Best TV Shows of the 80s: A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane

The 80s were a time of big hair, neon colors, and some of the best TV shows ever made. From family sitcoms to action-packed dramas, the 80s produced a wide variety of shows that are still beloved today. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the best TV shows of the 80s and why they continue to captivate audiences decades later.

When it comes to choosing the best TV shows of the 80s, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First and foremost, we’re looking for shows that were popular during the 80s, not necessarily shows that premiered during that time. Additionally, we’re considering shows that had a significant impact on popular culture and continue to be referenced and celebrated today. Finally, we’re taking into account the overall quality of the show, including writing, acting, and production value.

With those criteria in mind, we spent countless hours researching and analyzing the most popular and critically acclaimed TV shows of the 80s. From iconic sitcoms to groundbreaking dramas, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top ten shows that defined the decade. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit the best TV shows of the 80s.

Best TV Shows of the 80s

We’ve compiled a list of the best TV shows from the 80s that are sure to bring back memories of big hair, shoulder pads, and neon colors. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sitcom, a gripping drama, or a sci-fi adventure, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experts has carefully selected these shows based on their cultural impact, critical acclaim, and lasting popularity. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take a trip down memory lane with these timeless TV classics.

Masterpieces 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle – 80’s Television Shows – Eighties Kids Nostalgia – Fun for Adults, Family, and Kids 80s Shows

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore the nostalgia of 80s TV shows, the Masterpieces 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle is a great choice. With its unique interlocking design, glare-reducing matte finish, and random cuts, this puzzle is sure to provide hours of entertainment for all ages. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, made from 100% recycled material and printed with non-toxic soy-based inks.

Pros

• The puzzle pieces are diverse in shape and size, providing a fun and challenging experience for all ages.
• The glare-reducing matte finish enhances color depth and detail, making the scenes from 80s TV shows more vivid and engaging.
• The puzzle is crafted from 100% recycled material and printed with non-toxic soy-based inks, making it an eco-friendly choice for puzzle enthusiasts.

Cons

• Some users have reported missing pieces in their puzzles, although the manufacturer offers a 100% missing piece replacement guarantee.
• The puzzle may not be challenging enough for experienced puzzlers, as some users have found it to be fairly easy to complete.
• The puzzle may take up a lot of space, as it measures 26.75″ x 19.25″.

We recently tried out the Masterpieces 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle and were impressed with its quality and design. The random cuts of the puzzle pieces made it challenging and fun to put together, while the glare-reducing matte finish enhanced the colors and details of the 80s TV show scenes. We also appreciated the eco-friendly materials used in the puzzle’s construction.

However, we did encounter a missing piece in our puzzle, which was disappointing. Fortunately, the manufacturer’s 100% missing piece replacement guarantee provided peace of mind. Additionally, we found that the puzzle was not as challenging as we had hoped, although it still provided a fun and entertaining experience.

Overall, we would recommend the Masterpieces 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle to anyone looking for a fun and nostalgic way to spend their time. Its unique design and eco-friendly materials make it a great choice for puzzle enthusiasts of all ages.

BBOLDIN Vintage 1980s Puzzle

If you’re a fan of 80s pop culture, then the BBOLDIN Vintage 1980s Puzzle is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The puzzle features a unique collage design that includes popular films, novels, games, and TV shows of the 1980s, making it a great gift for anyone who grew up in that era.
• The puzzle is made of three-layer thicken cardboard, which gives it a premium feel and makes it easy to clip the pieces together firmly.
• Once completed, the puzzle makes for a great retro wall decor piece that can add a visual impact to your living room or bedroom.

Cons

• The puzzle is made up of 1000 pieces, which can be time-consuming to complete, especially for those who are new to puzzles.
• The puzzle pieces are labeled with numbers on the back, which some puzzlers may find distracting or unnecessary.
• The puzzle may be challenging for those who are not familiar with 80s pop culture, as some of the references may be obscure or difficult to recognize.

Overall, we think the BBOLDIN Vintage 1980s Puzzle is a great buy for anyone who loves puzzles and 80s pop culture. The unique collage design, premium quality, and retro wall decor potential make it a great addition to any puzzle collection.

