Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1983: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1983 – 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, 1983 had it all. Whether you were a fan of the supernatural, a sitcom enthusiast, or a sucker for a good old-fashioned detective drama, 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 1983. Ready? Let’s get nostalgic!
Monaco Franze

Monaco Franze

Release Date: 1983-03-03

Genres: Comedy

“Monaco Franze” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1983. Set in Munich, it follows the adventures of a detective named Monaco Franze as he chases criminals and tries to avoid the attention of women throughout the city. With a talented cast including Helmut Fischer, Ruth-Maria Kubitschek, Karl Obermayr, Christine Kaufmann, and Erni Singerl, this show promises to keep you entertained with its mix of crime-solving and comedic mishaps.

Cast: Helmut Fischer (Monaco Franze) , Ruth-Maria Kubitschek (Annette von Soettingen) , Karl Obermayr (Manfred “Manni” Kopfeck) , Christine Kaufmann (Olga Behrens) , Erni Singerl (Irmgard, Haushälterin)

Directors: Helmut Dietl

Writers: Patrick Süskind

Tags:

Reading Rainbow

Reading Rainbow

Release Date: 1983-06-06

Genres: Kids

“Remember that TV show Reading Rainbow? It was released in 1983 and starred LeVar Burton. The show took us on exciting journeys to different places and helped us connect with our favorite books. Each episode focused on a theme from a book or children’s literature, and we got to explore it through various segments and stories. It was such a fun and educational show!”

Cast: LeVar Burton (Self – Host)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Auf Wiedersehen, Pet

Auf Wiedersehen, Pet

Release Date: 1983-11-11

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Auf Wiedersehen, Pet” is a British TV show that aired in 1983 and follows the journey of seven construction workers who leave Britain to work in Germany. Set in Dusseldorf, the show explores the challenges and adventures they face while being away from home and the women they left behind. With a talented cast including Tim Healy, Kevin Whately, and Jimmy Nail, this series promises to be a captivating and entertaining watch for anyone interested in the trials and tribulations of working abroad.

Cast: Tim Healy (Dennis Patterson) , Kevin Whately (Neville Hope) , Jimmy Nail (Leonard ‘Oz’ Osborne) , Christopher Fairbank (Albert Moxey) , Timothy Spall (Barry Taylor) , Pat Roach (Brian ‘Bomber’ Busbridge) , Julia Tobin (Brenda Hope) , Zoë Eeles (Tina) , Javier Alcina (Raúl Ortiz) , Caroline Harker (Pru Scott-Johns) , Alexander Hanson (Tarquin Pearce) , Sandra James-Young (Chrissie) , Josefina Gabrielle (Ofelia Ortiz) , Clive Russell (Gary Turnbull) , David Cheung (Michael Goy) , Noel Clarke (Wyman Norris)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: friendship, northern england, upper class, germany, culture clash, native american, landlord, working class, english countryside, falklands, unemployment, manor, migrant worker, construction worker, workplace comedy

Blackadder

Blackadder

Release Date: 1983-06-15

Genres: Comedy

“Blackadder” is a hilarious British TV show that aired in 1983. Starring Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Hugh Laurie, Tim McInnerny, and Stephen Fry, it follows the misadventures of the cunning Blackadder dynasty as they navigate through different periods of British history. With clever plans and sharp comedy, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.

Cast: Rowan Atkinson (Captain Edmund Blackadder) , Tony Robinson (Private S. Baldrick) , Hugh Laurie (Lieutenant The Honourable George Colthurst St. Barleigh) , Tim McInnerny (Captain Kevin Darling) , Stephen Fry (General Sir Anthony Cecil Hogmanay Melchett)

Directors:

Writers: Ben Elton, Richard Curtis

Tags: army, civil war, england, world war i, servant, prince, dark comedy, satire, queen elizabeth i, middle ages, sitcom, period sitcom

Chiefs

Chiefs

Release Date: 1983-11-13

Genres: Drama, Crime, Mystery

“Chiefs” is a gripping TV show that takes us on a thrilling journey through three different eras, as three police chiefs try to unravel the mystery behind a series of brutal murders spanning forty years. With an all-star cast including Charlton Heston, Keith Carradine, and Billy Dee Williams, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to uncover the identity of the mass murderer terrorizing the fictional town of Delano. Released in 1983, “Chiefs” is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and suspenseful storytelling.

