Hello and thank you for being a DL contributor. We are changing the login scheme for contributors for simpler login and to better support using multiple devices. Please click here to update your account with a username and password.

Hello. Some features on this site require registration. Please click here to register for free.

Hello and thank you for registering. Please complete the process by verifying your email address. If you can't find the email you can resend it here.

Hello. Some features on this site require a subscription. Please click here to get full access and no ads for $1.99 or less per month.

What is the best TV show opening ever, based on music and the actual filmed content?

I am pretty sure nothing is better than the first season opening of Laverne and Shirley.

The factory shots are so depressing, played against the upbeat music.

And the two of them standing there as 100 bottles of beer go by is an amazing shot.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 266November 30, 2022 7:46 AM

MTM

by Anonymousreply 1November 14, 2022 9:01 PM

....

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 2November 14, 2022 9:04 PM

On Datalounge there is only one answer to that question.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 3November 14, 2022 9:05 PM

The Jeffersons

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 4November 14, 2022 9:06 PM

The Datalounge runner-up to Angie.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 5November 14, 2022 9:07 PM

The jazzy opening score by Hoyt Curtain and the exciting imagery by Doug Wildey for Jonny Quest.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 6November 14, 2022 9:29 PM

this was good, esp given the lyrics of the song

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 7November 14, 2022 9:34 PM

Room 222

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 8November 14, 2022 9:43 PM

The White Lotus

The Sopranos

by Anonymousreply 9November 14, 2022 9:46 PM

The Sopranos, good pick

by Anonymousreply 10November 14, 2022 9:50 PM

Grand sweeping theme, everybody dressed to the nines, a mansion that looked like money and the original twirl.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 11November 14, 2022 9:51 PM

"The Shining" (1981 - 1988)

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 12November 14, 2022 9:53 PM

One For the Road

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 13November 14, 2022 9:58 PM

Hawaii 5-O, the original one.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 14November 14, 2022 10:03 PM

[quote] On Datalounge there is only one answer to that question.

FIFY. (See below.)

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 15November 14, 2022 10:07 PM

Charlie’s Angels season 4 starring Jaclyn Smith, Cheryl Ladd, David Doyle AND SHELLEY HACK!!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 16November 14, 2022 10:07 PM

Actually, this one's better, esp. at the 30 second mark where Jack Lord spins around to face the camera with his "Blue Steel" stare.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 17November 14, 2022 10:08 PM

A personal favorite. But considering the starring actor, it could have been called "Lotsa Dick."

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 18November 14, 2022 10:09 PM

Mary Hartman! Mary Hartman!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 19November 14, 2022 10:10 PM

The Bionic Woman starring the incandescent Lindsay Wagner!!!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 20November 14, 2022 10:13 PM

And there's

MAUDE

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 21November 14, 2022 10:13 PM

Nothing beats the original Hawaii Five-O.

by Anonymousreply 22November 14, 2022 10:17 PM

Space 1999 starring Martin Landau and Barbara Bain!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 23November 14, 2022 10:18 PM

Wonder Woman season 1 starring Lynda Carter and Lyle Waggoner.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 24November 14, 2022 10:20 PM

Hart to Hart

"Because when they met... it was MURDER"

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 25November 14, 2022 10:20 PM

The opening number to “Phyllis” was a hat tip to Jerry Herman’s “Hello Dolly,” with an unexpected insult to Phyllis at the end. I thought it was a brilliant opening.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 26November 14, 2022 10:21 PM

Eight Is Enough

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 27November 14, 2022 10:24 PM

Alice season 6 sung by the incandescent Linda Lavin

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 28November 14, 2022 10:24 PM

Well it sure wasn't this, even though I'd love to vote for a gurl.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 29November 14, 2022 10:25 PM

Means I got to stay up late..

