Television sitcoms have been entertaining audiences for decades, with the debut of “Pinwright’s Progress” in 1946 marking their beginning. Over time, the structure of these shows has changed significantly, and each decade offers a variety of series to enjoy. However, it’s the 1980s that produced some of the most iconic sitcoms ever broadcasted. During this era, characters like Sam and Diane, the Cosby family, and many others, brought laughter and insight into life’s challenges across popular culture.
The ’80s represented a peak era for American sitcom television, boasting numerous outstanding shows. Determining the absolute best among them is a matter of personal taste since everyone has unique preferences. To help narrow it down, we analyzed IMDb and Metacritic ratings for all ’80s TV series, combining their scores to identify those that consistently stood out at the top.
For a show to be eligible, it must have made its debut between January 1st, 1980, and December 31st, 1989. Shows that premiered in the 1970s, such as “M*A*S*H,” “Happy Days,” “Three’s Company,” “The Jeffersons,” and “Laverne & Shirley,” although they continued into the ’80s, are not eligible because they originated before this timeframe. These iconic sitcoms were at their peak during the 1980s, a decade considered the golden age of sitcoms. They were evaluated based on audience ratings, awards received, and their enduring influence on pop culture, much of which is still relevant today.
10. Family Ties
Back in the ’80s, I was totally hooked on “Family Ties,” the ultimate sitcom representing the all-American family. On one side, you had the laid-back parents, Steven and Elyse Keaton (played by Michael Gross and Meredith Baxter), while their son Alex P. Keaton, played by the talented Michael J. Fox, leaned more towards conservative views, often clashing with his folks. This wasn’t just a hilarious show that kept me tuning in for seven seasons – it catapulted Fox’s career to new heights.
Michael J. Fox started working on the show after he joined the cast of “Back to the Future,” but there was a chance it could have halted his involvement. Nevertheless, he delivered exceptional performances in both roles, establishing himself as a prominent actor of his time. It’s important to note that “Family Ties” had more characters than just the three I mentioned – Mallory (played by Justine Bateman), Jennifer (Tina Yothers), and Andy (Brian Bonsall) were also part of the family ensemble.
1) Over its 176 episodes, “Family Ties” proved to be highly successful and even produced a TV movie. By the time it concluded in 1989, this iconic series had amassed five Primetime Emmy Awards, with three of them going to Michael J. Fox for his outstanding performance as a lead actor in a comedy series. Throughout the ’80s, the contrasting perspectives of the main characters made “Family Ties” feel like a realistic representation of a middle-class family, a role it played quite distinctively during that era. Later on, Michael J. Fox’s character was acknowledged in another series, “Spin City,” demonstrating that the show continues to resonate in popular culture today.
Starring: Michael J. Fox, Michael Gross, Meredith Baxter, and Justine Bateman
Produced by: Gary David Goldberg
Original Air Dates: 1982 – 1989
Streaming Platform: Paramount+
9. Murphy Brown
Initially, the TV series “Murphy Brown” garnered massive popularity but mysteriously vanished from our screens following its finale in 1998, despite boasting hundreds of episodes and a decade-long run. It’s surprising given its immense success during its initial broadcast, as confirmed by the 2018 revival series. Regrettably, unlike other rebooted ’80s sitcoms, “Murphy Brown” managed to secure only one additional season beyond its comeback. Noteworthy is that “Murphy Brown” often tackled political issues and continued this trend in its revival show.
The original “Murphy Brown” television show ran from 1988 to 1998, during which it held a strong presence on TV, receiving a total of 18 Primetime Emmy awards. This series centers around its title character, portrayed by Candice Bergen, alongside a diverse ensemble of captivating characters. Ranging from her colleagues in the newsroom to the recurring figure of Eldin Bernecky (played by Robert Pastorelli), who started repainting her house during the first season and provided Brown with his unique brand of new-age advice for six seasons straight.
In the sitcom “Murphy Brown,” it was common to see a new character temporarily occupying Murphy’s desk in nearly every episode, only to never reappear afterwards. Characters ranged from John F. Kennedy Jr., Leslie Jordan, and Paul Reubens to Bette Midler. The show “Seinfeld” even had an episode where Kramer (Michael Richards) worked as one of Murphy’s secretaries for a short period.
