18 Surprising Mistakes You Never Noticed in That ’70s Show

“That ’70s Show” is beloved for its nostalgic take on the 1970s, but even this classic sitcom isn’t without its mistakes. Eagle-eyed fans have spotted various errors throughout the series, from anachronisms to continuity slips.

Here, we’ve compiled 18 surprising blunders that you might have missed while enjoying the antics of Eric, Donna, and the rest of the gang.

Get ready to revisit Point Place with a fresh perspective and discover some amusing oversights that add a new layer of fun to this iconic show.

1. Fluctuating Basement Door

In “That ’70s Show,” Eric Forman’s basement serves as the ultimate hangout spot, but have you noticed the inconsistency with the basement door? In some episodes, the door opens inwards, while in others, it swings outwards.

This little inconsistency may seem minor, yet once you notice it, it’s hard to unsee. The set designers likely adjusted the set layout for convenience during filming.

While this doesn’t ruin the show, it adds a quirky detail for eagle-eyed viewers. Next time you watch, keep an eye on that door, and you’ll spot this amusing oversight.

2. Jackie’s Age Conundrum

Jackie Burkhart, portrayed by Mila Kunis, is one of the show’s vibrant characters. However, her age seems to fluctuate throughout the series. Initially, Jackie claims to be older than she actually is, which is revealed in later episodes.

This inconsistency becomes a running joke among fans. Jackie’s age confusion adds an extra layer of comedy to her already dramatic personality.

Despite the slip in continuity, Mila’s portrayal keeps Jackie endearing. Watch closely, and you’ll notice how her age is humorously inconsistent, adding to the show’s charm.

3. Donna’s Changing Hair Length

Have you ever noticed how Donna Pinciotti’s hair length seems to change within the same episode? One moment her hair is cascading down her shoulders, and in the next scene, it’s much shorter.

This inconsistency is more noticeable in earlier seasons where continuity wasn’t as tightly controlled. Despite this, Donna’s character remains a cornerstone of the show, with her ever-evolving hairstyle reflecting her dynamic personality.

These hair changes might just make you chuckle the next time you see them, as they add a subtle layer of unpredictability to the series.

4. The Mysterious Basement Window

The Forman basement is a character in its own right, but did you ever notice the mystery of the disappearing window? In some episodes, the basement features a window, while in others, it mysteriously vanishes.

This inconsistency likely stems from changes in set design to suit different scenes. While it’s not a glaring error, it certainly adds an intriguing element to the show’s setting.

Fans who spot this peculiar detail might find it amusing how the window seems to magically appear and disappear as needed, enhancing the basement’s quirky charm.

5. Red’s Inconsistent Job Titles

Red Forman, the strict yet lovable father figure, has held various jobs throughout the series. However, the show occasionally mixes up his job titles and roles.

One episode might depict him as a plant supervisor, while another suggests a different position. This inconsistency in Red’s career path is a minor blip in the otherwise coherent narrative.

Despite this, Red’s character remains a central pillar of the show, providing a stern yet caring presence. Fans enjoy spotting these little errors as they add layers to Red’s multifaceted personality, making him even more relatable.

6. Kelso’s Vanishing Sibling

Michael Kelso, portrayed by Ashton Kutcher, is known for his goofy antics and lovable dimwittedness. Interestingly, he mentions having a sibling in one episode, only for this sibling to never be referenced again.

This vanishing sibling adds a humorous element to Kelso’s already chaotic life. It’s a classic case of early series oversight that becomes an inside joke for viewers.

Despite the lost sibling, Kelso’s character remains a fan favorite, and this quirk only adds to his endearing unpredictability, making his storyline even more entertaining.

7. Fez’s Mysterious Homeland

Fez, the foreign exchange student with an enigmatic background, never reveals his home country, adding an air of mystery. Throughout the series, characters humorously guess his homeland, but it’s never confirmed.

This running joke reflects the playful nature of the show, creating speculation among fans. Fez’s mysterious origins contribute to his unique charm and character development.

While some might consider this a plot hole, it is intentionally crafted to engage viewers. Fez remains a beloved character, and his unknown background only heightens the intrigue surrounding him.

8. Historical Inaccuracies

“That ’70s Show” nostalgically portrays the decade, but eagle-eyed viewers might spot historical inaccuracies. For instance, some episodes feature products or cultural references that didn’t exist during the 1970s.

These minor oversights, while not detracting from the series, offer a fun challenge for history buffs. Spotting an out-of-place item or an anachronistic reference becomes a game for dedicated fans.

These errors invite interesting discussions about the show’s setting and artistic choices. Despite these small hiccups, the series successfully captures the essence of the era, making it a timeless classic.

9. Kelso’s Magical Hair Part

Michael Kelso’s hair is as much a part of his character as his humor. However, observant fans might notice his hair part mysteriously shifting sides between scenes.

