As we reflect on the past, it’s fascinating to revisit the unconventional trends and phenomena of the 1970s that seemed entirely normal at the time. Here are seven remarkable aspects from that decade that may surprise you today.
1. The New Adventures of Scooby-Doo
This animated series was the second iteration of the classic Scooby-Doo franchise. While the concept of teenagers investigating mysteries with a (sort-of) talking dog might seem odd, it was entertaining. What truly set The New Adventures of Scooby-Doo apart were its unexpected celebrity crossovers. Long before it was common for shows to feature guest stars, icons from various fields made appearances, including The Addams Family, voiced by the legendary John Astin. Not to mention the Harlem Globetrotters and stars like Don Knotts and Phyllis Diller joining the fun. If you revisit those episodes, take a moment to appreciate Phyllis Diller’s unforgettable hairstyle!
2. The World of Sid & Marty Krofft
Shows like Sigmund and the Sea Monsters and H.R. Pufnstuf were a staple of Saturday morning television, but they were anything but ordinary. In Atlanta, Georgia, a unique indoor amusement park called The World of Sid & Marty Krofft opened its doors, featuring whimsical attractions that mirrored the bizarre nature of their shows. Visitors ascended the world’s largest escalator to enter a realm filled with animatronic characters and funhouse mirrors. Regrettably, this park is now just a distant memory, with few images or videos to remind us of its existence.
3. King Tut’s Spectacular Exhibit
In 1976, the traveling exhibit of King Tutankhamun’s treasures captivated audiences across North America, akin to a modern-day concert tour. Over three years, millions of people flocked to see the artifacts, igniting a widespread fascination with ancient Egypt. The hype was so immense that comedian Steve Martin even performed a comedic tribute on Saturday Night Live. The excitement surrounding this cultural phenomenon was palpable, showcasing a collective eagerness to engage with history and science.
4. The Coors Beer Smuggling Craze
In the film Smokey and the Bandit, the plot revolved around a character named Snowman, played by Jerry Reed, who undertook the illegal transport of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia. At the time, Coors was only sold in the western states, adding to its allure. This unconventional premise, featuring Burt Reynolds and his iconic Trans Am, invites us to reconsider the lengths people would go for a product they deemed exceptional—something to ponder while enjoying a contemporary craft beer.
5. The Streaking Phenomenon
Streaking—running naked in public—was a popular fad in the ’70s, so prevalent that it inspired a novelty song by Ray Stevens that topped the charts. The catchy tune humorously recounted the antics of streakers, with Stevens calling out to a character named Ethel to avert her gaze. While today’s society occasionally sees streakers at sporting events, the carefree spirit of that era made it a cultural touchstone, leading to the creation of lighthearted songs that captured the public’s imagination.
6. Joe Namath and Beauty Mist
In the 1970s, NFL star Joe Namath was not only known for his athletic prowess but also for his surprising foray into product endorsements. His commercials for Beauty Mist pantyhose showcased his legs and left many parents astonished. However, for younger viewers, Namath represented a stylish figure who mingled with the disco crowd, and his appeal was undeniable, particularly among mothers who admired him.
7. Pantyhose in an Egg
The introduction of L’Eggs pantyhose in plastic eggs became a household staple, often sparking creative projects during Easter. These eggs, once ubiquitous, have become relics of the past, similar to other forgotten items like the Styrofoam Quarter Pounder box. The unique marketing concept of packaging pantyhose in eggs was a clever strategy that has since faded, leaving many wondering about the future of pantyhose themselves.
In summary, the 1970s were filled with peculiar trends and cultural phenomena that, in retrospect, seem quite extraordinary. From animated crossovers and ancient exhibits to streaking and unexpected product endorsements, these elements reflect a unique era that shaped modern entertainment and society.
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