Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1980: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1980 – a golden era of television that gave us some of the most iconic shows in history. From the heartwarming family dramas to the action-packed crime thrillers, the 80s were a treasure trove of unforgettable TV moments. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan looking to reminisce or a curious newbie eager to explore the classics, you’re in for a treat. We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1980 that will make you want to dust off your old VHS tapes. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the days of big hair, shoulder pads, and unforgettable television. The countdown begins now!
Hot Wind

Hot Wind

Release Date: 1980-01-17

Genres: Comedy

“Hot Wind” is a beloved Yugoslav TV series from 1980 that gained a cult following in neighboring countries, including Czechoslovakia. The show revolves around Shurda, a man in his 30s, who leaves his small town to seek wealth in Belgrade. When his attempts to find a good job fail, he tries his luck in Germany, only to face similar challenges. With a talented cast led by Miodrag Petrović ‘Čkalja’ and Ljubiša Samardžić, this show offers an entertaining and relatable story of ambition and the pursuit of success.

Cast: Miodrag Petrović ‘Čkalja’ (Blagoje Popović ‘Firga’) , ​Ljubiša Samardžić (Borivoje Šurdilović ‘Šurda’) , Borivoje Todorović (Slobodan Bob Mihajlović) , Radmila Savićević (Šurdina baba) , Vesna Čipčić (Vesna Šurdilović) , Živojin ‘Žika’ Milenković (Sotir Šurdilović ‘Soća’) , Milivoje Mića Tomić (Bobov šef) , Ljubica Ković (Šurdina majka) , Melita Bihali (Sekretarica direktora) , Dragomir Bojanić ‘Gidra’ (Jednoruki Krstivoje) , Ljubica Šćepanović (Šurdina sestra) , Mladen Nedeljković (Šurdin zet) , Branislav ‘Ciga’ Milenković (Navijač sa štapom) , Miodrag Popović-Deba (Direktor preduzeća ‘Crep i cigla’) , Milan Puzić (Marko Bošković) , Toma Jovanović (Magistar Čolović) , Čedomir Petrović (Hemičar Pera) , Dragoljub Milosavljević ‘Gula’ (Bobov prijatelj) , Predrag Todorović (Novinar) , Ljubiša Bačić (Mušterija u kafani) , Dragan Ocokoljić (Dr. Ivković, muž Anicine prijateljice) , Branko Cvejić (Miša, gost na prijemu) , Janez Vrhovec (Pupavac) , Ivan Bekjarev (Golman) , Žiža Stojanović (Službenica banke)

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Writers: Siniša Pavić

Tags: miniseries

Berlin Alexanderplatz

Berlin Alexanderplatz

Release Date: 1980-10-12

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Berlin Alexanderplatz” is a captivating TV show set in 1920s Berlin, following the story of Franz Biberkopf, a man determined to turn his life around after being released from prison. However, his plans take an unexpected turn as he becomes entangled in the city’s criminal underworld. With a talented cast including Günter Lamprecht, Hanna Schygulla, and Barbara Sukowa, this show offers a thrilling glimpse into the dark side of Berlin during that era.

Cast: Günter Lamprecht (Franz Biberkopf) , Hanna Schygulla (Eva) , Barbara Sukowa (Mieze) , Gottfried John (Reinhold Hoffmann) , Ivan Desny (Pums) , Barbara Valentin (Ida) , Brigitte Mira (Frau Bast) , Günther Kaufmann (Theo) , Vitus Zeplichal (Rudi) , Claus Holm (Wirt) , Volker Spengler (Bruno) , Elisabeth Trissenaar (Lina) , Lilo Pempeit (Frau Pums) , Annemarie Düringer (Cilly)

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Writers: Alfred Döblin

Tags:

Yes Minister

Yes Minister

Release Date: 1980-02-25

Genres: Comedy, War & Politics

“Yes Minister” is a hilarious satirical sitcom that aired in 1980 and was voted as one of the best TV shows of that year. Set in the office of a UK Cabinet minister named Jim Hacker MP, the show follows his constant struggles with bureaucratic red tape and political maneuvering as he tries to navigate the world of government. With a talented cast including Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne, and Derek Fowlds, this witty and clever series is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys political humor and sharp social commentary.

