Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1982: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1982 – a year of big hair, even 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, 1982 had it all. Whether you were a fan of the supernatural, the suburban, or the space-age, there was something for everyone. So, grab your leg warmers, dust off your VCR, 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 1982. Ready for a nostalgia overload? Let’s get started!
Police Squad!

Police Squad!

Release Date: 1982-03-04

Genres: Comedy, Crime

“Police Squad!” is a hilarious cult parody of cop dramas that aired in 1982. Starring Leslie Nielsen as Lieutenant Frank Drebin, the show follows a group of bumbling officers from Police Squad as they stumble their way through crime investigations. Packed with farce, sight gags, and a talented cast, this TV show is sure to keep you entertained with its comedic take on the crime genre.

Cast: Leslie Nielsen (Lt. Frank Drebin) , Alan North (Captain Ed Hocken) , Ed Williams (Ted Olson) , William Duell (Johnny the Snitch) , Marvin Miller (Narrator) , Rex Hamilton (Abraham Lincoln)

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Tags: satire, parody

The Young Ones

The Young Ones

Release Date: 1982-11-09

Genres: Comedy

“The Young Ones” is a hilarious British sitcom that aired from 1982 to 1984. It brought a fresh and unconventional style of comedy to television, making it a pioneer of alternative comedy in the 1980s. With a talented cast including Adrian Edmondson, Rik Mayall, Nigel Planer, Christopher Ryan, and Alexei Sayle, this show became a household name and even made its way to MTV in 1985, becoming one of the first non-music shows on the channel. If you’re looking for some offbeat humor and a glimpse into the 80s comedy scene, “The Young Ones” is a must-watch!

Cast: Adrian Edmondson (Vyvyan) , Rik Mayall (Rick) , Nigel Planer (Neil) , Christopher Ryan (Mike) , Alexei Sayle (The Balowski Family)

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Writers: Alexei Sayle

Tags: dark comedy, surreal, satire, slapstick comedy, sitcom, flatmates, anarchic comedy

Smiley's People

Smiley’s People

Release Date: 1982-09-20

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“Smiley’s People” is a gripping TV show that aired in 1982. It follows the story of Smiley, a retired agent who is called back into action to investigate the mysterious death of a friend. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of political intrigue and a dangerous secret that reaches the highest levels of the Russian Secret Service. With a stellar cast including Alec Guinness and Anthony Bate, this thrilling series will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Cast: Alec Guinness (George Smiley) , Anthony Bate (Oliver Lacon) , Beryl Reid (Connie Sachs) , Vladek Sheybal (Otto Leipzig) , Andy Bradford (Ferguson) , Tusse Silberg (Alexandra Ostrakova) , Germaine Delbat (Madame La Pierre) , Mario Adorf (Claus Kretzschmar) , Curd Jürgens (The General) , Michael Lonsdale (Anton Grigoriev) , Barry Foster (Saul Enderby) , Michael Gough (Mikhel) , Patrick Stewart (Karla) , Alan Rickman (Mr. Brownlow)

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Writers: John Hopkins, John le Carré

Tags: based on novel or book, spy, miniseries, intelligence agent

Cheers

Cheers

Release Date: 1982-09-30

Genres: Comedy

“Cheers” is a beloved TV show that aired in 1982 and revolves around a Boston bar owned by former sports star Sam Malone. With a cast of talented actors like Ted Danson, Kirstie Alley, and Woody Harrelson, the show takes us on a journey through the lives of the bar’s quirky and wonderful staff and patrons. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for a heartwarming and hilarious series set in a familiar and cozy setting.