Mojo Games, Rewind – Back to The 80’s and 90’s Movie and TV Trivia – Nostalgic Pop Culture Card Game for Family and Friends Game Night (Movie -amp; TV Trivia)

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to test your knowledge of 80s and 90s pop culture, then the Mojo Games Rewind Trivia Cards are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Take a nostalgic journey back in time with 225 trivia cards packed with fun and challenging questions about classic movies and TV shows from the 80s and 90s.
• Explore a variety of categories including Movie and TV Trivia, Movie Props, Character Match, Movie Soundtracks, TV Theme Songs, Movie Quotes, and ‘Finish the Quote’ challenges.
• The perfect addition to game nights, parties, and gatherings of all kinds.

Cons

• Some questions have incorrect answers or are poorly worded, leading to confusion among players.
• The game board is flimsy and slides around, causing annoyance during gameplay.
• There aren’t enough 80’s song questions.

The Mojo Games Rewind Trivia Cards are a high-quality product that provides hours of entertainment for fans of 80s and 90s pop culture. The diverse categories of questions make it a great way to test your knowledge across a wide range of topics, and the packaging design that looks and feels like a retro VHS tape adds to the nostalgic charm of the game. However, some questions have incorrect answers or are poorly worded, which can lead to confusion among players. Additionally, the game board is flimsy and slides around, causing annoyance during gameplay. Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and educational way to relive the golden era of movies and television, then the Mojo Games Rewind Trivia Cards are definitely worth checking out.

Retro Metal Tin Sign Vintage Alf Extraterrestrial 80s Kid TV Show Aluminum Sign for Home Coffee Wall Decor 8×12 Inch

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to decorate your home, the Retro Metal Tin Sign Vintage Alf Extraterrestrial 80s Kid TV Show Aluminum Sign may be just what you need.

Pros

• The sign is made of high-quality tin metal and is fade-resistant, making it a durable and long-lasting decoration.
• With its classic vintage design, this sign is a great way to add a touch of nostalgia to any room in your home.
• The sign is lightweight and easy to install, with pre-drilled holes for easy hanging.

Cons

• The sign may not be suitable for outdoor use in areas with extreme weather conditions.
• Some customers may find the sign to be smaller than expected.
• The design may not be to everyone’s taste.

This sign is perfect for those who love vintage decor and want to add a touch of nostalgia to their home. The sign is made of high-quality tin metal, which makes it durable and long-lasting. It’s also fade-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it losing its color over time.

Installation is a breeze, thanks to the pre-drilled holes that make hanging the sign a snap. And with its lightweight design, you won’t have to worry about it taking up too much space on your wall.

Overall, the Retro Metal Tin Sign Vintage Alf Extraterrestrial 80s Kid TV Show Aluminum Sign is a great addition to any home or office. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just love vintage decor, this sign is sure to add a touch of fun and nostalgia to your space.

The Best of Fridays

If you’re a fan of sketch comedy and the edgy humor of the ’80s, then The Best of Fridays is worth checking out.

Pros

• The show features the talents of Larry David and Michael Richards before they became household names on Seinfeld.
• The musical guests are top-notch, including The Clash, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and KISS.
• The set includes a wealth of bonus features, including interviews with the cast and crew and a gallery of behind-the-scenes photos.

Cons

• Like any sketch comedy show, not every sketch lands, and some are downright cringey.
• The show relies too heavily on recurring characters that wear out their welcome quickly.
• Not every musical performance from the original episodes is included on the set.

As someone who grew up watching sketch comedy shows like SNL and In Living Color, I was excited to check out The Best of Fridays. While the show definitely has its ups and downs, it’s worth watching for the performances of Larry David and Michael Richards alone. The bonus features are also a nice touch, giving fans a glimpse behind the scenes of the show’s production.

That said, not every sketch is a hit, and some of the recurring characters wear out their welcome quickly. Additionally, while the musical guests are great, it’s a shame that not every performance from the original episodes made it onto the set.

Overall, if you’re a fan of ’80s sketch comedy or just want to see where Larry David and Michael Richards got their start, The Best of Fridays is worth checking out.

Trivia Swaag – A Black 80’s and 90’s Trivia Game for The Culture

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging trivia game that celebrates African American pop culture of the 80s and 90s, then Trivia Swaag is definitely worth a try.

Pros

• The game is compact and easy to carry around.
• The instructions are straightforward and easy to understand.
• It’s a fun way to learn more about black pop culture from the 80s and 90s.

Cons

• The game may be too easy for some players who are well-versed in black pop culture.
• There are limited categories and questions, so the game may become repetitive after a few rounds.
• The grammar and spelling in some of the cards could use improvement.

