The Best Shows Of The 1980s, Ranked
List of the best television shows from the '80s, as ranked by television fans. In the 1980s, sitcoms were among the most talked about and most watched shows on the air. Shows like Cheers, The Cosby Show, Murphy Brown, and The Golden Girls were always topics of conversation around the water cooler. Family sitcoms were especially popular, with the rise of shows like Family Ties, The Wonder Years, The Facts of Life, and Who’s the Boss.
Procedural crime dramas like Miami Vice, Knight Rider, and Remington Steele were popular, not only for the feather-haired hunks and uniquely '80s fashion, but also for their action-packed plots. The '80s also saw a rise in soap-style primetime television. The goings on in Dynasty and Dallas were constant topics of conversation. Many of the more popular shows lasted well into the next decade, but even some of the most well-remembered shows of the 80s only lasted a season or two, such as Max Headroom and The Greatest American Hero.
What are your favorite shows from the '80s? Take a look at this list filled with the best shows the '80s had to offer. Maybe you’ll be inspired to take out those old Betamax recordings and rewatch your favorite actually-good '80s shows that really hold up. For more 80s TV, check out the best shows set in the 1980s.
- 1Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley
- Premiered: 1980-1988
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Crime,Drama
A crime-solving ex-Navy SEAL with a penchant for Hawaiian shirts, Tom Selleck's Thomas Magnum charmed audiences in this iconic detective series. Set against the scenic backdrop of Hawaii, the show balanced action, drama, and comedy with memorable supporting characters like John Hillerman's Higgins and an unforgettable theme song that still resonates today.
- 2Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
- Premiered: 1972-1983
- Network: CBS
- Genres: Comedy,War & Politics
This groundbreaking dramedy followed a group of army doctors during the Korean War, blending serious themes with comedic moments to create a unique viewing experience. The talented cast included Alan Alda as Captain Hawkeye Pierce, Loretta Swit as Major Margaret Houlihan, and Harry Morgan as Colonel Sherman Potter. Its 11-year run earned numerous accolades and left an indelible mark on television history.
- 3Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt
- Premiered: 1982-1993
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
Set in the cozy atmosphere of a Boston bar, this beloved sitcom captivated audiences with its witty humor and memorable ensemble cast, including Ted Danson as the charming bartender Sam Malone, Shelley Long as the intellectual waitress Diane Chambers, and Rhea Perlman as the feisty Carla Tortelli. The show's character-driven storylines and clever one-liners made it an instant hit, earning multiple award nominations and wins during its 11-season run. With guest appearances from prominent figures like Dick Cavett and Wade Boggs, this iconic series not only cemented its place in pop culture history but also launched successful spin-offs that continued to delight viewers for years.
- 4Michael J. Fox, Meredith Baxter, Michael Gross
- Premiered: 1982-1989
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Comedy
Centered around the Keaton family during the Reagan era, this popular sitcom tackled various social issues while maintaining a light-hearted tone. Michael J. Fox rose to fame as Alex P. Keaton, a young conservative whose views often clashed with his liberal parents Elyse and Steven, played by Meredith Baxter-Birney and Michael Gross. The show's focus on family values resonated with viewers and contributed to its lasting popularity even decades after its conclusion.
- 5George Peppard, Mr. T, Dirk Benedict
- Premiered: 1983-1987
- Network: NBC
- Genres: Action,Drama
A thrilling mix of action-packed adventure and camaraderie among four Vietnam veterans turned mercenaries for hire propelled this exciting series into pop culture fame. With George Peppard as Colonel John "Hannibal" Smith leading Dirk Benedict's charming con man Faceman (Templeton Peck), Dwight Schultz's eccentric "Howling Mad" Murdock, and Mr. T's tough guy B.A Baracus, the show's high-octane stunts, and humor kept viewers riveted throughout its five-season run.
- 6Frank Oz, Richard Hunt, Dave Goelz
- Premiered: January 30, 1974
- Network: ABC, Syndicated
- Genres: Kids
Jim Henson's colorful cast of Muppets entertained families in this innovative variety show which featured celebrity guest stars such as Steve Martin, Elton John, and Julie Andrews. Kermit the Frog led a group of eccentric characters including Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Gonzo on a journey through skits and musical numbers that showcased their unique personalities while leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.