Cast: Charlton Heston (Hugh Holmes) , Keith Carradine (Foxy Funderburke) , Stephen Collins (Billy Lee) , Brad Davis (Sonny Butts) , Tess Harper (Carrie Lee) , Wayne Rogers (Will Henry Lee) , Paul Sorvino (Sheriff Skeeter Willis) , Victoria Tennant (Trish Lee) , Billy Dee Williams (Tyler Watts) , Lane Smith (Hoss Spence) , John Goodman (Newt ‘Tub’ Murray)

Directors: Jerry London

Writers: Robert W. Lenski, Stuart Woods

Tags: based on novel or book, southern usa, police chief, miniseries, murder investigation

Automan

Automan

“Automan” is an exciting American science fiction superhero TV series that aired for a short but thrilling 12 episodes on ABC between 1983 and 1984. Produced by Glen A. Larson, the show follows the adventures of a high-tech crime-fighting superhero, played by Chuck Wagner, who is brought to life by his creator, played by Desi Arnaz Jr. With a talented cast and its release in late 1983, “Automan” quickly became a fan favorite among the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Desi Arnaz Jr. (Walter Nebicher) , Chuck Wagner (Automan) , Heather McNair (Roxanne Caldwell) , Gerald S. O’Loughlin (Cpt. E.G. Boyd) , Robert Lansing (Lt. Jack Curtis)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

V

V

“V” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that aired in 1983. Set in a world where massive spaceships hover above Earth’s cities, the Visitors, who look just like humans, arrive with a seemingly friendly agenda. Little do we know, they have ulterior motives and need our planet’s resources to survive. With an incredible cast including Jane Badler, Marc Singer, and Robert Englund, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat as unsuspecting humans fight for their survival against these mysterious aliens.

Cast: Jane Badler (Diana) , Michael Durrell (Robert Maxwell) , Faye Grant (Julie Parrish) , Peter Nelson (Brian) , Marc Singer (Mike Donovan) , Michael Wright (Elias Taylor) , Robert Englund (Willie) , Blair Tefkin (Robin Maxwell) , David Packer (Daniel Bernstein) , Neva Patterson (Eleanor Dupres) , Tommy Petersen (Josh Brooks) , Bonnie Bartlett (Lynn Bernstein) , Leonardo Cimino (Abraham Bernstein) , Richard Herd (John) , Evan C. Kim (Tony Wah Chong Leonetti) , Richard Lawson (Dr Ben Taylor) , Andrew Prine (Steven) , Sandy Simpson (Mark) , Thomas Hill (le père Andrew) , Frank Ashmore (Martin) , Peter Nelson (Brian) , Camila Ashlend (Ruby Engels) , Jenny Neumann (Barbara) , Jason Bernard (Caleb Taylor) , Rafael Campos (Sancho Gomez)

Directors:

Writers: Kenneth Johnson

Tags: spacecraft, resistance, alien, cover-up, extraterrestrial, miniseries, alien invasion, mother ship, reptilian

Mama's Family

Mama’s Family

Release Date: 1983-01-22

Genres: Comedy

“Mama’s Family” is a heartwarming TV show that premiered on January 22, 1983. Starring Vicki Lawrence, Ken Berry, Dorothy Lyman, Beverly Archer, and Allan Kayser, it follows the story of Thelma Harper and her sister Fran as they welcome Thelma’s recently divorced son Vinton and his two teenagers into their home. With plenty of humor and family dynamics, the show explores the challenges and adjustments faced by this quirky and argumentative family.

Cast: Vicki Lawrence (Thelma Harper) , Ken Berry (Vinton “Vint” Harper) , Dorothy Lyman (Naomi Oates Harper) , Beverly Archer (Iola Lucille Boylan) , Allan Kayser (Bubba Higgins)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: family, sitcom

The A-Team

The A-Team

Release Date: 1983-01-23

Genres: Action & Adventure

“The A-Team” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1983 and was voted as one of the best that year. It follows a group of ex-United States Army Special Forces soldiers who are on the run from the Army after being wrongly accused of a crime. With a talented cast including George Peppard, Dirk Benedict, Mr. T, Dwight Schultz, Eddie Velez, and Robert Vaughn, this action-packed series will keep you on the edge of your seat as the team works as soldiers of fortune to clear their names.

