The 80s Called, They Got Awesome TV: Best 15 Shows to Watch on Hulu in May 2024

The 1980s marked the first television era when viewers gained access to more than three networks. It was a decade that saw a shift in how stories were told on the small screen, featuring high-concept themes, larger-than-life characters, and boundary-pushing narratives. From heartwarming comedy sitcoms to groundbreaking procedural drama series, the 80s had it all. 

Thanks to Hulu and its ever-growing library of content, you can relive those nostalgic moments at the touch of a button. And there’s no need to wait for a week between episodes. Here are the best shows from the 80s currently streaming on Hulu, ranked by their IMDb scores.

The Joy of Painting (1983 – 1994) – 9.3/10

• Starring: Bob RossSteve RossDana Jester

Official synopsis: The Joy of Painting on Hulu is a serene journey with Bob Ross at the helm. Watch as he creates oil painting wonders on canvas, making it an enchantingly soothing and oddly satisfying ride.

The Simpsons (1989) – 8.7/10

• Creator: James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, Sam Simon
• Starring: Dan Castellaneta, Nancy Cartwright, Harry Shearer

Official synopsis: The Simpsons is a delightful mixture of humor, heart, and a dash of chaos. It’s a funny, sometimes absurd, but always relatable take on family life that will keep you laughing from start to finish.

Dragon Ball (1986) – 8.6/10

• Starring: Masako Nozawa, Jôji Yanami, Brice Armstrong

Official synopsis: Dragon Ball centers on the exceptionally strong child-fighter Son Gokû. In this twisted version of Earth, Gokû and his companions embark on an adrenaline-pumping quest for the seven dragon balls. With these balls, they can summon the Grand Dragon and make one wish. 

The Wonder Years (1988) – 8.4/10

• Creators: Carol Black, Neal Marlens
• Starring: Fred Savage, Dan Lauria, Alley Mills

Official synopsis: The Wonder Years on Hulu takes viewers through the memorable adolescence of Kevin Arnold in a typical American suburb. This is a story of growing up, familial dynamics, enduring friendships, and first love; told from the perspective of Kevin as an adult. 

Unsolved Mysteries (1988 – 2010) – 8.3/10

• Creators: John Cosgrove, Terry Dunn Meurer
• Starring: Robert Stack, Dennis Farina, Keely Shaye Brosnan

Official synopsis: Unsolved Mysteries is a gripping journey through the world of the unknown. The series explores many enigmas, from unsolved murders to unexplained UFO sightings. By using reenactments, real-life interviews, and an interactive call-to-action, the show brings each mystery to life on your screen. 

The Golden Girls (1985) – 8.2/10

• Creator: Susan Harris
• Starring: Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan

Official synopsis: This Emmy-winning delightful sitcom showcases the lives of four unique, older roommates. With Dorothy’s quest for companionship, Sophia’s humorous stories, Rose’s lovable eccentricities, and Blanche’s fascinating love life, there is never a dull moment in their lives. 

Ranma ½ (1989) – 7.9/10

• Creator: Rumiko Takahashi
• Starring: Megumi Hayashibara, Noriko Hidaka, Sarah Strange

Official synopsis: This hilarious anime follows the life of high school girl Akane. She has to navigate an unexpected engagement with Ramna, who happens to have been raised by a giant panda.

Hill Street Blues (1981 – 1987) – 8.1/10

• Creator: Steven Bochco, Michael Kozoll
• Starring: Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, Bruce Weitz

Official synopsis: Hill Street Blues on Hulu is one of the first ensemble dramas to capture the realities of an overwhelmed police precinct. From beat cops to the precinct captain, their stories offer a compelling insight into the turbulent world of law enforcement.

Married… with Children (1987 – 1997) – 8.1/10

• Creators: Ron Leavitt, Michael G. Moye
• Starring: Ed O’Neill, Christina Applegate, Katey Sagal

Official synopsis: Married… with Children is an uproarious sitcom about Al Bundy, a down-on-his-luck shoe salesman. Once a high-school football star, Al now has a low-paying job and a family constantly after his meager earnings. 

Explorer (1985 – ) – 8/10

• Starring: Salvatore Vecchio, Peter Coyote, Lisa Ling

Official synopsis: This educational show offers a fascinating deep dive into our natural world. The weekly series presents mini-documentaries in an engaging news-style journal format. 

St. Elsewhere (1982 – 1988) – 8/10

• Creators: Joshua Brand, John Falsey, John Masius
• Starring: Ed Begley Jr., Howie Mandel, David Morse

Official synopsis: The series portrays the staff experiences at St. Eligius Hospital, where new residents navigate the pressures of medical practice and the complexity of patient stories.

Cheers (1982 – 1993) – 8/10

• Creators: James Burrows, Glen Charles, Les Charles
• Starring: Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, John Ratzenberger

Official synopsis: Join the regulars at Cheers, a beloved Boston bar filled with camaraderie, laughter, and plenty of heart. From Sam Malone’s complicated love life to a colorful cast of patrons, the bar becomes a home away from home where everybody knows your name.

Blackadder (1982 – 1983) – 8/10

• Creator: Richard Curtis
• Starring: Rowan Atkinson, Brian Blessed, Elspet Gray

Official synopsis: The Black Adder is set in England at the end of the War of the Roses. The series centers on the cowardly Prince Edmund and his unlikely cohorts as they navigate the murky waters of power and ambition in a kingdom where the truth is stranger than fiction.

ThunderCats (1985 – 1989) – 7.9/10

• Starring: Bob McFadden, Larry Kenney, Earl Hammond

Official synopsis: This classic animation offers an epic adventure of survival and bravery.  After the destruction of their home planet, a small group of Thunderans, led by Lion-O and his powerful Sword of Omens, make a stand against Mumm-Ra and the mutants on Third Earth.

Designing Women (1986) – 7.2/10

• Creator: Linda Bloodworth-Thomason
• Starring: Delta Burke, Dixie Carter, Annie Potts

Official synopsis: Designing Women centers on four diverse women running a design firm out of an Atlanta home. Led by the fiercely outspoken feminist Julia Sugarbaker, the team includes her beauty queen sister Suzanne, divorced mother Mary Jo, and naïve Charlene. With the help of Anthony, a black ex-con with a unique perspective, they navigate their work, personal, and love lives.

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