Cast: Candice Bergen, Faith Ford, and Robert Pastorelli star in this show
Creator: Diane English was the one responsible for its development
Timeline: It aired between 1988 and 1998
Currently available: You can rent it on Apple TV to watch it now.
8. Growing Pains
Another well-known television series, titled ‘Growing Pains,’ revolves around family life. This show is set in the household of the Seavers, residing in Long Island, New York. The storyline centers on Dr. Jason Seaver (Alan Thicke), a psychiatrist who relocates his practice to his home so that his wife, Maggie (Joanna Kerns), can return to her journalism career. Alongside him are their children: Mike (Kirk Cameron), Carol (Tracey Gold), Ben (Jeremy Miller), Chrissy (portrayed by various child actors), and Luke Brower (Leonardo DiCaprio), a homeless boy who becomes part of the Seaver family.
The TV show enjoyed massive success and significantly boosted Kirk Cameron’s acting career, but unfortunately, it lost momentum post-“Growing Pains.” During its duration, however, he was among the most popular young talents on television, much like Leonardo DiCaprio in his early career. “Growing Pains” aired for seven seasons, from 1985 to 1992, totaling 166 episodes. Throughout this period, it garnered a couple of Primetime Emmy awards and numerous other recognitions.
The quality of the show deteriorated when Cameron became engrossed in his transformation into a born-again Christian and dedicated all his attention to it, leading to contentious demands for script revisions that strained his relationships with the production team. This change was evident and caused damage to both the show’s prospects and his bonds with his co-actors. However, years following the series finale, the cast came together again for “The Growing Pains Movie” in 2000 and “Growing Pains: Return of the Seavers” in 2004. Regrettably, neither production was well-received by critics or viewers, ultimately marking the end of the series.
Cast: Alan Thicke, Joanna Kerns, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold
Creator: Neal Marlens
Year of Release: 1985-1992
Streaming Platform: Rent on Apple TV (or you can rent it on Apple TV)
7. Saved by the Bell
Saved by the Bell” deviated from the common formula of family-centered shows, instead revolving around a gang of high school students. This series debuted in 1989, making it near the end of the decade, yet it ran for four seasons consisting of 86 episodes. Notably, this show served as a stepping stone for many careers, such as those of Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen, Elizabeth Berkley, Mario Lopez, and others. Similar to other sitcoms, the series explores the challenges and hardships of life in America, but from a teenager’s point of view.
1) The show “Saved by the Bell” was able to attract a large audience and received numerous awards during its broadcast. Interestingly, although it primarily took place in a school setting, it tackled a wide range of topics such as women’s rights, environmental issues, homelessness, and even death. Almost any issue that one might encounter in their daily life was addressed on “Saved by the Bell.” One notable episode focused on the dangers of caffeine pills, where Jessie Spano from Berkley became addicted while trying to excel academically, a situation often faced by overachievers.
The popularity of “Saved by the Bell” is evident through its enduring impact, as it led to numerous sequel series and films. Before and following the initial series’ conclusion, spinoffs like “Saved by the Bell: Hawaiian Style” and “Saved by the Bell: Wedding in Las Vegas” were produced. Subsequent spinoffs, such as “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” and “Saved by the Bell: The New Class,” also saw success. In 2020, a two-season revival of the original series was launched, bringing back many of its original cast members.
Cast: Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen, Elizabeth Berkley
Creator: Sam Bobrick
Debut: 1989-1993
Streaming platform: Prime Video (where you can watch it)
6. Night Court
In contrast to most ’80s sitcoms that centered around domestic life, “Night Court” unfolds in a courthouse during the night. The series revolves around the employees of this court, with Judge Harry Stone (Harry Anderson), Assistant District Attorney Dan Fielding (John Larroquette), bailiff Bull Shannon (Richard Moll), court clerk Mac Robinson (Charles Robinson), public defender Christine Sullivan (Markie Post), and bailiff Roz Russell (Marsha Warfield) as the main characters.
Due to the show’s structure featuring fresh defendants in each installment, it provided ample opportunities for guest stars to make appearances occasionally. “Night Court” enjoyed a long-lasting run, spanning nine seasons with 193 episodes, from 1984 until its conclusion in 1992. During this period, the series garnered numerous awards, including eight Primetime Emmy trophies. Despite tackling serious subjects, “Night Court” maintained a humorous tone throughout, relying on wit and humor to navigate heavier topics, thus ensuring that laughter was never absent from any episode.