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 30November 14, 2022 10:25 PM

Starsky & Hutch for the clip around 1:10.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 31November 14, 2022 10:26 PM

Greatest American Hero

The full length version is better but for this thread I figured it's only appropriate to post the television version of the song.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 32November 14, 2022 10:26 PM

A (forgotten?) icon.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 33November 14, 2022 10:27 PM

Munsters

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 34November 14, 2022 10:31 PM
Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 35November 14, 2022 10:33 PM

Fag + Dyke + Bathtub =

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 36November 14, 2022 10:36 PM

Mama’s Family

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 37November 14, 2022 10:36 PM

Mod Squad

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 38November 14, 2022 10:36 PM

Cagney & Lacey

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 39November 14, 2022 10:37 PM

The Ghost And Mrs. Muir

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 40November 14, 2022 10:39 PM

Hold me closer Tony Danza

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 41November 14, 2022 10:40 PM

Kate & Allie

Just when you can finger your twat your friend joins in

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 42November 14, 2022 10:40 PM

The Gold Standard

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 43November 14, 2022 10:41 PM

bitches b slippin

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 44November 14, 2022 10:42 PM

The Sex Boat

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 45November 14, 2022 10:42 PM

How many openings inspired millions of gay boys to practice racing down a spiral staircase (whenever they happened to find one) and act delighted to see someone?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 46November 14, 2022 10:43 PM

My Sister Sam

Starring Pam Dawber and Rebecca Schaeffer

Song by Kim Carnes!!!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 47November 14, 2022 10:47 PM

Just when you think you can take off your pants and flick your bean, you can’t

by Anonymousreply 48November 14, 2022 10:50 PM

The Brady Bunch

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 49November 14, 2022 10:51 PM

LOL R46

by Anonymousreply 50November 14, 2022 10:51 PM

The Addams Family.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 51November 14, 2022 11:05 PM

227

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 52November 14, 2022 11:10 PM

Am I the only on who can’t get enough of this?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 53November 14, 2022 11:21 PM

Or this?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 54November 14, 2022 11:23 PM

This one makes me wanna go-go dance

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 55November 14, 2022 11:47 PM

Batman: The Animated Series

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 56November 14, 2022 11:51 PM

I think it's weird how the Angie intros are so food involved and also was a little whipped cream canister bit really that funny that they had to reshoot it for the second version.

by Anonymousreply 57November 14, 2022 11:53 PM

[quote]The opening number to “Phyllis” was a hat tip to Jerry Herman’s “Hello Dolly,” with an unexpected insult to Phyllis at the end. I thought it was a brilliant opening.

No, the song was a hat tip to "Mame," and the visuals were an homage to "The Wild Wild West."

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 58November 15, 2022 12:01 AM

Bitches, please.... no one sings like Charlotte Rae... thread closed.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 59November 15, 2022 12:09 AM

R59 she looked great after losing weight into the second season.

Anyone else remember this? I’m not Canadian but I think TBS ran it in the late 80s.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 60November 15, 2022 12:16 AM

I think it's time to develop a joint understanding of what we mean when we say what is the [italic]best[/italic] TV show opening ever, [italic]based on music[/italic] and [italic] the actual filmed content[/italic]?

by Anonymousreply 61November 15, 2022 12:21 AM

True Blood and Six Feet Under were both exceptional.

by Anonymousreply 62November 15, 2022 12:23 AM

CPW: Season 1

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 63November 15, 2022 12:31 AM

Cracking stuff

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 64November 15, 2022 12:31 AM

I loved the opening of each episode of Transparent. To me, it was a great Jewish story, told in serial form. I liked the second season best.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 65November 15, 2022 12:33 AM

The Jeffersons. “Weh-hell, were movin’ on up!”

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 66November 15, 2022 12:42 AM

Here Come the Brides. 1968. Purely for the theme song. I can still recall it now I am in my 60s.

The show confirmed I was gay. Robert Brown, David Soul and Bobby Sherman as the three brothers, a visual treat. Robert Brown died two months ago at the age of 95.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 67November 15, 2022 12:45 AM

If we're considering shows from this century, I absolutely adore the opening of the new Interview with A Vampire AMC series.

by Anonymousreply 68November 15, 2022 1:06 AM

I can't believe no one has mentioned That Girl

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 69November 15, 2022 1:14 AM

The best of the current shows. Sure, it completely rips off the opening credits from the movies "The Game" and "All Good Things", but I don't care -- it still slaps.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 70November 15, 2022 1:18 AM

Now all we need is for Pluto TV to take note of this thread and to create a station called "Bitchy gays' favorite theme songs." (minus the pretentious Succession).

by Anonymousreply 71November 15, 2022 1:21 AM

The Peacemaker opening sequence is a lot of fun.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 72November 15, 2022 1:28 AM

R58 has the original WWW opening where James West punches the dagger-wielding gal. *BOOM* I guess viewers didn’t like that so later years had the girl swooning from James’ kiss and leaning against a wall….no punch.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 73November 15, 2022 1:29 AM

Some of these shows suggested were videotaped and not filmed.

