As Thanksgiving approaches, one iconic television moment stands out in the hearts of millions: WKRP in Cincinnati’s legendary “Turkeys Away” episode. Originally aired in 1978, this absurd and hilarious sitcom installment has cemented itself as a beloved holiday tradition. For countless families, rewatching “Turkeys Away” is as much a part of Thanksgiving as carving the turkey or indulging in pumpkin pie. Whether you’ve seen it once or every year since its debut, this classic deserves its place in television history—not just for its humor but for its reflection of American culture in the late 1970s.
The Turkey Drop That Went Horribly Wrong
The episode revolves around a Thanksgiving promotion orchestrated by WKRP’s well-meaning but clueless general manager, Arthur “The Big Guy” Carlson. Convinced his plan will be a marketing triumph, Carlson devises the infamous “Turkey Drop,” intending to release live turkeys from a helicopter to delight spectators. In his mind, the turkeys will gracefully float to the ground, mimicking falling autumn leaves.
Reality, however, is far less poetic. The event descends into chaos as it becomes painfully clear that turkeys cannot fly. The mayhem is narrated live by WKRP’s dramatic newsman, Les Nessman, whose vivid descriptions of the falling turkeys and horrified bystanders are equal parts tragic and comedic. The episode reaches its pinnacle when Carlson delivers the unforgettable line, “As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.” This single phrase has since become one of television’s most quoted moments, immortalizing the episode in pop culture.
The Power of Implied Chaos
What elevates “Turkeys Away” beyond mere slapstick humor is how the comedy unfolds. The brilliance lies in what viewers don’t see. Instead of showing the absurd spectacle of falling turkeys, the episode relies entirely on Nessman’s over-the-top narration and the WKRP staff’s horrified reactions.
This decision to leave the chaos to the imagination amplifies the humor. Each viewer is left to conjure their own version of the calamity, making it even funnier. By letting suggestion do the heavy lifting, the writers crafted a scene that remains fresh and hilarious decades later. It’s a masterclass in comedic storytelling that proves subtlety can be far more effective than explicit visuals.
A Snapshot of 1970s American Life
Beyond the laughs, “Turkeys Away” offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural landscape of the late 1970s. This was a time when American television was beginning to push boundaries, experimenting with more daring storytelling techniques. WKRP in Cincinnati distinguished itself with clever writing and a knack for blending humor with heartfelt moments.
The episode also reflects the era’s peculiar marketing tactics. Long before the age of social media, businesses relied on outrageous promotional stunts to grab attention. While the Turkey Drop is fictional, its premise feels entirely plausible, making the humor even sharper. It’s a humorous nod to a bygone era of quirky publicity stunts, reminding us how far marketing has evolved.
Thanksgiving and the Spirit of Connection
Thanksgiving is about more than food—it’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and shared memories. Episodes like “Turkeys Away” remind us of the importance of laughter in bringing people together. Sitting around the table and recounting Carlson’s misguided plan or imitating Nessman’s theatrical commentary has become a cherished tradition for many families.
The episode also carries an unexpectedly poignant message about intention. Carlson genuinely wanted to create something special for Thanksgiving, even if his execution (pun intended) was a spectacular failure. It’s a reminder that the holiday is less about achieving perfection and more about effort, connection, and creating moments to remember.
A Timeless Comedy
Despite being more than 45 years old, “Turkeys Away” remains as funny and relevant as ever. The humor holds up remarkably well, thanks to its blend of absurdity and relatability. The episode’s ability to balance the ridiculous with the heartwarming ensures it resonates with audiences across generations.
In a world where entertainment is often consumed in short, fleeting clips, revisiting a classic like this feels refreshing. It’s a reminder of the joy of storytelling and the value of shared cultural moments. Watching “Turkeys Away” with family or friends can spark nostalgia while creating new memories, making it the perfect holiday tradition.
My Family’s Connection to “Turkeys Away”
Growing up, Thanksgiving at my house always involved a table full of food and a well-loved VHS tape of WKRP in Cincinnati. I’ll never forget the first time my dad introduced me to “Turkeys Away.” I was about ten years old, and although I didn’t fully grasp the absurdity of the Turkey Drop, Carlson’s earnest cluelessness had me laughing until I cried. Over the years, that episode became a cornerstone of our Thanksgiving routine. Even now, whenever someone says, “As God is my witness,” I can’t help but smile, remembering those cherished family moments.
Why You Should Watch
If you’ve never seen “Turkeys Away,” you’re in for a treat. The episode is available on streaming platforms and in WKRP in Cincinnati DVD collections. For those who know it by heart, sharing it with younger family members can be just as enjoyable as rewatching it yourself. Their fresh reactions might even make it a new Thanksgiving 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 staple for nearly half a century. 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.
