Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1985: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1985 – a year when shoulder pads were high, hair was big, and TV was downright spectacular. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the thrilling to the downright bizarre, 1985 had it all. It was a golden era of television that introduced us to unforgettable characters, iconic catchphrases, and storylines that kept us glued to our screens. So, grab your neon leg warmers and your TV dinner, as we count down the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1985. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the ’80s or just curious about the shows that had everyone talking, this nostalgic countdown is sure to entertain. Let’s get started, shall we?
Das Boot

Das Boot

Release Date: 1985-02-24

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Das Boot” is a gripping TV show that takes you back to the intense days of World War II. Based on a true story, it follows the courageous U-Boat captain, played by Jürgen Prochnow, and his inexperienced crew as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean. With a stellar cast and a thrilling storyline, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat as they hunt down Allied vessels while constantly being hunted themselves.

Cast: Jürgen Prochnow (Der Alte) , Herbert Grönemeyer (Leutnant Werner) , Klaus Wennemann (Leitender Ingenieur) , Hubertus Bengsch (Erster Wachoffizier) , Martin Semmelrogge (Zweiter Wachoffizier) , Bernd Tauber (Obersteuermann) , Erwin Leder (Obermaschinist Johann) , Martin May (Fähnrich Ullmann) , Uwe Ochsenknecht (Bootsmann Lamprecht) , Claude-Oliver Rudolph (Dieselheizer Ario) , Jan Fedder (Bootsmaat Pilgrim) , Heinz Hoenig (Funkmaat Hinrich) , Ralf Richter (Frenssen) , Oliver Stritzel (Schwalle) , Lutz Schnell (Dufte) , Otto Sander (Kapitänleutnant Philipp) , Günter Lamprecht (Kapitän des Versorgungsschiffs “Weser”) , Rita Cadillac (Monique)

Directors: Wolfgang Petersen

Writers: Wolfgang Petersen, Lothar-Günther Buchheim, Dean Riesner

Tags: submarine, world war ii

Dengeki Sentai Changeman

Dengeki Sentai Changeman

“Dengeki Sentai Changeman” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1985 and was voted as one of the best that year. Set in a time when Earth is under attack by the Great Star League Gozma, the show follows the Earth Defense Force, a special branch of the military formed to protect our planet. Led by Commander Ibuki, this elite team undergoes intense training to defend Earth from the impending crisis. With a talented cast and an action-packed storyline, this show is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: Haruki Hamada (Hiryuu Tsurugi) , Takahashi Kazuoki (Shou Hayate) , Shirô Izumi (Yuuma Oozora) , Hiroko Nishimoto (Sayaka Nagisa) , Mai Ooishi (Mai Tsubasa) , Jun Fujimaki (Sargento Ibuki) , Kana Fujieda (Shima) , Yoshinori Okamoto (Pirata Espacial Buba) , Hiroshi Masuoka (Gaata (voice)) , Takeshi Watabe (Gyodai (voice)) , Seizô Katô (Star King Bazoo (voice)) , Shōhei Yamamoto (Comandante Giluke) , Kazuto Kuwahara (Star King Bazoo) , Michirō Iida (Sheema (voice)) , Fukumi Kuroda (Queen Ahames)

Directors:

Writers: Hirohisa Soda

Tags: mecha, super sentai, henshin heroes, kaijin, tokusatsu

Edge of Darkness

Edge of Darkness

Release Date: 1985-11-04

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Edge of Darkness” is a gripping TV show from 1985 that follows Yorkshire detective Ronald Craven as he embarks on a personal quest to uncover the truth behind his daughter’s tragic murder. With a stellar cast including Bob Peck, Joe Don Baker, and Joanne Whalley, this suspenseful series will keep you on the edge of your seat as Craven delves deeper into the dark secrets surrounding his daughter’s death. Tune in to this thrilling drama that aired on November 4, 1985, and prepare for an intense and captivating ride.

Cast: Bob Peck (Ronald Craven) , Joe Don Baker (Darius Jedburgh) , Joanne Whalley (Emma Craven) , Charles Kay (Pendleton) , Ian McNeice (Harcourt) , Tim McInnerny (Terry Shields) , Hugh Fraser (Bennett) , Jack Watson (James Godbolt) , Sean Caffrey (McCroon) , John Woodvine (Ross) , Allan Cuthbertson (Chilwell) , Kenneth Nelson (Grogan) , David Fleeshman (Jones) , Zoë Wanamaker (Clemmy) , Bill Stewart (Dingle) , T.R. Bowen (Childs) , Imogen Staley (young Emma) , Patrick Godfrey (Oakley) , Jeremy Child (Minister) , Sue Cook (TV Interviewer)

Directors:

Writers: Troy Kennedy-Martin

Tags: daughter, northern england, politics, detective, father, yorkshire, murder, conspiracy, miniseries, death

In Sickness and in Health

In Sickness and in Health

Release Date: 1985-09-01

Genres: Comedy

“In Sickness and in Health” is a hilarious TV show that serves as a sequel to the popular series ‘Till Death Us Do Part’. Set in 1985, the show follows the grumpy and bigoted Alf Garnett, played by Warren Mitchell, who hasn’t changed a bit over the years. With a talented cast and a release date of September 1, 1985, this comedy is sure to keep you entertained with its timeless humor.

