From the start of the 1976 season, the show seems to be more relaxed and fun to watch and a lot less controversial and decreased yelling. That's why I can watch these episodes more than the ones from seasons 1 to 4. Archie is more mellow which probably is because he is a grandfather and him and Mike don't seem to argue as much as they did in the early seasons.


Anyone agree?

I think what also mellowed Archie later in the show's run was that he became a businessman after buying Kelcey's Bar.

I think what also mellowed Archie later in the show's run was that he became a businessman after buying Kelcey's Bar.


Yup and it feels more like a comedy instead of a dramedy

The earlier episodes were too political at times.

The earlier episodes were too political at times.


Yup the 1976-78 era was less political, not as loud, less confrontation, and more fun episodes


A true family sitcom feel

I think the most political episode was when Mike's friend who escaped to Canada (because of the draft) was over for holiday dinner. Archie's friend Pinky was also over. Pinky lost his son in the Viet Nam war.

I think the most political episode was when Mike's friend who escaped to Canada (because of the draft) was over for holiday dinner. Archie's friend Pinky was also over. Pinky lost his son in the Viet Nam war.


They may have been the last one

Yup the 1976-78 era was less political, not as loud, less confrontation, and more fun episodes


A true family sitcom feel
That is true I've watched the first season, and then the later ones and Archie had toned down by the 7th season especially when Stephanie was added during the 9th season.

That is true I've watched the first season, and then the later ones and Archie had toned down by the 7th season especially when Stephanie was added during the 9th season.


1971 to 1976 and 1977 to 1983 was definitely two different seasons

Yesterday I had a 12 hour AITF marathon it was great. My favorite was the episode that featured Sammy Davis Jr. You could see him trying not to laugh it was great.