15 Forgotten Saturday Morning Shows From The ’70s That Deserve A Second Life

Ah, the 1970s — a decade bursting with groovy fashion, funky tunes, and one of the greatest treasures of all: Saturday morning cartoons. Back then, Saturday wasn’t just another day; it was a sacred event for kids everywhere. We’d roll out of bed at the crack of dawn, still rubbing sleep from our eyes, slip into whatever pajamas we hadn’t outgrown, and dash to the living room.

With a heaping bowl of sugary cereal in hand, we’d plop down onto those gloriously tacky, avocado-green couches and settle in for hours of animated bliss. The TV lineup was pure magic — a colorful, chaotic parade of superheroes, talking animals, mystery-solving teens, and slapstick comedy.

No streaming, no DVRs, no second chances — if you missed a show, you missed it! And somehow, that made it even more special. Some of these animated gems have drifted into the fog of memory, but their spirit still lingers, tucked into the warmest corners of our childhood hearts.

So grab your cereal (and maybe a beanbag chair), and join me for a nostalgic trip back to those simpler, sillier times with 15 unforgettable Saturday morning shows that totally deserve another moment in the spotlight.

1. Land of the Lost

Dinosaurs, Sleestaks, and time portals — it was weird, wild, and completely unforgettable. I mean, who doesn’t remember hiding behind the couch whenever those creepy Sleestaks shuffled into view? Land of the Lost was an extraordinary blend of adventure and sci-fi that captivated young imaginations with its mind-bending premise. A family trapped in a prehistoric world with only their wits and teamwork to survive was thrilling to watch.

The show taught us about courage and adaptability, qualities as timeless as a T-Rex roar echoing through the ages. Each episode was a rollercoaster of emotions, blending suspense, humor, and surprise, making it a quintessential part of the 1970s TV landscape.

What really set this show apart was its ability to transport us to a land where anything was possible and nothing was predictable. Watching it now, the special effects might seem quaint, but the sense of wonder it sparked remains as fresh as ever. It’s a show that truly deserves another run, not just for nostalgia’s sake but for introducing new generations to its adventurous spirit.

2. The Bugaloos

A band of insect teens with British accents flying around in magical wings — pure Saturday morning magic. The Bugaloos was a kaleidoscope of color and music, a psychedelic trip without leaving the couch. Imagine a Beatles-esque vibe mixed with a dash of whimsy, and you have a recipe for entertainment gold.

This show was as much about the tunes as it was about the quirky characters. Each Bugaloos member had a distinct personality, adding to the dynamic group chemistry that made the show a must-watch.

The Bugaloos taught us that being unique is a strength, not a flaw. Their adventures in the magical Tranquility Forest were filled with catchy songs and lessons about friendship and teamwork. It was the kind of show that made you want to jump up and dance in your living room — wings or no wings.

3. Electra Woman and Dyna Girl

Two crime-fighting fashion icons who made superheroing look way more glamorous than it had any right to. Electra Woman and Dyna Girl were the ultimate duo, blending crime-solving with a side of fashion flair. It’s like they took the concept of ‘dress for success’ to a whole new level.

Every episode was a mix of action and style, with the pair facing off against villains with names as colorful as their costumes. Who needed Batman and Robin when you had these two chic heroines saving the day?

The show’s blend of girl power and groovy 70s vibes made it a standout. Watching it felt like being part of an empowering movement — one where saving the world and looking fabulous weren’t mutually exclusive. With today’s superhero resurgence, it’s high time these ladies made a comeback to inspire another generation with their fearless flair.

4. Sigmund and the Sea Monsters

A lovable seaweed monster just trying to make friends — weird and adorable all at once. Sigmund and the Sea Monsters was a delightful concoction of humor and heart, capturing the essence of oddball friendships. Sigmund, the misfit sea monster, only wanted to find his place in the human world, and that’s something we could all relate to.

The show’s charm lay in its ability to blend the bizarre with the touching. Sigmund’s antics brought laughter, while his struggles struck a chord with anyone who ever felt like an outsider.

With its quirky premise and lovable characters, Sigmund and the Sea Monsters was more than just a kid’s show; it was a celebration of differences and acceptance. It’s a gentle reminder that friendship knows no bounds, even if it’s between a boy and a sea monster. A revival could bring a splash of whimsy back to our screens.

5. The Secrets of Isis

A high school teacher who transforms into an Egyptian goddess — long before superheroes were everywhere. The Secrets of Isis was a trailblazer in bringing strong female leads to the forefront, wrapped in intriguing mysticism. Who would’ve thought a pendant could turn an ordinary teacher into a deity with powers beyond imagination?

Isis took us on journeys filled with moral lessons and magical adventures, all while rocking ancient Egyptian flair. The show’s seamless blend of education and entertainment made it far ahead of its time.

Isis wasn’t just a superhero; she was an emblem of wisdom and justice. Her adventures taught us that knowledge is power, and empathy is invincible. With the current love for mythology and female empowerment, a reboot of Isis would be just as enchanting today as it was back then.

6. Dr. Shrinker

A mad scientist shrinks a group of teenagers, leading to all kinds of pint-sized adventures. Dr. Shrinker was a fantastic concoction of science fiction and comedy, giving us a world where being small didn’t mean having small adventures.

The show’s charm lay in its ability to make the ordinary extraordinary. Everyday objects became obstacles, and tiny mishaps turned into epic escapades. It was a reminder that size is just a number, and bravery comes in all shapes.

Dr. Shrinker’s antics were a delightful blend of slapstick humor and suspense, offering thrills and laughter in equal measure. The show’s imaginative take on adventure and the resilience of its characters made it a fun-filled ride worth re-exploring.