Cast: Ted Danson (Sam Malone) , Kirstie Alley (Rebecca Howe) , Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli) , John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin) , George Wendt (Norm Peterson) , Kelsey Grammer (Frasier Crane) , Woody Harrelson (Woody Boyd) , Bebe Neuwirth (Lilith Sternin)

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Tags: boston, massachusetts, sitcom, workplace comedy, bar

Voyagers

Voyagers

Release Date: 1982-10-03

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Voyagers” is an exciting American science fiction TV show that aired during the 1982-1983 season. It follows the thrilling adventures of time-traveling heroes, played by Jon-Erik Hexum and Meeno Peluce. With its captivating storyline and talented cast, this show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of 1982.

Cast: Jon-Erik Hexum (Phineas Bogg) , Meeno Peluce (Jeffrey Jones)

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Tags: time travel, time machine, alternate history

Knight Rider

Knight Rider

“Knight Rider” is a thrilling TV show from 1982 that follows the story of Michael Long, an undercover police officer who is left for dead after being shot. He is given a new face, identity, and an incredible car named KITT by a dying millionaire. Together, Michael and KITT fight crime and take down criminals who are beyond the reach of the law. Starring David Hasselhoff, Edward Mulhare, William Daniels, Patricia McPherson, and Peter Parros, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of crime-fighting adventures.

Cast: David Hasselhoff (Michael Knight) , Edward Mulhare (Devon Miles) , William Daniels (K.I.T.T. (voice)) , Patricia McPherson (Bonnie Barstow) , Peter Parros (RC3)

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Tags: ex-cop, vigilante

Tales of the Gold Monkey

Tales of the Gold Monkey

Release Date: 1982-09-22

Genres: Action & Adventure

“Tales of the Gold Monkey” is an exciting TV show set in the South Pacific in 1938. It follows the adventures of a young American adventurer and his group of friends as they embark on thrilling escapades, using their trusty Grumman Goose seaplane to transport people-on-the-run. With a talented cast including Stephen Collins, Caitlin O’Heaney, and Roddy McDowall, this show promises to be a thrilling and action-packed journey back in time.

Cast: Stephen Collins (Jake Cutter) , Caitlin O’Heaney (Sarah Stickney White) , Jeff MacKay (Corky) , Roddy McDowall (“Bon Chance” Louie) , Marta DuBois (Koji) , John Fujioka (Todo) , John Calvin (Willie Tenboom)

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Tags: spy, pilot, south pacific, 1930s, seaplane

Family Ties

Family Ties

Release Date: 1982-09-22

Genres: Comedy

“Family Ties” is a heartwarming TV show that premiered on September 22, 1982. It follows the story of Steven and Elyse Keaton, former flower children from the 1960s, as they navigate the challenges of raising their conservative son Alex, along with their daughters Mallory and Jennifer. Later on, they welcome their youngest child Andrew into the mix. With a talented cast including Meredith Baxter, Michael Gross, Michael J. Fox, Justine Bateman, Tina Yothers, and Brian Bonsall, this show is sure to bring laughter and relatable family moments to your screen.

Cast: Meredith Baxter (Elyse Keaton) , Michael Gross (Steven Keaton) , Michael J. Fox (Alex P. Keaton) , Justine Bateman (Mallory Keaton) , Tina Yothers (Jennifer Keaton) , Brian Bonsall (Andy Keaton)

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Writers: Gary David Goldberg, Alan Uger

Tags: conservatism, us republican party, family, democrat, sexual liberation, sitcom, 1980s, liberalism

Newhart

Newhart

Release Date: 1982-10-02

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Newhart” is a delightful TV show that premiered in 1982. It follows the story of Dick Loudon and his wife Joanna, who leave their bustling life in New York City to run a cozy inn in Vermont. As Dick becomes a local TV celebrity hosting “Vermont Today,” viewers are introduced to a cast of quirky characters, including the handyman George, the ambitious maid Leslie, and the eccentric brothers Larry, Darryl, and Darryl. With a talented ensemble cast led by Bob Newhart and Mary Frann, this show is a heartwarming and humorous escape into the fictional world of a small town in Vermont.

