Soaps And Sitcoms
80s TV marked a turning point in how stories were told on the screen. As the lines between genres got blurred and prime-time soap operas became all the rage, these 80s TV shows shone the brightest and are still beloved today.
Cheers
Running for 11 seasons from 1982, Cheers was a cultural phenomenon that brought warmth and humor. Its influence continues today, with fans still visiting the real-life Bull & Finch Pub in Boston, which inspired the show's setting.
Cheers (Cont.)
Ted Danson starred as Sam Malone, a former baseball player turned bartender who was often at the center of the bar's antics. Cheers became popular because of its quirky ensemble cast and witty dialogue that the audience related to.
Knight Rider
Knight Rider starred David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, a lone operative working for a high-tech crime-fighting organization with the help of KITT, an advanced, artificially intelligent car that could talk, drive itself, and perform extraordinary stunts.
NBC, Knight Rider (TV Series 1982–1986)
Knight Rider (Cont.)
The series' mix of action, technology, and a dash of humor resonated with audiences and helped it run for four successful seasons. A stunt driver had to sit behind the driver's seat for scenes when KITT appeared to be driving itself.
NBC, Knight Rider (TV Series 1982–1986)
Dynasty
Did you know that Dynasty had a weekly budget of $35,000 just for costumes? The show's designer, Nolan Miller, was also responsible for resurrecting the shoulder pads trend. Fashion items designed after the characters' wardrobes generated millions of dollars in sales.
20th Television, Dynasty (1981)
Dynasty (Cont.)
Dynasty was a prime-time soap opera that took the 80s by storm. The show was about the powerful Carrington family, led by patriarch Blake Carrington. Joan Collins, as Alexis Carrington, brought a level of campy sophistication that turned her into a cultural icon.
20th Television, Dynasty (1981)
The Golden Girls
No list of 80s TV shows would be complete without mentioning The Golden Girls. Several generations followed and fell in love with four older women living together in Miami with hilarious and heartwarming storylines as it explored life in someone's 50s and beyond.
NBC, The Golden Girls (1985-1992)
The Golden Girls (Cont.)
The show's humor was sharp, and the chemistry among the cast was electric. As a result, it ran for seven seasons and earned multiple Emmy Awards. Today, it can be referenced to examine the changing society's ideas about growing old.
The Golden Girls, Touchstone Television
Baywatch
"Baywatch running" became a satirical reference to the slow-motion running of Baywatch's cast members. This show became a hit with stars like Pamela Anderson, David Hasselhoff, and Yasmine Bleeth. It was about a team of lifeguards as they saved lives and dealt with personal challenges.
The Baywatch Company, Baywatch (1989–2001)
Baywatch (Cont.)
Pamela Anderson's role as C.J. Parker turned her into an international star. Though initially canceled after its first season, Baywatch was revived in syndication and went on to become one of the most-watched TV shows worldwide. Its influence continues today, with reboots and parodies celebrating its legacy.
GTG Entertainment, Baywatch (1989-2001)
Miami Vice
Redefining the crime drama genre, Miami Vice's influence extended to fashion, music, and even video games. Although most of the episodes ended with the good guys eliminating the bad ones, it's still one of the most fun shows to watch.
Miami Vice (Cont.)
Miami Vice's use of popular songs by artists like Phil Collins and Glenn Frey set a new standard for television soundtracks. It featured stylish visuals and cinematic storytelling while delivering high-stakes action and quirky charm.
What's the Idea of Miami Vice? | Miami Vice. by Miami Vice
The Cosby Show
Premiering in 1984, it followed the Huxtables, a successful, loving family living in Brooklyn. Bill Cosby played Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable, a witty and compassionate obstetrician, while Phylicia Rashad starred as his equally sharp and accomplished wife, Clair.
Carsey-Werner Company, The Cosby Show (1984 - 1992)
The Cosby Show (Cont.)
The show offered a new portrayal of African-American families, which made it a cultural touchstone. Cliff's colorful sweaters became a pop culture icon in their own right, and the show often featured guest appearances from famous musicians like Stevie Wonder.
The Cosby Show(1984–1992), NBC
Magnum, P.I.
