1. The Mothers-in-Law
This sitcom was a hilarious clash of personalities between two meddling mothers-in-law, played by Eve Arden and Kaye Ballard, whose children got married and forced them into a reluctant family dynamic. Created by Desi Arnaz after his I Love Lucy days, the show had that classic slapstick feel, but with a fresh twist that made it stand out. Arden and Ballard had electric chemistry, constantly trying to outwit each other while dragging their poor spouses and kids into their schemes. The series only lasted two seasons from ’67 to ’69, but it had all the makings of a long-running hit. Guest stars like Desi Arnaz himself and Paul Lynde brought extra comedic flair. It was the kind of show where misunderstandings spiraled out of control, leading to wildly exaggerated antics says Women’s World.
A reboot could do wonders today, especially with modern in-law relationships being just as tricky (if not more so). Imagine it with two powerhouse comedic actresses—say, Jane Lynch and Catherine O’Hara—going head-to-head while their adult kids try to keep the peace. The humor could be updated to reflect generational clashes over social media, parenting styles, and work-life balance. It would also be fun to see it blend traditional sitcom storytelling with a bit of that Modern Family documentary-style humor. With the right cast and sharp writing, The Mothers-in-Law could thrive in today’s TV landscape.
2. My Living Doll
Before she became famous as Catwoman, Julie Newmar played Rhoda the robot in this short-lived ’64 sitcom, opposite Bob Cummings says First for Women. The premise was delightfully absurd—Cummings’ character, a psychologist, was tasked with teaching an advanced female android how to behave like a human. Naturally, hijinks ensued as Rhoda took everything too literally, leading to awkward but hilarious situations. Newmar’s deadpan delivery and statuesque presence made Rhoda both charming and unintentionally funny. The show had a unique take on AI decades before it became a pop culture staple. Unfortunately, it was canceled too soon, and many of its episodes were lost over time.
A reboot would be perfect in today’s world, where AI and robotics are hot topics. Instead of a male scientist teaching a female android, the roles could be reversed for a fresh perspective—imagine a brilliant female programmer guiding a clueless but charming male robot. It could also explore deeper themes about artificial intelligence gaining emotions and the ethical dilemmas that come with it. A blend of humor, heart, and sci-fi elements could make it the next great sitcom. With someone like Margot Robbie or Janelle Monáe as the lead, My Living Doll could have a second life.
3. Coronet Blue
This mystery drama from ’67 had one of the most frustrating cliffhangers in TV history. Frank Converse played an amnesiac who was pulled from the water after an assassination attempt, with only the words “Coronet Blue” as a clue to his past. Each episode followed his journey to piece together who he was while evading mysterious pursuers. It had a noir feel mixed with ’60s intrigue, and Converse’s performance was gripping. Unfortunately, CBS delayed airing the show for two years, and by the time it premiered, plans for its resolution had already fizzled. Fans were left hanging, never knowing the true meaning of “Coronet Blue.”
This one is begging for a revival, especially in an era where people love a good mystery with deep lore. With streaming allowing for long-form storytelling, a modern Coronet Blue could weave an intricate plot with hidden clues and shocking twists explains CrimeReads. Casting a strong lead, like Timothée Chalamet or Jeremy Allen White, would add depth to the character’s journey. The show could explore identity, conspiracy, and the psychological toll of not knowing who you are. Done right, it could be the next Severance or Westworld, but with a pulpy ’60s spy-thriller vibe.
4. It’s About Time
Imagine Gilligan’s Island, but with time travel—because that’s exactly what Sherwood Schwartz cooked up in ’66. The show followed two astronauts who accidentally went back in time and had to live among cavemen while trying to get home. The humor was delightfully silly, with the astronauts struggling to teach modern concepts to their prehistoric hosts. Midway through its run, the show flipped the premise, bringing the cavemen to the 20th century instead. The tonal shift confused viewers, and the series was axed after just one season. Still, the catchy theme song (“It’s about time, it’s about space…”) remains a classic says SlashFilm.
With time travel stories booming in popularity, It’s About Time could make an amazing comeback. A reboot could lean into the fish-out-of-water comedy while playing with modern sci-fi concepts. Maybe the time travelers land in an alternate timeline, or perhaps they end up in different eras each episode, adding an Quantum Leap twist. Casting two charismatic leads, like Ryan Reynolds and John Boyega, could bring out the show’s humor and adventure. If handled right, a revival could be a mix of slapstick comedy and clever sci-fi, perfect for today’s audience.
5. The Second Hundred Years
This 1967 sitcom had one of the strangest premises ever—an explorer is frozen in an avalanche in 1900 and is thawed out in the ’60s, still looking 33. Meanwhile, his grandson (who is now the same age as him) has to adjust to this bizarre family dynamic. Monte Markham played both the young grandpa and the confused grandson, pulling off the dual role with impressive comedic timing. The humor came from the old-fashioned man trying to navigate the modern world while still acting like he was from 1900. Unfortunately, despite its creative premise, the show didn’t last long.
A revival could work brilliantly today, especially with the fascination around cryogenics and time displacement stories. The idea of someone from the early 1900s waking up in 2025 is ripe for both humor and social commentary. He’d be baffled by technology, cultural shifts, and modern slang while stubbornly clinging to his old ways. A charismatic actor like Oscar Isaac or Pedro Pascal could bring warmth and humor to the dual roles. With the right balance of heart and comedy, The Second Hundred Years could be a sleeper hit.
6. T.H.E. Cat
This slick ’66 action series starred Robert Loggia as Thomas Hewitt Edward (T.H.E.) Cat, a retired circus acrobat turned professional thief-turned-bodyguard. The show was stylish, moody, and full of daring heists, making it one of the coolest cult classics of its era. With his all-black outfit and quiet confidence, Loggia’s character was like Batman without the cape—always two steps ahead of his enemies. The action sequences were innovative, with Cat using his acrobatic skills to outmaneuver foes. It had a jazz-infused score and a noir atmosphere, making it feel more sophisticated than the average crime show.
In today’s era of sleek antihero dramas, T.H.E. Cat could find new life as a stylish, serialized thriller. Imagine a Netflix or HBO Max reboot with high-stakes missions, parkour-style stunts, and deep character development. A modern Cat could be a mix of John Wick, Lupin, and Daredevil—someone with a dark past but a code of honor. Casting a charismatic lead, like Oscar Isaac or Henry Golding, could elevate the role. With the right mix of action and noir storytelling, T.H.E. Cat could become a must-watch for fans of slick, high-energy thrillers.
7. The Governor & J.J.
This 1969 sitcom had a fresh premise for its time—a widowed governor trying to balance his political career while raising his outspoken, free-spirited daughter. Dan Dailey played Governor William Drinkwater, a straight-laced politician, while Julie Sommars played J.J., his lively, independent daughter who constantly challenged his old-school ways. Their dynamic was the heart of the show, mixing generational clashes with political humor. Unlike most family sitcoms of the era, this one had a sharper edge, often tackling social issues like women’s rights and political activism. It even won a Golden Globe for Best TV Series – Musical or Comedy, but it was canceled after just two seasons.
A reboot could be a hit in today’s world of political and social change. Imagine a modern governor trying to juggle reelection while dealing with a Gen Z daughter who’s an outspoken activist on TikTok. The father-daughter relationship could be both funny and heartwarming, showing how different generations can clash yet still love and learn from each other. With someone like Steve Carell or Bryan Cranston as the governor and a rising young star like Jenna Ortega as J.J., the show could blend smart humor with timely political satire. It could be a mix of Veep and Gilmore Girls, offering both laughs and emotional depth.
8. The Pruitts of Southampton
This 1966 sitcom, starring the legendary Phyllis Diller, was a fun twist on the classic riches-to-rags story. The Pruitts were a wealthy family who secretly went broke but had to keep up the illusion of their high-society lifestyle to avoid scandal. Diller played the eccentric matriarch, always scheming to maintain appearances while their financial situation spiraled. The humor came from the absurdity of their situations, with them pretending to be rich while barely scraping by. It had a glamorous setting, sharp wit, and a great supporting cast, including Gypsy Rose Lee. Unfortunately, the show struggled with ratings and only lasted one season.
This premise would work even better today, given how obsessed people are with influencers, wealth, and social media facades. A reboot could follow a once-wealthy family of socialites who secretly lose their fortune but still try to maintain their image online. Think of it as Schitt’s Creek meets The White Lotus, with a mix of satire, heart, and outlandish schemes. A comedic powerhouse like Kristen Wiig or Maya Rudolph could bring the lead role to life, making it a hilarious and sharp take on modern wealth culture. It could easily find an audience in today’s era of luxury obsession and reality TV excess.
9. Run for Your Life
A gripping action-drama from ’65 to ’68, this series followed Paul Bryan, a lawyer who was given only a few years to live and decided to make the most of his time by traveling the world. Played by Ben Gazzara, Bryan wasn’t just crossing off a bucket list—he was solving mysteries, getting into adventures, and occasionally falling in love along the way. It had a Route 66 vibe, but with a deeper existential weight. Each episode took him to a new place, with new challenges and characters, making it one of the most unique dramas of the decade. The mix of action, emotion, and philosophical themes made it a hidden gem.
A modern revival could be incredible, especially if it leaned into the emotional depth of a man racing against time. With today’s storytelling, it could explore his regrets, fears, and moments of triumph in a more nuanced way. Each episode could take him to a new country, immersing the audience in different cultures and adventures. A lead like Jake Gyllenhaal or Pedro Pascal could bring both intensity and vulnerability to the role. Done right, it could be a mix of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Breaking Bad, and The Fugitive, making it a compelling, globe-trotting drama.
10. He & She
This ’67 sitcom was ahead of its time, blending romantic comedy with sharp workplace humor. It starred real-life couple Richard Benjamin and Paula Prentiss as a married duo navigating careers and marriage in New York City. He played a cartoonist whose superhero creation, Jetman, was becoming a hit, while she worked as a social worker. Their dynamic was refreshingly modern, with witty banter and equal footing in their relationship—something rare for the ’60s. It also had a great supporting cast, including Jack Cassidy as an egotistical TV star playing Jetman. Despite its quality writing and humor, it lasted just one season.
A reboot could thrive today, especially with the success of smart relationship comedies like Ted Lasso and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It could follow a creative couple—maybe a graphic novelist and a podcast host—trying to balance love, work, and the chaos of modern city life. The humor could explore everything from social media pressure to career competition, making it relatable and fresh. With a real-life couple like John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, the chemistry would be undeniable. This could be the kind of show that feels cozy and clever at the same time.
11. The Girl from U.N.C.L.E.
A spin-off of The Man from U.N.C.L.E., this ’66 action series followed April Dancer, a stylish and skilled secret agent played by Stefanie Powers. Unlike most female leads of the era, she was tough, witty, and held her own in a world of spies and double agents. The show had a mix of action, gadgets, and campy humor, making it a fun but short-lived cult favorite. It was canceled after just one season, as it struggled to match the success of its predecessor. However, the idea of a female-led spy series was groundbreaking for its time.
Now, with female spy thrillers like Killing Eve and Atomic Blonde being so popular, The Girl from U.N.C.L.E. could finally get its due. A modern version could be a high-stakes espionage series with stylish action sequences and complex characters. Imagine an actress like Ana de Armas or Jodie Comer in the role, bringing both charm and grit to the character. The show could balance serious spy drama with a bit of that ’60s campy fun, making it a unique and exciting addition to today’s TV lineup.
12. The Guns of Will Sonnett
This Western series from ’67 followed an old man and his grandson searching for the boy’s outlaw father. Starring Walter Brennan as the tough but kindhearted grandfather, it had a more emotional core than most Westerns. The journey-based storytelling gave it a True Grit feel, with a focus on family, morality, and redemption. It stood out for its introspective tone, exploring what it meant to be a good man in a lawless world. Despite solid performances and writing, it only lasted two seasons.
With Westerns making a comeback thanks to shows like Yellowstone and 1883, this could be the perfect time to revisit The Guns of Will Sonnett. A modern adaptation could deepen the emotional journey, showing a grandfather trying to guide his grandson while wrestling with his own past. A legendary actor like Sam Elliott could be the perfect lead, bringing gravitas to the role. It could be a gritty, heartfelt Western with strong character development, appealing to both classic Western fans and a new generation.
13. The New People
This 1969 drama was Lost before Lost—a group of young people crash-landed on an island and had to build their own society from scratch. The twist? The island was secretly a government experiment, with abandoned buildings and supplies left behind to see what they’d do. It was a fascinating concept, exploring themes of leadership, survival, and human nature. However, it only lasted one season, and its ambitious ideas never fully developed.
A reboot could be a huge hit in the age of survival dramas and dystopian thrillers. Imagine a show that combines Yellowjackets with The Society, exploring deep social dynamics and unexpected twists. With a talented young cast and smart writing, it could be the next big genre obsession.