by Anonymousreply 74November 15, 2022 1:30 AM

Come on now. We'll have a gay old time!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 75November 15, 2022 1:34 AM

The Banana Splits. The Waltons.

by Anonymousreply 76November 15, 2022 1:36 AM

The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 77November 15, 2022 1:39 AM

Party of Five

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 78November 15, 2022 1:40 AM

Perhaps the only TV show opening that gave me an instant erection.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 79November 15, 2022 1:43 AM

Pete and Pete

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 80November 15, 2022 1:45 AM

I always get emotional hearing the Family Ties theme. It brings me back to childhood, but I’m not exactly sure why this particular theme does.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 81November 15, 2022 1:52 AM

Exotic and urbane.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 82November 15, 2022 1:54 AM

The show that had everything!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 83November 15, 2022 1:56 AM

Welcome Back Kotter for visual because I was spend part of my childhood in this area.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 84November 15, 2022 1:56 AM

Spent^

by Anonymousreply 85November 15, 2022 1:58 AM

"Depressing?" Really?

by Anonymousreply 86November 15, 2022 2:01 AM

[quote] I always get emotional hearing the Family Ties theme. It brings me back to childhood, but I’m not exactly sure why this particular theme does.

A big MARY on the Family Ties theme.

by Anonymousreply 87November 15, 2022 2:01 AM

The Prisoner.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 88November 15, 2022 2:04 AM

Remington Steele, Seasons 1 & 2 (only).

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 89November 15, 2022 2:05 AM
Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 90November 15, 2022 2:06 AM

The Avengers, series 5 opening (1967)

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 91November 15, 2022 2:11 AM

You knew it was going to be a great night of entertainment when this music started.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 92November 15, 2022 2:13 AM

Lost In Space -season three. Young John Williams at his best!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 93November 15, 2022 2:15 AM

Green Acres

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 94November 15, 2022 2:15 AM

Grand and sweeping, my ass R11.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 95November 15, 2022 2:16 AM

Land of the Giants (Season 1) Another Johnny Williams...

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 96November 15, 2022 2:16 AM

The Avengers, series 4 opening is just as good. The closing credits are included.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 97November 15, 2022 2:18 AM

For me it’s MASH and Hawaii 50. My parents forced us to go to bed at 8 pm and I would listen to the opening theme of these shows as I fell asleep. All In The Family too. How has that not been mentioned?

by Anonymousreply 98November 15, 2022 2:19 AM

Here's another version of the Land of the Giants opener -split screen with both the first and second season visual (first season theme).

Did any other show have such a hot cast? Gary Conway, Don Matheson, Don Marshall...

by Anonymousreply 99November 15, 2022 2:20 AM

Emma, you still slay me.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 100November 15, 2022 2:21 AM

*Ahem*

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 101November 15, 2022 2:22 AM

What’s the matter with you people? This should have been top of the list.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 102November 15, 2022 2:24 AM

I, Claudius opening credits

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 103November 15, 2022 2:26 AM

Kath and Kim

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 104November 15, 2022 2:29 AM

60 non-stop minutes across the tracks of your mind!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 105November 15, 2022 2:30 AM

X-Files. This premiered when I was in 5th grade and I would watch it in my room and turn the lights off during the opening credits to make it extra spooky.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 106November 15, 2022 2:34 AM

Ducktales

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 107November 15, 2022 2:36 AM

Airwolf for sure. The opening shot of Airwolf rising up and hovering while the screaming type music plays was so badass. Looks like a shark.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 108November 15, 2022 2:39 AM

Our Viv just sat back, shook her head and said, “Jesus, take the wheel!”

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 109November 15, 2022 2:40 AM

Fresh Prince of Bel Air. It perfectly summarizes what the show is about.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 110November 15, 2022 2:43 AM

When it comes to witty lyrics, Mr Ed is among the top 10.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 111November 15, 2022 2:44 AM

Ultimate "Love Boat" Intro - Every Guest Star Ever (Almost)!!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 112November 15, 2022 2:58 AM

R5 well yeah when those two beat the Jefferson’s or Laverne & Shirley you know the DL is just a little bit…skewed.

by Anonymousreply 113November 15, 2022 3:00 AM

Rhoda Season 4. Season 5 was fine until the sax came in.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 114November 15, 2022 3:01 AM

My first crush on an older man. Friday nights my dad watched this.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 115November 15, 2022 3:03 AM

