When Thanksgiving comes around, one television moment stands out in the hearts of millions of Americans: the unforgettable WKRP in Cincinnati episode, “Turkeys Away.” First airing in 1978, this absurd and hilarious sitcom episode has become a beloved holiday tradition, celebrated for its timeless comedy and nostalgic charm. For many families, revisiting “Turkeys Away” is as central to Thanksgiving as turkey and pumpkin pie. Whether you’ve watched it countless times or are just discovering it, this classic episode is a gem that reflects the quirks of American culture in the late 1970s and reminds us of the power of shared laughter.
A Turkey Drop Like No Other
The episode follows the chaotic events of a Thanksgiving promotion planned by Arthur “The Big Guy” Carlson, the well-meaning but inept general manager of WKRP, a fictional radio station in Cincinnati. Carlson comes up with a bold idea he believes will be a public relations triumph: a “Turkey Drop.” The concept? Release live turkeys from a helicopter, imagining they will flutter gracefully to the ground like autumn leaves.
Reality, however, proves far different. Turkeys cannot fly, and the stunt descends into utter chaos. The mayhem unfolds through the live commentary of newsman Les Nessman, whose dramatic narration rivals that of a war correspondent. The episode reaches its comedic peak when a stunned Carlson utters the now-iconic line: “As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.” This single sentence has since become one of the most quoted lines in television history, cementing the episode’s place in pop culture.
The Genius of Implied Chaos
What makes “Turkeys Away” a masterpiece of comedy isn’t just its ridiculous premise but how the humor is delivered. Instead of showing the calamity of plummeting turkeys and shocked bystanders, the episode relies on Nessman’s vivid play-by-play and the horrified reactions of the station staff listening back at the studio.
By leaving the chaos to the audience’s imagination, the episode becomes even funnier. Each viewer pictures the absurdity in their own way, making the humor personal and timeless. This creative choice elevates the comedy, proving that less is often more when it comes to storytelling. It’s a technique that has helped “Turkeys Away” remain fresh and hilarious, even decades after its debut.
A Reflection of the Late 1970s
Beyond the laughs, “Turkeys Away” offers a snapshot of its era. The late 1970s were a time of experimentation in American television, with sitcoms exploring new ways to entertain. WKRP in Cincinnati stood out for its sharp writing and its ability to mix humor with heartfelt moments.
The episode also captures the spirit of the time, particularly the trend of outlandish promotional stunts as a marketing tool. Before the age of social media, businesses often relied on quirky, attention-grabbing events to make a splash. While the Turkey Drop is fictional, it feels plausible enough to enhance the comedy. It’s a humorous nod to a bygone era of marketing antics.
A Thanksgiving Tradition
For many families, Thanksgiving is about more than just food; it’s a time to create lasting memories and share laughter. Episodes like “Turkeys Away” bring people together, sparking laughter and nostalgia. Around the dinner table, recounting Carlson’s ill-fated plan or mimicking Nessman’s over-the-top narration becomes a tradition in itself.
The episode also reflects an important Thanksgiving theme: intention. Carlson’s heart was in the right place—he wanted to create something special for the holiday. While his execution was hilariously flawed, his effort serves as a reminder that Thanksgiving is about connection and goodwill, not perfection.
Why It Still Resonates
Even after 45 years, “Turkeys Away” continues to entertain. Its humor holds up remarkably well, demonstrating the timelessness of clever comedy. The balance of absurdity and relatability ensures that new audiences can enjoy it just as much as those who first watched it in 1978.
In today’s world, where entertainment is often consumed in quick, fleeting moments, revisiting a classic like this feels refreshing. It reminds us of the joy of storytelling and the value of shared cultural experiences. Watching “Turkeys Away” with family or friends is a perfect way to connect across generations, sparking both laughter and gratitude.
A Personal Connection
Growing up, Thanksgiving at my house always included a table overflowing with food and a worn VHS tape of WKRP in Cincinnati. I’ll never forget the first time my dad played “Turkeys Away” for me. I was about ten years old, and while I didn’t fully grasp the absurdity of the Turkey Drop, Carlson’s clueless sincerity had me laughing until I cried. Over the years, that episode became a treasured part of our holiday routine. Even now, when I hear someone say, “As God is my witness,” I can’t help but smile.
Why You Should Watch
If you’ve never seen “Turkeys Away,” you’re missing out on a piece of television history. The episode is available on streaming platforms or as part of WKRP in Cincinnati DVD box sets. For those who’ve seen it countless times, introducing it to younger family members can be just as fun as watching it again yourself. Sharing their reactions might even start a new Thanksgiving tradition.
“Turkeys Away” is more than a sitcom episode—it’s a cultural touchstone that has brought joy to generations. Its humor, heart, and absurdity have made it a Thanksgiving classic that shows no signs of fading. This year, after the turkey is carved and the pie is served, gather your loved ones and revisit this comedic masterpiece. Because, as God is my witness, it’s one of the funniest things you’ll ever see.
