The 80s were a decade of iconic fashion, music, and, most importantly, television. The era saw the rise of some of the most memorable TV stars that have ever graced our screens. At least, they used to be cool back in the 90s. From action-packed shows like ‘The Knight Rider’ and ‘Magnum PI’ to teen dramas like ‘Saved by the Bell,’ the 80s had it all. These shows and their stars still hold a special place in our old, crusty hearts, and their influence can still be felt in pop culture today.
Let’s revisit some of the 80s TV characters that might have been forgotten but undeniably left a lasting impact on modern pop culture.
1. ALF – ALF (1986-1990)
How can a silly red-haired puppet be so wicked and otherworldly and yet speak the harsh truth about some of the world’s hardest issues? Behind the facade of ALF’s corny jokes hides a true comedic genius that a simple mind won’t be able to grasp.
2. Sam Malone – Cheers (1982-1993)
Even if you’ve never watched Cheers, you know Ted Danson is always a riot. No matter if he’s playing a doctor, an angel/devil, or a bar owner.
3. B.A. Baracus – The A-Team (1983-1987)
I pity the fool who thinks the A-Team is a perfect show. It’s a product of its era, with all the post-Vietnam War era escapades of a team of rogue ex-military specialists. The best parts of this show were the constant ridiculous upgrades of their battle van and Mr. T playing B.A.
4. Michael Knight – Knight Rider (1982-1986)
David Hasselhoff, as a secret agent, is so much better than the Baywatch Hasselhoff. Plus, the banter between Michael and KIT is perfect!
5. Thomas Sullivan Magnum IV – Magnum PI (1980-1988)
Even though we recently got a reboot of Magnum PI, no one will replace Tom Selleck. His mustache alone made the show worth watching.
6. Kelly Bundy – Married, With Children (1987-1997)
Christina Applegate’s performance as the blonde bimbo probably did more bad than good, but it was peak comedy at the time.
7. Madeleine Hayes – Moonlighting (1985-1989)
How can we forget Cybill Shepard’s portrayal of Maddy? The sexual tension between her and Bruce Willis’s characters was so thick you could cut it with an axe!
8. Angus MacGyver – MacGuyver (1985-1992)
Another recently rebooted (and already forgotten) IP is MacGuyver. While the 80s version starring Richard Dean Anderson didn’t take itself too seriously, the modern take screwed the whole premise. Good job, Hollywood!
9. Shauni McClain Kramer – Baywatch (1989-2001)
Though at first Shauni, played by Erika Eleniak, was nervous, she pushed through and proved herself to be a very skilled and valuable lifeguard.
10. Sonny Crockett & Ricardo Tubbs – Miami Vice (1984-1990)
Miami Vice follows two undercover detectives, James “Sonny” Crockett and Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs (Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas, respectively). The only thing more iconic than these two characters are the show’s soundtrack, fashion, and fast cars.
