Last week, we took a stroll down memory lane to reminisce about some of our favorite lesser-known TV treasures from the 1980s. Our readers recalled every single show from the likes of “Jennifer Slept Here” to the undeniable favorite, “Square Pegs,” and even reminded us of many we had forgotten.
In this second installment, we’ve broadened our criteria a bit, but we still have some key requirements for inclusion: 1) The show must have aired in the ’80s; 2) It should elicit an excited “OH MY GOD I LOVED THAT!” or “OH MY GOD THAT SHOW WAS THE WORST!” when mentioned; and 3) It should not be one of the more mainstream titles that often come to mind when Gen-Xers think back to their childhood TV experiences. (We’re not including “Fantasy Island” or “Who’s the Boss?” here!)
1. Madame’s Place (1982–83)
Wayland Flowers and his snarky puppet Madame were an absolute delight! I might not have understood 95 percent of her cheeky humor, but who cares? A puppet hosting her own talk show was nothing short of magical! Little did I know the significance of Madame as a gay icon since the ’60s; I just loved her quirky charm.
2. It’s a Living (1980–82)
Before Ann Jillian became a ghost in “Jennifer Slept Here,” she was one of the fabulous waitresses at Above the Top restaurant, located high atop the Bonaventure Hotel. The crew dealt with the antics of a sleazy pianist while being overseen by the glamorous Nancy Beebe, played by Marian Mercer, who was a sight to behold.
3. She’s the Sheriff (1987–89)
Suzanne Somers took on her first role after “Three’s Company” as a sheriff in a small Nevada town. Although TV Guide labeled it one of the 50 Worst Shows, I found it fascinating to see Crissy Snow swapped for a law enforcement persona. I mean, who wouldn’t love that premise?
4. The Edison Twins (1982–86)
Not to be confused with “Double Trouble,” this Canadian series featured a pair of twins (not biologically related) who utilized science to solve mysteries. Though it leaned a bit too much on educational content, I kept watching because the male twin bore a striking resemblance to Christopher Atkins.
5. The Greatest American Hero (1981–83)
You may recall the catchy theme song, but how many actually tuned in? William Katt played an average schoolteacher who gains superpowers from aliens but loses the instruction manual. It’s a wild ride filled with unexpected surprises, and it introduced me to concepts like ESP and telekinesis.
6. My Secret Identity (1988–1991)
This series starred a young Jerry O’Connell as Andrew Clements, a teen who gains the ability to fly after being hit by a photon beam. The only one in on his secret is his scientist friend, Dr. Jeffcoate. To be honest, I never fully engaged with it; it felt more like a show for boys.
7. Webster (1983–89)
Following in the footsteps of “Diff’rent Strokes,” this show featured the adorable Emmanuel Lewis as a young boy adopted by a white family. It always struck me as odd that Webster referred to his adoptive mother as “Ma’am.”
8. Love, Sidney (1981–1983)
Reportedly the first show to feature a gay character on television, Tony Randall played Sidney, a supportive friend and almost father figure to a single mother and her daughter. I was always drawn to the character of the daughter, played by Kaleena Kiff.
9. Valerie (1986–1991)
This series had a rocky journey, starting as “Valerie” with Valerie Harper and evolving through multiple name changes after her character was killed off. Sandy Duncan stepped in, and I managed to follow the show through its various incarnations.
10. Archie Bunker’s Place (1979–83)
While I might not have understood the social satire of “All in the Family,” I enjoyed “Archie Bunker’s Place” mainly for the character of Stephanie, played by Danielle Brisebois. The series followed Archie as he ran a bar/restaurant in Queens, and I found it relatable despite the political backdrop.
11. Down to Earth (1984–87)
This show featured a maid named Ethel who, after dying in 1925, returns to help a family. It had all the hallmarks of a classic ’80s series, including a kind-hearted household helper and a young boy who is privy to her secret. Plus, it starred a teenage Kyle Richards, who would later become a familiar face on reality TV.
12. Benson (1979–86)
A spin-off from “Soap,” this series starred Robert Guillaume as a witty butler who navigated the political world of a governor’s family, eventually vying for a position himself. I was particularly captivated by Missy Gold, as my own childhood nickname was Missy.
13. Slim Goodbody: The Inside Story (1980)
This show was quite the visual experience, featuring a man in a skin-tight suit displaying his organs and muscles. Despite the creep factor, I found myself humming along to his educational songs about nutrition.
So, if you’re looking to jog your memory or take a delightful trip back to the ’80s, check out these hidden gems of television history. And for anyone interested in starting their own family journey, you can explore more about home insemination kits at Make a Mom. Plus, this resource offers excellent information on intrauterine insemination.
In summary, these underrated shows from the ’80s capture a unique spirit and creativity that many of us remember fondly, even if they didn’t make it into the mainstream spotlight. They remind us of a time when television was a bit quirkier and certainly more adventurous.
Keyphrase: 80s TV shows
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