Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1981: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1981 – a year of big hair, bigger shoulder pads, and some of the most iconic TV shows to ever grace our screens. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the thrilling to the downright bizarre, 1981 had it all. Whether you were a fan of the crime-solving capers, the family dramas, or the sci-fi sagas, there was something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, adjust your rabbit ears, and prepare to be transported back to a time when the remote control was king. We’re counting down the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1981. No spoilers, but expect some familiar faces, unforgettable theme tunes, and a whole lot of nostalgia. Ready? Let’s get started!
Brideshead Revisited

Brideshead Revisited

Release Date: 1981-10-12

Genres: Drama

“Brideshead Revisited” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the era between the two world wars. It follows the story of Charles Ryder, an agnostic man who becomes entangled with the aristocratic Catholic Flyte family. With a stellar cast including Jeremy Irons, Anthony Andrews, and Laurence Olivier, this 1981 gem is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys period dramas and complex family dynamics.

Cast: Jeremy Irons (Charles Ryder) , Anthony Andrews (Lord Sebastian Flyte) , Diana Quick (Lady Julia Flyte) , Claire Bloom (Teresa Flyte, Lady Marchmain) , Phoebe Nicholls (Lady Cordelia Flyte) , Simon Jones (‘Bridey’, Lord Brideshead) , John Gielgud (Edward ‘Ned’ Ryder) , Laurence Olivier (Alexander Flyte, Lord Marchmain) , Stéphane Audran (Cara) , Jane Asher (Celia Ryder) , Charles Keating (Rex Mottram) , Jeremy Sinden (‘Boy’, Viscount Mulcaster) , Mona Washbourne (Nanny Hawkins) , Nickolas Grace (Anthony Blanche) , Jenny Runacre (Brenda Champion) , Robin Sachs (Etonian) , Michael Bilton (Hayter) , John Grillo (Mr. Samgrass) , Ralph Nossek (Plender) , Ronald Fraser (Red-Haired Man) , John Nettleton (Commanding Officer) , Kenneth Cranham (Sergeant Block) , Joseph Brady (Chief Purser) , Gary Waldhorn (Major Wilson) , John Le Mesurier (Father Mowbray)

Directors:

Writers: Derek Granger, Charles Sturridge, Evelyn Waugh

Tags: friendship, paris, france, venice, italy, england, world war ii, fountain, artist, british empire, religious conversion, romance, gay interest, love, miniseries, in the closet, mistress, university, love affair, period drama, alcohol abuse, alcoholic, expatriate, domineering mother, labor strike, catholicism, husband wife estrangement, marital separation, catholic guilt, englishman abroad, oxford university, 1920s, 1940s, aristocracy, ancestral home, 1930s, alcoholic son, aristocrats, social scandal, society party, closeted homosexual, family friend, british painter, lgbt interest, general strike

Only Fools and Horses

Only Fools and Horses

Release Date: 1981-09-08

Genres: Comedy

“Only Fools and Horses” is a hilarious TV show that premiered in 1981 and follows the misadventures of two brothers, Del Boy and Rodney Trotter. They make a living by selling questionable goods, always dreaming of becoming millionaires. With a talented cast including David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst, this comedy series is sure to keep you entertained with its witty humor and lovable characters.

Cast: David Jason (Del Boy) , Nicholas Lyndhurst (Rodney) , Buster Merryfield (Uncle Albert) , Gwyneth Strong (Cassandra) , Tessa Peake-Jones (Raquel) , Patrick Murray (Mickey Pearce) , Sue Holderness (Marlene) , Roger Lloyd Pack (Trigger) , John Challis (Boycie)

Directors: Tony Dow

Writers:

Tags: van, london, england, brother, flat, ambition, grandfather, uncle, scam, business, working class, family, tower block, trader, council estate, sitcom, cockneys

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

Release Date: 1981-01-05

Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is a hilarious and adventurous TV show that aired in 1981. It follows the story of Arthur Dent, an ordinary Englishman whose life is saved by his alien friend when Earth is destroyed. Together, they embark on a journey across the galaxy, encountering both friendly and not-so-friendly characters, all while searching for the ultimate question to life, which happens to be 42. With a talented cast and a witty storyline, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a cosmic and comical escape.