The popularity of “Night Court” persisted into the new millennium, leading to a revival show that premiered in 2023. Many original cast members made a comeback, playing expanded roles or making appearances, with Melissa Rauch from “The Big Bang Theory” stepping into the shoes of the late Harry Anderson as Judge Abby Stone, Harry Stone’s daughter. As of 2025, the show has completed three seasons, totaling 39 episodes, and hopes are high that it will continue for a fourth season.
Starring: Harry Anderson, John Larroquette, Richard Moll, Markie Post
Produced by: Reinhold Weege
Original Run: 1984-1992
Streaming Platform: Prime Video (available for streaming)
5. The Cosby Show
Although Bill Cosby’s sexual assault allegations from the past cannot be ignored or dismissed, we must set these matters aside temporarily to acknowledge that his ’80s series was among the finest television programming of that era. This doesn’t mean we should forget about his alleged actions, but in discussing the best sitcoms of the 1980s, it would be misleading not to include “The Cosby Show.
For eight seasons, from 1984 to 1992, the popular sitcom “The Cosby Show” aired, with a total of 201 episodes. The show revolved around an affluent family residing in Brooklyn, New York, and was inspired by Cosby’s stand-up comedy. Bill Cosby portrayed Dr. Cliff Huxtable, with Phylicia Rashad as his wife, Clair, and their children – Denise (Lisa Bonet), Theodore (Malcolm-Jamal Warner), Vanessa (Tempestt Bledsoe), and Rudy (Keshia Knight Pulliam).
The children from “The Cosby Show” have all achieved successful careers, a feat that the show significantly contributed to. Although the show’s reputation has been tarnished by the sexual assault allegations against Bill Cosby, it was an unrivaled hit during its television run. “The Cosby Show” garnered six Primetime Emmy awards and numerous other honors. To this day, when re-watched, the series remains relevant, imparting timeless lessons about family and parenting that resonate with many Americans even years after it ended.
Cast Members: Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Lisa Bonet, Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Series Creators and Main Producers: Bill Cosby, Ed. Weinberger, Michael J. Leeson
Original Airing Period: 1984 to 1992
Currently Available: Rent on Amazon Prime Video
4. Cheers
During the 1980s, “Cheers” was arguably the most influential sitcom on American popular culture, standing out among other popular shows of that era. Unlike typical TV sitcoms, it wasn’t based around a family, school, or similar setting; instead, it was set in a bar in Boston, the show’s title location. “Cheers” played a significant role in launching or boosting the careers of several actors, including Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt, Kirstie Alley, John Ratzenberger, Woody Harrelson, Kelsey Grammer, and many more.
One of the ’90s most popular sitcoms, “Frasier,” originated from the show “Cheers.” The character Frasier was a spin-off from the original series. “Cheers” was based on the idea that the bar was a place where everyone recognized you, as reflected in its theme song by Gary Portnoy titled “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.” The show accumulated numerous awards, with an impressive 28 Primetime Emmy wins.
“Cheers” aired for 11 seasons, featuring 275 episodes, starting in 1982 and concluding in 1993. The final episode, which was broadcast in the 1990s, garnered a staggering 81 million viewers, making it the most-watched television episode of that decade. The influence of “Cheers” on pop culture transcended its successful spinoff and remains significant even today. It is widely recognized as one of the best American sitcoms ever produced, and more than three decades after its final episode aired, people are still discovering and talking about this much-loved series and its unforgettable characters.
Cast: Ted Danson, George Wendt, Kelsey Grammer, and Shelley Long star in this show.
Creators: Glen and Les Charles, James Burrows were the masterminds behind it.
Timeline: It aired from 1982 to 1993.
Streaming Platform: You can catch it on Hulu.
3. The Golden Girls
1985 marked the debut of the popular sitcom “The Golden Girls,” which ran until 1992, encompassing seven seasons and a grand total of 180 episodes. The show featured a talented ensemble cast consisting of Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, Estelle Getty, and Betty White. Tragically, many members of the “The Golden Girls” cast have since passed away, as the series has outlived most of those associated with its production. This series revolved around four elderly ladies residing in a shared home in Miami, Florida, humorously navigating various sensitive subjects.
