As we reflect on the past, it’s fascinating to revisit some of the unconventional aspects of the 1970s that seemed completely normal at the time. Here’s a look at seven peculiar trends from that decade that might raise an eyebrow today.
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The New Adventures of Scooby-Doo
This animated series was a follow-up to Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? While the premise of teenagers solving mysteries alongside a talking dog is inherently odd, what truly set The New Adventures of Scooby-Doo apart were its unexpected crossover episodes. Long before animated celebrity cameos became mainstream in shows like Family Guy, iconic figures from both reality and fiction made guest appearances. Notable moments included encounters with The Addams Family, featuring John Astin as Gomez, and cameos from the Harlem Globetrotters, Don Knotts, and even Phyllis Diller. Take a moment to revisit those episodes and check out Phyllis Diller’s unforgettable hairstyle. -
The World of Sid & Marty Krofft
Shows like H.R. Pufnstuf and Sigmund and the Sea Monsters might have seemed perfectly acceptable Saturday morning fare, yet they were undeniably surreal. My childhood in Atlanta, Georgia, included visits to The World of Sid & Marty Krofft, a unique indoor amusement park that felt like stepping into one of their bizarre shows. The park featured animatronics, funhouse mirrors, and slides reminiscent of the Banana Splits Adventure Hour. Unfortunately, this whimsical place has faded from memory, leaving behind only fleeting recollections and scarce visual documentation. -
King Tut’s Touring Exhibit
In 1976, the exhibition of artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb swept across North America like a modern pop concert. The excitement surrounding this cultural showcase was immense, drawing over eight million visitors who traveled great distances to witness the treasures of ancient Egypt. Steve Martin even parodied the phenomenon on Saturday Night Live, and at the time, the enthusiasm seemed perfectly rational. It highlighted a collective fascination with history and cultures beyond our own, which is quite a peculiar trend in retrospect. -
Coors and Smokey and the Bandit
The original Smokey and the Bandit featured a plot centered around the illegal transportation of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia, as it was only available in the western United States. This storyline was emblematic of the era’s attitude towards certain beverages. Imagine the absurdity of needing to smuggle a beer that was widely regarded as a premium brand, especially when compared to today’s craft beer landscape, which offers a plethora of options. -
The Streaking Craze
While the occasional streaker may still make headlines at sporting events, the 1970s saw this phenomenon become a cultural mainstay. The novelty song “The Streak,” by Ray Stevens, reached the top of the charts with its humorous take on the fad. The playful warning of “Don’t look, Ethel!” became a memorable catchphrase, showcasing how societal norms were sometimes turned on their head for comedic effect. -
Joe Namath’s Beauty Mist Endorsement
In an era where sports figures began to branch into advertising, Joe Namath’s endorsement of Beauty Mist pantyhose was a notable moment. His flamboyant persona was emblematic of the 1970s lifestyle, and seeing a football star promoting women’s hosiery was certainly a shock for many. For those of us who admired him, it was just another reminder of the strange, yet fascinating, world we were growing up in. -
Pantyhose in Plastic Eggs
The introduction of L’Eggs pantyhose packaged in whimsical plastic eggs was a marketing innovation that many households embraced. These quirky containers became a staple, often finding their way into various DIY projects. The nostalgic memories of these eggs may evoke a blend of fondness and bewilderment, as they have since become relics of a bygone era.
In summary, the 1970s were filled with a variety of unconventional trends that, while accepted at the time, now seem quite extraordinary and even amusing. As we move forward, it’s essential to reflect on these cultural oddities and understand their impact on contemporary society.
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