
The 80s gave birth to some of the greatest TV shows of all time! As someone who grew up in the 80s, I have very fond memories of some of the biggest and best TV shows of the 80s. Today I am having a little bit of fun as I look at what I feel were the 10 most groundbreaking American TV shows from that period.
Please keep in mind that these are the shows that struck a chord with me. Also, some of these shows did start in the 70s or maybe even creep into the 90s, but they still were represented and aired in the 80s. If you disagree with my choices, hit the rewind button on your VHS and come up with your own list of the top 10 most groundbreaking American TV shows.
V: 1984 – 1985

V The Series is a continuation of a mini-series, and it is about a race of reptilian aliens that disguise themselves as humans to try and take over the planet.
Dallas: 1978 – 1991

Dallas was one of those shows that pretty much everyone’s parents watched back in the ’80s. J.R. Ewing, a Texas oil baron, uses manipulation to achieve his business and personal goals; while doing so, he runs into conflict with his brother Bobby, his enemy Cliff Barnes, and his wife Sue Ellen.
The Golden Girls: 1985 – 1992

The Golden Girls is an iconic television show that follows the lives of four older women who are young at heart. Living together in Florida, they always have a fun time, thanks to their unique personalities and the spectacular chemistry they share on screen together.
The Facts of Life: 1979 – 1988

The Facts of Life started out as a spin-off from another popular show, Different Strokes. Edna Garrett has a new job, working as a house mother, looking after kids at a fancy all-girls private school in New York. Throughout the show, you will notice some pretty big changes in the cast from season one to season two.
Cheers: 1982 – 1993

Cheers is a long-running sitcom about a Boston bar that is owned by the coolest ladies’ man around, Sam Malone. The show revolves around the bar staff and the various bar patrons and the different stories and relationships.
Knight Rider: 1982 – 1986

Knight Rider is a fun action show that follows Michael Knight, a crime fighter, detective, and vigilante. He is joined by KITT, the coolest Firebird there is. Each episode plays like a mini movie and is known for keeping its viewers on the edge of their seats.
Quantum Leap: 1989 – 1993

Quantum Leap started in 1989 and is one of the greatest sci-fi shows of all time. The story follows Dr. Sam Beckett, a brilliant scientist who creates time travel and becomes stuck leaping into different people’s lives, trying to find his way home. With help from hologram pal Al and their computer Ziggy, each episode brought excitement, drama, and heartbreak. Each episode ended on a huge cliffhanger with a little glimpse into what was to come the following week with Sam’s trademark, “Oh boy.”
The Wonder Years: 1988 – 1993

The Wonder Years is a story about a boy, Kevin Arnold, and his journey into young adulthood. While this is an 80s show, it is set during the 60s and 70s, making it look and feel different from the other TV shows of the era.
Miami Vice: 1984 – 1989

Miami Vice was not just another cop show—it was a staple during the 80s. With the crazy fashion, killer soundtrack, and over-the-top action, the show follows two tough undercover cops, Sonny and Rico.
The A-Team: 1983 – 1987

The A-Team had an epic 80s-style intro, tons of over-the-top action, and, of course, Mr. T, one of the biggest stars of the 80s. The A-Team follows a group of mercenaries that take on various jobs the authorities cannot solve. In each episode, Hannibal is crafting a plan, Face is turning on the charm, Murdoc is doing something crazy, and BA. Barracus is kicking butt and not wanting to get on a plane!
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