The 1970s were a golden age for science fiction television, with "Star Trek" leading the charge and "Star Wars" inspiring a wave of new shows. However, not all of these shows found the audience they needed to survive, resulting in short runs and cult classic status. Today, we take a look at five forgotten sci-fi shows from the 1970s that still hold up today, exploring their impact, influence, and enduring appeal. From "Project U.F.O." to "Kolchak: The Night Stalker," these shows offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a reminder of the power of science fiction to captivate and inspire.
One show that stands out is "Project U.F.O." produced by Jack Webb and Col. William T. Coleman, it featured "the aura of believability rather than high fiction" and "high entertainment coupled with high strangeness." Despite its high production values and the involvement of Coleman, who was in charge of the USAF's "Project Blue Book" UFO study, the show has never been released on home video or streaming. This is a shame, as it offers a unique perspective on UFO sightings and the potential for alien life.
Another show that deserves a second look is "Logan's Run." A spin-off of the 1976 film starring Michael York, it featured a talented writing staff including D.C. Fontana and Harlan Ellison. Despite its strong start, "Logan's Run" only lasted for 14 episodes, going up against "The Rockford Files" on the schedule. The show's themes of youth, mortality, and the search for sanctuary are still relevant today, and it's a shame that it didn't get the chance to develop further.
"The Fantastic Journey" is a show that takes a different approach to science fiction, focusing on the Bermuda Triangle and the mysterious space-time gateways that exist within it. Created by Bruce Lansbury, the show features a ragtag group of characters, including a 13-year-old boy, a freshly graduated physician, and a scientist from the 1960s. Despite its unique premise and talented cast, including Roddy McDowall, the show only lasted for 10 episodes before NBC pulled the plug. It's a shame, as it offers a fresh take on the adventure genre and a reminder of the power of science fiction to explore the unknown.
"Buck Rogers in the 25th Century" is a show that deserves a second look, despite its absence from streaming services. The two-hour premiere, which was actually released in theaters in 1979, featured a talented cast including Gil Gerard, Erin Gray, and Tim O'Connor. The show's blend of action, adventure, and science fiction made it a hit, and it's a shame that it didn't get the chance to develop further. The show's absence from streaming services has limited its present-day appreciation, but it's still a fun watch for fans of the genre.
Finally, "Kolchak: The Night Stalker" is a show that has never truly climbed above cult status, despite its influence on "The X-Files." The show's blend of horror, mystery, and science fiction made it a hit, and it's a shame that it only lasted for 20 episodes. The show's themes of the unknown and the unexplained are still relevant today, and it's a reminder of the power of science fiction to explore the darker side of human nature.
In conclusion, these five forgotten sci-fi shows from the 1970s are a reminder of the power of science fiction to captivate and inspire. From "Project U.F.O." to "Kolchak: The Night Stalker," these shows offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a reminder of the enduring appeal of science fiction. So, if you're looking for a fun watch, why not give one of these shows a try? You never know, you might just discover a new favorite.
