Nostalgic America
Quiz: Match These Unforgettable TV Scenes to Their Shows
By Bruce Berns · November 30, 2024
This quiz takes you through a visual journey of unforgettable moments, featuring legendary characters like Robin Williams’ Mork, the Partridge family, and the undercover detectives of Miami Vice. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a true TV aficionado, this challenge will put your knowledge to the test.
Explore the stories behind these shows that shaped generations, influenced modern storytelling, and created unforgettable catchphrases. Are you ready to prove your expertise and relive some TV nostalgia? Let’s see how many you can name just by looking at a single scene! Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 1
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: Mork & Mindy
Mork & Mindy aired from 1978 to 1982, showcasing Robin Williams as Mork, an eccentric alien from the planet Ork, and Pam Dawber as Mindy, a grounded Earth woman. Set in Boulder, Colorado, the sitcom followed Mork’s hilarious attempts to understand human customs, with his bizarre antics and catchphrase "Nanu Nanu" becoming pop culture staples. Williams’ improvisational humor and boundless energy made the show a hit. Themes of friendship, acceptance, and curiosity underpinned the humor, creating a balance of heartfelt moments and outrageous comedy. Mork & Mindy launched Williams’ career and remains an enduring classic in television history. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 2
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: Lonesome Dove
Lonesome Dove, a critically acclaimed miniseries that aired in 1989, was based on Larry McMurtry's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Starring Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones as retired Texas Rangers Augustus "Gus" McCrae and Woodrow F. Call, the epic Western followed their journey driving cattle from Texas to Montana. The series depicted themes of friendship, loyalty, and the harsh realities of frontier life. With stunning cinematography, a rich storyline, and memorable performances, Lonesome Dove redefined the Western genre for television. Its emotional depth and vivid portrayal of the American West made it a cultural and critical success. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 3
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: Marcus Welby, M.D.
Airing from 1969 to 1976, Marcus Welby, M.D. starred Robert Young as the compassionate Dr. Welby and James Brolin as his younger, more modern colleague, Dr. Kiley. The medical drama explored their contrasting approaches to treating patients, blending traditional and progressive methods. Each episode tackled contemporary health issues, from mental illness to addiction, offering viewers both education and drama. Known for its warm, personal touch, the show emphasized the human side of medicine. Marcus Welby, M.D. became a television classic, earning multiple Emmy Awards and setting a precedent for medical dramas to follow. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 4
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Airing from 1970 to 1977, The Mary Tyler Moore Show was a groundbreaking sitcom about Mary Richards, a single woman pursuing a career in television news. Set in Minneapolis, the series followed Mary, played by Mary Tyler Moore, as she worked as a producer for the fictional WJM-TV newsroom. With a strong ensemble cast, including Ed Asner, Betty White, and Cloris Leachman, the show combined sharp humor with progressive themes. It tackled issues like gender equality and workplace dynamics with wit and warmth. The Mary Tyler Moore Show was celebrated for its influence on television and its empowering portrayal of women. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 5
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: Miami Vice
Miami Vice, airing from 1984 to 1989, revolutionized the crime drama genre with its stylish aesthetic, modern music, and cinematic storytelling. Starring Don Johnson as Sonny Crockett and Philip Michael Thomas as Ricardo Tubbs, the series followed the undercover detectives as they battled drug lords and crime in the vibrant Miami nightlife. Known for its pastel colors, sleek cars, and iconic soundtrack, including Jan Hammer’s theme, the show set a new standard for visual storytelling. Combining gritty narratives with a glamorous backdrop, Miami Vice became a cultural phenomenon and a defining series of the 1980s. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 6
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: Mission: Impossible
Mission: Impossible, which aired from 1966 to 1973, followed a team of covert agents undertaking high-stakes espionage missions. Led by the resourceful Jim Phelps (Peter Graves), the team used disguises, gadgets, and intricate strategies to outwit enemies and complete their assignments. Known for its iconic self-destructing tape messages and suspenseful plots, the show was a masterclass in tension and creativity. Each episode delivered twists and clever resolutions, captivating audiences. Mission: Impossible inspired a successful film franchise and left a lasting legacy in the spy genre for its ingenuity and sophisticated storytelling. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 7
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: North and South
North and South, a historical drama miniseries, aired in three installments from 1985 to 1994, based on John Jakes’ novels. It chronicled the friendship and rivalries between two families, the Hazards of Pennsylvania and the Mains of South Carolina, during the Civil War era. Starring Patrick Swayze and James Read, the series explored themes of loyalty, love, and the devastating impact of war. Lavish production values and a star-studded cast brought the era to life. North and South was praised for its emotional depth and historical scope, becoming one of the most popular miniseries of its time. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 8
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: The Odd Couple
Airing from 1970 to 1975, The Odd Couple was a sitcom based on Neil Simon’s play about two mismatched roommates. Tony Randall played Felix Unger, a neat freak, and Jack Klugman portrayed Oscar Madison, a messy sportswriter. The show highlighted their clashing personalities as they navigated life’s challenges together, delivering sharp humor and heartfelt moments. Their contrasting lifestyles created endless comedic situations, from house cleaning battles to quirky friendship dynamics. The chemistry between Randall and Klugman anchored the series, making The Odd Couple a standout comedy that explored themes of friendship and coexistence. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 9
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
ANSWER: The Partridge Family
The Partridge Family, which aired from 1970 to 1974, was a musical sitcom about a widowed mother, Shirley Partridge (Shirley Jones), and her five children who form a family band. Traveling in their iconic colorful bus, they navigated adventures in the music industry while dealing with everyday family life. David Cassidy, as Keith Partridge, became a teen idol thanks to the show’s success. Known for its catchy songs, such as “I Think I Love You,” and wholesome charm, The Partridge Family captured the spirit of the era and remains a nostalgic favorite for fans of ‘70s television. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
QUIZ QUESTION # 10
Can you name the Television Show from this One Scene? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.