So here's my question since I wasn't alive in the 1970s: Were variety shows supposed to be "watched" like movies?

I've always thought that they were designed to be something more like background noise for social gatherings; e.g., turn the TV on, throw a couple of burgers on the grill, invite a few friends over, watch a few minutes, eat a little bit, watch a few minutes more, etc.

If what I say is true, then it might explain why so many variety shows were so bad, including the SWHS.