It's time for me to come clean: I have a serious obsession with That 70's Show. I can boldly state that I've binge-watched every season of the incredible early-2000's sitcom at least five times. No matter what I'm going through, I can always count on a smart remark from Eric or a scolding from Red to put me in good spirits.
After finishing our most recent binge of the series, my roommates and I got into a heated debate over which characters on the show are superior to the rest. While it goes without saying that every character on the show is pretty awesome, we did discuss some downfalls to a few of our favorites. As a self-proclaimed, extremely official expert on all things That 70's Show, here is my ranking of the best characters.
8. Donna
Unfortunately, Donna comes in last place in my book. I'm sorry, I hate to do it! While I do think Donna is a super cool, chill girl, I just think she's kind of bland. Think about it: has Donna ever cracked a joke that made you laugh like Kelso or Fez can? Don't get me wrong, Donna is great. She oozes confidence and gives off great vibes. I just can't, in good conscience, put her in front of anyone else when her character only exists to be Eric's neighbor girl (ouch, sorry). Also, it was pretty messed up that she didn't tell Jackie about Kelso cheating after the two girls became best friends. Jackie was so loyal to her!
7. Eric
Coming in at number 7, we have Eric Forman. Come on, what did you expect? I love Eric, I really do, but we can't ignore how annoying he can get! He basically whined his entire way through his relationship with Donna and then gave her an ultimatum when she wasn't ready to marry him. Plus, he's a major simp. All that being said, I would definitely be friends with him, and I must admit that That 70's Show fell off when he left the show. His smart-alecky personality and quick witted remarks get me every time.
6. Red Forman
I love Red so much. It physically pains me to put him so close to the bottom. Seriously, what would That 70's Show be without Red's signature threat of putting a foot in Eric's ass? Though he's stubborn and harsh, Red Forman is the father that we all needed at the end of the day. My heart melts every time I watch the episode where he takes Hyde in. He's a good man with quick wit to match Eric's, making them the most hilarious duo in this series. Why is he so low on the list? The honest truth is that I just couldn't put anyone else below him. It's hard work, but somebody has to do it.
"When my time comes, I want to be buried face down, so that anybody that doesn't like me can kiss my ass."
- Red Forman, That 70's Show
5. Kelso
Okay, so, Kelso could have easily been the #1 best character on this show. He's beautiful, idiotic and hilarious, which is all I have ever gone for in a man. I know that you're probably thinking I'm crazy at this point, but hear me out! Kelso might be one of the funniest characters on That 70's Show, but I can't forgive him for cheating on Jackie. Throughout the show, Kelso showed a complete lack of respect for both Jackie and Laurie (granted, nobody respected Laurie). Jackie and Kelso were perfect for each other, but Kelso ruined it. Plus, Kelso ends up becoming a cop. Ick!
4. Hyde
I have a soft spot for Hyde. He has such a rough family situation, and you can tell that he has experience beyond his years. Sarcastic and cynical, we can always count on Hyde to brighten the mood with a playful burn. He is definitely the kind of guy that you would want to chill with in a basement in the mid-70s. What really made me love Hyde was when he started dating Jackie; it was so cute to see him soften around her and really treat her right. I loved them together and shed actual tears when their relationship ended. I know he technically cheated on Jackie as well, but it wasn't as bad because it was all a total miscommunication. Maybe he would have better communication skills if his childhood wasn't so messed up!
3. Jackie
If it wasn't already obvious that I'm team Jackie, I'll tell you now. Jackie deserved so much better. It makes me sad that these were her best friends, but she was considered a secondary friend to almost every character. Maybe it just boils down to me wanting to root for the underdog. Regardless, Jackie is an icon that we should all aspire to be. God knew that I would be too powerful if I had even an ounce of the confidence that Jackie has. Yes, I know, she is snobby and rude, but look at her character development! By the end of That 70's Show, viewers can see that she really grew into a better person. That said, her relationship with Fez was a big no from me.
"You don't just move on from Jackie Burkhart. I'm like the bottle, you need a 12-step program to break my spell."
- Jackie Burkhart, That 70's Show
2. Fez
Fez! What a breath of fresh air this man is. He is easily the least-problematic character on That 70's Show. Regardless of whatever situation the gang has gotten themselves into, viewers can always count on Fez for some comedic relief. There is really not one negative thing anyone can say about him. One thing that I will reiterate, though, is that his relationship with Jackie was just not it. I generally just pretend that the last season of the show doesn't exist.
1. Kitty Forman
Finally, the absolute best character on That 70's Show is Kitty Forman. The other Formans don't appreciate Kitty nearly as much as they should. I will fight anyone who has anything negative to say about this amazing woman, although I highly doubt anyone would. The perfect wife, mother and career woman, Kitty truly does it all. My queen deserves nothing but the world. She's funny, kind, dependable and always makes everyone feel at home. If anyone disagrees, you're wrong.
This has been the scoop on the best characters of That 70's Show. Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Also, be sure to check out some of our reviews!
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Hayley Taylor says
I totally agree with your listing. I also really liked Jackie and Hyde together. I was sad when they broke up for good. Their dynamic was the most interesting one in the show, in my opinion. You're so right about Kitty. She deserves the world.
Sonia Reyes-Tena says
What exactly were you using to rank? It felt that you were ranking a lot of different things? I disagree with the list you wrote since I have my perception of each character.