When it premiered in 1980, Magnum, P.I. brought a mix of action and humor to television. It starred Tom Selleck as a charming and resourceful private investigator who tried to find the truth in Hawaii.
Betrayal in the Air | Magnum P.I. by Magnum P.I. Official Channel
Magnum, P.I. (Cont.)
Magnum's laid-back persona and Ferrari 308 GTS made him an instant icon. Many men even tried to copy Tom Selleck's mustache. The dynamic between Magnum and his uptight British counterpart, played by John Hillerman, provided much of the show's heart.
Betrayal in the Air | Magnum P.I. by Magnum P.I. Official Channel
Family Ties
What would a household of baby boomer parents and their Reagan-era children look like? Family Ties answered the question as it told the story of the Keaton family, led by ex-hippie parents Steven and Elyse. The show explored their relationship with their ambitious son, played by Michael J. Fox.
Family Ties (Cont.)
Fox's portrayal of Alex, a young Republican with big dreams and sharp wit, made him a breakout star and cultural icon. The show's humor stemmed from the generational differences within the family. Ronald Reagan himself praised the series.
MacGyver
Who can design a makeshift tank out of a plastic bottle? Well, maybe no one but MacGyver would definitely try. Richard Dean Anderson, or Angus MacGyver, was a resourceful secret agent who solved problems using everyday objects and his remarkable ingenuity.
Paramount Television , Macgyver (1985–1992)
MacGyver (Cont.)
Due to the show's success, the verb MacGyver became official, often referring to conquering life-or-death situations using technology and everyday objects. Anderson did most of his stunts in the early seasons but suffered from too many injuries.
ALF
ALF is short for Alien Life Form and refers to the lovable extraterrestrial who crash-landed into the lives of the Tanner family. The show combined sci-fi elements with family comedy to create a unique blend that appealed to kids and adults.
Alien Productions, ALF (1986–1990)
ALF (Cont.)
Running for four seasons, ALF became a merchandising juggernaut, spawning toys, cartoons, and even a TV movie. The character, voiced by Paul Fusco, became an icon of 80s pop culture, and people loved its alien's outsider perspective comments on human nature.
ALF Thinks THIS is a Good Idea!? | S4 Ep11 Clip by ALF
Murder, She Wrote
Premiering in 1984, Murder, She Wrote combined the intrigue of a classic whodunit with the charm of a cozy mystery. The show starred Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a widowed former teacher turned best-selling mystery author.
Murder, She Wrote, NBCUniversal Television Distribution
Murder, She Wrote (Cont.)
In its prime, the show had more than 25 million viewers per week, eventually running for 12 seasons. With each episode presenting a new mystery to solve, the show highlighted themes of justice and intellect.
Murder, She Wrote, NBCUniversal Television Distribution
21 Jump Street
Did you know that 21 Jump Street was based on an actual undercover unit in Los Angeles? But the show is probably better known for making Johnny Depp a household name with its five seasons. He also sang the backup vocals to the opening theme song.
FOX, 21 Jump Street (1987-1991)
21 Jump Street (Cont.)
21 Jump Street broke new ground as a teen-oriented police procedural with a unique premise. The show was about a group of youthful-looking undercover officers who infiltrated high schools and colleges to tackle problems affecting young people, such as bullying and racism.
Twentieth Century, 21 Jump Street (1987–1991)
Falcon Crest
As part of the golden era of prime-time soap operas, Falcon Crest premiered in 1981 and became a staple of dramatic television through the 80s. Set in California's Napa Valley, the show chronicled the power struggles within the wealthy Gioberti and Channing families.
Falcon Crest (Cont.)
Jane Wyman's commanding performance as Angela Channing, the ruthless matriarch, was a standout as it anchored the series with her scheming brilliance. The series featured an intricate web of betrayal and ambition that kept viewers hooked for nine seasons.
Moonlighting
Cybill Shepherd and Bruce Willis were the unlikely duo that created some of the most memorable moments in 80s television. Their sizzling chemistry and the show's smart dialogue set it apart from traditional dramas, as it often broke the fourth wall.
Moonlighting (Cont.)