This quirky inconsistency adds another layer to Kelso’s comedic persona. While it seems trivial, these small details contribute to the show’s charm. Kelso’s hair antics are a lighthearted reminder of the fun behind-the-scenes adjustments that occur in television production.

For those who love spotting continuity errors, Kelso’s shifting hair part is a delightful discovery that enhances the viewing experience.

10. Eric’s Magical Car Repairs

Eric Forman’s car, the Vista Cruiser, endures endless adventures and mishaps. Yet, no matter how damaged it gets, it always seems to be perfectly repaired by the next episode.

This amusing oversight highlights the magical world of sitcom continuity, where vehicles can withstand anything. The Cruiser’s resilience is a testament to Eric’s teenage escapades, symbolizing his journey and growth.

Fans appreciate this unrealistic yet charming element, as it adds to the whimsical nature of the show. Spotting this pattern makes for a fun Easter egg for dedicated viewers.

11. Donna’s Wandering Bedroom

Donna Pinciotti’s bedroom layout seems to wander throughout the series. Observant fans may notice furniture rearrangements and changes in decor that don’t quite match from one episode to another.

This inconsistency adds a humorous twist to her character’s storyline, as if her room has a mind of its own.

While it might be confusing at first, it reflects the playful spirit of the show. Donna’s wandering bedroom becomes an entertaining quirk that adds to the dynamic feel of the series, inviting viewers to spot the subtle shifts as they enjoy her story.

12. The Time-Traveling Pinball Machine

In the Forman’s basement, a pinball machine is a popular attraction for the gang. Yet, keen-eyed viewers may spot models that weren’t available in the ’70s, seemingly transported from the future.

This anachronism adds a humorous twist to the show’s setting. It’s a fun detail for fans to notice and discuss, adding layers to the nostalgic ambiance. Though not technically accurate, the presence of such machines ties into the playful nature of the series.

These time-traveling pinball machines enhance the basement’s quirky allure, engaging viewers in a delightful guessing game.

13. Eric’s Ever-Changing Posters

Eric Forman’s room is a testament to his evolving taste in music and pop culture, but have you noticed how his posters change from episode to episode?

One scene might feature a classic rock band, while the next showcases a different artist. This inconsistency reflects the character’s growth and diverse interests.

While it might be unintentional, the ever-changing posters provide a fun detail for fans to spot. They add to the lively atmosphere of Eric’s space, illustrating the vibrant spirit of adolescence and the exploration of new passions.

14. Timeline Twists

“That ’70s Show” spans several years, yet the timeline isn’t always consistent. Characters’ ages and school years occasionally conflict with the intended timeline. These discrepancies add a whimsical layer to the series.

Fans can engage by piecing together the timeline puzzle, adding to the enjoyment of repeated viewings. While these twists might confuse some, they enhance the show’s playful narrative style.

The timeline quirks offer an entertaining challenge for those who enjoy delving into the details, all while preserving the essence of the show’s nostalgic charm.

15. The Disappearing and Reappearing Sofa

The Forman living room is a central hub for family gatherings, yet the sofa seems to have a life of its own. In certain episodes, the sofa mysteriously disappears or repositions itself between scenes.

This playful inconsistency is a nod to the behind-the-scenes changes that occur during production.

While it might seem peculiar, fans find joy in spotting these subtle shifts. The sofa’s antics add to the cozy, lived-in feel of the Forman home, making it a charming quirk for viewers to enjoy as they watch the family’s interactions.

16. Fez’s Changing Accent

Fez, the lovable foreign exchange student, is known for his distinctive accent, which seems to fluctuate throughout the series. Whether intentional or not, this change adds a comedic element to his character.

The accent shifts reflect Fez’s adaptation to his surroundings, adding depth to his role. Fans enjoy this playful inconsistency, as it aligns with Fez’s quirky and endearing personality.

It becomes a talking point, sparking conversations about character development and cultural adaptation. This accent evolution is just another reason why Fez remains an unforgettable and cherished character in the series.

17. Hyde’s Magic Sunglasses

Hyde is known for his iconic sunglasses, but there’s a scene where they magically appear and disappear between shots. This inconsistency is one of those small, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments.

While the oversight doesn’t diminish Hyde’s cool factor, it does highlight the fast-paced nature of filming. Continuity in wardrobe and props can be tricky to maintain, especially in dynamic scenes. Fans often find joy in spotting such fleeting errors, turning them into a game of ‘spot the difference’ with their favorite characters.

18. Jackie’s Ever-Changing Wardrobe

Jackie is a fashionista, but her wardrobe sometimes changes unnaturally fast, even within a single episode. Quick outfit changes like these are a continuity error that adds an unintended comedic element.

These wardrobe switches might escape notice initially, but for eagle-eyed fans, they become a delightful puzzle. It showcases the challenges of filming out of sequence and the importance of continuity in creating believable television worlds.

Despite the oversight, Jackie’s fashion continues to enchant viewers, blending 70s chic with unexpected humor.