Cast: Bob Newhart (Dick Loudon) , Mary Frann (Joanna Loudon) , Tom Poston (George Utley) , Julia Duffy (Stephanie Vanderkellen) , Peter Scolari (Michael Harris) , William Sanderson (Larry) , Tony Papenfuss (Darryl) , John Voldstad (Darryl)

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Writers: Mark Egan, Mark Solomon

Tags: small town, writer, inn, sitcom, simpler life

Remington Steele

Remington Steele

Release Date: 1982-10-01

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“Remington Steele” is a captivating TV show from 1982 that follows the story of Laura Holt, a skilled private detective facing discrimination due to her gender. To overcome this obstacle, she creates a fictional male boss named Remington Steele. However, things take an unexpected turn when a former thief assumes the identity of Remington Steele, leading to a thrilling series of events. With talented actors like Stephanie Zimbalist, Pierce Brosnan, and Doris Roberts, this show promises an intriguing blend of mystery and humor.

Cast: Stephanie Zimbalist (Laura Holt) , Pierce Brosnan (Remington Steele) , Doris Roberts (Mildred Krebs)

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Tags: con man, sexism, private investigator, private detective, detective agency

Cagney & Lacey

Cagney & Lacey

Release Date: 1982-03-25

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Cagney & Lacey” is a fantastic crime-fighting TV show that aired in 1982. It follows the partnership of NYPD detectives Mary Beth Lacey and Chris Cagney, who have completely different personalities but work together flawlessly. With a tough and sensitive dynamic, they become one of the most iconic crime-fighting duos of all time. Starring Tyne Daly and Sharon Gless, this show is definitely a must-watch for fans of thrilling police dramas.

Cast: Tyne Daly (Mary Beth Lacey) , Sharon Gless (Christine Cagney) , John Karlen (Harvey Lacey) , Al Waxman (Lieutenant Bert Samuels) , Martin Kove (Det. Victor Isbecki) , Harvey Atkin (Sergent Ronald Coleman)

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Tags: new york city, police detective, nypd, female detective

Hotel

Hotel

Release Date: 1982-08-21

Genres: Drama

“Hotel” is a captivating prime time drama series that aired from 1983 to 1988, following the success of “Dynasty”. Set in the luxurious St. Gregory Hotel in San Francisco, the show revolves around the lives of both the hotel staff and its diverse guests. With a star-studded cast including James Brolin, Connie Sellecca, and Nathan Cook, this series promises an intriguing blend of personal and professional stories within the elegant backdrop of the hotel.

Cast: James Brolin (Peter McDermott) , Connie Sellecca (Christine Francis) , Nathan Cook (Billy Griffin) , Shari Belafonte (Julie Gillette) , Michael Spound (Dave Kendall) , Heidi Bohay (Megan Kendall) , Susan Walters (Ryan Thomas)

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Tags: hotel, based on novel or book, san francisco, california

Marco Polo

Marco Polo

Release Date: 1982-12-05

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“Marco Polo” is a captivating American-Italian miniseries that aired in 1982. Starring Kenneth Marshall as the legendary Venetian explorer, it takes us on a thrilling journey through the 13th century. With an impressive cast including Anne Bancroft, John Gielgud, and Leonard Nimoy, this four-episode series (or six, depending on how you divide it) offers a fascinating glimpse into the adventures of Marco Polo and his encounters with various historical figures.

