Long before “Friends” or “How I Met Your Mother,” there was “The Time of Your Life.” With a regular cast of characters, the short-lived show had their characters meet up at their regular hangout spot each week, observing and interacting with others. It was a really beloved show that TV viewers couldn’t get enough of.
Stars like Jackie Gleason and Betsy Palmer were the focal points of the show, as Gleason’s character, Joe, evaluated the true spirit of each newcomer to their spot. And of course, the stars of the show had many noteworthy appearances on the most popular TV chat shows of the era.
Sonny & Cher
As their hit single "I Got You, Babe" blew up, the husband and wife duo of Sonny and Cher made their way through the television talk show circuit. One of those appearances was on "The Merv Griffin Show" in 1969, which was a really beautiful sight for everyone involved.
Though their music was a fan favorite, they also appealed to fans with their undeniable love for each other, their dance moves, and their choice of clothing. Sonny and Cher even had their own variety television show called Cher Comedy Hour”, which ran from 1971-1974. Of course, Cher has had a full, illustrious career by herself. But oh, these were the days.
Charo
She was born Maria del Rosario Mercedes Pilar Martinez Molina Baeza, but everyone knew her as Charo. She was a talk-show regular, having made multiple visits on "The Tonight Show," "The Merv Griffin Show," and "The Mike Douglas Show." Charo was a talented actress, singer, and comedian, amongst many other natural talents.
Though she struggled with fluent English, the Spanish superstar used her irresistible personality to appeal to English-speaking audiences and soon became a household name with her "cuchi, cuchi" catchphrase. She was so endearing and would cast a spell on all who interviewed her, as you can see here.
Cher
Surprisingly enough, in 1979, Cher took over as the co-host of "The Mike Douglas Show" for a week-long gig. The diva was able to show off her novel fashion taste but also had an opportunity to perform several of her hit songs. Seriously, who was not going to tune in to that?!
She sang "My Song," Take Me Home," and "Happy Was The Day We Met," to name a few. Cher had a goal in co-hosting the show; she wanted to prove to fans and the world that she was more than just a sidekick to Sonny, and she did!
Deana Martin & Tina Sinatra
There is something so charming about seeing experienced, seasoned celebrities performing with their children. It just goes to show how the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. "The Dean Martin Show" had many extraordinary guests, but nothing topped off the segment in which the nineteen-year-old daughters and their fathers appeared on the show.
In 1967, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin were joined by their daughters Tina and Deana for a rendition of "Do-Re-Mi," from "The Sound of Music." As a late-night fan favorite, the variety show welcomed several performers and guests over a nine-year span. But this was right up there with the very best.