Things you didn't know about 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'
What's the story
The Mary Tyler Moore Show was a landmark sitcom, airing from 1970 to 1977. It was famous for its progressive depiction of a single, independent woman working in a newsroom. The show not only entertained viewers but also set new standards in TV storytelling and character development. Here are five fascinating behind-the-scenes facts about this iconic show that made it a success and left a mark on TV history.
Memorable moment
The iconic hat toss
One of the most iconic moments from The Mary Tyler Moore Show is the opening where Mary throws her hat in the air. The scene was shot at Minneapolis's Nicollet Mall, and it turned into a lasting symbol of female empowerment and independence. Interestingly, this wasn't scripted but an off-the-cuff action by Mary Tyler Moore herself while filming.
Breaking stereotypes
A revolutionary female lead
Mary Richards, played by the late Tyler Moore, was one of the first-ever female characters on TV to be depicted as an independent career woman who didn't need a man for money or self-worth. She challenged gender roles and motivated a generation of women in the '70s to chase their careers and independence.
Pushing boundaries
Groundbreaking storylines
The show also tackled several social issues that were taboo at the time, including equal pay for women, divorce, premarital relationships, and workplace discrimination. By addressing these topics with humor and sensitivity, The Mary Tyler Moore Show paved the way for future sitcoms to explore complex social themes without alienating audiences.
Critical acclaim
Award-winning success
Throughout its seven-season run, The Mary Tyler Moore Show earned critical acclaim and a ton of awards. It won 29 Emmy Awards out of a whopping 67 nominations, a record at the time for a comedy series. This ensured its place in television history as one of the most celebrated and successful sitcoms to have ever been produced.
Expanding universe
Spin-off series galore
Thanks to its popularity and strong character development, The Mary Tyler Moore Show also spawned several successful spin-off series, including Rhoda, Phyllis, and Lou Grant. The spin-off series gave viewers an opportunity to continue following beloved characters while exploring new storylines within the same universe created by James L. Brooks and Allan Burns.