excitement of Mission Impossible to the groundbreaking comedy of The Carol Burnett Show, these shows represent an era when television was truly becoming an art form.

Each series pushed boundaries in its own way, whether through innovative storytelling, technical achievements, or social commentary, creating lasting impressions that continue to influence modern television. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

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Answer: Mission Impossible

Mission Impossible premiered in 1966 and ran for seven seasons, captivating viewers with its high-stakes espionage and intricate plots. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Mission Impossible

Led by the cool-headed Jim Phelps (played by Peter Graves), the IMF (Impossible Missions Force) team executed daring missions involving elaborate disguises, complex heists, and mind games. The show’s hallmark, the self-destructing tape with its famous phrase, “Your mission, should you choose to accept it...,” set the tone for suspenseful storytelling. The series’ iconic theme song, composed by Lalo Schifrin, remains synonymous with intrigue and spy thrillers. It inspired subsequent reboots and a successful film franchise. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

The answer is on the next slide Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Answer: 60 Minutes

60 Minutes is an iconic newsmagazine television program that premiered in 1968 on CBS. Created by Don Hewitt, it revolutionized broadcast journalism with its investigative reports, in-depth interviews, and feature segments. Known for its hard-hitting stories and the signature ticking stopwatch, the show has exposed corruption, sparked political debates, and covered major world events. Over the decades, 60 Minutes has received numerous awards, including multiple Peabody and Emmy Awards, for its journalistic integrity and compelling storytelling. Its blend of reporting styles and wide-ranging topics has made it a staple of American television news. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

The Answer is on the next page Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

The Answer is: Art Linkletter's Kids Say the Darndest Things

Art Linkletter’s Kids Say the Darndest Things was a popular segment on his show House Party, showcasing children’s candid and humorous answers to questions. Linkletter’s warm, engaging style drew out unfiltered, often hilarious responses, capturing the innocence and unpredictability of kids. Debuting in the 1940s and continuing into the 1960s, the segment became a beloved staple of American entertainment. Its legacy lies in its simple yet effective premise, celebrating the charm of childhood spontaneity. Revivals of the show continued into later decades, but the original remains a nostalgic reminder of Linkletter’s unique ability to connect with audiences. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

The Answer is on the next page Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

The Answer is: Batman

The Batman television series, which aired from 1966 to 1968, was a colorful, campy adaptation of the DC Comics superhero. Starring Adam West as Batman and Burt Ward as Robin, the show was known for its over-the-top villains, iconic catchphrases ("Holy ___, Batman!"), and comic-book-style onomatopoeia ("Pow!"). Each episode featured outrageous plots, vibrant sets, and the dynamic duo thwarting the plans of eccentric foes like the Joker, Catwoman, and Penguin. Its playful approach appealed to both children and adults, making it a cult classic. The show’s legacy endures for its unique blend of humor, action, and comic book flair. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

The Answer is on the next page Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

The Answer is: The Carol Burnett Show

Airing from 1967 to 1978, The Carol Burnett Show was a groundbreaking variety and sketch comedy series that showcased the immense talents of Carol Burnett and her cast, including Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, and Vicki Lawrence. Known for its iconic parodies, physical comedy, and improvisational sketches, the show won 25 Emmy Awards and featured unforgettable skits like “The Family” and “Gone with the Wind” spoof. Burnett’s ability to engage with the audience, paired with her charm and versatility, made the show a beloved part of television history. The program’s comedic influence remains evident in modern sketch shows. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

Which Television Show is this scene from?

The Answer is on the next page Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

The Answer is: Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In

Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In was a groundbreaking sketch comedy show that aired from 1968 to 1973. Hosted by Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, it featured a fast-paced blend of gags, political satire, catchphrases, and visual jokes. Regular cast members like Goldie Hawn, Lily Tomlin, and Ruth Buzzi contributed to its quirky humor. Known for its quick cuts, running jokes, and the famous phrase “Sock it to me,” the show resonated with the counterculture of the era, addressing current events with a comedic twist. Laugh-In was an influence on later sketch comedies and left a lasting cultural impact. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.