Cast: Paul Eddington (Jim Hacker) , Nigel Hawthorne (Humphrey Appleby) , Derek Fowlds (Bernard Woolley)

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Tags: england, politics, minister, politician, satire, british politics, sitcom, political humor, workplace comedy

Ultraman 80

Ultraman 80

“Ultraman 80” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1980. It follows the story of Takeshi Yamato, a science teacher who becomes Ultraman 80, a member of the Ultra Space Garrison. After a five-year break, monsters start reappearing, and it’s up to Ultraman 80 to save the day. With a talented cast including Hatsunori Hasegawa, Eri Ishida, and Jin Nakayama, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of the Ultraman franchise.

Cast: Hatsunori Hasegawa (Takeshi Yamato / Ultraman 80 (voice)) , Eri Ishida (Emi Jouno) , Jin Nakayama (Captain Kazuki Ohyama) , Masaaki Daimon (Chief Junichi Itoh) , Sayoko Hagiwara (Ryohko Hoshi / Yulian (voice)) , Masashi Furuta (Shinpachiro Fujimori) , Hachiro Okamoto (Noboru Ikeda)

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Tags: kaiju, ultraman, tsubaraya

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson

“The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1980. Starring Vasiliy Livanov as Sherlock Holmes and Vitali Solomin as Dr. Watson, this Soviet production became a huge hit in Russia. Directed by Igor Maslennikov, the series follows the thrilling investigations of the iconic detective duo, making it a must-watch for any fan of Sherlock Holmes.

Cast: Vasiliy Livanov (Sherlock Holmes) , Vitali Solomin (Dr. Watson) , Rina Zelyonaya (Mrs. Hudson)

Directors: Igor Maslennikov

Writers: Arthur Conan Doyle, Yuli Dunsky

Tags: based on novel or book, detective

X-Bomber

X-Bomber

Release Date: 1980-10-11

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Hey, have you heard of this cool TV show called X-Bomber? It’s set in the year 3000 and follows a young crew aboard the experimental X Bomber spacecraft. They’re on a mission to find a powerful being called F-01 and use it against the Imperial Alliance who are invading the war-torn Solar System. It’s an action-packed sci-fi series with an awesome cast and it was released in 1980. Definitely worth checking out!”

Cast: Shigeru Chiba (Heracles (voice)) , Mikio Terashima (Ben (voice)) , Hidekatsu Shibata (Kuroda (voice)) , Norio Wakamoto (Custer (voice)) , Banjo Ginga (Gozma (voice)) , Yuzuru Fujimoto (Narrator (voice)) , Mami Koyama (Lamia (voice)) , Naoki Tatsuta (Lee (voice)) , Toshio Furukawa (Ginga (voice)) , Katsuji Mori (Captain Halley (voice))

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Tags: puppet show

Shogun

Shogun

“Shogun” is a captivating TV show set in feudal Japan, released in 1980. It follows the journey of an English navigator who finds himself caught up in the intricate political games of the time. With a star-studded cast including Richard Chamberlain, John Rhys-Davies, and Orson Welles, this historical drama promises an immersive experience filled with suspense and intrigue.

Cast: Richard Chamberlain (Pilot-Major John Blackthorne / Anjin-san) , John Rhys-Davies (Vasco Rodrigues) , Orson Welles (Narrator) , Alan Badel (Father Dell’Aqua) , Vladek Sheybal (Captain Ferriera) , Toshirō Mifune (Lord Yoshi Toranaga) , Frankie Sakai (Yabu) , Yûki Meguro (Omi) , Yoko Shimada (Lady Toda Buntaro – Mariko) , Michael Hordern (Friar Domingo) , George Innes (Johann Vinck) , Damien Thomas (Father Alvito) , Hideo Takamatsu (Lord Buntarō) , Hiromi Senno (Fujiko) , Leon Lissek (Father Sebastio) , Nobuo Kaneko (Ishido) , Takeshi Ôbayashi (Urano) , Hiroshi Hasegawa (Galley Captain) , Akira Sera (Old Gardener) , Atsuko Sano (Lady Ochiba) , Miiko Taka (Kiri) , Masumi Okada (Brother Michael) , Edward Peel (Pieterzoon) , Eric Richard (Maetsukker) , Neil McCarthy (Spillbergen)