Cast: Simon Jones (Arthur Dent) , David Dixon (Ford Prefect) , Sandra Dickinson (Trillian) , Mark Wing-Davey (Zaphod Beeblebrox) , Stephen Moore (Marvin) , Peter Jones () , David Learner ()

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Tags: galaxy, friendship, satire, alien, ufo, end of the world, space, universe, meaning of life, alien friendship, deep space

Hill Street Blues

Hill Street Blues

Release Date: 1981-01-15

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Hill Street Blues” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 1981. Set in an urban police station, it offers a realistic portrayal of the daily lives of officers and detectives. With a talented cast including Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, and Dennis Franz, this show promises an intriguing glimpse into the world of law enforcement.

Cast: Daniel J. Travanti (Frank Furillo) , Michael Warren (Robert Hill) , Bruce Weitz (Mick Belker) , Robert Prosky (Stan Jablonski) , James B. Sikking (Howard Hunter) , Joe Spano (Henry Goldblume) , Taurean Blacque (Neal Washington) , Kiel Martin (J.D. LaRue) , Betty Thomas (Lucille Bates) , Dennis Franz (Norman Buntz) , Charles Haid (Andy Renko) , Veronica Hamel (Joyce Davenport)

Directors:

Writers: Michael Kozoll, Jacob Epstein, Peter Silverman

Tags: police

The Fall Guy

The Fall Guy

Release Date: 1981-11-04

Genres: Action & Adventure

“The Fall Guy” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1981. It follows the adventures of Colt Seavers, a Hollywood stuntman who uses his tough skills to track down and capture bail jumpers, earning some extra cash along the way. Starring Lee Majors, Douglas Barr, Heather Thomas, Markie Post, and Jo Ann Pflug, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of exciting and adrenaline-fueled stories.

Cast: Lee Majors (Colt Seavers) , Douglas Barr (Howie Munson) , Heather Thomas (Jody Banks) , Markie Post (Terri Michaels) , Jo Ann Pflug (Samantha ‘Big Jack’ Jack)

Directors: Tom Connors

Writers:

Tags: bounty hunter, chase, stuntman, pickup truck, adventurer, bad guy, action hero

Masada

Masada

Release Date: 1981-04-05

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“Masada” is a gripping TV show that takes us back to the 1st-century, where a Roman general leads a massive siege on the mountain fortress of Masada. This epic battle showcases the heroic stand of over 900 Jews against a staggering force of 5,000 Roman soldiers. With a star-studded cast including Peter O’Toole and Peter Strauss, this historical drama is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by ancient history and tales of bravery.

Cast: Peter O’Toole (Gen. Cornelius Flavius Silva) , Peter Strauss (Eleazar Ben Yair) , Barbara Carrera (Sheva) , Nigel Davenport (Mucianus) , Alan Feinstein (Aaron) , Giulia Pagano (Miriam) , Anthony Quayle (Rubrius Gallus) , Denis Quilley (Marcus Quadratus) , Paul L. Smith (Gideon) , Anthony Valentine (Merovius) , Timothy West (Emperor Vespasian) , David Warner (Pomponius Falco) , Clive Francis (Attius) , George Innes (Titus) , David Opatoshu (Shimon) , Richard Pierson (Ephraim) , Jack Watson (Decurion) , Joseph Wiseman (Jerahmeel) , Heinz Bernard (Elder) , Christopher Biggins (Claudius Albinus) , David A. Block (Reuben) , Warren Clarke (Plinius) , Vernon Dobtcheff (Chief Priest) , Michael Elphick (Vettius) , Ken Hutchison (Fronto)

Directors:

Writers: Ernest K. Gann, Joel Oliansky

Tags: israel, based on novel or book, miniseries, ancient history, 1st century

Nero Wolfe

Nero Wolfe

Release Date: 1981-01-16

Genres: Crime, Mystery

“Nero Wolfe” is a captivating television series that aired in 1981 and is based on Rex Stout’s beloved detective stories. Starring William Conrad as the brilliant detective Nero Wolfe and Lee Horsley as his assistant Archie Goodwin, the show brings the world of Wolfe to contemporary New York City. With a talented cast and intriguing storylines, this series is a must-watch for fans of classic detective mysteries.

