The Most Popular TV Show From Your Birth Year (1951-1990)

9. 1969-1970: Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In

Americans had never seen the upbeat comedy stylings of Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, which broke the mold of more highly scripted television. The feel of spontaneity and comedic boundary-pushing was clearly exciting for viewers, who made Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In the top-rated show for two years running.

The show won seven Emmys during its six-season run, including the 1969 Golden Globe for Best TV Show. This show is not spoken of nearly enough as a pioneering venture that paved the way for later live and sketch comedy shows.