Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1986: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1986 – 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, 1986 was a golden year for the small screen. Whether you were a sitcom junkie, a drama devotee, or a sci-fi fanatic, there was something for everyone. So, grab your neon leg warmers, pop a VHS in the 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 1986. Ready for a nostalgia overload? Let’s get started!
Journey to the West

Journey to the West

Release Date: 1986-02-09

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Journey to the West” is a highly acclaimed Chinese television series that aired in 1986. Based on a classical novel, it quickly became a beloved classic in China for its authentic interpretation of the story. With a star-studded cast and its release on CCTV, this TV show remains a fan favorite and a must-watch for anyone interested in the captivating journey of the original novel.

Cast: Jinlai Zhang (孙悟空) , 徐少华 (唐僧) , Chi Chongrui (唐僧) , Cui Jingfu (猪八戒) , Liu Dagang (沙僧) , QiaoQiao Jin (孔雀公主)

Directors: Jie Yang

Writers: Wu Cheng’en

Tags: 大闹天宫, 孙悟空, 六小龄童

Yes, Prime Minister

Yes, Prime Minister

Release Date: 1986-01-09

Genres: Comedy

“Yes, Prime Minister” is a hilarious TV show from 1986 that revolves around James Hacker, a clumsy government minister, who unexpectedly becomes the Prime Minister of the UK. With the help of his cunning Permanent Private Secretary, Sir Humphrey Appleby, and his overworked PPS, Bernard Wolley, they navigate the challenges of politics and the corridors of power. Starring Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne, and Derek Fowlds, this witty and entertaining series guarantees a good laugh while shedding light on the ups and downs of political life.

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

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Tags: government, england, politics, prime minister, satire, sequel, british prime minister, sitcom, political humor

Alternatywy 4

Alternatywy 4

Release Date: 1986-09-30

Genres: Comedy

“Alternatywy 4” is a hilarious Polish comedy TV series that aired in 1986. Set in a residential complex in Warsaw, it features a star-studded cast including Roman Wilhelmi, Bożena Dykiel, and Jerzy Bończak. This satirical show cleverly tackles the communist rule in Poland, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and a glimpse into the country’s history.

Cast: Roman Wilhelmi (Stanisław Anioł) , Bożena Dykiel (Miećka Aniołowa) , Jerzy Bończak (konstruktor Marek Manc) , Stanisława Celińska (nauczycielka Bożena Lewicka) , Zofia Czerwińska (Zofia Balcerkowa) , Witold Pyrkosz (Józef Balcerek) , Wiesław Gołas (Majewski, dawniej Henryk Gwizdecki) , Kazimierz Kaczor (dźwigowy Zygmunt Kotek) , Bronisław Pawlik (Dionizy Cichocki) , Bolesław Płotnicki (Antoni Kierka) , Wojciech Pokora (docent Zenobiusz Furman) , Mieczysław Voit (profesor Ryszard Dąb-Rozwadowski) , Jerzy Kryszak (doktor Zdzisław Kołek) , Barbara Rachwalska (Tekla Wagnerówna) , Hanna Bieniuszewicz (Ewa, córka Majewskich)

Directors: Stanisław Bareja

Writers: Stanisław Bareja, Maciej Dawid Rybiński, Janusz Płoński

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Sledge Hammer!

Sledge Hammer!

Release Date: 1986-09-23

Genres: Comedy, Crime

“Sledge Hammer!” is a hilarious American police sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1988. Starring David Rasche as Inspector Sledge Hammer, the show brilliantly satirizes the typical “cop on the edge” character. With the talented writing duo Al Jean and Mike Reiss, known for their work on The Simpsons, on board, this series promises a wild and entertaining ride through the world of law enforcement.

Cast: David Rasche (Sledge Hammer) , Anne-Marie Martin (Dori Doreau) , Harrison Page (Captain Trunk)

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Tags: police, san francisco, california, satire, police detective, sitcom

Crime Story

Crime Story

“Crime Story” is a gripping TV show that aired in 1986. It follows the intense journey of Lieutenant Mike Torello, a determined cop, as he relentlessly pursues the notorious gangster Ray Luca. With a stellar cast including Dennis Farina and Tony Denison, this hard-boiled saga is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Dennis Farina (Lt. Mike Torello) , Tony Denison (Ray Luca) , Steve Ryan (Det. Nate Grossman) , Paul Butler (Det. Walter Clemmons) , Billy Campbell (Det. Joey Indelli) , Bill Smitrovich (Sgt. Danny Krychek) , Stephen Lang (Atty. David Abrams) , John Santucci (Pauli Taglia) , Ted Levine (Frank Holman) , Joseph Wiseman (Manny Weisbord) , Jon Polito (Phil Bartoli) , Jay O. Sanders (Steve Kordo) , Ron Dean (Chief Kramer) , Johann Carlo (Cori Luca) , Patricia Charbonneau (Inger Thorson) , Jack Angel (Narrator (voice))

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Tags: mobster, organized crime, police detective, police protagonist, 1960s

The Singing Detective

The Singing Detective

Release Date: 1986-11-16

Genres: Drama

“The Singing Detective” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1986. It follows the story of a talented mystery writer who, despite being tormented by a debilitating disease, finds solace in his vivid imagination and hallucinations. With an incredible cast including Michael Gambon, Jim Carter, and Imelda Staunton, this show is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys intriguing storytelling and exceptional performances.