Still makes me smile and sing along

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 116November 15, 2022 3:13 AM

The opening monologue in Sonny and Cher, where Sonny makes fun of Cher's nose and Cher makes fun of Sonny's shortness.

by Anonymousreply 117November 15, 2022 3:15 AM

^ Whoops

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 118November 15, 2022 3:17 AM

R114, Seriously? Rhoda, Season FOUR, but not season 5?

by Anonymousreply 119November 15, 2022 3:21 AM

R41 I never realized (the less talented) Susan Saint James was billed first. I thought they did a Laverne & Shirley /cheers thing.

by Anonymousreply 120November 15, 2022 3:35 AM

Baywatch. I don’t even like the beach and this made me want to go to a California beach.

Newmie was my favorite lifeguard.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 121November 15, 2022 3:36 AM

Best ever.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 122November 15, 2022 3:37 AM

Game of thrones

by Anonymousreply 123November 15, 2022 3:37 AM

True Blood. Kind of a long intro, but it captured the environment the show took place in- Southern, church, racists, poor people, dead things, skanky dancing, humid weather, etc.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 124November 15, 2022 3:45 AM

Get Smart

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 125November 15, 2022 3:51 AM

This is the best.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 126November 15, 2022 3:54 AM

I never liked the show but I love the Bob Newhart opening, especially how the music takes a melancholic turn.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 127November 15, 2022 3:56 AM

One Life to Live

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 128November 15, 2022 4:10 AM

I'm surprised that no one's mentioned the original "The Equalizer." Damn, that man was so fine.

So many good shows mentioned. What a great thread.

by Anonymousreply 129November 15, 2022 4:23 AM

I really miss Newhart. That fine buttoned down mind. What a wizard.

Okay, back to the topic at hand.

by Anonymousreply 130November 15, 2022 4:29 AM

Dave Koz & the mid-1990s "Faces of the Heart" opening to General Hospital. (best update/reimagining of a soap theme/opening, ever)

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 131November 15, 2022 4:35 AM

From Season #01…

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 132November 15, 2022 4:43 AM

"Fame," season 1 opening credits:

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 133November 15, 2022 4:43 AM

I'm partial to this one, myself.

The Good Fight

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 134November 15, 2022 4:44 AM

She had style! She had flair! She was there!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 135November 15, 2022 4:44 AM

CBS series from the 1977–78 television season (finished in the Top 30!)…

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 136November 15, 2022 4:45 AM

Vanderpump Rules, Seasons 1 & 2.

by Anonymousreply 137November 15, 2022 4:48 AM

Twin Peaks.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 138November 15, 2022 4:49 AM

… “In a ’90s kind world”

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 139November 15, 2022 4:50 AM

R33 Police Woman, for sure! That intro from had Styles in the pimp mobile with the sunroof opening, and was overall better, but the original seaon 1 opening had Pepper as the flight attendant. The music is just haunting and great.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 140November 15, 2022 4:57 AM

I'm amazed no one has put this, one of the classiest and musically fine openings to a tv show, "Chico and the Man" sung by Jose Feliciano! I still get sad thinking about the early demise of Freddie Prinze though. It's a wonderful song.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 141November 15, 2022 5:05 AM

R131 wow, 1994 is when I started watching GH and I remember that opening like it was yesterday. Even though I was the same age as Lucky Spencer, I had a big crush on Ned Quartermaine for some reason. Sonny and Ricky Martin look good in these credits.

by Anonymousreply 142November 15, 2022 5:06 AM

Little known or remembered, but a winner if just for the inclusion of each episode's guest stars! (starting @ :31)

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 143November 15, 2022 5:08 AM

R140 the first part of that theme seems like it belongs in a classic Nintendo 8-bit video game. I like it.

by Anonymousreply 144November 15, 2022 5:08 AM

What is wrong with you people? Though Dynasty’s& Lost in Space’s intros gave me the goosebumps, nothing gave me the sheer elation that this did every Saturday at 9.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 145November 15, 2022 5:08 AM

Star Trek Voyager had the best of the Trek opening themes.

Also, in the OP's Laverne and Shirley theme, that's a hot sailor Laverne is dancing with. Wonder if he was staying at the local YMCA where he met up with a certain boxer/dancer (*wink, wink*).

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 146November 15, 2022 5:13 AM

I didn’t like the GG intro. Thank You for Being a Friend was already a popular song, sung by a man. I can understand wanting a woman’s voice, but whoever the singer was, she was awful.

by Anonymousreply 147November 15, 2022 5:13 AM

Rawhide. Great theme and it was a filmed opening, not clips. Meets the criteria (this opening does anyway).

