Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1987: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1987 – a year of big hair, neon colors, and some of the most iconic TV shows to ever grace our screens. From heartwarming family sitcoms to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, 1987 had it all. Whether you were a couch potato or a casual viewer, there was something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, put on your most comfortable pair of leg warmers, and prepare to be transported back to a time when TV was simpler, yet undeniably captivating. We’re counting down the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1987. Ready to see if your favorite made the list? Let’s dive in!
Full House: Rags to Riches

Full House: Rags to Riches

Release Date: 1987-03-09

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Full House: Rags to Riches” is a heartwarming American musical comedy drama series that aired on NBC from 1987 to 1988. Set in the 1960s, the show follows the inspiring story of Nick Foley, a self-made millionaire who opens his heart and home to five orphan girls. With catchy music videos featuring popular songs from the era seamlessly integrated into the plot, this series is a delightful blend of laughter, emotions, and toe-tapping tunes.”

Cast: Tisha Campbell (Marva Foley) , Joseph Bologna (Nick Foley) , Heidi Zeigler (Mickey Foley) , Douglas Seale (John Clapper) , Kimiko Gelman (Rose Foley) , Blanca De Garr (Patty Foley) , Bridget Michele (Diane Foley)

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Tags: wealthy, los angeles, california, orphan, wealthy man, bel air, 1960s

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” is a captivating sci-fi TV show that premiered in 1987. Join Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his dedicated crew as they embark on thrilling adventures aboard the brand-new USS Enterprise NCC-1701D, exploring uncharted territories and encountering fascinating new worlds. With a talented cast including Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Marina Sirtis, LeVar Burton, and Gates McFadden, this show is a must-watch for any fan of intergalactic exploration.

Cast: Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard) , Jonathan Frakes (William T. Riker) , Brent Spiner (Data) , Michael Dorn (Worf) , Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) , LeVar Burton (Geordi La Forge) , Gates McFadden (Beverly Crusher)

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Tags: spacecraft, oxygen, space travel, alien, space, alien planet, trek, space opera, adventurer

Tour of Duty

Tour of Duty

“Tour of Duty” is a gripping TV show that takes you back to the intense Vietnam War era. It follows the challenges faced by a U.S. Army platoon as they serve in the field, providing a realistic portrayal of the soldiers’ trials and tribulations. With a talented cast including Stephen Caffrey, Terence Knox, Miguel A. Núñez, Jr., Tony Becker, Stan Foster, Ramón Franco, and Dan Gauthier, this show is a must-watch for history buffs and fans of military dramas. Premiering on September 24, 1987, it rightfully earned its place among the 20 best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Stephen Caffrey (Lt. Myron Goldman) , Terence Knox (Sgt. Clayton ‘Zeke’ Anderson) , Miguel A. Núñez, Jr. (Pvt. Marcus Taylor) , Tony Becker (Cpl. Daniel ‘Danny’ Percell) , Stan Foster (Spc./Sgt. Marvin Johnson) , Ramón Franco (Pvt. Alberto Ruiz) , Dan Gauthier (Lt. John McKay)

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Tags: vietnam war, us army, military, us military, 1960s

Werewolf

Werewolf

Release Date: 1987-07-11

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Werewolf” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1987 and made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year. It follows the story of Eric Cord, a college student who unexpectedly turns into a werewolf. Determined to break the curse, Eric embarks on a quest to find and eliminate the source of his bloodline, leading to an intense and suspenseful journey. Starring Lance LeGault and John J. York, this show promises an exciting mix of horror and adventure.

Cast: Lance LeGault (Alamo Joe Rogan) , John J. York (Eric Cord)

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Writers: Frank Lupo

Tags: werewolf

Degrassi Junior High

Degrassi Junior High

Release Date: 1987-01-18

Genres: Drama

“Degrassi Junior High” is a Canadian teen drama series that aired from 1987 to 1989. It follows a group of students attending a fictional school and tackles various challenging topics like drug use, child abuse, teenage pregnancy, and more. The show received praise for its realistic portrayal of teenage life and featured a cast of mainly non-professional actors, adding to its authenticity. With its sensitive approach and compelling storylines, “Degrassi Junior High” became a hit among viewers when it premiered in 1987.