If you’re a fan of classic black TV shows, movies, and celebrities, then Trivia Swaag is the perfect game for you. The game is designed to be played with 2-20 players, making it a great option for parties or game nights.

One of the things we love about Trivia Swaag is how easy it is to play. The instructions are simple and straightforward, so even if you’ve never played a trivia game before, you’ll be able to jump right in. Plus, the compact size of the game means you can take it with you wherever you go.

That being said, some players may find the game to be too easy. If you’re already well-versed in black pop culture from the 80s and 90s, you may find that the questions are too simple. Additionally, there are a limited number of categories and questions, so the game may become repetitive after a few rounds.

Despite its limitations, Trivia Swaag is a fun and engaging way to learn more about black pop culture from the 80s and 90s. Whether you’re playing with friends or family, you’re sure to have a great time reminiscing about classic TV shows, movies, and celebrities.

The Best of the ’80s Coloring Book

If you’re looking for a fun and nostalgic way to unwind, The Best of the ’80s Coloring Book might be just what you need.

Pros

• The book features iconic images and pop culture references from the 1980s, making it a great way to relive fond memories.
• The paper quality is good, and the pages are thick enough to prevent bleed-through when using markers or pens.
• The designs are intricate and detailed, providing a satisfying coloring experience for adults.

Cons

• The book only contains 96 pages, which may not be enough for those who want a longer coloring project.
• Some of the images are quite small and may be difficult to color without fine-tipped markers or pencils.
• The book is paperback, which may not hold up well over time with frequent use.

We had a lot of fun coloring in this book and found that it was a great way to unwind after a long day. The designs are intricate and detailed, providing a satisfying coloring experience for adults. We especially enjoyed coloring in the pages featuring iconic movies, TV shows, and musicians from the 1980s. However, the book only contains 96 pages, which may not be enough for those who want a longer coloring project. Additionally, some of the images are quite small and may be difficult to color without fine-tipped markers or pencils. Lastly, the book is paperback, which may not hold up well over time with frequent use.

Overall, we would recommend The Best of the ’80s Coloring Book to anyone looking for a fun and nostalgic way to unwind.

I Love It When a Plan Comes Together Quote Sticker

If you’re a fan of the iconic 80s TV show A-Team, you’ll definitely want to add this funny quote sticker to your collection. It features the classic phrase “I Love It When a Plan Comes Together!” from the fearless leader Hannibal Smith, along with the iconic red striped van.

Pros

• The sticker is made of high-quality, waterproof vinyl with a matte UV protective finish, ensuring it will last for many years of use both indoors and outdoors.
• The size of the sticker (4.5″ wide x 2.2″ high) makes it perfect for a laptop decal.
• The sticker will adhere to just about any smooth surface, including Hydroflasks, laptops, tablets, notebooks, and coolers.

Cons

• If you apply the sticker to an insulated thermos or water bottle, it’s recommended that you don’t run it through the dishwasher to ensure the longevity of the sticker.

This sticker is a must-have for any A-Team fan, and it’s a great way to show off your love for the show. The high-quality vinyl and matte UV protective finish make it a durable choice for any surface, and the size is perfect for a laptop decal. The only downside is that you need to be careful if you apply it to an insulated thermos or water bottle. Overall, we highly recommend this sticker to any A-Team fan looking to add some 80s nostalgia to their collection.

Loccor Friends Backdrop

If you’re looking for a high-quality backdrop for your 80s or 90s Friends-themed party, the Loccor Friends Backdrop is a great option.

Pros

• The upgraded polyester material is washable, ironed, and non-fading, making it easy to maintain and reuse.
• The computer-painted color is vivid and attractive, and the high-end digital technology used to restore the design details makes it look authentic.
• The backdrop is versatile and can be used for a variety of occasions, including bachelor and bachelorette parties, weddings, and holiday parties.

Cons

• The size of the backdrop may not be suitable for larger events or group photos.
• The seamless and non-reflective design may not work for all types of photography.
• The color of the backdrop may not be suitable for all party themes or decor.

The Loccor Friends Backdrop is a great addition to any Friends-themed party or event. The upgraded polyester material is easy to maintain and the computer-painted color is vivid and attractive. The backdrop is versatile and can be used for a variety of occasions, making it a great investment.

The only downside is that the size may not be suitable for larger events or group photos, and the seamless and non-reflective design may not work for all types of photography. Additionally, the color of the backdrop may not be suitable for all party themes or decor.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality Friends-themed backdrop, the Loccor Friends Backdrop is a great choice.