Gil Favor was a hot trail boss.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 148November 15, 2022 5:18 AM
Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 149November 15, 2022 5:27 AM

Facts

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 150November 15, 2022 5:33 AM

The original Charlie's Angels, season 1. Featuring the woman that co-created this iconic show, Kate Jackson, and her friends Farrah Fawcett Majors and Jaclyn Smith. Iconic!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 151November 15, 2022 5:40 AM

This is too much.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 152November 15, 2022 5:46 AM

For R142....the entire mid-late 1990s Faces of the Heart "collection" as characters came & went (or grew up).

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 153November 15, 2022 5:48 AM

Given Thanksgiving Day is next week … I am thinking of the “Turkeys Away” episode from one of the best opening theme music in the history of U.S. television series.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 154November 15, 2022 5:51 AM

One of the best of the 90s.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 155November 15, 2022 5:56 AM

Early in life / important show

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 156November 15, 2022 6:11 AM

Bar bay Jones was a good one. Go to :27 if you’re a Mark Shera fan.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 157November 15, 2022 6:33 AM

Bar bay? Seriously? Spellcheck needs to fuck off.

by Anonymousreply 158November 15, 2022 6:35 AM

Police Squad! (in color)

The Special Guest Star always bit the dust during the opening credits & the title card never matched the voice-over.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 159November 15, 2022 6:57 AM

Haunting theme

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 160November 15, 2022 7:04 AM

The "Hart to Hart" intro, remade by Adam Scott and Amy Poehler.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 161November 15, 2022 7:09 AM

Twin Peaks, obviously

by Anonymousreply 162November 15, 2022 7:10 AM

The Muppet Show

Sanford and Son

by Anonymousreply 163November 15, 2022 8:03 AM

Cheers

by Anonymousreply 164November 15, 2022 8:20 AM

I always loved this show and these were my favourite credits.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 165November 15, 2022 8:26 AM

Imagine if you will…

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 166November 15, 2022 8:35 AM

Dante's Cove, of course.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 167November 15, 2022 8:38 AM

Any love for Thomas Jane’s ass?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 168November 15, 2022 10:20 AM

Thought this version of the Knots opening tiled montage was the best. The theme was at its most contemporary (at the time) and it was a great showcase of both the actors and the sweeping scope of the series.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 169November 15, 2022 10:35 AM

Agree R65

Transparent was the Jewy-est show on TV ever in that while the characters were not religious, their lives revolved around the Jewish holidays and there was an entire season set in Israel. The trans stuff was in many ways secondary sort of "Crazy Jewish family finds out father is trans."

by Anonymousreply 170November 15, 2022 11:08 AM

WHET Thomas Jane btw?

And that was a great opening

by Anonymousreply 171November 15, 2022 11:08 AM

The coziest opening theme ever. You just wanted to relax and enjoy the show.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 172November 15, 2022 11:22 AM

THE PATTY DUKE SHOW

by Anonymousreply 173November 15, 2022 11:24 AM

Petticoat Junction.

As a kid I thought it was Steve Minor singing.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 174November 15, 2022 11:32 AM

Family Affair's sparkly opening and music deserves an honorable mention.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 175November 15, 2022 11:34 AM

HBO almost always featured amazing title sequences. Sopranos, Six Feet Under, Rome, Carnivale, The Wire, Big Love, Game Of Thrones, Deadwood, etc. Stunning stuff.

And the aforementioned Twin Peaks and The Muppet Show. One promised something sinister and mysterious. The other promised pure joy.

by Anonymousreply 176November 15, 2022 11:36 AM

Who can forget this earworm, and to seven year old me it was magical, even if looking at it now it probably cost 55 dollars and change to make.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 177November 15, 2022 11:59 AM

Watching the intro to Phyllis I couldn’t help noticing a lot of the scenes were from MTM. I’ve never noticed another spinoff using scenes from the original show like that.

by Anonymousreply 178November 15, 2022 12:02 PM

Crime Story, one of the most underrated tv shows ever.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 179November 15, 2022 12:08 PM

The FUCK is wrong with you people?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 180November 15, 2022 12:10 PM

The Drew Carey Show

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 181November 15, 2022 12:11 PM

I never got past the opening and/or the first few minutes of Laverne and Shirley. Unless I came in on it in the middle, sometimes. What a dumb show, moronic.

by Anonymousreply 182November 15, 2022 12:13 PM

This is all 6 seasons. This STILL gives me goosebumps.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 183November 15, 2022 12:15 PM

Always amazing how Eldergays can remember show openings from 50 or 60 years ago.