Cast: William Conrad (Nero Wolfe) , Lee Horsley (Archie Goodwin) , George Voskovec (Fritz Brenner) , Robert Coote (Theodore Horstmann) , Allan Miller (Inspector Cramer) , George Wyner (Saul Panzer)

Directors:

Writers: Rex Stout, Peter Allan Fields

Tags: detective, manhattan, new york city, nero wolfe

The Greatest American Hero

The Greatest American Hero

Release Date: 1981-03-18

Genres: Action & Adventure, Comedy, Crime

“The Greatest American Hero” is a hilarious and action-packed TV show that aired in 1981. It follows the adventures of Ralph Hinkley, a teacher who receives a red suit from aliens, granting him superhuman abilities. The catch is that Ralph loses the instruction booklet, so he has to figure out how to use his powers through trial and error, leading to comical situations. With a talented cast including William Katt, Robert Culp, and Connie Sellecca, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a fun and entertaining superhero series.

Cast: William Katt (Ralph Hinkley) , Robert Culp (Bill Maxwell) , Connie Sellecca (Pam Davidson) , Faye Grant (Rhonda Blake) , Michael Paré (Tony Villicana) , Jesse D. Goins (Cyler Johnson) , Don Cervantes (Paco Rodriguez)

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Tags: alien encounter

SCTV Network 90

SCTV Network 90

Release Date: 1981-05-16

Genres: Comedy

“SCTV Network 90” is a hilarious TV show that originally aired in Canada before making its way to America in 1981. Packed with a talented cast including Martin Short, Catherine O’Hara, and John Candy, this comedy series brings their unique and quirky characters to life. With witty writing and the comedic genius of its legendary stars, “SCTV Network 90” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.

Cast: Martin Short () , Catherine O’Hara () , Dave Thomas () , John Candy () , Rick Moranis () , Andrea Martin () , Eugene Levy () , Joe Flaherty () , Harold Ramis () , John McAndrew () , Mary Charlotte Wilcox () , John Hemphill ()

Directors:

Writers: John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, Tom Couch, Dick Blasucci, Mert Rich, Chris Cluess, John McAndrew, Andrea Martin, Doug Steckler, Joe Flaherty, Brian McConnachie, Eddie Gorodetsky, Michael Short, Jeffrey Barron, Mary Charlotte Wilcox, Paul Flaherty, John Hemphill, Eugene Levy, Stuart Kreisman, Bob Dolman, Rick Moranis

Tags: satire, parody, spoof, sketch comedy, fictional city

Hi-de-Hi!

Hi-de-Hi!

Release Date: 1981-02-19

Genres: Comedy

“Hi-de-Hi!” is a hilarious British sitcom that takes place in a fictional holiday camp called Maplins during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The show follows the lives of the camp’s management and entertainers, who are mostly struggling actors or former stars. Starring Ruth Madoc, Paul Shane, Su Pollard, Jeffrey Holland, Felix Bowness, Nikki Kelly, Diane Holland, David Griffin, Ben Aris, and Chris Andrews, this series gained a huge following and even won a BAFTA for Best Comedy Series in 1984. It’s no wonder it made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1981!”

Cast: Ruth Madoc (Gladys Pugh) , Paul Shane (Ted Bovis) , Su Pollard (Peggy Ollerenshaw) , Jeffrey Holland (Spike Dixon) , Felix Bowness (Fred Quilley) , Nikki Kelly (Sylvia Garnsey) , Diane Holland (Yvonne Stuart-Hargreaves) , David Griffin (Clive Dempster) , Ben Aris (Julian Dalrymple-Sykes) , Chris Andrews (Gary) , Linda Regan (April) , David Webb (Stanley Matthews) , Tony Webb (Bruce Matthews) , Kenneth Connor (Sammy)

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Tags: workplace, staff, holiday camp, sitcom, 1950s, workplace comedy, period sitcom

Simon & Simon

Simon & Simon

Release Date: 1981-11-24

Genres: Drama

“Simon & Simon” is a popular American detective TV show that aired from November 24, 1981, to January 21, 1989. Starring Gerald McRaney and Jameson Parker as two brothers who run a private detective agency, the series follows their thrilling adventures as they solve cases together. With a great cast and an intriguing storyline, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 1981.

