That '70s Show: All Seasons Ranked Worst To Best

Best Episode: Water Tower

For many sitcoms, the first season is experimental and ends up aging badly overtime because the show was finding its voice. But not for That 70s Show which immediately came across as a sharp, witty, fresh comedy.

The entire first series almost felt like a time capsule into the 1970s era. All the styles, views, crazes and dialogue felt completely true to the real-life decade. The decision to start off the show in the mid-1970s is a smart one because many trends and ideologies had been firmly established.

It gave the writers a chance to address streaking, the sexual revolution and the presidencies of Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. It appealed to an older demographic because the setting evoked nostalgia of teenage rebellion. Furthermore, That 70s Show registered well with audiences because it highlighted the simply joys (and misfortunes) of growing up – first job, first car, first love, no responsibilities etc.

Bob Pinciotti said it – “make the most of it because this is the most fun you’re ever gonna have”.

There are minor flaws from season one – for instance, Donna’s mysterious sister Tina who appears in one episode and is never heard of or mentioned again. But it’s not really bothersome because we were otherwise treated to a diverse, comical, relatable group of friends who knew how to live their lives.