The Cosby Show – The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows, then The Cosby Show – The Complete Series is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The Cosby Show is a timeless classic that is enjoyable for all ages.
• The set includes every episode of the show, so you won’t miss a thing.
• The picture and sound quality are excellent, making for a great viewing experience.

Cons

• The set is quite expensive, so it may not be within everyone’s budget.
• Some viewers may be uncomfortable watching the show in light of Bill Cosby’s criminal convictions.
• The DVDs are region-locked, so they may not be playable on all devices.

As one of the most popular TV shows of the 80s, The Cosby Show has become a cultural icon that is still loved by many today. The show follows the lives of the Huxtable family, a large and lovable African-American family living in Brooklyn, New York. The show is known for its humor, heart, and positive portrayal of family life.

If you’re a fan of the show, then The Cosby Show – The Complete Series is a must-have for your collection. This set includes every episode of the show, so you can relive all of your favorite moments. The picture and sound quality are excellent, making for a great viewing experience.

However, the set is quite expensive, so it may not be within everyone’s budget. Additionally, some viewers may be uncomfortable watching the show in light of Bill Cosby’s criminal convictions. Finally, the DVDs are region-locked, so they may not be playable on all devices.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic TV shows and you’re looking for a great addition to your collection, then The Cosby Show – The Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best TV show from the 80s, there are a few things to consider. We understand that it can be overwhelming to choose from the vast array of options available. That’s why we’ve put together a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Genre

First and foremost, consider the genre of the TV show you’re interested in. The 80s had a wide variety of genres, from sitcoms to dramas to sci-fi. Determine which genre you prefer and start your search from there.

Production Quality

The production quality of a TV show can make or break the viewing experience. Look for shows that have high production value, good writing, and strong acting. These elements will keep you engaged and invested in the story.

Cultural Significance

The 80s was a decade of cultural change and innovation. Many TV shows from this era reflected this cultural shift and had a significant impact on society. Consider the cultural significance of a show before making your decision.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the show. Is it available on streaming services or DVD? Can you easily access it? This is especially important if you plan on re-watching the show or sharing it with others.

In summary, when choosing the best TV show from the 80s, consider the genre, production quality, cultural significance, and availability. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find a show that you’ll enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated TV series from the 1980s?

The 1980s was a golden age for television, and there were many top-rated TV series during that decade. Some of the most popular shows of the 80s include “Cheers,” “The Cosby Show,” “Family Ties,” “Magnum, P.I.,” “Miami Vice,” “The Golden Girls,” and “Hill Street Blues.” These shows were loved by audiences and critics alike and are still remembered fondly today.

Which 1980s TV shows had the highest viewership?

The top-rated TV shows of the 1980s were watched by millions of viewers each week. According to Nielsen ratings, the most-watched TV shows of the 80s were “The Cosby Show,” “Family Ties,” “Cheers,” “Dynasty,” and “Dallas.” These shows were incredibly popular and helped to define the decade.

What are some iconic television shows that defined the 1980s?

The 1980s was a decade of iconic television shows that are still beloved today. Some of the most iconic shows of the 80s include “The A-Team,” “Knight Rider,” “MacGyver,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and “ALF.” These shows were known for their memorable characters, exciting action, and heartwarming moments.

Which TV shows from the 1980s are considered cult classics today?

There are many TV shows from the 1980s that have gained a cult following in the years since they aired. Some of the most popular cult classics from the 80s include “Twin Peaks,” “The X-Files,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Quantum Leap,” and “The Twilight Zone.” These shows were ahead of their time and have continued to capture the imaginations of viewers long after they went off the air.

What are the most memorable TV show themes from the 1980s?

The 1980s was known for its memorable television show themes that have become iconic in their own right. Some of the most memorable TV show themes from the 80s include “The A-Team,” “Knight Rider,” “Miami Vice,” “The Facts of Life,” and “The Golden Girls.” These themes are instantly recognizable and bring back fond memories for many viewers.

What are the award-winning television shows from the 1980s?

The 1980s was a decade of award-winning television shows that were recognized for their excellence by critics and audiences alike. Some of the most award-winning shows of the 80s include “Hill Street Blues,” “Cheers,” “The Cosby Show,” “L.A. Law,” and “The Golden Girls.” These shows won numerous Emmy Awards and helped to define the decade of television.