Cast: George Peppard (John ‘Hannibal’ Smith) , Dirk Benedict (Templeton ‘Faceman’ Peck) , Mr. T (B.A. Baracus) , Dwight Schultz (‘Howling Mad’ Murdock) , Eddie Velez (Frankie Santana) , Robert Vaughn (General Hunt Stockwell)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: crime fighter, framed, special forces, ex soldier, escaped prisoner

The Winds of War

The Winds of War

Release Date: 1983-02-06

Genres: War & Politics, Drama

“The Winds of War” is a captivating 1983 miniseries based on the book by Herman Wouk. It follows the lives of the Henry and Jastrow families while delving into major global events of the time, with a prominent subplot featuring Adolf Hitler and the German military. Starring renowned actors like Robert Mitchum, Ali MacGraw, and John Houseman, this TV show became a national sensation and was even followed by a sequel in 1988. It’s a must-watch for history buffs and fans of gripping storytelling.

Cast: Robert Mitchum (Victor ‘Pug’ Henry) , Ali MacGraw (Natalie Jastrow) , Jan-Michael Vincent (Byron Henry) , John Houseman (Aaron Jastrow) , Polly Bergen (Rhoda Henry) , Lisa Eilbacher (Madeline Henry) , David Dukes (Leslie Slote) , Topol (Berel Jastrow) , Ben Murphy (Warren Henry) , Peter Graves (Palmer ‘Fred’ Kirby) , Jeremy Kemp (Brigadier General Armin Von Roon) , Ralph Bellamy (President Franklin Delano Roosevelt) , Victoria Tennant (Pamela Tudsbury) , Wolfgang Preiss (Field Marshal Walter von Brauchitsch) , William Woodson (Narrator) , Dragomir Stanojević () , Günter Meisner (Adolf Hitler) , Elke Sommer () , Elizabeth Hoffman (Eleanor Roosevelt) , Charles Lane (Adm. William Standley) , Reinhard Kolldehoff (Hermann Göring) , Werner Kreindl (Colonel General Franz Halder) , Rainer Penkert (Grand Admiral Erich Raeder) , Alexander Kerst (Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel) , Joachim Hansen (Field Marshal Alfred Jodl)

Directors:

Writers: Herman Wouk

Tags: based on novel or book, world war ii, franklin delano roosevelt, miniseries, family saga

Manimal

Manimal

“Manimal” is a thrilling TV show from 1983 that follows the adventures of Jonathan Chase, a British college professor with an extraordinary ability to transform into any animal. Teaming up with a beautiful policewoman named Brooke and his war buddy Ty, Jonathan uses his unique powers to fight crime. With a talented cast including Michael D. Roberts, Melody Anderson, Simon MacCorkindale, William Conrad, and Reni Santoni, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Tune in and witness the incredible transformations starting September 30, 1983!

Cast: Michael D. Roberts () , Melody Anderson () , Simon MacCorkindale () , William Conrad () , Reni Santoni ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: turns into animal, criminal investigation

Mirage

Mirage

Release Date: 1983-08-10

Genres: Mystery, Crime

“Mirage” is a thrilling TV show that takes us back to 1983. It follows the gripping story of five individuals who embark on a risky mission to steal a car containing a whopping one million dollars. As tensions rise and things go awry, the group’s dream of a life-changing fortune becomes increasingly elusive. With a talented cast and an intriguing plot, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Mirdza Martinsone (Jeannie Gordon) , Ints Burāns (Black) , Regimantas Adomaitis (Morgan) , Boris Ivanov (Jipo) , Uldis Vazdiks (Hetvild) , Romualds Ancāns (Policeman) , Maija Eglite () , Arnis Līcītis (Policeman) , Andris Bērziņš (Michael Birkson) , Mārtiņš Vilsons (El Kitson) , Pauls Butkēvičs (Bredford) , Aivars Siliņš () , Mārtiņš Vērdiņš (Delani) , Janis Kluss (Thompson)

