Pushed sitcom politics further than Archie; made a middle-aged woman the unapologetic lead.
Why it matters
Episode guide
141 episodes across 6 seasons — titles, air dates, and synopses.
At a glance
Maude Findlay didn't demur — she detonated. Bea Arthur's formidable liberal on CBS's Maude (1972–1978), spun from All in the Family, took on abortion, politics, and marriage with a voice that could clear a dinner party. The landmark two-part abortion episode forced America to argue through a sitcom. Rue McClanahan and Bill Macy rounded out a household of sharp elbows. Lear's relevant comedy found its most unapologetic heroine.
Network & studio
- CBS — broadcast network
- Tandem Productions — production studio
Why watch now
Arthur's command performance and issue episodes that still feel like live wires. Essential Lear-verse viewing beyond Archie Bunker.
Cultural impact
Maude proved a sitcom could center a outspoken middle-aged woman and tackle hot-button politics as plot. Its abortion episodes remain among television's most discussed issue stories. The character helped define the 1970s socially relevant comedy wave.
Creators
Norman Lear
Key cast
- Bea Arthur as Maude Findlay
- Bill Macy as Walter Findlay
- Adrienne Barbeau as Carol Traynor
- Conrad Bain as Arthur Harmon
- Rue McClanahan as Vivian Cavender Harmon
Flash facts
- CBS sitcom spin-off of All in the Family; aired 1972–1978.
- Starred Bea Arthur as Maude Findlay.
- Famous for a two-part episode in which Maude decides to have an abortion.
- Bill Macy played husband Walter; Rue McClanahan was a key supporting player.
- Part of Norman Lear's 1970s portfolio of topical comedies.
FAQ
Who played Maude?
Bea Arthur.
Is Maude related to All in the Family?
Yes — Maude was introduced there and received her own spin-off.
Why is the show historically famous?
Especially for its early-1970s abortion storyline and outspoken political comedy.
When did it air?
On CBS from 1972 to 1978.
Official & further reading
- Apple TV — Maude
- Netflix — Maude
- CBS home
- Wikipedia
- IMDb search
- TMDB search
- YouTube — trailers & clips
External sites for further reading — TV Flash is not affiliated with these networks or studios.
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