I’ve noticed something about most of these ‘60s/‘70s/etc TV shows I’ve been watching. The first few seasons are strong as fuck then they take a turn towards stupid. Like, add a comedy relief cast member, or write differently, something, and they become unwatchable. That may be why I have memories of these shows being so goddamn bad but then I’m surprised when I watch the earlier ones.
“TV” is so saturated now with quality programming it’s impossible to be a ratings leader like some super crappy shows were in the ‘70s. What was a huge hit back then wouldn’t cut it today when you have a hundred choices compared to three.
The latest one I’ve noticed is The Six Million Dollar Man. It just started season one over again and it’s great! The ones from later in the series are just shit though. Interesting, to me anyhoo.