Cast: Billy Parrott (Shane McKay) , Roger Montgomery (Mr. Garcia) , Cathy Keenan (Liz O’ Rourke) , Stefan Brogren (Archibald ‘Snake’ Simpson) , Angela Deiseach (Erica Farrell) , Deborah Lobban (Doris Bell) , Irene Courakos (Alexa Pappadopolos) , Amanda Stepto (Christine ‘Spike’ Nelson) , Neil Hope (Derek ‘Wheels’ Wheeler) , Anais Granofsky (Lucy Fernandez) , Maureen Deiseach (Heather Farrell) , Amanda Cook (Lorraine ‘L.D.’ Delacorte) , Stacie Mistysyn (Caitlin Ryan) , Pat Mastroianni (Joey Jeremiah) , Rebecca Haines (Kathleen Mead) , Trevor Cummings (Bartholomew Bond) , Siluck Saysanasy (Yick Yu) , Duncan Waugh (Arthur Kobalewscuy) , Christopher Charlesworth (Scooter Webster) , Maureen McKay (Michelle Accette) , Dayo Ade (B.L.T. Thomas) , Dan Woods (Daniel Raditch) , Sara Ballingall (Melanie Brodie) , Michelle Goodeve (Karen Avery) , Michael Carry (Simon Dexter)

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Tags: toronto, canada, junior high school, teen social issues

Inspector Morse

Inspector Morse

Release Date: 1987-01-06

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Inspector Morse” is a captivating detective drama that aired in 1987. Starring John Thaw as Chief Inspector Morse and Kevin Whately as Sergeant Lewis, the show is based on Colin Dexter’s popular series of novels. With a talented cast and intriguing storylines, this TV show is a must-watch for fans of crime-solving mysteries.

Cast: John Thaw (Chief Inspector Morse) , Kevin Whately (Detective Sergeant Lewis) , Peter Woodthorpe (Dr. Max DeBryn) , James Grout (Chief Superintendent Strange)

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Tags: based on novel or book, england, detective, murder, criminal, police detective, oxford england, criminal investigation, forensic science, crime investigation

Married... with Children

Married… with Children

Release Date: 1987-04-05

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Married… with Children” is a hilarious TV show that debuted in 1987 and quickly became a fan favorite. The series revolves around the life of Al Bundy, a middle-aged shoe salesman who despises his job and has a dysfunctional family. With a lazy wife, a dysfunctional son, and a dim-witted and promiscuous daughter, Al’s life is a constant rollercoaster of comedic misadventures. Starring Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Amanda Bearse, Christina Applegate, David Faustino, and Ted McGinley, this show is guaranteed to keep you laughing from start to finish.

Cast: Ed O’Neill (Al Bundy) , Katey Sagal (Peggy Bundy) , Amanda Bearse (Marcy D’Arcy) , Christina Applegate (Kelly Bundy) , David Faustino (Bud Bundy) , Ted McGinley (Jefferson D’Arcy)

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Writers: Matthew Berry, Eric Abrams

Tags: chicago, illinois, dysfunctional family, family relationships, slapstick comedy, social satire, family, sitcom, family life

A Little Princess

A Little Princess

Release Date: 1987-01-18

Genres: Drama

“A Little Princess” is a heartwarming TV show based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Set in Victorian London, it follows the journey of Sara Crewe, a once privileged girl who becomes a servant at Miss Michin’s school after her father’s untimely death. With the help of her loyal friends, including a scullery maid and a little monkey, Sara navigates her new life while uncovering the mysteries of the man next door. Starring Annie Lambert, Maureen Lipman, Amelia Shankley, and Miriam Margolyes, this beloved show premiered on January 18, 1987, and is sure to captivate you with its touching storyline.

Cast: Annie Lambert (Mrs. Carmichael) , Maureen Lipman (Miss Minchin) , Amelia Shankley (Sara Crewe) , Miriam Margolyes (Miss Amelia)

Directors: Carol Wiseman

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Tags: miniseries, based on children’s book

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast

Release Date: 1987-09-25

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Beauty and the Beast” is a captivating American drama series that premiered on CBS in 1987. This modern retelling of the classic fairy tale revolves around the unique bond between Vincent, a noble man-beast, and Catherine, a smart Assistant District Attorney in New York. Set in a hidden underground sanctuary, the show also delves into the lives of a secret community of outcasts. With a talented cast including Linda Hamilton and Ron Perlman, this heartfelt series is sure to keep you hooked from the very beginning.

Cast: Linda Hamilton (Catherine Chandler) , Ron Perlman (Vincent) , Roy Dotrice (Jaco Wells) , Jay Acovone (Joe Maxwell) , Ren Woods (Edie) , Ellen Geer (Mary) , Ritch Brinkley (William) , Stephen McHattie (Gabriel) , Edward Albert (Elliot Burch) , Jo Anderson (Diana Bennett)

Directors: Ron Koslow

Writers: Ron Koslow

Tags: new york city, secret society, romance, outcast, assistant district attorney, beast, interspecies romance

Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future

Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future

“Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future” is an exciting science fiction/action TV series that aired in 1987-88. It combines live action with animation using cutting-edge computer-generated images. The show follows Captain Power and his team of futuristic soldiers as they battle against evil forces, and even includes interactive segments with a toy line produced by Mattel. With a talented cast and a unique blend of visuals, this show is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.

