As Thanksgiving rolls around, there’s one moment of television that seems to be embedded in the collective memory of millions of Americans: WKRP in Cincinnati’s iconic “Turkeys Away” episode. Originally aired in 1978, this hilarious and absurd episode has become a holiday tradition, reminding us of the power of comedy and the joy of shared laughter. For many, revisiting “Turkeys Away” is as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and pumpkin pie. If you’ve never seen it—or even if you’ve watched it every year since its debut—this classic episode deserves to be celebrated not just for its humor but also for its unique reflection of American culture during the late 1970s.
The episode centers around a Thanksgiving promotion organized by the fictional radio station WKRP in Cincinnati. The station’s bumbling general manager, Arthur “The Big Guy” Carlson, decides to plan a “Turkey Drop” event, convinced it will be a public relations triumph. The idea is simple: drop live turkeys from a helicopter as a promotional stunt, imagining they will gracefully flutter to the ground like leaves in autumn. However, reality strikes when it becomes painfully apparent that turkeys cannot fly. As the episode unfolds, the chaos of the stunt is narrated live by newsman Les Nessman, whose dramatic descriptions rival those of a battlefield correspondent. The climax is Carlson’s unforgettable line, “As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.” This line has since become one of the most quoted in television history.
What makes this episode so iconic isn’t just the absurdity of the situation but the way it’s presented. The true brilliance lies in what you don’t see. The chaos of the falling turkeys, the shocked onlookers, and the aftermath are never shown on-screen. Instead, the humor is amplified by Les Nessman’s vivid narration and the horrified reactions of the WKRP staff listening from the studio. This decision to rely on suggestion rather than explicit visuals is a masterstroke of comedy. It engages the viewer’s imagination, allowing each person to envision the mayhem in their own way. It’s a technique that elevates the humor and ensures the scene remains timeless.
“Turkeys Away” is more than just a funny episode; it’s a reflection of its time. The late 1970s were a period of change in American television, with sitcoms beginning to push boundaries and experiment with storytelling. WKRP in Cincinnati stood out for its clever writing and its ability to blend humor with heart. The episode also captures the quirks of 1970s American life, particularly the rise of quirky promotional stunts as a marketing tool. In an era before social media, businesses often relied on unusual and outlandish events to grab public attention. The Turkey Drop, while fictional, feels oddly plausible, making the humor even sharper.
For many families, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, give thanks, and create memories. Episodes like “Turkeys Away” remind us of the importance of laughter in bringing people together. Sitting around the table, recounting Carlson’s ill-fated turkey stunt or imitating Les Nessman’s over-the-top commentary, becomes a cherished tradition in itself. The episode also taps into the spirit of Thanksgiving in an unexpected way. While it’s easy to focus on the chaos and comedy, there’s an underlying message about the value of intention. Carlson genuinely wanted to create something special for the holiday, even if his execution (pun intended) went horribly wrong. It’s a reminder that Thanksgiving is less about perfection and more about effort and connection.
Despite being over 45 years old, “Turkeys Away” remains relevant. The humor holds up remarkably well, proving that great comedy is timeless. The episode’s ability to balance absurdity with relatability ensures it continues to resonate with new audiences. In today’s fast-paced world, where much of our entertainment is consumed in short clips or fleeting moments, revisiting an episode like this feels refreshing. It reminds us of the joy of storytelling and the value of shared cultural moments. Watching “Turkeys Away” with family or friends can transport you back to a simpler time, sparking nostalgia and gratitude for the traditions we hold dear.
Growing up, Thanksgiving at my house always involved two constants: a table overflowing with food and a well-worn 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, and while I didn’t fully grasp the absurdity of the Turkey Drop, I laughed until my sides hurt at Carlson’s earnest yet clueless demeanor. As the years passed, that episode became a treasured part of our holiday routine. Even now, whenever I hear the phrase, “As God is my witness,” I can’t help but chuckle. It’s a small but meaningful reminder of the joy and humor that binds families together during the holidays.
If you’ve never seen “Turkeys Away,” you’re in for a treat. The episode is available on streaming platforms or DVD box sets of WKRP in Cincinnati. For those who’ve watched it countless times, consider introducing it to younger family members. Sharing the laughter and watching their reactions might just become a new Thanksgiving tradition.
“Turkeys Away” is more than just a sitcom episode—it’s a piece of American cultural history. Its humor, heart, and absurdity have secured its place as a Thanksgiving staple for nearly half a century. So, this year, after the turkey is carved and the pie is served, gather your loved ones and revisit this classic. Because as God is my witness, it’s one of the funniest things you’ll ever see.