Cast: Michael Gambon (Philip Marlow) , Jim Carter (Mr. Marlow) , Patrick Malahide (Mark Binney) , Alison Steadman (Mrs. Marlow) , Janet Suzman (Nicola) , Joanne Whalley (Nurse Mills) , Imelda Staunton (Staff Nurse White) , David Ryall (Mr. Hall) , Ron Cook (First Mysterious Man) , George Rossi (Second Mysterious Man) , Janet Henfrey (Schoolteacher) , Simon Chandler (Dr. Finlay)

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Tags: detective, hallucination, surreal, musical, film noir, miniseries, hospital, psychiatrist, english countryside, mystery writer, 1940s

Macken

Macken

Release Date: 1986-08-23

Genres: Comedy

“Macken” is a Swedish musical sit-com that aired in 1986 and became a huge success for the comedy group Galenskaparna och After Shave. Set at a gas station, the show follows the hilarious adventures of a group of quirky characters played by Jan Rippe, Anders Eriksson, Knut Agnred, Claes Eriksson, Per Fritzell, Kerstin Granlund, and Peter Rangmar. With catchy songs that even made it to the charts, “Macken” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and some toe-tapping tunes.

Cast: Jan Rippe (Roger) , Anders Eriksson (Roy) , Knut Agnred (Övriga roller) , Claes Eriksson (Övriga roller) , Per Fritzell (Övriga roller) , Kerstin Granlund (Övriga roller) , Peter Rangmar (Övriga roller)

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Tags: repairman, comedy troupe, musical comedy, petrol station, galenskaparna & after shave

Pee-wee's Playhouse

Pee-wee’s Playhouse

Release Date: 1986-09-13

Genres: Kids, Comedy

“Pee-wee’s Playhouse” is a delightful children’s TV show that aired in 1986. Starring Paul Reubens as the lovable Pee-wee Herman, the show takes us on a whimsical journey into a colorful playhouse filled with fun and adventure. With a talented cast including Lynne Marie Stewart, Laurence Fishburne, and S. Epatha Merkerson, this show is sure to captivate young viewers with its imaginative and entertaining episodes.

Cast: Paul Reubens (Pee-wee Herman) , Lynne Marie Stewart (Miss Yvonne) , Laurence Fishburne (Cowboy Curtis) , Suzanne Kent (Mrs. Renee) , S. Epatha Merkerson (Reba) , John Paragon (Jambi) , Alison Mork (Chairry (voice) / Magic Screen (voice)) , William Marshall (The King of Cartoons)

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Tags: campy

Matlock

Matlock

Release Date: 1986-03-03

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Matlock” is a popular American legal drama that aired from 1986 to 1995. Starring the talented Andy Griffith as criminal defense attorney Ben Matlock, the show follows his journey in identifying the culprits and confronting them in intense courtroom scenes. Unlike other legal dramas, Matlock usually secures an acquittal for his clients during trial, making it a thrilling and unique watch. With a stellar cast including Daniel Roebuck and Carol Huston, this show is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of gripping courtroom dramas.

Cast: Andy Griffith (Ben Matlock) , Daniel Roebuck (Cliff Lewis) , Carol Huston (Jerri Stone)

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Tags: lawyer, courtroom, elderly, criminal lawyer

Lovejoy

Lovejoy

Release Date: 1986-01-10

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Mystery

“Lovejoy” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1986 and follows the adventures of the charming and cunning antiques dealer, Lovejoy, based in East Anglia. With his almost supernatural ability to recognize exceptional items and distinguish genuine antiques from clever fakes, Lovejoy is a fascinating character. Starring Ian McShane, Dudley Sutton, Caroline Langrishe, and Diane Parish, this show is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thrilling tales of the antiques trade.

Cast: Ian McShane (Lovejoy) , Dudley Sutton (Tinker Dill) , Caroline Langrishe (Charlotte Cavendish) , Diane Parish (Beth Taylor)

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Tags: antique dealer, rogue

L.A. Law

L.A. Law

Release Date: 1986-09-15

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“L.A. Law” is an American legal drama series that aired from 1986 to 1994. Created by Steven Bochco and Terry Louise Fisher, it captivated audiences with its intriguing storylines, social commentary, and witty humor. The show delved into the legal world of the 1980s and early 1990s, tackling controversial issues like abortion, racism, and LGBTQ+ rights. With a talented ensemble cast and 15 Emmy Awards under its belt, “L.A. Law” is a must-watch for anyone interested in legal dramas with a touch of social relevance.