By today's standards, so many of them, like the one at OP, seem like SNL parodies of old timey sitcom intros.

by Anonymousreply 184November 15, 2022 12:17 PM

1. The intro to David Milch's "John From Cincinnati" had the best music - Joe Strummer's (ex-Clash) "Johnny Appleseed"

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 185November 15, 2022 12:20 PM

2. Game of Thrones had the best graphic treatment and made that a thing

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 186November 15, 2022 12:21 PM

My favorite openings were: The Jetsons (Meet George Jetson...), Green Acres (You are my wife. Goodbye, city life!), The Bugs Bunny Show (Overture, hit the lights, this is it, the night of nights...), The Van Dyke Show, with Dick tripping over the ottoman...Flipper (The call him Flipper, Flipper, faster than lightning...).

R174 To this day I still sing, "And here's Uncle Joe, he's moving kinda slow, at the junction...Petticoat--Juction!" Too bad countrified shows were all axed in the "Rural Purge." I loved them, as a kid.

by Anonymousreply 187November 15, 2022 12:21 PM

3. Bojack Horseman has the best end credit song by Grouplove

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 188November 15, 2022 12:22 PM

Every Another World opening from 1987-1996. It starts at 0:19.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 189November 15, 2022 12:26 PM

The Beverly Hillbillies

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 190November 15, 2022 12:26 PM

R182 I've recently started to watch it on Pluto TV. I have no memory of it except the theme. I can definitely see how it's considered bad. HOWEVER, taking into consideration that it aired in FUCKING 1976, you really have to lower expectations. As you have to do with most shit from that era. I don't know...I laugh several times during an episode and give them credit for their "stunts."

That theme song is so GODDAMN anthemic especially considering most of them are dead. When Laverne puts that glove on the beer bottle and waves goodbye at it, I feel it a little in me bones.

by Anonymousreply 191November 15, 2022 12:28 PM

AMEN theme song

Underrated show

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 192November 15, 2022 12:29 PM

Most of these shows are not on any of the retro channels. What's up with that? I don't know how that works, but who wouldn't watch a channel dedicated to 80s nighttime soaps? OR obscure 70-80s comedies.

I mean...FUCK six hours of Walker Texas Ranger.

by Anonymousreply 193November 15, 2022 12:33 PM

[quote]Always amazing how Eldergays can remember show openings from 50 or 60 years ago.

I can't imagine why this is so "always amazing" to you youngergays. 50 or 60 years ago, we didn't have 90% of the entertainment options you have today, so yes, there we were, our then-babygay asses propped up in front of the television night after night. But there is something I remember that amazes me: the year and model of General Motors cars from the late 1950s to the early 1960s, in particular the various Chevrolets.

by Anonymousreply 194November 15, 2022 12:35 PM

As child, kaleidoscope Lucy was almost as mesmerizing as the "Here's Lucy" doll.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 195November 15, 2022 12:54 PM

The Monkees. Loved these zany guys.

Mike was my favorite.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 196November 15, 2022 12:59 PM

Mad Men. The ending beat when don is sitting in the chair is dope.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 197November 15, 2022 1:23 PM

Downton Abbey. I like the music.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 198November 15, 2022 2:12 PM

[quote] WHET Thomas Jane btw?

Carved out a career in B movies.

by Anonymousreply 199November 15, 2022 2:34 PM

No one's mentioned "Dallas?" Its opening clearly inspired "Dynasty's" and "Falcon Crest's."

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 200November 15, 2022 2:39 PM

Next to Peter Gunn......linked above.....there was this

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 201November 15, 2022 3:07 PM

R177, but the uncle (Jack?) in season 2 made the nascent gayling in me feel "funny" down there. 😉

by Anonymousreply 202November 15, 2022 3:35 PM

Of course there's this. At least it's not depressing.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 203November 15, 2022 3:47 PM

Screwdriver?

by Anonymousreply 204November 15, 2022 4:52 PM

ER

For Christmas 1996, when I was 12, my mom got me an ER shirt with the image from the credits of Carter leaning against the stethoscope on his forehead. It’s around 40 seconds in at the link.