Cast: Warren Mitchell () , Dandy Nichols () , Una Stubbs () , Carmel McSharry () , Arthur English () , Eamonn Walker () , Ken Campbell () , James Ellis ()

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Writers:

Tags: australia, daughter, london, england, wife, flat, pension, racist, sequel, wheelchair user , old man, milkman, neighbor, religion, church, catholic, widower, death, husband, council estate, sitcom, sexist

MacGyver

MacGyver

Release Date: 1985-09-29

Genres: Action & Adventure

“MacGyver” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1985 and quickly became a fan favorite. The series follows Angus MacGyver, a secret agent who relies on his quick thinking and resourcefulness to outsmart the bad guys. Armed with everyday items he finds along the way, MacGyver ingeniously crafts solutions to dangerous situations, making him a unique and brilliant hero. Starring Richard Dean Anderson, Bruce McGill, and Dana Elcar, this action-packed show is filled with exciting adventures that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Richard Dean Anderson (Angus MacGyver) , Bruce McGill (Jack Dalton) , Dana Elcar (Pete Thornton)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: hero, escape, espionage, spy, crime fighter, secret agent, vigilante, terrorism, one man army, good versus evil

The Twilight Zone

The Twilight Zone

Release Date: 1985-09-27

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“The Twilight Zone” is a thrilling sci-fi series that made a comeback in the 1980s. With a similar style to the original anthology, each episode takes you on a suspenseful journey filled with horror and unexpected twists. Starring Robin Ward, this show combines elements of drama and comedy to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Robin Ward (Narrator (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: anthology, horror, thriller

The Golden Girls

The Golden Girls

Release Date: 1985-09-14

Genres: Comedy

“The Golden Girls” is a beloved TV show that premiered on September 14, 1985. It follows the lives of four mismatched but lovable senior ladies living together in Southern Florida. With the hilarious antics of Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty, this show is a perfect blend of comedy, friendship, and cheesecake.

Cast: Bea Arthur (Dorothy Zbornak) , Betty White (Rose Nylund) , Rue McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux) , Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo)

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Tags: florida, miami, florida, widow, female friendship, elderly, sitcom

Moonlighting

Moonlighting

Release Date: 1985-03-03

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Mystery

“Moonlighting” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1985. It follows the story of model Maddie, who teams up with David, a charming detective, after facing financial ruin. Together, they tackle intriguing cases while navigating their evolving relationship. Starring Cybill Shepherd and Bruce Willis, this show is a delightful blend of mystery, humor, and romance.

Cast: Cybill Shepherd (Maddie Hayes) , Bruce Willis (David Addison) , Allyce Beasley (Agnes DiPesto) , Curtis Armstrong (Herbert Viola)

Directors:

Writers: Roger Director

Tags: yuppie, detective, romance, model, private detective, detective agency

Miss Marple: The Moving Finger

Miss Marple: The Moving Finger

Release Date: 1985-02-21

Genres: Crime, Mystery

“Miss Marple: The Moving Finger” is a captivating TV show that takes place in a peaceful English village. When the villagers start receiving menacing letters, the wife of the local vicar seeks the help of her friend Miss Marple, played by the talented Joan Hickson. Together, they embark on a thrilling investigation to uncover the mystery behind these threatening messages. With a stellar cast and a release date in 1985, this show is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful crime dramas.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Marple) , Michael Culver (Edward Symmington) , Sandra Payne (Eryl Griffith) , Richard Pearson (Mr. Pye) , Andrew Bicknell (Gerry Burton) , Sabina Franklyn (Joanna Burton) , Dilys Hamlett (Maud Calthrop)