Cast: Jameson Parker (A.J. Simon) , Gerald McRaney (Rick Simon) , Mary Carver (Cecilia Simon) , Joan McMurtrey (Abigail Marsh)

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Tags: sibling relationship, private investigator, detective agency

Gimme a Break!

Gimme a Break!

Release Date: 1981-10-29

Genres: Comedy

“Gimme a Break!” is a heartwarming American sitcom that aired from October 29, 1981, to May 12, 1987. The show revolves around Nell Carter, who plays a housekeeper for a widowed police chief and his three daughters. With a talented cast including Joey Lawrence and Rosie O’Donnell, this series is sure to bring laughter and warmth to your TV screen.

Cast: Nell Carter (Nell Harper) , Lara Jill Miller (Sam Kinisky) , John Hoyt (Stanley Kanisky) , Joey Lawrence (Joey Donovan) , Telma Hopkins (Addy Wilson) , Matthew Lawrence (Matthew Donovan) , Paul Sand (Marty) , Rosie O’Donnell (Maggie O’Brien) , Rosetta LeNoire (Maybelle Harper)

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Tags: suburb, housekeeper, single father, sitcom, domestic worker

Dynasty

Dynasty

Release Date: 1981-01-12

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Dynasty” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1981, following the lives of a wealthy Denver family deeply involved in the oil business. Led by the charismatic patriarch Blake Carrington, the show delves into the complex dynamics between family members, including his former secretary turned wife Krystle, their children with intriguing backgrounds, and the conniving ex-wife Alexis. Set against the backdrop of corporate conflicts between Blake’s Denver Carrington and Alexis’ ColbyCo, this drama series promises a thrilling and glamorous ride through the lives of the Carringtons.

Cast: John Forsythe (Blake Carrington) , Linda Evans (Krystle Carrington) , Joan Collins (Alexis Carrington Colby) , Heather Locklear (Sammy Jo Dean Carrington) , Gordon Thomson (Adam Carrington) , Jack Coleman (Steven Carrington) , Michael Nader (Dex Dexter) , John James (Jeff Colby) , Stephanie Beacham (Sable Colby) , Emma Samms (Fallon Carrington Colby (II))

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Tags: denver, colorado, colorado, oil, wealthy family

Bergerac

Bergerac

Release Date: 1981-10-18

Genres: Drama

“Bergerac” is a popular British TV show that aired in 1981. Set on the beautiful island of Jersey, it follows the adventures of Detective Sergeant Jim Bergerac, played by John Nettles. With a talented cast including Terence Alexander, Sean Arnold, and Annette Badland, this crime drama takes you into the world of Le Bureau des Étrangers, a division of the States of Jersey Police. Get ready for thrilling investigations and captivating storytelling in this must-watch series.

Cast: Terence Alexander (Hungerford) , Sean Arnold (Crozier) , John Nettles (Det. Sgt. Jim Bergerac) , Annette Badland (Charlotte) , Celia Imrie (Marianne) , Deborah Grant (Deborah) , Michael Mellinger (Albert Leufroid) , Louise Jameson (Susan Young)

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Tags:

The Day of the Triffids

The Day of the Triffids

Release Date: 1981-09-10

Genres: Drama

“The Day of the Triffids” is a thrilling British TV series that aired in 1981. Based on John Wyndham’s 1951 novel, it follows a gripping story of survival in a world overrun by deadly plants called Triffids. With a talented cast including Stephen Yardley, Maurice Colbourne, and John Duttine, this six-episode series is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful sci-fi dramas.

