As Thanksgiving approaches, there’s one iconic television moment that holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Americans: the “Turkeys Away” episode from WKRP in Cincinnati. Originally aired in 1978, this hilarious and absurd sitcom episode has become a staple of holiday tradition, reminding viewers of the joy of shared laughter and the enduring power of comedy. For many families, revisiting “Turkeys Away” is as essential as turkey and pumpkin pie. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this episode is worth celebrating—not just for its humor, but for the way it reflects the cultural quirks of the late 1970s.
The Premise That Became a Legend
The episode revolves around a Thanksgiving promotion devised by Arthur “The Big Guy” Carlson, the bumbling general manager of WKRP in Cincinnati, a fictional radio station. Determined to boost the station’s profile, Carlson comes up with the idea of a “Turkey Drop” event, imagining it will be a public relations triumph. His plan? Drop live turkeys from a helicopter, assuming they will gracefully float down to the ground like autumn leaves.
What follows is pure chaos. As it turns out, turkeys cannot fly. The ill-conceived stunt unfolds disastrously, with newsman Les Nessman narrating the debacle live as though reporting from a battlefield. The scene reaches its comedic peak when a horrified Carlson, witnessing the mayhem, delivers the now-legendary line: “As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.” This single sentence has become one of the most memorable quotes in television history, cementing the episode’s place in pop culture.
Why It’s Still So Funny
What makes “Turkeys Away” so timeless isn’t just its absurd premise—it’s the way the humor is presented. The brilliance lies in what the audience doesn’t see. Instead of showing the chaos of falling turkeys and panicked onlookers, the episode relies on Les Nessman’s vivid, over-the-top narration and the horrified reactions of the WKRP staff listening from the studio.
This choice to let viewers imagine the mayhem rather than explicitly showing it elevates the humor. It’s a masterstroke of comedic storytelling, engaging the audience’s imagination and ensuring the scene remains fresh and funny no matter how many times it’s rewatched. The understated absurdity and sharp writing keep the humor relevant, proving that great comedy doesn’t rely on visual gags alone.
A Snapshot of the Late 1970s
Beyond its humor, “Turkeys Away” captures the spirit of its era. The late 1970s were a transformative time for television, with sitcoms experimenting with more creative storytelling and pushing the boundaries of traditional humor. WKRP in Cincinnati stood out for its clever writing and ability to blend comedy with heart.
The episode also reflects the quirks of 1970s American life, particularly the rise of offbeat promotional stunts as marketing tools. In an age before social media, businesses often relied on outrageous events to grab public attention. While the Turkey Drop is fictional, its premise feels plausible enough to make the comedy even sharper.
Why It Resonates at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and making memories with loved ones. For many families, “Turkeys Away” has become part of those cherished traditions. Sitting around the table, recounting Carlson’s misguided plan or mimicking Les Nessman’s dramatic commentary is a way to bond over shared laughter.
The episode also offers a subtle message that aligns with the holiday’s spirit. Carlson’s intentions were good—he genuinely wanted to create something special for Thanksgiving. Though his plan went horribly awry, it’s a reminder that effort and connection matter more than perfection. In the end, Thanksgiving is about coming together, even when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Why It Still Feels Fresh
Despite being over 45 years old, “Turkeys Away” remains remarkably relevant. Its humor holds up well, thanks to its blend of absurdity and relatability. In today’s fast-paced world, where much entertainment is consumed in short bursts or fleeting social media clips, revisiting a classic like this feels refreshing. It reminds us of the joy of great storytelling and the value of shared cultural moments.
For families who grew up watching the episode, it sparks nostalgia for a simpler time. For younger viewers, it offers a hilarious glimpse into the past while proving that good comedy is timeless. Watching “Turkeys Away” can bring generations together, creating new memories while revisiting old ones.
A Personal Thanksgiving Memory
In my family, Thanksgiving always came with two constants: a table overflowing with food and a VHS tape of WKRP in Cincinnati. I’ll never forget the first time my dad showed me “Turkeys Away.” I must have been about ten years old. While I didn’t fully grasp the absurdity of the Turkey Drop, Carlson’s clueless but earnest demeanor had me laughing until my sides hurt. Over the years, that episode became a treasured part of our holiday routine. Even now, whenever I hear someone say, “As God is my witness,” I can’t help but chuckle. It’s a small reminder of the joy and humor that bring families together.
A Thanksgiving Tradition Worth Sharing
If you’ve never seen “Turkeys Away,” you’re in for a treat. It’s available on streaming platforms and DVD box sets of WKRP in Cincinnati. For longtime fans, introducing it to younger family members can be just as fun as rewatching it yourself. Sharing the laughter and seeing their reactions might even become a new tradition.
“Turkeys Away” is more than a sitcom episode—it’s a piece of American cultural history. Its humor, heart, and absurdity have made it a Thanksgiving classic for nearly half a century. This year, after the turkey is carved and the pumpkin pie is served, gather your loved ones and revisit this comedic gem. Because, as God is my witness, it’s one of the funniest things you’ll ever see.