Cast: Ken Marshall (Marco Polo) , Anne Bancroft (Marco’s Mother) , John Gielgud (Doge di Venezia) , John Houseman (Patriarca di Aquileia) , David Warner (Antonio Rustico) , Denholm Elliott (Niccolò Polo) , Tony Vogel (Matteo Polo) , Mario Adorf (Giovanni) , Sada Thompson (Aunt Flora) , Riccardo Cucciolla (Uncle Zane) , Georgia Slowe (Caterina) , Marilù Tolo (Donna Fiammetta) , Gino Santercole (Giuseppe) , Bruno Zanin (Giulio) , Roberto Miracco (Bartolomeo) , Jack Watson (Old Sailor) , Burt Lancaster (Teobaldo Visconti) , Leonard Nimoy (Achmet) , F. Murray Abraham (Jacopo) , Bruno Corazzari (Agostino) , Tony Lo Bianco (Nicola Polo) , Ruocheng Ying () , Ian McShane (Ali Ben Yussouf) , James Hong (Phagspa) , Tiffany Brissette ()

Directors: Giuliano Montaldo

Writers: David Butler, Vincenzo Labella, Giuliano Montaldo

Tags: miniseries, explorer, marco polo, historical drama, ancient asia, 13th century

Matt Houston

Matt Houston

Release Date: 1982-09-26

Genres: Drama

“Matt Houston” is an exciting American crime drama series that aired from 1982 to 1985. Created by Lawrence Gordon and produced by Aaron Spelling, it stars Lee Horsley, Pamela Hensley, Lincoln Kilpatrick, and Buddy Ebsen. Set in the early 1980s, the show follows the adventures of Matt Houston, a wealthy Texan oilman who uses his resources to solve crimes and bring justice to the streets. With its gripping storylines and talented cast, “Matt Houston” quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of 1982.

Cast: Lee Horsley (Matt Houston) , Pamela Hensley (C.J. Parsons) , Lincoln Kilpatrick (Lt. Michael Hoyt) , Buddy Ebsen (Roy Houston)

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Tags: private investigator, los angeles, california

Fame

Fame

Release Date: 1982-01-07

Genres: Drama

“Fame” is an American TV series that aired from 1982 to 1987, based on the popular 1980 movie of the same name. Set in the New York City High School for the Performing Arts, the show follows the lives of students and faculty, blending drama and music. It gained immense popularity, especially in the UK, leading to hit records and live concert tours by the cast. Although many of the actors didn’t achieve high-profile careers after the series ended, they reunited for a special in 2008 called “Bring Back…Fame.”

Cast: Debbie Allen (Lydia Grant) , Gene Anthony Ray (Leroy Johnson) , Carlo Imperato (Danny Amatullo) , Nia Peeples (Nicole Chapman) , Jesse Borrego (Jesse Velasquez) , Billy Hufsey (Christopher Donlon) , Ann Nelson (Mrs. Berg) , Carrie Hamilton (Reggie Higgins) , Eric Pierpoint (Paul Seeger) , Albert Hague (Benjamin Shorofsky) , Michael Cerveris (Ian Ware) , Loretta Chandler (Dusty Tyler) , Graham Jarvis (Principal Dyrenforth) , Elisa Heinsohn (Jillian Beckett)

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Tags: high school, new york city, dance, drama school

T. J. Hooker

T. J. Hooker

Release Date: 1982-03-13

Genres: Drama

“T. J. Hooker” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1982 and made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. Starring William Shatner, Heather Locklear, James Darren, and Elizabeth Reiko Kubota, it follows the story of Sergeant Thomas Jefferson Hooker, a tough and experienced police officer who decides to leave his prestigious position and return to the streets to train new recruits. Together with his young partners, they take on the most dangerous criminals in Lake City, making it a must-watch for fans of action-packed crime dramas.

Cast: William Shatner (Sgt TJ Hooker) , Heather Locklear (Officer Stacy Sheridan) , James Darren (Officer Jim Corrigan) , Elizabeth Reiko Kubota (Mai)

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Tags: police, rookie cop

Silver Spoons

Silver Spoons

Release Date: 1982-09-25

Genres: Comedy

“Silver Spoons” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1982 to 1987. The show revolves around a wealthy family and their young son, played by Ricky Schroder, who is raised in a world of luxury and privilege. With a talented cast including Erin Gray, Joel Higgins, Franklyn Seales, and Alfonso Ribeiro, this heartwarming series explores the ups and downs of growing up with all the best things in life.