Cast: Tim Dunigan () , Jessica Steen () , David Hemblen () , Sven-Ole Thorsen () , Peter MacNeill () , Maurice Dean Wint () , Bruce Gray ()

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Tags: space marine, artificial intelligence, war, ai rebellion, military sci-fi

French & Saunders

French & Saunders

Release Date: 1987-03-09

Genres: Comedy

“French & Saunders” is a hilarious British sketch comedy TV show that premiered in 1987. It features the talented comic duo Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, who write and star in the series. Known for their incredible chemistry, they bring their unique brand of humor to various sketches, making it a must-watch for comedy lovers.

Cast: Dawn French (Various Characters) , Jennifer Saunders (Various Characters)

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Tags: parody, sketch comedy, double act

The New Statesman

The New Statesman

Release Date: 1987-09-13

Genres: Comedy

“The New Statesman” is a hilarious British sitcom from the late 80s and early 90s that cleverly satirizes the Conservative government of that era. Starring Rik Mayall and Michael Troughton, this show takes a comedic approach to political commentary, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and a witty take on the times.

Cast: Rik Mayall (Alan B’Stard) , Michael Troughton (Piers Fletcher-Dervish)

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Tags: london, england, northern england, politics, greed, dark comedy, surreal, politician, satire, parliament, yorkshire, conservative, british politics, british politician, sitcom, house of commons

Miss Marple: At Bertram's Hotel

Miss Marple: At Bertram’s Hotel

Release Date: 1987-01-25

Genres: Crime, Mystery

“Miss Marple: At Bertram’s Hotel” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1987. Set in an elegant hotel, the story revolves around Miss Marple, a guest at the hotel, who finds herself amidst a murder mystery. With a stellar cast including Joan Hickson and Caroline Blakiston, this thrilling series keeps you on the edge of your seat as Miss Marple unravels the truth behind the crime.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Jane Marple) , Caroline Blakiston (Bess Sedgwick) , James Cossins (Colonel Luscombe) , Joan Greenwood (Selina Hazy) , George Baker (Chief Inspector Fred Davy) , Preston Lockwood (Cannon Pennyfather) , Helena Michell (Elvira Blake) , Peter Baldwin (Mr. Humfries)

Directors: Mary McMurray

Writers: Jill Hyem, Agatha Christie

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

Friday the 13th: The Series

Friday the 13th: The Series

Release Date: 1987-10-03

Genres: Mystery, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Hey, I just found this awesome TV show from 1987 called ‘Friday the 13th: The Series’! It’s about Micki and Ryan, along with their friend Jack, who go on a mission to collect cursed antiques and keep them safe in an antique store’s vault. With Louise Robey, Chris Wiggins, and John D. LeMay as the lead actors, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re into thrilling adventures and supernatural mysteries!”

Cast: Louise Robey (Micki Foster) , Chris Wiggins (Jack Marshak) , John D. LeMay (Ryan Dallion)

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Tags: magic, curse, devil, magical object, antiques shop, horror

Miss Marple: Nemesis

Miss Marple: Nemesis

Release Date: 1987-02-08

Genres: Crime, Mystery

“Miss Marple: Nemesis” is a captivating TV show from 1987 that follows the brilliant detective Miss Marple, played by Joan Hickson. In this intriguing mystery, Miss Marple is approached by Mr. Jason Rafiel to solve a crime, but he doesn’t provide her with any details. As the plot unfolds, it becomes uncertain whether a crime has even taken place. With a talented cast and a release date of February 8, 1987, this show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the mystery alongside Miss Marple.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Jane Marple) , Peter Tilbury (Lionel Peel) , Frank Gatliff (Jason Rafiel) , Barbara Franceschi (Miss Kurnowitz) , Bruce Payne (Michael Rafiel) , Roger Hammond (Mr. Broadribb) , Patrick Godfrey (Mr. Schuster) , Ann Queensberry (Miss Wimpole) , Joanna Hole (Madge) , Helen Cherry (Miss Elizabeth Temple) , John Horsley (Professor Wanstead) , Jane Booker (Miss Cooke) , Alison Skilbeck (Miss Barrow) , Margaret Tyzack (Clothilde Bradbury-Scott) , Anna Cropper (Anthea Bradbury-Scott)

Directors: David Tucker

Writers: Agatha Christie, T.R. Bowen

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

Miss Marple: Sleeping Murder

Miss Marple: Sleeping Murder

Release Date: 1987-01-11

Genres: Drama, Crime, Mystery

“Miss Marple: Sleeping Murder” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1987. Set in a country manor, it follows a young bride who starts recalling a long-suppressed memory of witnessing a murder. With an incredible cast including Joan Hickson and Geraldine Alexander, this mystery series is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as the secrets of the past unravel.