Directors:

Writers: James Hadley Chase, Alvis Lapiņš

Tags: based on novel or book, detective, miniseries, criminal

Return to Eden

Return to Eden

Release Date: 1983-09-27

Genres: Soap, Drama

“Return to Eden” is a thrilling TV show from 1983 that follows the story of Stephanie Harper, a wealthy and insecure heiress who faces betrayal and a near-death experience on her honeymoon. After surviving a crocodile attack, Stephanie undergoes a transformation with the help of a talented plastic surgeon and sets out on a mission to seek revenge on her unfaithful husband and her best friend. With a stellar cast including Rebecca Gilling and James Smillie, this show promises a captivating tale of love, betrayal, and ultimate redemption.

Cast: Rebecca Gilling (Stephanie Harper/Tara Welles) , James Smillie (Dan Marshall) , Daniel Abineri (Jake Sanders) , Peta Toppano (Jilly Stewart) , Megan Williams (Cassie Jones) , Peter Cousens (Dennis Harper) , Nicki Paull (Sarah Harper) , Wendy Playfair (Rena McMaster) , Peter Gwynne (Bill McMaster) , Warren Blondell (Tom McMaster) , Angelo D’Angelo (Angelo Vitale)

Directors: Karen Arthur

Writers: Michael Laurence

Tags: revenge

The Thorn Birds

The Thorn Birds

Release Date: 1983-03-27

Genres: Drama

“The Thorn Birds” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1983 and was voted as one of the best that year. Set in the beautiful Australian outback, it follows the lives of the Cleary family over three generations, who reside on a sheep station. With a star-studded cast including Richard Chamberlain, Rachel Ward, and Christopher Plummer, this adaptation of Colleen McCullough’s novel promises to be a compelling and unforgettable watch.

Cast: Richard Chamberlain (Ralph de Bricassart) , Rachel Ward (Meggie Cleary) , Christopher Plummer (Archbishop Vittorio Contini-Verchese) , Bryan Brown (Luke O’Neill) , Brett Cullen (Bob Cleary) , Stephanie Faracy (Judy) , Barry Corbin (Pete) , John de Lancie (Alastair MacQueen) , Barbara Stanwyck (Mary Carson) , Piper Laurie (Anne Mueller) , Earl Holliman (Luddie Mueller) , Philip Anglim (Dane O’Neill) , John Friedrich (Frank Cleary) , Ken Howard (Rainer Hartheim) , Richard Kiley (Paddy Cleary) , Mare Winningham (Justine O’Neill) , Chard Hayward (Arne Swenson) , Sydney Penny (Meggie Cleary) , Rance Howard (Doc Wilson) , Jean Simmons (Fee Cleary)

Directors: Daryl Duke

Writers: Carmen Culver, Lee Stanley, Colleen McCullough

Tags: mine, forbidden love, romance, priest, miniseries, love affair, catholic church, catholicism, catholic priest, vow of celibacy, family saga

Reilly: Ace of Spies

Reilly: Ace of Spies

Release Date: 1983-09-05

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Reilly: Ace of Spies” is a thrilling 1983 TV miniseries that brings to life the incredible story of Sidney Reilly, a Russian Jew who became one of the most renowned spies in British history. Set in the early 20th century, the show follows Reilly’s daring missions, including infiltrating the German General Staff in 1917 and almost overthrowing the Bolsheviks in 1918. With the talented Sam Neill leading the cast, this captivating series promises a perfect blend of espionage, adventure, and a touch of romance.

Cast: Sam Neill (Sidney Reilly)

Directors:

Writers: Troy Kennedy-Martin, Robin Bruce Lockhart

Tags: espionage, spy, miniseries

Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre

Release Date: 1983-10-09

Genres: Drama

“Jane Eyre” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1983. Set in the 19th century, it tells the story of a young governess who falls in love with her enigmatic employer. Their blossoming romance, however, is threatened by a dark secret that could jeopardize their happiness. With a talented cast including Timothy Dalton and Zelah Clarke, this period drama is sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Timothy Dalton (Edward Fairfax Rochester) , Zelah Clarke (Jane Eyre) , Carol Gillies (Grace Poole) , James Marcus (John) , Jean Harvey (Mrs. Fairfax) , Joolia Cappleman (Bertha) , Eve Matheson (Leah) , Damien Thomas (Richard Mason) , Colin Jeavons (Briggs) , Kate David (Bessie) , Elaine Donnelly (Diana Rivers) , Morag Hood (Mary Rivers)

