Today’s edition of Top 10 features old TV shows. Selection criteria are simple: I like it, and the show ended at least 20 years ago.
#10: Scarecrow and Mrs. King (1983–1987)
Blending Cold War espionage with lighthearted romance, the series follows a divorced suburban mom Amanda King (Kate Jackson) who is unexpectedly drawn into the world of international spying alongside a seasoned secret agent Lee Stetson (Bruce Boxleitner).
#9: Gilmore Girls (2000–2007)
Set in the quirky town of Stars Hollow, Gilmore Girls centers on the fast-talking, close-knit relationship between single mother Lorelai (Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory (Alexis Bledel). Sharp dialogue, constant pop culture references and lots of coffee anchor a story about family, ambition, and community.
#8: Perry Mason (1957–1966)
A cornerstone of courtroom television, Perry Mason follows a brilliant defense attorney (Raymond Burr) who exposes the truth behind seemingly unwinnable cases. Dramatic courtroom confessions and methodical storytelling helped define the legal drama genre.
#7: Columbo (1968–2003)
Departing from traditional mystery formats, Columbo reveals the culprit at the beginning and focuses on the detective’s methodical unraveling of the crime. Peter Falk’s unassuming portrayal turned politeness and persistence into powerful investigative tools.
#6: The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
Centered on an independent woman navigating her career in a television newsroom, The Mary Tyler Moore Show redefined how women were portrayed on television. Warm humor and thoughtful storytelling explored friendship, work, and personal growth with lasting cultural impact.
#5: JAG (1995–2005)
Following military lawyers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, JAG combines legal drama with military action. Stories rooted in duty, honor, and ethical responsibility laid the groundwork for what would later become the NCIS franchise.
#4: The Waltons (1972–1981)
Set during the Great Depression and World War II, The Waltons portrays a close-knit family facing hardship with faith, resilience, and love. Gentle storytelling and clear moral grounding made the show a touchstone for family-centered television.
#3: The Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968)
Life in the fictional town of Mayberry unfolds through the quiet wisdom of Sheriff Andy Taylor (Andy Griffith), his son Opie (Ron Howard) their neighbors. Humor grounded in kindness and common sense offered a timeless vision of community and character.
#2: MacGyver (1985–1992)
Creativity and intelligence take center stage as the title character (Richard Dean Anderson) solves dangerous problems using science and everyday objects. A deliberate rejection of violence made the show a celebration of ingenuity, ethics, and resourcefulness.
#1: M*A*S*H (1972–1983)
Set against the backdrop of the Korean War, MAS*H fused sharp comedy with deep emotional weight. Humor, heartbreak, and humanity combined to examine friendship, trauma, and compassion, culminating in one of television’s most-watched finales.
The Dee Zone 