Directors: Jerry London

Writers: James Clavell, Eric Bercovici

Tags: japan, samurai, asia, miniseries, period drama, sengoku period, 17th century

The Gentle Touch

The Gentle Touch

Release Date: 1980-04-11

Genres: Crime, Drama

“The Gentle Touch” is a groundbreaking British police drama that aired from 1980 to 1984. It holds the distinction of being the first British series to feature a female police detective as its lead character, beating the BBC’s “Juliet Bravo” by four months. Starring Jill Gascoine and supported by a talented cast, this show captivated audiences with its thrilling crime-solving and paved the way for more female-led detective series in the future.

Cast: Jill Gascoine () , Derek Thompson () , Brian Gwaspari () , William Marlowe () , Paul Moriarty () , Kevin O’Shea ()

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Tags:

Huckleberry Finn and His Friends

Huckleberry Finn and His Friends

Release Date: 1980-01-01

Genres: Action & Adventure

“Huckleberry Finn and His Friends” is a captivating TV series that aired in 1980, based on the beloved novels by Mark Twain. It follows the thrilling adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer, played by Ian Tracey and Sammy Snyders respectively. This Canadian/German co-production beautifully brings together the stories of both characters, highlighting Huckleberry’s journey while still honoring Tom Sawyer’s presence. With a dedicated fan base and a 26-episode run, this series has become a cult classic, loved by viewers around the world.

Cast: Ian Tracey () , Sammy Snyders () , Brigitte Horney () , Bernie Coulson () , Blu Mankuma () , Walter Marsh ()

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Tags: based on novel or book, mississippi river, missouri, 19th century, runaway slave

Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones

Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones

Release Date: 1980-04-15

Genres: Drama

“Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones” is a gripping TV show that delves into the chilling events surrounding the Peoples Temple led by Jim Jones. Set in 1978, it explores the shocking mass suicide that took place in Jonestown. With a talented cast including Powers Boothe, Ned Beatty, and Irene Cara, this 1980 release is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as it unravels the haunting tale of this tragic incident.

Cast: Powers Boothe (Rev. Jim Jones) , Ned Beatty (Rep. Leo Ryan) , Irene Cara (Alice Jefferson) , Veronica Cartwright (Marceline “Marcy” Jones) , Rosalind Cash (Jenny Hammond) , Brad Dourif (David Langtree) , Meg Foster (Jean Richie) , Michael C. Gwynne (Larry King) , Albert Hall (Otis Jefferson) , Linda Haynes (Karen Bundy) , Diane Ladd (Lynette Jones) , Ron O’Neal (Col. Robles) , Randy Quaid (Clayton Ritchie) , Diana Scarwid (Sheila Langtree) , Madge Sinclair (Mrs. Jefferson) , Brenda Vaccaro (Jane Briggs) , Dimitra Arliss (Sister Fleming) , LeVar Burton (Richard Jefferson) , Colleen Dewhurst (Myrtle Kennedy) , Clifton James (Barber Charlie Amos) , James Earl Jones (Father Divine) , Ed Lauter (Jim Jones, Sr.) , David Raynr (Raymond Jefferson) , John Dukakis (Jack Daniels) , Benji Wilhoite (Young Jim Jones)

Directors: William A. Graham

Writers: Ernest Tidyman, Charles A. Krause

Tags: suicide, poison, commune, cult, miniseries, cult film, campy, guyana

Magnum, P.I.

Magnum, P.I.

“Magnum, P.I.” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1980 and quickly became a fan favorite. Starring Tom Selleck as the charismatic private investigator, Thomas Magnum, the series takes us on a wild ride through the beautiful beaches of Hawaii. With his luxurious lifestyle, including a fancy Ferrari and a beachfront estate, Magnum solves cases, charms attractive women, and always manages to find himself in exciting and perilous situations. Joined by a talented cast, including John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley, and Larry Manetti, this show is a must-watch for anyone seeking adventure and mystery.