Directors: Roy Boulting

Writers: Agatha Christie, Julia Jones

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

Kane & Abel

Kane & Abel

Release Date: 1985-11-17

Genres: Drama

“Kane & Abel” is a captivating TV miniseries that aired in 1985 and is based on Jeffrey Archer’s popular novel. Starring talented actors like Sam Neill and Peter Strauss, the show follows the gripping story of two men, Rosnovski and Kane, whose lives intertwine in a tale of ambition, rivalry, and power. With its release date in November 1985, this series was definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Sam Neill (William Lowell Kane) , David Dukes (David Osborne) , Peter Strauss (Abel Rosnovski) , Fred Gwynne (Davis LeRoy) , Ron Silver (Thaddeus Cohen) , Melissa Joan Hart (Florentyna Rosnovski) , Thomas Byrd (Richard Kane) , Alberta Watson (Zofia Rosnovski) , Reed Birney (Matthew Lester) , Vyto Ruginis (George Nowak) , Jill Eikenberry (Susan Lester) , Richard Anderson (Alan Lloyd) , Kate McNeil (Florentyna Rosnovski) , Veronica Hamel (Kate Kane) , Lisa Banes (Anne Kane) , Christopher Cazenove (The Baron) , Sheree J. Wilson (Melanie LeRoy) , Kent Broadhurst (Tony Simmons) , Debra Engle (Millie Preston) , Harry Groener (Lowell Kane) , Jan Rubeš (The Polish Consul) , Richard Seff (Curtis Fenton) , Robert Schenkkan (Jack Thomas) , Patrick Bauchau (Ludwik) , James Rebhorn (Federal Prosecutor)

Directors:

Writers: Robert W. Lenski, Jeffrey Archer

Tags: new york city, wall street, wealthy, miniseries

North and South

North and South

Release Date: 1985-11-03

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“North and South” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the American Civil War era. It follows the remarkable friendship between Orry Main, a Southern gentleman, and George Hazard, a Northerner, who meet at West Point Military Academy. As the war unfolds, their loyalty is tested as they find themselves on opposite sides, leading to intense family drama and heart-wrenching decisions. With a talented cast including Patrick Swayze, James Read, and Lesley-Anne Down, this 1985 release is a must-watch for history buffs and fans of compelling storytelling.

Cast: James Read (George Hazard) , Lesley-Anne Down (Madeline Fabray LaMotte) , Philip Casnoff (Elkanah Bent) , Terri Garber (Ashton Main Fenway) , Jonathan Frakes (Stanley Hazard) , Kyle Chandler (Charles Main) , Cathy Lee Crosby (Judith Main) , Mariette Hartley (Prudence) , Rya Kihlstedt (Willa) , Tom Noonan (Will Fenway) , Stan Shaw (Isaac) , Rip Torn (Adolphus) , Robert Wagner (Cooper Main) , Billy Dee Williams (Francis Cardozo) , Cliff DeYoung (Gettys) , Gary Grubbs (Lt. Pickles) , Chris Burke (Jim) , Gregory Zaragoza (Scar) , Peter O’Toole (Sam Trump) , Sharon Washington (Jane) , Ann Dowd (Maureen) , Darryl Theirse (Titus) , Cameron Finley (Gus) , Brad Leland (Beaufort) , Julius Tennon (Micah)

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Writers:

Tags: slavery, male friendship, west point, american civil war, abolitionist

The Ray Bradbury Theater

The Ray Bradbury Theater

Release Date: 1985-05-21

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“The Ray Bradbury Theater” is a captivating Canadian anthology series that aired in 1985. Scripted by the renowned science-fiction author Ray Bradbury himself, the show brings to life many of his fascinating novels and short stories. With its release date on May 21, 1985, this TV show promises an enthralling journey into the fantastic world of Bradbury’s imagination.

Cast: Ray Bradbury (Self – Introduction)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

The Equalizer

The Equalizer

Release Date: 1985-09-18

Genres: Action & Adventure, Crime, Drama

“The Equalizer” is a thrilling TV show from 1985 starring Edward Woodward as Robert McCall, a former secret government agent. In this action-packed series, McCall runs his own private crime fighting operation called “The Equalizer,” where he helps victims of the system who have nowhere else to turn for justice. With its release date in September 1985, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat as McCall evens out the odds for those in need.

Cast: Edward Woodward (Robert McCall)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: new york city, spy, vigilante, retired, ex spy

The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents

The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents

Release Date: 1985-09-29

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents” is a thrilling anthology series that aired from 1985 to 1989. It’s a modern take on the classic 1955 series, featuring captivating stories in each episode. With the legendary Alfred Hitchcock as the lead actor, this show is a must-watch for fans of suspense and mystery.

Cast: Alfred Hitchcock (Self – Host (archive footage))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: anthology, horror anthology

Miss Marple: A Murder Is Announced

Miss Marple: A Murder Is Announced

Release Date: 1985-02-28

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Miss Marple: A Murder Is Announced” is a captivating TV show from 1985 starring Joan Hickson. Set in the quaint village of Chipping Cleghorn, the story revolves around an intriguing advertisement that predicts a forthcoming murder. With Hickson’s brilliant portrayal of Miss Marple, this murder mystery is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the secrets hidden within the village.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Jane Marple)

Directors:

Writers:

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

227

227

Release Date: 1985-09-14

Genres: Comedy

“227” is a beloved TV show from 1985 that revolves around a housewife living in a vibrant black neighborhood in Washington, D.C. The show follows her daily interactions and conversations with her neighbors, covering a wide range of topics. With a talented cast including Marla Gibbs, Hal Williams, and Jackée Harry, this sitcom is sure to bring laughter and heartwarming moments to your TV screen.