I still have that shirt.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 205November 15, 2022 5:15 PM

This usually makes me feel good. Back then and to this day. Love the orchestrations and the animations equally.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 206November 15, 2022 5:26 PM

George, George, George!

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 207November 15, 2022 5:30 PM

David the Gnome if we’re talking cartoons

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 208November 15, 2022 5:40 PM

[quote]HOWEVER, taking into consideration that it aired in FUCKING 1976, you really have to lower expectations. As you have to do with most shit from that era. I don't know...I laugh several times during an episode and give them credit for their "stunts."

1976 had All In The Family, MASH, The Waltons, Barney Miller, The Jeffersons, Happy Days, Rhoda, Phyllis, Columbo-McCloud-McMillan & Wife-Quincy, M.E.,and DL Faves ODAAT and Alice. Come on...CBS even re-ran old episodes of Jack Benny as a summer replacement show.

by Anonymousreply 209November 15, 2022 5:43 PM

Love is not all around in r209.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 210November 15, 2022 5:52 PM

R184 Tell us eldergays more about todays' "standards".

Yes, I remember TV show theme songs from when I was a child. Most people from all eras do. This is what you choose to act superior about?

by Anonymousreply 211November 15, 2022 5:54 PM

R65, totally agree about Transparent. I feel like the strongest impression the show left on me was its portrayal of American Judaism, even more than the premise of the transgender parent. I really enjoyed it.

I learned here on DL that the Phyllis credits had people in blackface. Somehow managed not to notice as a child. Yikes.

by Anonymousreply 212November 15, 2022 6:07 PM

I watched Laverne & Shirley growing up. Because of a recent DL thread, I started watching it again from the beginning. Some episodes are really good and some are stinkeroo. A lot was stolen from Lucille Ball.

It’s an interesting show. Penny Marshall’s brother was the producer and they were obviously trying to make her happen, but Cindy Williams was the more talented one. It was rumored they constantly fought and you can see that in the writing because Laverne will do her solo spot and then Shirley will do her solo spot. When you binge watch it, it’s very obvious.

I prefer the later season openers with Carmine dancing across the screen.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 213November 15, 2022 6:12 PM

Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The theme used to get me pumped up for the show! I miss being a teen, lol.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 214November 15, 2022 6:20 PM

Pee-Wee’s Playhouse was my favorite opening theme as a kid. Batshit crazy and I loved it. Cyndi Lauper sings the song.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 215November 15, 2022 10:02 PM

R180 Electrawoman & Dynagirl had a top tier tv theme!

FYI… There was a rumor (not long ago) that Sheena Easton was being approached to record a new fleshed out version of it.

by Anonymousreply 216November 15, 2022 10:30 PM

Dexter was good.

by Anonymousreply 217November 15, 2022 10:32 PM

R161 I miss those - I wish they would start them up again. The Bosom Buddies one with Paul Rudd was great.

by Anonymousreply 218November 15, 2022 11:11 PM

Thank you, R61.

It’s not just the music.

by Anonymousreply 219November 16, 2022 9:48 AM

1. "Hawaii 5-0," OG.

2. "Mission: Impossible."

3. "Peter Gunn."

4. "The Greatest American Hero."

5. "Davy Crockett."

by Anonymousreply 220November 16, 2022 10:05 AM

6. "Moonlighting."

7. "Welcome Back, Kotter."

8. "The Monkees."

9. "Surfside 6."

10. "77 Sunset Strip."

by Anonymousreply 221November 16, 2022 10:29 AM

Visually I find this hard to beat, especially that last image of a city and its reflection hanging in the middle of nothing.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 222November 16, 2022 11:12 AM

I can't stand the weird, tootly, intrusive music on White Lotus.

by Anonymousreply 223November 16, 2022 11:15 AM

I didn't see Barney Miller? It is a jam, packed with freeze frames and features the luscious Max Gail

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 224November 16, 2022 11:44 AM

All the ALIAS openings.