Cast: Tom Selleck (Thomas Magnum) , John Hillerman (Jonathan Higgins) , Roger E. Mosley (Terry “TC” Calvin) , Larry Manetti (Rick Wright)

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Tags: hawaii, private investigator

Kariera Nikodema Dyzmy

Kariera Nikodema Dyzmy

Release Date: 1980-04-06

Genres: Comedy

“Kariera Nikodema Dyzmy” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1980. Set in Poland, it follows the journey of Nikodem Dyzma, a destitute man who moves to the capital city in search of a better life. When an unexpected invitation comes his way, his life takes an exciting turn. With a compelling storyline and a talented cast, this show promises to keep you hooked from start to finish.

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Writers: Witold Orzechowski, Marek Nowicki, Jan Rybkowski

Tags:

Dom

Dom

Release Date: 1980-11-09

Genres: Drama

“Dom” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1980 and was one of the best-voted shows of that year. Starring a talented cast including Halina Rowicka, Tomasz Borkowy, and Jan Englert, this series follows the intriguing story of a house and its inhabitants. With a release date of November 9th, “Dom” is a must-watch for anyone seeking a compelling and engaging television experience.

Cast: Halina Rowicka (Ewa Talar, żona Andrzeja) , Tomasz Borkowy (Andrzej Talar) , Jan Englert (Rajmund Wrotek) , Stefan Szmidt (Kostek Bawolik) , Zbigniew Buczkowski (Henio Lermaszewski) , Barbara Sołtysik (Teresa Bawolikowa) , Helena Kowalczykowa (Lermaszewska, matka Henia) , Marek Bukowski (Mietek Pocięgło, syn Lidki Jasińskiej) , Monika Kwiatkowska (Majka Żmuda, miłość Kajtka) , Hanna Lachman (Wanda Jasińska, babka Mietka Pocięgło) , Bożena Dykiel (Halina Wrotek, żona Rajmunda) , Jerzy Bończak (dozorca Edward Prokop) , Hanna Śleszyńska (Lodzia “Cielęcina”, handlarka mięsem) , Mieczysław Hryniewicz (Czesio, szwagier Prokopa) , Magdalena Stużyńska (Danusia, żona Henia Lermaszewskiego) , Piotr Fronczewski (fotografik Adam Rygier, miłość Martyny Stroynowskiej) , Waldemar Barwiński (Kajtek Talar, syn Ewy i Andrzeja)

Directors: Jan Łomnicki

Writers: Andrzej Mularczyk, Jerzy Janicki

Tags:

Hammer House of Horror

Hammer House of Horror

Release Date: 1980-09-13

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Hammer House of Horror” is a thrilling anthology series that aired in 1980. Each episode presents a different kind of horror, ranging from supernatural elements like witches, werewolves, and ghosts, to more realistic and chilling themes such as cannibalism, confinement, and serial killers. With its diverse and spine-tingling stories, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!”

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Tags: witch, haunted house, anthology, gothic horror, ghost, horror anthology, supernatural power

Auf Achse

Auf Achse

Release Date: 1980-10-28

Genres: Action & Adventure

“Auf Achse” is a highly acclaimed TV show that aired in 1980. Starring talented actors like Manfred Krug, Monica Bleibtreu, Rüdiger Kirschstein, and Armin Rohde, this series takes you on a thrilling journey through the world of trucking. With its release date on October 28th, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1980.

Cast: Manfred Krug (Franz Meersdonk) , Monica Bleibtreu (Sylvia Mittermann) , Rüdiger Kirschstein (Günther Willers) , Armin Rohde (Kaschinski)

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Tags: truck driver

Tenspeed and Brown Shoe

Tenspeed and Brown Shoe

Release Date: 1980-01-27

Genres:

“Tenspeed and Brown Shoe” is a hilarious detective/comedy series that aired on ABC in 1980. Created and executive produced by Stephen J. Cannell, it stars the talented actors Ben Vereen and Jeff Goldblum. Get ready for a wild ride as these two unlikely partners team up to solve crimes in their own unique and entertaining way.