Cast: Marla Gibbs (Mary Jenkins) , Hal Williams (Lester Jenkins) , Alaina Reed Hall (Rose Lee Holloway) , Jackée Harry (Sandra Clark) , Regina King (Brenda Jenkins) , Helen Martin (Pearl Shay) , Curtis Baldwin (Calvin Dobbs) , Barry Sobel (Dylan McMillan) , Countess Vaughn (Alexandria DeWitt) , Paul Winfield (Julian C. Barlow) , Stoney Jackson (Travis Filmore)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: friendship, washington dc, usa, housewife, female friendship, motherly love, middle class, neighbor, apartment building, sitcom, african american, best friends

Street Hawk

Street Hawk

Release Date: 1985-01-04

Genres: Action & Adventure, Mystery

“Street Hawk” is an exciting American TV series that aired in 1985. It follows the adventures of a high-tech motorcycle vigilante, played by Rex Smith, as he fights crime in the city. With a talented cast including Joe Regalbuto, Richard Venture, Jeannie Wilson, and Ernie Anderson, this action-packed show captivated audiences with its thrilling storylines. Originally planned for a different time slot, “Street Hawk” made its debut on January 4, 1985, and ran until May 16, 1985, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting each new episode.

Cast: Rex Smith (Jesse Mach) , Joe Regalbuto (Norman Tuttle) , Richard Venture (Lt. Cmdr. Leo Altobelli) , Jeannie Wilson (Rachel Adams) , Ernie Anderson (Narrator (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags:

Miss Marple: A Pocketful of Rye

Miss Marple: A Pocketful of Rye

Release Date: 1985-03-07

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Miss Marple: A Pocketful of Rye” is a captivating TV show from 1985 that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. Starring Joan Hickson as the brilliant Miss Marple, the show follows her investigation into the murder of a businessman, where a handful of grain found in his pocket leads her to a killer who seems to have a fascination with nursery rhymes. With a talented cast and an intriguing storyline, this murder mystery is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Jane Marple) , Timothy West (Rex Fortescue) , Tom Wilkinson (Detective Inspector Neele) , Peter Davison (Lance Fortescue) , Clive Merrison (Percival Fortescue) , Rachel Bell (Jennifer Fortescue) , Fabia Drake (Miss Henderson) , Frances Low (Patricia Fortescue) , Stacy Dorning (Adele Fortescue) , Martyn Stanbridge (Vivian Dubois) , Selina Cadell (Mary Dove) , Annette Badland (Gladys Martin) , Jon Glover (Detective Sergeant Hay) , Frank Mills (Mr. Crump) , Merelina Kendall (Mrs. Crump) , Susan Gilmore (Miss Grosvenor) , Nancie Herrod (Miss Griffith) , Rhoda Lewis (Mrs. Brogan) , Louis Mahoney (Dr. French) , Beau Daniels (Ellen (as Beau Daniells)) , Charles Pemberton (Sergeant Rose) , Laurin Kaski (PC White) , Suzie Cerys (Daisy)

Directors: Guy Slater

Writers: T.R. Bowen, Agatha Christie

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

Mr. Belvedere

Mr. Belvedere

Release Date: 1985-03-15

Genres: Comedy

“Mr. Belvedere” is a beloved TV show from 1985 that made it to the list of the 20 best voted shows of that year. It follows the story of Mr. Belvedere, a British housekeeper who joins the Owens family, led by George Owens. With a talented cast including Christopher Hewett, Ilene Graff, Bob Uecker, Rob Stone, Tracy Wells, and Brice Beckham, this show promises to bring laughter and heartwarming moments to your screen.

Cast: Christopher Hewett (Lynn Belvedere) , Ilene Graff (Marsha Owens) , Bob Uecker (George Owens) , Rob Stone (Kevin Owens) , Tracy Wells (Heather Owens) , Brice Beckham (Wesley Owens)

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Writers:

Tags: butler, neighbor feud

Spenser: For Hire

Spenser: For Hire

Release Date: 1985-09-20

Genres: Drama, Crime, Mystery

“Spenser: For Hire” is a thrilling mystery and suspense series that aired in 1985. Based on Robert Parker’s popular novels, the show follows the adventures of Spenser, a private investigator living in Boston. With each episode presenting a new murder mystery, the talented cast, including Robert Urich, Avery Brooks, Barbara Stock, and Ron McLarty, keeps you on the edge of your seat as they unravel the thrilling cases.

Cast: Robert Urich (Spenser) , Avery Brooks (Hawk) , Barbara Stock (Susan Silverman) , Ron McLarty (Frank Belson)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: boston, massachusetts, private investigator, private detective

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