Cast: Corbin Bernsen (Arnie Becker) , Jill Eikenberry (Ann Kelsey) , Alan Rachins (Douglas Brackman) , Michael Tucker (Stuart Markowitz) , Richard Dysart (Leland McKenzie) , Blair Underwood (Jonathan Rollins) , Larry Drake (Benny Stulwicz) , John Spencer (Tommy Mullaney) , A Martinez (Daniel Morales) , Alexandra Powers (Jane Halliday) , Debi Mazar (Denise Iannello)

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Tags: lawyer, los angeles, california, law firm

Bread

Bread

Release Date: 1986-05-01

Genres: Comedy

“Bread” is a beloved British sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1991. Set in Liverpool’s Dingle district, it follows the Boswell family, led by the strong-willed Nellie, as they navigate the challenges of life in Thatcher’s Britain. With no visible means of support, the family relies on benefit fraud and selling stolen goods to make ends meet. This hilarious and heartwarming show features a talented cast, including Peter Howitt, Jean Boht, Bryan Murray, Graham Bickley, Nick Conway, Jonathon Morris, Simon Rouse, Deborah Grant, Kenneth Waller, and Charles Lawson.

Cast: Peter Howitt () , Jean Boht () , Bryan Murray () , Graham Bickley () , Nick Conway () , Jonathon Morris () , Simon Rouse () , Deborah Grant () , Kenneth Waller () , Charles Lawson () , Eileen Pollock () , Melanie Hill () , Caroline Milmoe () , J. G. Devlin () , Gilly Coman () , Rita Tushingham () , Victor McGuire () , Giles Watling () , Peter Byrne () , Ronald Forfar () , Pamela Power () , Jenny Jay ()

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Tags: mother, northern england, liverpool, england, scam, family, unemployment benefits, sitcom

If Tomorrow Comes

If Tomorrow Comes

Release Date: 1986-03-16

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“If Tomorrow Comes” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1986. It follows the story of Tracy Whitney, a woman who loses everything after a devastating phone call. After spending five years in prison, Tracy emerges as a cunning and determined individual, ready to take on the world. Along the way, she crosses paths with a formidable man, and together they become daring partners in a criminal adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Starring Madolyn Smith Osborne, Tom Berenger, Richard Kiley, David Keith, Jack Weston, and Liam Neeson, this show is a must-watch for anyone seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Cast: Madolyn Smith Osborne (Tracy Whitney) , Tom Berenger (Jeff Stevens) , Richard Kiley (Gunther Hartog) , David Keith (Daniel Cooper) , Jack Weston (Uncle Willie) , Liam Neeson (André Trignant)

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Writers: Carmen Culver, Sidney Sheldon

Tags: based on novel or book, revenge

Shaka Zulu

Shaka Zulu

“Shaka Zulu” is an epic TV show set in South Africa in 1823, during the time when the Zulu Empire, led by the brilliant yet ruthless military strategist King Shaka, posed a threat to the British colony of Cape Town. A group of explorers, mercenaries, and soldiers are sent to Zululand to establish contact with Shaka and assess the true danger of his army. With a star-studded cast including Henry Cele, Dudu Mkhize, and Christopher Lee, this captivating series takes you on a thrilling journey through history. Premiering on October 24, 1986, it’s definitely one of the best TV shows of that year.

Cast: Henry Cele (Shaka) , Dudu Mkhize (Nandi) , Edward Fox (Lt. Francis Farewell) , Robert Powell (Dr. Henry Fynn) , Trevor Howard (Lord Charles Somerset) , Fiona Fullerton (Elizabeth Farewell) , Christopher Lee (Lord Bathurst) , Roy Dotrice (George IV) , Gordon Jackson (Prof. Bramston) , Kenneth Griffith (Zacharias Abrahams) , Conrad Magwaza (Senzagakona) , Patrick Ndlovu (Mudli) , Roland Mqwebu (Ngomane) , Gugu Nxumalo (Mkabayi) , Tu Nokwe (Pampata) , Khumbulani Cele (Shaka (6-11)) , Glen Gabela (Shaka (15-19)) , Daphne Hlomuka (Queen Ntombazi)

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Tags: politics, africa, south africa, british empire, rise and fall, miniseries, racism, colonialism, cape town, south africa, palace intrigue, 19th century, mother son relationship, zulu empire, exploration of africa, african history

Perfect Strangers

Perfect Strangers

Release Date: 1986-03-25

Genres: Comedy

“Perfect Strangers” is a heartwarming TV show that aired in 1986. It follows the amusing journey of Larry Appleton, a midwestern American, as he navigates the challenges of living with his distant cousin Balki Bartokomous from eastern Mediterranean Europe. With a talented cast including Bronson Pinchot and Mark Linn-Baker, this show promises to bring laughter and entertainment to your screen.