Cast: Ben Vereen () , Jeff Goldblum (Lionel Whitney)

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Tags: private detective

The Martian Chronicles

The Martian Chronicles

Release Date: 1980-01-15

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Martian Chronicles” is a captivating TV show that takes us on an exciting journey to explore the mysterious planet of Mars and its intriguing inhabitants. With a star-studded cast including Rock Hudson, Darren McGavin, and Roddy McDowall, this 1980 release promises an enthralling adventure filled with suspense and discovery. Get ready to be transported to a whole new world as you delve into the wonders of Mars alongside this talented ensemble.

Cast: Rock Hudson (Col. John Wilder) , Darren McGavin (Sam Parkhill) , Roddy McDowall (Father Stone) , Joyce Van Patten (Elma Parkhill) , Gayle Hunnicutt (Ruth Wilder) , Phil Brown (Narrator) , Peter Marinker (McClure) , Richard Oldfield (Captain Nathaniel York) , Maggie Wright (Ylla) , Burnell Tucker (Bill Wilder) , Derek Lamden (Sandship Martian) , Anthony Pullen Shaw (Edward Black) , Alison Elliott (Lavinia Spaulding) , John Cassady (Briggs) , Richard Heffer (Captain Conover)

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Tags: planet mars, based on novel or book, nasa, alien planet, miniseries, colonisation, astronaut

Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice

Release Date: 1980-01-13

Genres: Drama

“Pride and Prejudice” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the year 1980. Set in a time when marriage was of utmost importance, the story revolves around the Bennet household and their quest to find suitable husbands for their five daughters. With a stellar cast including Elizabeth Garvie and David Rintoul, this romantic drama is filled with social complexities and personal dilemmas that will keep you hooked until the very end.

Cast: Elizabeth Garvie (Elizabeth Bennet) , David Rintoul (Mr. Darcy) , Moray Watson (Mr. Bennet) , Judy Parfitt (Lady Catherine de Bourgh) , Clare Higgins (Kitty Bennet) , Sabina Franklyn (Jane Bennet) , Tessa Peake-Jones (Mary Bennet) , Marsha Fitzalan (Caroline Bingley) , Barbara Shelley (Mrs. Gardiner) , Natalie Ogle (Lydia Bennet) , Osmund Bullock () , Priscilla Morgan () , Andrew Johns () , Peter Howell ()

Directors: Cyril Coke

Writers: Fay Weldon, Jane Austen

Tags: based on novel or book, miniseries

Thérèse Raquin

Thérèse Raquin

Release Date: 1980-03-12

Genres: Drama

“Thérèse Raquin” is a gripping TV show from 1980 that tells the intense story of Therese and Laurent, two lovers who conspire to murder Therese’s husband, Camille, in order to be together. However, their actions come back to haunt them as they face the silent judgment of Madame Raquin. With a talented cast including Kenneth Cranham, Deborah Reed, and Brian Cox, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Kenneth Cranham (Camille Raquin) , Deborah Reed (Extra) , Stephen Reed (Extra) , Kate Nelligan (Thérèse Raquin) , Mona Washbourne (Madame Raquin) , Brian Cox (Laurent LeClaire) , Richard Pearson (Michaud) , Timothy Bateson (Grivet) , Philip Bowen (Olivier Michaud) , Jenny Galloway (Suzanne Michaud) , Alan Rickman (Vidal)

Directors: Simon Langton

Writers: Philip Mackie, Émile Zola, Betty Willingale

Tags: miniseries

Shillingbury Tales

Shillingbury Tales

Release Date: 1980-01-06

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“Shillingbury Tales” is a delightful British sitcom comedy-drama series that aired in 1980-81. Set in an idyllic fictional English village, the show follows the lives of its quirky residents, portrayed by a talented ensemble cast including Robin Nedwell, Bernard Cribbins, Diane Keen, and Trevor Howard. With its charming storyline and unique filming style, this series captured the hearts of viewers across Europe before sadly coming to an end due to a change in broadcasting.

Cast: Robin Nedwell () , Bernard Cribbins () , Diana King () , Lionel Jeffries () , Diane Keen () , Trevor Howard (Dan ‘Saltie’ Wicklow) , Joe Black () , Nigel Lambert () , Jack Douglas () , Linda Hayden ()

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Tags: small town, village

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