During its broadcast, “The Golden Girls” achieved remarkable success, racking up numerous honors including 11 Primetime Emmy awards. Unlike many other sitcoms, this one doesn’t seem dated because its writing is so superb and the acting is so flawless that contemporary viewers are still discovering it long after it stopped airing. It’s quite unusual for a sitcom to remain relevant over time, but “The Golden Girls” manages to do just that.
As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the charm that lies within “The Golden Girls.” The bond between these ladies is something truly unique and special, and let me tell you, Betty White’s humor and relatability in this show just take it to another level! Now, while “The Golden Palace” didn’t quite manage to replicate its predecessor’s success, nothing can diminish the fact that “The Golden Girls” stands tall as one of the ’80s most beloved sitcoms. It’s a testament to the power of great television that this series continues to captivate audiences even decades later.
Starring: Betty White, Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McClanahan
Creator/Producer: Susan Harris
Originally Aired: 1985-1992
Stream on: Hulu (available for viewing)
2. The Simpsons
By 2025, it’s astonishing to think that “The Simpsons” originally started airing as an ’80s sitcom. Despite this, the show has been running for over 36 years and holds the records for both the longest-running animated series and sitcom on American television. With a total of around 780 episodes broadcast and more to come, it’s remarkable to consider its enduring legacy. Although the show may not enjoy the same level of popularity as it did in the ’80s, during that time it was truly unstoppable. Interestingly, “The Simpsons” made its television debut in 1989, but its origins can be traced back several years prior to this.
The Simpsons” originated as a short on “The Tracey Ullman Show,” airing for three seasons starting in 1987. This anchors the family within that decade, yet there’s no arguing against the influence “The Simpsons” has had on popular culture from the 1990s to the present day and beyond. Over time, America’s iconic yellow clan has undergone significant changes as the series has adapted to reflect contemporary society. Additionally, it’s fascinating how accurately “The Simpsons” has predicted several key events over the past four decades.
Regarding accolades, “The Simpsons” has been consistently winning them since its debut. With over 370 nominations in various categories, the show has impressively garnered a total of 37 Primetime Emmy awards. The core cast has largely remained constant throughout its broadcast, with some members joining and leaving over time. “The Simpsons” has left an indelible mark on our culture, and it’s a phenomenon that is expected to endure even after it eventually concludes – if such an end ever occurs.
Main Actors: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Executive Producer: Matt Groening
First Aired: 1989 up to the present
Streaming Platform: Disney+ (You can watch it there)
1. Seinfeld
Remarkably, transforming a “series seemingly about nothing” into one of television’s all-time greatest sitcoms required skillful creativity, and the “Seinfeld” crew accomplished just that. Intriguingly, the show playfully mocked its premise within itself, as Jerry Seinfeld and George Costanza (played by Jason Alexander) proposed a pilot about nothing to NBC. In essence, the series delved into many topics, yet it primarily revolved around the dynamics between Jerry, George, Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards), and Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus).
1989 saw the debut of “Seinfeld,” which ran for 9 seasons, concluding in 1998. In its run, it produced a total of 180 episodes. This sitcom was a significant winner, bagging 10 Primetime Emmy awards among many others. During its broadcast, it became the cornerstone of NBC’s famous “Must See TV” lineup on Thursday evenings and was a ratings juggernaut. “Seinfeld,” with its enduring influence, gave birth to various comedy tropes that continue to thrive in modern pop culture.
The series featured references to Festivus, the Soup Nazi, and other elements, setting it apart as an unconventional sitcom with characters who have significant flaws. This aspect was emphasized frequently throughout the show, but never more so than in its final episode where all four main characters stood trial. A variety of “Seinfeld” characters appeared to testify against them, although the finale wasn’t universally acclaimed, it did encapsulate what made the show stand out. Despite not being the most critically praised sitcom finale, it highlighted the lasting influence that “Seinfeld” had on American television, making it the most popular sitcom debut in the 1980s.
Starring: Jerry Seinfeld, Jason Alexander, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Michael Richards
Producer: Larry David
Original Airing: 1989 to 1998
Streaming Platform: Netflix (available for viewing)
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2025-04-04 21:32