6 Best 80s Drama and Action Shows to Stream

From MacGyver to Magnum P.I., the 80s were full of great drama and action shows that often lasted several years. Showcasing our favorite actors and actresses, these shows have become perfect throwbacks to watch when live television isn’t cutting it. If you need a “new” show to stream, try out one of these best 80s drama and action shows.

6. 21 Jump Street (1987-1991)

Starting our list of best 80s drama and action shows is 21 Jump Street. Similar to the more recent films, 21 Jump Street is the headquarters for a squad of police officers working on investigations related to younger people. Selected for their ability to pass as high school or college students, these officers operate undercover and take down crime.

–IMDb score: 7.2

5. The A-Team (1983-1987)

Fifth on our list of best 80s drama and action shows is The A-Team, focusing on four Vietnam vets who have been framed. On the run from the military police, Hannibal, Faceman, B.A., and Murdock leave a trail of explosions in their wake. However, they always help the little guy against corrupt local bigwigs before going on the run again.

–IMDb score: 7.5

4. Magnum, P.I. (1980-1988)

Next on our list of 80s drama and action shows is Magnum, P.I. Thomas Sullivan Magnum is an ex-Navy Lieutenant and Vietnam Special Ops veteran. Resigning his commission at thirty-three, Magnum now spends his days in Hawaii as a private investigator. Between enjoying life, his buddies, and his work, there’s action in every episode.

–IMDb score: 7.5

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3. MacGyver (1985-1992)

best 80s drama and action shows — Credit: Paramount Network Television

Rounding out the top three 80s drama and action shows is MacGyver. MacGyver is a secret agent who doesn’t drink or womanize and never shoots his gun to win. However, he always finds ways to win with creative inventions or using physical strength. Every episode plunges MacGyver into a new situation to use his ingenuity to get out of.

–IMDb score: 7.6

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2. Miami Vice (1984-1989)

Second on our list of 80s drama and action shows is Miami Vice, one of the quintessential shows from the 1980s. James “Sonny” Crockett and Ricardo “Rico” Tubbs are undercover Miami detectives. To fit into the glamorous world of drug dealers, they have to adopt flashy cars, trendy clothes, and beautiful women. Behind the scenes are the rest of their crew, helping put away crooks one at a time.

–IMDb score: 7.6

1. Hill Street Blues (1981-1987)

Last but not least on our list of best 80s drama and action shows is Hill Street Blues. One of the first ensemble dramas, the show follows an overworked and understaffed police precinct in an inner city modeled after Chicago. Each episode follows the lives of many characters, from the beat cops to the captain of the precinct, as they try to battle crime.