The 10 Most Groundbreaking American TV Shows of the 80s

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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!