Cast: Joan Hickson (Miss Jane Marple) , Geraldine Alexander (Gwenda Reed) , John Moulder-Brown (Giles Reed) , Frederick Treves (Doctor James Kennedy) , Jean Anderson (Mrs. Fane) , Terrence Hardiman (Walter Fane) , John Bennett (Richard Erskine) , Geraldine Newman (Janet Erskine) , Jack Watson (Mr. Foster) , Joan Scott (Mrs. Cocker) , Jean Heywood (Edith Paget) , Georgine Anderson (Mrs. Hengrave) , Edward Jewesbury (Mr. Sims)

Directors: John Davies

Writers: Ken Taylor, Agatha Christie

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

21 Jump Street

21 Jump Street

Release Date: 1987-04-12

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Drama

“21 Jump Street” is a popular TV show from 1987 that made it to the list of the best voted shows of that year. It follows a group of young cops who go undercover, using their youthful appearance, to solve crimes involving teenagers and young adults. With a talented cast including Holly Robinson Peete, Michael Bendetti, Peter DeLuise, Steven Williams, and Michael DeLuise, this show promises an exciting and unique take on crime-solving.

Cast: Holly Robinson Peete (Judy Hoffs) , Michael Bendetti (Anthony McCann) , Peter DeLuise (Doug Penhall) , Steven Williams (Adam Fuller) , Michael DeLuise (Joey Penhall)

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Tags: undercover agent, police, undercover, coming of age, police detective, police procedural

Wiseguy

Wiseguy

Release Date: 1987-09-16

Genres: Crime, Drama, Action & Adventure

“Wiseguy” is a gripping TV show that aired in 1987 and made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year. It follows the story of Vinnie Terranova, who goes undercover as an agent for the Organized Crime Bureau after serving time in a New Jersey penitentiary. With a strong Italian neighborhood backdrop, Vinnie’s dual life as a syndicate enforcer and his conflicts with his conservative family make for an intense and dramatic series. Starring Ken Wahl, Jonathan Banks, Jim Byrnes, Maximilian Schell, and Steven Bauer, this show is a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts.

Cast: Ken Wahl (Vincent Terranova) , Jonathan Banks (Frank McPike) , Jim Byrnes (Daniel Benjamin ‘Lifeguard’ Burroughs) , Maximilian Schell () , Steven Bauer ()

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Tags: undercover agent, fbi, organized crime, task force

Max Headroom

Max Headroom

Release Date: 1987-03-31

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Max Headroom” is a satirical science fiction TV show that aired in the late 80s. Set in a futuristic world, the series follows the adventures of Max Headroom, a computer-generated character played by Matt Frewer. With a talented cast including Jeffrey Tambor and Amanda Pays, the show gained popularity for its unique blend of British and American production. It first premiered on March 31, 1987, and ran for two seasons, offering viewers a witty and entertaining experience.

Cast: Matt Frewer (Edison Carter/Max Headroom) , Chris Young (Bryce Lynch) , Jeffrey Tambor (Murray) , William Morgan Sheppard (Blank Reg) , Concetta Tomei (Blank Dominique) , Amanda Pays (Theora Jones) , George Coe (Ben Cheviot) , Lee Wilkof (Edwards)

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A Different World

A Different World

Release Date: 1987-09-24

Genres: Comedy

“A Different World” is a popular American sitcom that aired from 1987 to 1993. It is a spin-off of “The Cosby Show” and revolves around the lives of students at Hillman College, a fictional historically black college in Virginia. The show primarily focuses on characters like Southern belle Whitley Gilbert and mathematics whiz Dwayne Wayne, played by a talented cast including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, and Jada Pinkett Smith. With its relatable college life scenarios and tackling of important issues like HIV/AIDS, “A Different World” became a beloved TV show of the late 80s and early 90s.

Cast: Jasmine Guy (Whitley Marion Gilbert) , Kadeem Hardison (Dwayne Cleophus Wayne) , Darryl M. Bell (Ronald Marlon Johnson) , Cree Summer (Winifred ‘Freddie’ Brooks) , Charnele Brown (Kimberly Reese) , Lou Myers (Vernon Gaines) , Glynn Turman (Colonel Bradford Taylor) , Ajai Sanders (Gina Deveaux) , Karen Malina White (Charmaine Tyesha Brown) , Jada Pinkett Smith (Lena James)

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Tags: college, racism, sitcom, social issues

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