Directors: Julian Amyes

Writers: Alexander Baron, Charlotte Brontë

Tags: based on novel or book, miniseries, dark hero, period drama, governess, costume drama

Scarecrow and Mrs. King

Scarecrow and Mrs. King

Release Date: 1983-10-03

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Scarecrow and Mrs. King” is a captivating American TV series that aired from October 3, 1983, to May 28, 1987 on CBS. Starring Kate Jackson and Bruce Boxleitner, it tells the story of Amanda King, a divorced housewife, and Lee Stetson, a top-level operative. Their unexpected encounter at a train station leads to a unique partnership and a blossoming romance, making it a must-watch for fans of thrilling and heartwarming TV shows from the ’80s.

Cast: Kate Jackson (Amanda King) , Bruce Boxleitner (Lee Stetson) , Beverly Garland (Dotty West) , Mel Stewart (Billy Melrose) , Martha Smith (Francine Desmond) , Paul Stout (Philip King) , Greg Morton (Jamie King)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: spy

Agatha Christie's Partners in Crime

Agatha Christie’s Partners in Crime

Release Date: 1983-10-09

Genres: Mystery, Comedy, Drama

“Agatha Christie’s Partners in Crime” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the glamorous 1920s. With its spirited dialogue and clever mysteries, it follows the adventures of Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, a married couple who embark on thrilling investigations. Starring James Warwick, Francesca Annis, Reece Dinsdale, and Arthur Cox, this show is a must-watch for fans of classic detective stories.

Cast: James Warwick () , Francesca Annis () , Reece Dinsdale () , Arthur Cox ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: murder mystery

Hardcastle and McCormick

Hardcastle and McCormick

Release Date: 1983-09-18

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Hardcastle and McCormick” is an exciting action-packed TV show that aired from 1983 to 1986. It follows the story of Judge Milton C. Hardcastle, played by Brian Keith, who teams up with ex-con and race car driver Mark “Skid” McCormick, portrayed by Daniel Hugh Kelly. Together, they embark on thrilling adventures, combining their unique skills to fight crime and deliver justice. With its fast-paced action and compelling storyline, this series is a must-watch for fans of action and drama.

Cast: Brian Keith (Milton Hardcastle) , Daniel Hugh Kelly (Mark “Skid” McCormick) , Joe Santos (Frank Harper)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: criminal, ex-con

Kennedy

Kennedy

Release Date: 1983-11-20

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Kennedy” is a captivating five-hour miniseries that takes us back to the intriguing world of John F. Kennedy’s presidency. Starring the talented Martin Sheen as President Kennedy, the show delves into the tumultuous years of his leadership, with a stellar cast including Kelsey Grammer and Blair Brown. Airing in 1983, this gripping drama received critical acclaim, winning prestigious awards for its outstanding storytelling and remarkable makeup.

Cast: Martin Sheen (John F. Kennedy) , Kevin Conroy (Ted Kennedy) , Charles Brown (Martin Luther King Jr.) , Nesbitt Blaisdell (Lyndon B. Johnson) , Peter Boyden (Pierre Salinger) , Kent Broadhurst (Richard Paul Pavlick) , James Burge (Peter Lawford) , William Cain (Gen. Lyman Lemnitzer) , Joanne Camp (Eunice Shriver) , Kelsey Grammer (Stephen Smith) , Veronica Castang (Evelyn Lincoln) , Frances Conroy (Jean Smith) , Al Conti (Sargent Shriver) , John Shea (Robert F. Kennedy) , E.G. Marshall (Joseph P. Kennedy) , Geraldine Fitzgerald (Rose Kennedy) , Vincent Gardenia (J. Edgar Hoover) , Blair Brown (Jacqueline Kennedy)

Directors: Jim Goddard

Writers: Reg Gadney

Tags: usa president, biography, miniseries, kennedy family, 1960s

This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB.