5 Beloved Classic TV Shows That Deserve a Re-Watch, Not a Reboot

By Jess Catcher Updated: September 15, 2018

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It seems like every year, our television screens are filled up with reboots and remakes of our favorite classic TV shows. We can’t help but wonder, why aren’t more people embracing the original shows instead? This is especially true when you consider that so many of them are available on streaming platforms to queue up at the click of a button. That’s not to say the new takes on old shows aren’t fun in their own right — It’s actually fascinating to see revivals breathe new life into a series so long after its finale.

That said, it’s also difficult to imagine any of the series listed below ever being done any better than the real deal. There’s just something about the combination of actors, story lines, and occasional pratfalls that make each of these timeless shows uniquely one of a kind. Plus, now you don’t have to wait around for a show’s re-run to air in order to enjoy an episode or two!

Whether you want to rewind to the early days of televion with the black-and-white sitcoms you loved as a kid or be transported to more recent hits from the 1970s and ’80s, you’ll be glad to know they’re all just waiting for you to dive back in. Take a look below to see which streaming service your favorite classic TV show is on!

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Golden Girls

It’s impossible to imagine any other actresses inhabiting the roles of the leading ladies from this groundbreaking, female-driven comedy. Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty, Betty White, and Rue McClanahan defined their characters with a chemistry that simply cannot be duplicated. Take a trip down memory lane and decide once and for all whether you’re the Rose, Blanche, Dorothy, or Sophia in your own friend group! Don't forget to grab a slice of cheesecake before hitting play to make the oh-so-quotable show that much more fun to watch.

Where It's Available to Stream: Hulu
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MASH

With one of the most-watched finales in television history, it’s clear the doctors and staff of the 4077th hit a chord with their viewers. Hawkeye and his cohorts had a knack for making us laugh despite the dreary wartime setting — and they tugged on our heartstrings more than a few times, too. The series lasted 11 seasons, which was especially rare back when it was airing. It also means you’ll be able to sit down and enjoy a nice long marathon whenever you’d like. Admit it, you already have the show’s theme song playing in your head, too.

Where It's Available to Stream: Hulu
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The Dick Van Dyke Show

It doesn’t get much more wholesome than this deep dive into television’s past. As Rob Petrie, Dick Van Dyke was able to show off his penchant for falling over ottomans and getting into adorable arguments with his wife, played by the incomparable Mary Tyler Moore. Every episode is great, but season two earns a particular highlight for “It May Look Like a Walnut,” which is famous for featuring Moore stumbling out of the living room closet on a sea of walnuts.

Where It's Available to Stream: Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
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Cheers

Did Sam and Diane end up together after all their will they/won’t they shenanigans? The best way to find out is by starting right back at the start and making your way through the episodes all over again! What better way to unwind when you get home from work than enjoying your own favorite beverage while Norm and Cliff keep their barstools warm. Although Rhea Perlman’s sassy Carla sadly won’t be your waitress, she can still crack you up with the rest of the Cheers gang.

Where It's Available to Stream: Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
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I Love Lucy

As the ultimate classic show, you simply never get tired of hearing Lucy 'splain her schemes to Ricky when it all blows up in her face — sometimes literally. Unfortunately, there is currently only a “best of” selection of episodes available for streaming rather than every single hilarious installment. For that, you’ll have to splurge on the DVD box set ($44.96, Amazon). That said, you can’t go wrong with any of the options from multiple seasons available at the click of a button.

Where It's Available to Stream: Hulu and Amazon Prime