Cast: Ricky Schroder (Ricky Stratton) , Erin Gray (Kate Summers Stratton) , Joel Higgins (Edward Stratton) , Franklyn Seales (Dexter Stuffins) , Alfonso Ribeiro (Alfonso Spears)

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Tags: wealthy, man child, sitcom, biological parents

Late Night with David Letterman

Late Night with David Letterman

Release Date: 1982-02-01

Genres: Comedy, Talk

“Late Night with David Letterman” is a hilarious hour-long comedy talk show that premiered in 1982 on NBC. Created and hosted by the talented David Letterman, it became the first installment of the Late Night franchise. The show ran until 1993, when Letterman moved to CBS to host Late Show. Since then, it has been succeeded by Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and will soon be taken over by Seth Meyers in 2014.

Cast: David Letterman (Self – Host)

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Writers: Jon Beckerman, Rob Burnett, Donick Cary, Spike Feresten, Larry Jacobson, David Letterman, Brian Reich, Steve Young, Joe Furey, Ken Keeler, Adam Resnick, Paul Simms, Kevin Curran, Chris Elliott, Joe Toplyn, Sandy Frank, Jeff Martin, Boyd Hale, Matt Wickline, Merrill Markoe, Jim Downey, Andy Breckman, George Meyer, Max Pross, Eddie Gorodetsky

Tags: talk show, late-night show

Brookside

Brookside

Release Date: 1982-11-02

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Brookside” is a ground-breaking soap that takes place in a housing estate on the outskirts of Liverpool. With a talented cast including Amanda Burton, Dean Sullivan, and Claire Sweeney, this show has captivated audiences since its release on November 2, 1982. It’s no wonder it made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year!

Cast: Amanda Burton () , Dean Sullivan (Jimmy Corkhill) , Claire Sweeney () , Gene Foad () , Gillian Kearney () , Helen Grace () , Ian Hendry () , Jennifer Ellison (Emily O’Leary) , Kenneth Cope () , Letitia Dean () , Mary Tamm () , Philip Olivier (Tim O’Leary) , Neil Davies (Robbie Moffat) , Jack McMullen () , Ray Quinn () , Sarah White () , Sue Jenkins () , Michael Starke (Thomas ‘Sinbad’ Sweeney) , Gladys Ambrose () , Bernadette Nolan (Diane Murray) , Neil Caple (Marty Murray) , Alex Fletcher (Jacqui Dixon/Jacqui Farnham) , Anna Friel (beth jordache)

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Tags: liverpool, england

St. Elsewhere

St. Elsewhere

Release Date: 1982-10-26

Genres: Drama

“St. Elsewhere” is a highly acclaimed American medical drama series that aired from October 26, 1982, to May 25, 1988. Set in a Boston hospital, the show follows a group of teaching doctors, portrayed by talented actors such as William Daniels, Norman Lloyd, and Ronny Cox, as they guide interns through critical medical and life decisions. With its compelling storyline and talented cast, “St. Elsewhere” is definitely one of the best TV shows of 1982.

Cast: William Daniels (Mark Craig) , Norman Lloyd (Daniel Auschlander) , Ronny Cox (John Gideon) , Bonnie Bartlett (Ellen Craig) , Ed Begley Jr. (Victor Ehrlich) , Stephen Furst (Elliot Axelrod) , Bruce Greenwood (Seth Griffin) , Eric Laneuville (Luther Hawkins) , Sagan Lewis (Jacqueline Wade) , Howie Mandel (Wayne Fiscus) , Cindy Pickett (Carol Novino) , David Morse (Jack Morrison) , France Nuyen (Paulette Kiem) , Christina Pickles (Helen Rosenthal) , Jennifer Savidge (Lucy Papandrao) , Denzel Washington (Philip Chandler)

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Tags: boston, massachusetts, dark comedy, hospital, medical drama

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