The Best 1980s NBC Dramas

Updated August 11, 2023 688 votes 148 voters

Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best 1980s NBC Dramas

Voting Rules

Vote up your favorite NBC dramas that aired in the '80s

These are the best 1980s NBC dramas, ranked from best to worst by your votes. Some good 80s NBC drama shows follow crime-fighting detectives and others explore the personal lives of relatable family figures. A few of the greatest 1980s NBC drama shows even feature elements of sci-fi.

What shows will you find on this best 1980s NBC dramas list? Matlock, starring the late, great Andy Griffith has to appear near the top. When it comes to TV lawyers, the title character's laid-back demeanor proved to be endlessly entertaining. Hill Street Blues is another good show that aired on NBC in the 1980s.

A talking car plus David Hasselhoff equaled a bonafide hit TV series in Knight Rider. Other great series featured on this top 1980s NBC dramas list include The A-Team, St. Elsewhere and Amazing Stories.Which 1980s NBC drama TV show deserves the top spot on this list?

Most divisive: Amazing Stories

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1
Hill Street Blues
Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, Bruce Weitz
30 votes
- Premiered: January 15, 1981
Hill Street Blues, a groundbreaking police drama, revolutionized television with its realistic portrayal of the daily lives and struggles faced by the officers and detectives of an urban precinct. Garnering numerous awards and nominations, including 98 Emmy nods, the series consistently presented a raw and gritty atmosphere that captivated audiences throughout its seven-season run. The ensemble cast, led by Captain Frank Furillo (Daniel J. Travanti) and Sergeant Phil Esterhaus (Michael Conrad), navigated the complexities of crime, personal relationships, and bureaucracy with a perfect balance of intensity and occasional humor. Pioneering the serialized storytelling format, Hill Street Blues remains an influential force in modern television.
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2
Night Court
Harry Anderson, John Larroquette, Richard Moll
15 votes
- Premiered: January 4, 1984
Set within the bustling confines of a Manhattan municipal court, Night Court is a quirky, yet endearing sitcom that effortlessly combines humor and heart. With a talented ensemble cast led by Harry Anderson as the unorthodox Judge Harold T. Stone, the show delves into the eccentricities of both the legal system and the individuals who frequent it. Acclaimed for its nine-season run, Night Court has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, securing a lasting legacy in television history. As viewers follow the unconventional antics of characters like prosecutor Dan Fielding (John Larroquette) and bailiff Bull Shannon (Richard Moll), they are treated to an engaging blend of wit, warmth, and whimsy that leaves them eager for more.
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3
St. Elsewhere
Ed Flanders, William Daniels, Ed Begley
30 votes
- Premiered: October 26, 1982
A groundbreaking medical drama, St. Elsewhere graced television screens with its compelling storytelling and complex characters. Set within the halls of a struggling Boston hospital, the series delved into the lives of its dedicated staff, exploring their personal and professional challenges. Among the ensemble cast, Dr. Donald Westphall (Ed Flanders) stood as a compassionate leader, while Dr. Mark Craig (William Daniels) showcased surgical brilliance. Throughout its six-season run, St. Elsewhere garnered critical acclaim, receiving multiple Emmy nominations and wins. With its innovative narrative structure and willingness to tackle sensitive issues, the show remains an influential force in the realm of television dramas.
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4
Knight Rider
David Hasselhoff, Edward Mulhare, Patricia McPherson
34 votes
- Premiered: September 26, 1982
In a seamless fusion of science fiction and crime-fighting drama, Knight Rider transports viewers to a high-tech world where artificial intelligence merges with the quest for justice. This 80s classic, which garnered numerous award nominations, features Michael Knight (David Hasselhoff), a former cop turned crime-fighter, and his advanced talking car, KITT (voiced by William Daniels). Together, they tackle criminal masterminds and nefarious plots, creating a thrilling adventure that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show's unique combination of cutting-edge technology and gripping storytelling has etched its place in popular culture, resonating with fans across generations.
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5
In the Heat of the Night
Carroll O'Connor, Howard E. Rollins, Anne-Marie Johnson
24 votes
- Premiered: March 6, 1988
Investigators tackle difficult cases.
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6
Matlock
Andy Griffith, Julie Sommars, Linda Purl
27 votes
- Premiered: March 3, 1986
In an intriguing mix of legal drama and mystery, the show follows the astute defense attorney Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith) as he uncovers hidden truths to exonerate his clients. With its engaging storylines and memorable performances, the series has garnered a devoted fan base and critical acclaim since its debut in 1986. The show's success can be attributed to Griffith's charming portrayal of the lawyer with a penchant for hotdogs and a keen sense of justice. Supporting characters such as private investigator Tyler Hudson (Kene Holliday) and attorney Michelle Thomas (Nancy Stafford) contribute to the dynamic narrative that keeps viewers engrossed throughout each episode.
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Hill Street Blues

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Night Court

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St. Elsewhere

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Knight Rider

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In the Heat of the Night

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Matlock

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