Episodes often included homages to classic films, musical numbers, and experimental formats to push the boundaries of TV creativity. The romance between Maddie and David was central to the show and helped show off Bruce Willis' talent, which made him become a star.
Growing Pains
Following the Seaver family, Growing Pains captured the ups and downs of life with a relatable charm. The series was nominated for Emmy, Golden Globe, and Kids' Choice awards and won a few of them.
ABC, Growing Pains (1985-1992)
Growing Pains (Cont.)
The show was about a family, headed by psychiatrist Dr. Jason Seaver and his wife Maggie, a journalist turned stay-at-home mom. Growing Pains struck a balance between lighthearted comedy and life lessons to address topics like peer pressure and self-discovery.
Warner Bros. Television ,Growing Pains (1985-92)
Dallas
Although Dallas premiered in 1978, its 80s seasons helped cement its status and redefined TV drama. It revolved around the Ewing family, wealthy oil tycoons in Texas, and their romances and power struggles. When it became popular, tourists would visit the house used as the Southfork Ranch.
Lorimar Television, Dallas (1978-1991)
Dallas (Cont.)
Larry Hagman's portrayal of the scheming J.R. Ewing turned the character into one of television's most infamous villains. The show's most famous moment came in the "Who Shot J.R.?" storyline, which captivated audiences worldwide and set a record for viewership.
Lorimar Productions, Dallas (1978 - 1991)
Full House
The 80s saw non-conventional societal norms, and this one included new family dynamics. Full House discussed some of them in a wholesome setting that became popular due to the chemistry among the cast and touching storylines.
Full House (Cont.)
Catchphrases like "You got it, dude!" and "Have mercy!" became part of pop culture as people loved to see the widowed father, Danny Tanner, played by Bob Saget, and his three daughters. The show also achieved international success as it offered a comforting escape during the chaotic 80s.
Full House, Warner Bros. Television
Days Of Our Lives
Yes, the show Joey Tribbiani of Friends starred in was an actual one that premiered in 1965. By the 80s, it was already a staple, especially with its memorable opening line and unexpected events that kept viewers hooked.
Peacock, Days of Our Lives (1965-)
Days Of Our Lives (Cont.)
Days of Our Lives introduced dramatic plotlines like shocking love triangles and mysterious disappearances. Its focus on multi-generational family drama made it timeless and highly relatable. It celebrated airing the 15,000th episode in December 2024, with new seasons renewed.
Corday Productions, Days of Our Lives (1965-)
Seinfeld
Many critics believe that Seinfeld revolutionized the sitcom genre with its unique "show about nothing" premise. Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld created the series that followed comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his quirky friends—George Costanza, Elaine Benes, and Cosmo Kramer in their New York City life.
West-Shapiro, Seinfeld (1989 - 1998)
Seinfeld (Cont.)
What made Seinfeld special was its unconventional storytelling, with episodes often focusing on mundane, everyday occurrences like waiting for a table or losing a parking spot. The show's sharp humor and memorable catchphrases like "yada yada yada" cemented its place in pop culture.
West-Shapiro, Seinfeld (1989 - 1998)
The Simpsons
As a satirical depiction of American society, The Simpsons has become the longest-running animated series in television history. Homer Simpson's "D'oh!" is currently listed as an actual word in the Oxford English Dictionary, and many conspiracy theorists believe that the show's producers can predict the future.
The Simpsons (Cont.)
The Simpsons has influenced the production of books, movies, clothing items, and memes. With sharp writing and a cast of unforgettable supporting characters like Mr. Burns, Moe, and Ned Flanders, the series earned a reputation for blending humor with poignant social commentary.
Married... With Children
Married... with Children flipped the script on traditional family sitcoms when it premiered in 1987. It centered around the Bundy family, led by Al Bundy, a perpetually disgruntled shoe salesman, and his wife Peggy, whose love for shopping and laziness were unmatched.
Columbia, Married... with Children (1987-1997)
Married… With Children
Running for 11 seasons, Married... with Children challenged the squeaky-clean image of TV families to pave the way for edgier sitcoms. Kelly wasn't first played by Christina Applegate, but the show helped draw attention to her talent.
Married... with Children(1987/97), Columbia Pictures Television