7. Wonderbug

Three teens and their magical, beat-up dune buggy — think Herbie but with even more attitude. Wonderbug was a quirky blend of humor, adventure, and a touch of automotive magic. Who knew a clunky old car could transform into a crime-fighting ally?

This show had us cheering for the underdog, or in this case, the under-bug. With its endearing characters and whimsical plots, Wonderbug sped through the 70s with style and flair.

Wonderbug was all about believing in the impossible and embracing the quirky. It taught us that friendship and teamwork can turn any old jalopy into a superhero on wheels. A revival could remind us of the joy of simpler times and the magic hidden in everyday places.

8. Far Out Space Nuts

Bob Denver and Chuck McCann as bumbling astronauts lost in space — pure slapstick genius. Far Out Space Nuts was a hilarious cosmic comedy, launching us into a galaxy of gags and guffaws. It was the kind of show that made you laugh until your sides hurt, with its out-of-this-world humor.

The show thrived on its absurdity, with every episode bringing new extraterrestrial escapades and laugh-inducing scenarios. Denver and McCann’s comedic chemistry was the rocket fuel that powered this interstellar ride.

Far Out Space Nuts was a testament to the fact that sometimes, laughter is the best space travel companion. Its playful take on space adventures and its lovable leads made it a gem of the 70s TV lineup, ready for a revival that could launch new laughter into orbit.

9. The New Adventures of Gilligan

An animated continuation of Gilligan’s Island that kept the goofy spirit alive. The New Adventures of Gilligan took us back to the tropics, where mishaps were as frequent as coconut drinks. It was a cartoonish celebration of the beloved live-action series.

The animated format added a new dimension to the classic characters, making their antics even more exaggerated and entertaining. It was a nostalgic nod to the original, keeping the charm and humor intact.

This show was a reminder that some stories are timeless, capable of bringing joy across generations. Its comedic take on island life and the familiar faces we loved made it a delightful watch. A revival could serve as a tribute to the lovable lunacy of Gilligan and his crew.

10. The Skatebirds

Costumed birds on roller skates introducing different cartoon segments — exactly as chaotic as it sounds. The Skatebirds was a whirlwind of avian antics and cartoon craziness, a variety show with wings.

This show was an eclectic mix of roller-skating fowl and animated fun, bringing a unique format that entertained young audiences. The Skatebirds were the feathered hosts, leading us through a series of delightful cartoon escapades.

It was a chaotic yet charming blend of live-action and animation, offering a variety of adventures in one package. The Skatebirds was a reminder of the creativity and whimsy that defined 70s television, and a reboot could add some nostalgic flair to our screens today.

11. Lidsville

A whole fantasy world made of talking hats, with Charles Nelson Reilly stealing every scene. Lidsville was a surreal trip into a land where headwear had a mind of its own. If you thought your hat collection was impressive, wait until you see Lidsville’s.

The show combined whimsy with a touch of absurdity, pulling viewers into a realm where hats ruled and hilarity reigned. Reilly’s over-the-top performance added an extra layer of theatrical charm to the show.

Lidsville was a celebration of creativity and imagination, a place where the bizarre became the norm. Its uniqueness made it a standout in the 70s TV landscape, and a modern twist on this quirky classic could remind us of the magic in the ordinary.

12. Monster Squad

A crime-fighting team made up of classic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Wolfman — but kid-friendly. Monster Squad was a delightful mash-up of spooky and silly, offering a fresh take on legendary creatures.

The show’s charm lay in its ability to transform traditional horror icons into lovable, bumbling heroes. Each episode was an adventure filled with gadgets, gags, and a good dose of supernatural slapstick.

Monster Squad was a unique concoction of humor and horror, teaching us that even monsters can have a heroic side. It was a playful twist on classic tales, perfect for younger audiences. A revival could bring some monster-sized fun back to our screens.

13. The Kids from C.A.P.E.R.

A goofy mix of superheroes and a boy band, packed with cheesy songs and even cheesier stunts. The Kids from C.A.P.E.R. was a musical melange of action and absurdity, making every Saturday morning feel like a concert of comedy.

This show was a delightfully eccentric blend of song, dance, and superhero antics, with each episode bringing melodious mayhem and heroic hijinks. The show’s catchy tunes and offbeat humor made it a memorable part of the 70s lineup.

The Kids from C.A.P.E.R. taught us that sometimes, it’s okay to be silly and that music and laughter are powerful superpowers. With its campy charm and vibrant energy, a reboot could hit all the right notes for today’s audiences.

14. Run, Joe, Run

Think The Fugitive, but with a German Shepherd on the run after being wrongly accused — yes, it was somehow both thrilling and emotional. Run, Joe, Run was a canine caper of epic proportions, with Joe capturing hearts and escaping captors.

This show took us on a cross-country journey filled with suspense and heartwarming moments. Joe’s loyalty and intelligence made him the hero we all rooted for, proving that dogs truly are man’s best friend.

Run, Joe, Run was a thrilling chase with a tender core, highlighting themes of trust and redemption. It was a pawsitively perfect blend of action and emotion, deserving of a reboot that could showcase the timeless bond between humans and their furry companions.

15. Jason of Star Command

A live-action sci-fi adventure with miniatures, spaceships, and endless outer space action before Star Wars took over everything. Jason of Star Command was a stellar saga of cosmic proportions, captivating audiences with its adventurous allure.

The show’s impressive use of miniatures and special effects made it a visual spectacle, transporting viewers to a universe brimming with wonders and challenges. Its narrative was as vast as the cosmos, offering intrigue and inspiration.

Jason of Star Command was more than just a show; it was a voyage into the unknown, a celebration of science fiction’s limitless possibilities. A reboot could reignite the spark of exploration and wonder, inviting new generations to dream among the stars.