Cast: Bronson Pinchot (Balki Bartokomous) , Mark Linn-Baker (Larry Appleton) , Melanie Wilson (Jennifer Lyons) , Rebeca Arthur (Mary Anne Spencer) , Belita Moreno (Lydia Markham) , Sam Anderson (Sam Gorpley)

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Tags: chicago, illinois, newspaper, friendship, roommate, cousin cousin relationship, sitcom

Designing Women

Designing Women

Release Date: 1986-09-29

Genres: Comedy

“Designing Women” is a hilarious and entertaining TV show that aired in 1986. It revolves around four strong-willed women who work together at a design firm. The owner, Julia Sugarbaker, is outspoken and confident, while her associate Mary Jo is a divorced single-parent with a fierce personality. Charlene, a naive farm girl, and Suzanne, a self-centered ex-beauty queen, add their own unique charm to the mix. With a talented cast including Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, Judith Ivey, Jan Hooks, and Meshach Taylor, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and some female empowerment.

Cast: Dixie Carter (Julia Sugarbaker) , Annie Potts (Mary Jo Shively) , Judith Ivey (Bonnie Jean “B.J.” Poteet) , Jan Hooks (Carlene Frazier Dobber) , Meshach Taylor (Anthony Bouvier)

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Tags: atlanta, career woman, sitcom, interior design, workplace comedy, atlanta, georgia

Starman

Starman

Release Date: 1986-09-19

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Starman” is an exciting American science fiction TV series that aired from September 1986 to May 1987. Starring Robert Hays and Christopher Daniel Barnes, it continues the captivating story from John Carpenter’s 1984 film of the same name. Join the adventure as the series takes you on a thrilling journey through space and time, with a talented cast that includes Michael Cavanaugh and Patrick Culliton.

Cast: Robert Hays (Paul Forrester / Starman) , Christopher Daniel Barnes (Scott Hayden) , Michael Cavanaugh (George Fox) , Patrick Culliton (FSA Agent Wiley)

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Head of the Class

Head of the Class

Release Date: 1986-09-17

Genres: Comedy

“Head of the Class” is a beloved American sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1991 on ABC. Set in Manhattan’s Monroe High School, the show revolves around a group of gifted students in the Individualized Honors Program and their charismatic history teacher, Charlie Moore. With a talented cast including Billy Connolly, William G. Schilling, Jeannetta Arnette, and more, this show offers a hilarious and heartwarming look into the lives of these exceptional students and their educational journey.

Cast: Billy Connolly (Billy MacGregor) , William G. Schilling (Dr. Harold Samuels) , Jeannetta Arnette (Bernadette Meara) , Michael DeLorenzo (Alex Torres) , Dan Frischman (Arvid Engen) , Robin Givens (Darlene Merriman) , Khrystyne Haje (Simone Foster) , Tony O’Dell (Alan Pinkard) , Lara Piper (Viki Amory) , Rain Pryor (Theola June ‘T.J.’ Jones) , Ke Huy Quan (Jasper Kwong) , Brian Robbins (Eric Mardian) , Kimberly Russell (Sarah Nevins) , Dan Schneider (Dennis Blunden) , De’voreaux White (Aristotle McKenzie)

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Tags: high school, classroom, nerd, teacher, teen comedy, manhattan, new york city, sitcom, gifted children

Casualty

Casualty

Release Date: 1986-09-06

Genres: Drama

“Casualty” is a gripping drama series set in the emergency department of Holby City Hospital. It follows the lives of the dedicated staff and patients, delving into both their personal and professional challenges. With its release in 1986, this show has become one of the best voted TV shows of that year, making it a must-watch for fans of intense medical dramas.

Cast: Derek Thompson (Charlie Fairhead)

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Tags: england, hospital, doctor, medical drama

The Oprah Winfrey Show

The Oprah Winfrey Show

Release Date: 1986-09-08

Genres: Talk

“The Oprah Winfrey Show, also known as Oprah, is an iconic American talk show that aired from 1986 to 2011. Hosted by the incredible Oprah Winfrey herself, it became the highest-rated talk show in American television history. With its positive and inspiring content, the show featured book clubs, thought-provoking interviews, self-improvement segments, and even delved into philanthropic endeavors. It’s no wonder Oprah received a whopping 47 Daytime Emmy Awards for this long-running daytime talk show!”

Cast: Oprah Winfrey (Self – Host)

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Tags: talk show

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