I know we hate Jennifer Garner now that she’s a churchy frau, but she was really fantastic on that show.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 225November 16, 2022 1:14 PM

"The Wire", Season one.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 226November 16, 2022 2:59 PM

"Downton Abbey"

by Anonymousreply 227November 16, 2022 3:44 PM

The Pink Panther

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 228November 16, 2022 4:38 PM

The Jetsons

by Anonymousreply 229November 16, 2022 4:54 PM

There is a show where the lyrics are replaced with a person farting. That’s my fave.

by Anonymousreply 230November 16, 2022 5:03 PM

[quote]The Sopranos

I was so glad when I got a DVR, just so I could fast-forward thru that song.

by Anonymousreply 231November 16, 2022 5:18 PM

MIami Vice.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 232November 16, 2022 8:25 PM

One of my all-time childhood favorites:

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 233November 16, 2022 8:37 PM

The old Days of Our Lives theme…

The sound of summer.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 234November 17, 2022 1:24 AM

Boomtown.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 235November 17, 2022 9:05 AM

Homicide: Life on the Street

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 236November 17, 2022 9:11 AM

R234 epic fail from the DOOL Stan

by Anonymousreply 237November 17, 2022 8:23 PM

Confirmed, r237. If you spent your summers watching days of our lives, then you were stuck at home with meemaw, chain-smoking PallMalls and yelling at the dog not to piss on the carpet.

by Anonymousreply 238November 18, 2022 4:32 PM

To Tell The Truth

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 239November 19, 2022 11:18 PM

Indian Summers.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 240November 19, 2022 11:43 PM

Tales From The Crypt

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 241November 20, 2022 12:56 PM

r239 That's groovy.

by Anonymousreply 242November 20, 2022 12:57 PM

Short and sweet- Lassie

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 243November 20, 2022 1:01 PM

Halt And Catch Fire had a good opening

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 244November 20, 2022 1:04 PM

After my father passed away, I'd watch all the intros of my favorites shows growing up and cry like a baby. The one that got to me the most was The Family Ties intro.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 245November 20, 2022 1:17 PM

The Terror had a great opening- one that set the tone for the show. Bleak, isolated, frozen. It’s interesting because throughout the 10 episodes, the piano from the theme gets muted a bit, and by the last episode it’s very faded. It’s a reflection of the mens’ dire circumstances.

Great show, I recommend it.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 246November 20, 2022 1:20 PM

I always kind of liked The Hitchhiker on HBO.....and there was always a man butt or two in the episodes.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 247November 20, 2022 3:52 PM

DARK

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 248November 20, 2022 3:59 PM

Because it used to scare the absolute shit out of me as a kid...

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 249November 21, 2022 1:16 AM

This had to be one of the best

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 250November 21, 2022 1:43 AM

Here’s one of the NBC Mystery Movie openings, McCloud, with guest stars Barbi Benton, Jessica Walter and Lorna Luft.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 251November 21, 2022 1:50 AM

Does anyone remember the opening of Fury, the long-ago kids' show about a black horse? It was spoken-word, and infamous for running nearly as long as the episode.

by Anonymousreply 252November 23, 2022 1:32 PM

For music and content, I nominate "Family"

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 253November 23, 2022 4:08 PM

R3, perhaps if Angie had been more than a waitress, her daughter would not have become a baby prostitute and tried to entice Tootie into her lurid world.

by Anonymousreply 254November 23, 2022 7:31 PM

This one always meant something really good was coming on TV.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 255November 23, 2022 8:00 PM

ABC Movie Of TheSeek

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 256November 24, 2022 5:34 AM

Stupid assholes just posting random tv shows

by Anonymousreply 257November 24, 2022 9:05 PM

The Rookies

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 258November 27, 2022 7:39 PM

R256 this one is way better

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 259November 27, 2022 7:41 PM

thirtysomething (opening and closing credits):

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 260November 29, 2022 4:04 AM

R258 Damn, Michael Ontkean and Kate Jackson was so beautiful.

by Anonymousreply 261November 29, 2022 11:41 AM

R261 And both so great in the much unfairly mangled Making Love (1982).

by Anonymousreply 262November 29, 2022 1:14 PM

Any love for the last season of Roseanne?

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 263November 29, 2022 6:58 PM

R263 I liked the version with John Popper singing.

Magnum PI is a classic intro

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 264November 30, 2022 7:42 AM

I liked the fall guy song

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 265November 30, 2022 7:45 AM

MTM

One Day At A Time

Laverne & Shirley

The Honeymooners

The Twilight Zone

by Anonymousreply 266November 30, 2022 7:46 AM
Loading
Need more help? Click Here.

Yes indeed, we too use "cookies." Take a look at our privacy/terms or if you just want to see the damn site without all this bureaucratic nonsense, click ACCEPT. Otherwise, you'll just have to find some other site for your pointless bitchery needs.

×

Become a contributor - post when you want with no ads!