The Unsung Composer: 7 Iconic TV Theme Songs You Didn't Know Alan Thicke Wrote

It is a little-known fact, even today, December 13, 2025, that the man best known as Jason Seaver, the kind-hearted patriarch on the 80s sitcom Growing Pains, was actually one of television’s most prolific and successful theme song composers. Alan Thicke, a Canadian multi-talent, penned over 40 theme songs throughout his career, creating the unforgettable musical backdrop for an entire generation of classic TV programming.

This deep dive into Alan Thicke’s musical legacy reveals the chart-topping, catchy tunes that defined an era of game shows and sitcoms, proving that his talents extended far beyond the sound stages of Hollywood. His work is a masterclass in the 24-second challenge: creating something catchy and memorable in under half a minute.

Alan Thicke: A Complete Biography

Alan Willis Jeffery, who later adopted the name Alan Thicke, was a Canadian actor, songwriter, producer, and television host whose career spanned five decades.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

• Full Name: Alan Willis Jeffery (later Thicke)
• Born: March 1, 1947, in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Canada
• Died: December 13, 2016, in Burbank, California (aged 69)
• Cause of Death: Aortic dissection (while playing hockey with his son)
• Alma Mater: University of Western Ontario
• Spouses: Gloria Loring (m. 1970; div. 1984), Gina Tolleson (m. 1994; div. 1999), Tanya Callau (m. 2005)
• Children: Brennan Thicke, Robin Thicke, Carter Thicke
• Notable Roles: Dr. Jason Seaver on Growing Pains (1985–1992), host of The Alan Thicke Show, and host of the Canadian game show Face the Music.
• Musical Career Highlight: Composed or co-composed over 40 television theme songs.

The Golden Age of TV: Alan Thicke’s Most Iconic Theme Songs

Thicke often collaborated with his first wife, actress and singer Gloria Loring, and composer Al Burton, during the peak of his theme-song writing career. This trio was responsible for some of the most enduring earworms in television history. The challenge was always the same: to create a piece of music that was instantly recognizable, set the tone for the show, and fit into the brief 24-second window.

1. Diff'rent Strokes (1978–1986)

The theme song for Diff’rent Strokes, which featured the famous line “What'chu talkin' 'bout, Willis?”, is arguably Thicke’s most famous composition. The song, titled "It Takes Diff'rent Strokes," was co-written by Thicke, Gloria Loring, and Al Burton. In a fascinating twist, Thicke himself provided part of the vocals for the iconic 80s TV show theme, lending his voice to the very music he created.

2. The Facts of Life (1979–1988)

As a spin-off of Diff’rent Strokes, it’s fitting that The Facts of Life theme song was also a Thicke/Loring/Burton collaboration. Titled "The Facts of Life," the original theme was sung by Gloria Loring, Thicke’s then-wife. The song perfectly captured the spirit of the show—a group of young girls navigating adolescence—with its bright, upbeat, and inspirational lyrics. The theme was later re-recorded and slightly altered as the show evolved, but Thicke's compositional foundation remained.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

3. Wheel of Fortune (Original Theme)

Before its current, more modern sound, the original theme for the iconic game show Wheel of Fortune was composed solely by Alan Thicke. The catchy, high-energy instrumental piece, "Big Wheels," was essential in setting the mood for the high-stakes, fast-paced nature of the game show. His work on this theme solidified his reputation as the go-to composer for television game shows in the 1970s and 80s.

4. The Wizard of Odds (1973–1975)

One of Thicke’s earliest and most significant theme song credits was for the game show The Wizard of Odds, hosted by a young Alex Trebek. Thicke wrote the theme song, also called "The Wizard of Odds," which helped launch his career in TV composition. This successful early collaboration showcased his ability to craft memorable, upbeat instrumental pieces for the game show format.

5. Celebrity Sweepstakes (1974–1977)

Following his success with The Wizard of Odds, Thicke continued his dominance in the game show genre by composing the theme for Celebrity Sweepstakes. This theme, along with others, cemented his status as a composer who could consistently deliver the energetic, attention-grabbing hooks required for daytime television.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

6. The Diamond Head Game (1975)

The theme for the short-lived NBC game show The Diamond Head Game, set in Hawaii, also features Thicke's compositional signature. His ability to quickly adapt his style to different show concepts, from sitcoms about blended families to exotic game shows, is a testament to his musical versatility.

7. The Joker's Wild (1972–1975)

While the show had several musical iterations, Thicke is credited with composing a theme for an early version of the classic game show The Joker's Wild. His work here, alongside his other game show themes, positioned him as the unofficial "King of the Game Show Jingle" during the 1970s.

The Underrated Legacy: More Than Just a Sitcom Dad

Alan Thicke's career as a composer is a testament to the fact that many of the most recognizable parts of television history are often created by individuals who are famous for something else entirely. His work is a cornerstone of the Golden Age of television theme songs, a time when a show's identity was intrinsically linked to its opening music.

The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame recognized this profound contribution by celebrating the induction of three of his most famous theme songs: The Facts of Life, Diff'rent Strokes, and Wheel of Fortune. This induction solidifies his place not just as an actor, but as a significant musical figure in North American pop culture.

In the years since his passing in 2016, which was marked by heartfelt tributes from his family, including his son Robin Thicke, and his *Growing Pains* co-star Joanna Kerns, his musical achievements continue to surprise new generations of fans. His theme songs are more than just background noise; they are cultural entities that instantly transport listeners back to a specific, beloved moment in television history.

The next time you hear the familiar opening notes of "You take the good, you take the bad," remember the man who was both the beloved Dr. Jason Seaver and the unsung composer who wrote the soundtrack to your childhood.