Cast: Stephen Yardley () , Maurice Colbourne (Jack Coker) , John Duttine (Bill Masen) , Gary Olsen () , Emma Relph () , Desmond Adams () , Perlita Neilson () , Jenny Lipman () , Claire Ballard () , Jonathan Newth (Dr. Soames) , Emma Relph (Jo Payton)

Directors: Ken Hannam

Writers:

Tags: miniseries

Flamingo Road

Flamingo Road

Release Date: 1981-01-06

Genres: Soap

“Flamingo Road” is a captivating American prime time soap opera that aired in 1981. Based on a popular 1949 movie and novel, the show was created to rival the success of CBS’s “Dallas” and “Knots Landing.” With a star-studded cast including John Beck, Stella Stevens, Morgan Fairchild, and Mark Harmon, it tells the story of Constance Weldon, a character who ranked as one of the most wicked women in primetime. If you’re a fan of dramatic and addictive nighttime dramas, “Flamingo Road” is definitely a must-watch!

Cast: John Beck () , Stella Stevens (Lute-Mae Sanders) , Morgan Fairchild (Constance Weldon Semple Carlyle) , Mark Harmon () , Howard Duff () , Barbara Rush () , Peter Donat () , Kevin McCarthy () , Cristina Raines () , Woody Brown () , David Selby ()

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Tags: florida

A Case For Two

A Case For Two

Release Date: 1981-09-11

Genres: Drama, Crime

“A Case For Two” is a popular German TV show that premiered on September 11, 1981. Set in Frankfurt am Main, the series follows the dynamic duo of a defense attorney and a private investigator who team up to solve crimes. With Claus Theo Gärtner portraying the clever investigator and Paul Frielinghaus as the skilled attorney, this show promises thrilling investigations and a touch of cunning tactics.

Cast: Claus Theo Gärtner (Josef Matula) , Paul Frielinghaus (Dr. Markus Lessing)

Directors: Michael Mackenroth

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Tags: lawyer, private detective

Wetten, dass..?

Wetten, dass..?

Release Date: 1981-02-14

Genres: Drama, Reality, Comedy, Talk

“Wetten, dass..?” is a popular German-language entertainment TV show that premiered on February 14, 1981. Hosted by Markus Lanz, it is based on the formats of the British show You Bet! and the American show Wanna Bet?. With its engaging concept and long-running success, this show has become one of the best-voted TV shows of 1981, offering viewers a thrilling and entertaining experience.

Cast: Markus Lanz (Self – Host)

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Tags: game show

Falcon Crest

Falcon Crest

Release Date: 1981-12-04

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Falcon Crest” is a captivating American soap opera that aired on CBS from 1981 to 1990. Set in the beautiful Californian wine industry, the show follows the intense rivalry between the wealthy Gioberti and Channing families. Led by the formidable Jane Wyman as Angela Channing, the tyrannical matriarch of Falcon Crest Winery, the series explores power struggles, family feuds, and the secrets of the fictitious Tuscany Valley. With a talented cast and 227 episodes, this show is a must-watch for fans of gripping drama.

Cast: Jane Wyman (Angela Channing) , David Selby (Richard Channing) , Lorenzo Lamas (Lance Cumson) , Gregory Harrison (Michael Sharpe) , Rod Taylor (Frank Agretti) , Kristian Alfonso (Pilar Ortega) , Margaret Ladd (Emma Channing) , Chi Chaoli (Chao-Li) , Wendy Phillips (Lauren Sharpe) , Andrea Thompson (Genele Ericson)

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Tags: california, vineyard, wine, wealthy, wealthy family

A Country Practice

A Country Practice

Release Date: 1981-11-18

Genres: Soap, Drama

“A Country Practice” is an Australian television drama series that aired from 1981 to 1994, making it one of the longest-running shows of its kind. Set in a rural town, the series follows the lives of its diverse characters, including doctors, nurses, and other residents. With over 1,000 episodes, it captivated audiences for years and even had a spin-off series with a new cast.

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Tags: medical drama

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