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The Best TV Characters Of The '80s
Sure, there are plenty of iconic ‘80s movie characters, but let’s look beyond film to focus on the small screen — who were the best TV characters of the '80s? From The Golden Girls, The Cosby Show, and Murder, She Wrote all the way to kid favorites like Punky Brewster, Seinfeld, and Saved By the Bell, these famous shows greatly impacted the culture of the decade birthing some of the most legendary sitcom actors, dramatic TV stars, and more we still adore today.
This list has the best TV characters from classic television shows created or airing in the 1980s, with many enjoying immense success that had them creeping into the 90s. Some figures were surely distinct products of their time, though they still maintain a major place in our hearts.
Looking back even further, the 70s set the stage, but the following decade was undoubtedly big for TV and introduced us to countless, immediately recognizable names making up beloved 80s duos, families, friend groups, and beyond. They're often cited as some of the best fictional on-screen personalities ever — even if you're taking movies into account.
Eighties TV saw the debut of funny oddball Pee-Wee Herman, for one. Michael Knight and Virgil Tibbs also took to the small screen, entertaining millions of people regularly tuning in to their respective programs. The top TV show characters of the 1980s included series like family-focused favorite Highway to Heaven and the still-popular kids' staple Sesame Street. We also witnessed an array of kooky couples and family dynamics — who can forget the Seaver's from Growing Pains (though we try to forget Kirk Cameron these days)?
Children’s characters like Alf, Optimus Prime, and He-Man were also introduced, alongside plenty of other icons that remain prominent in modern-day media. The top characters of the 80s were, for the most part, family-friendly, uplifting, and hilarious. Let's honor the ingenuity of Mr. Angus MacGyver, and the importance of having life-long friends a la The Golden Girls.
Vote up your favorite 1980's TV characters below. If you've got an obscure fave, or simply don't see your staple 80s pick on here, feel free to add them to the list!
- 1
A down-on-his-luck, shoe-selling father, with a sarcastic sense of humor, barely supporting his dysfunctional family while constantly reminiscing about his high school football glory days. His love-hate relationship with his wife and strained interactions with his two teenage children provided endless laughs, making him a quintessential '80s sitcom dad. Despite living in a perpetual state of disappointment, his resigned acceptance of his fate made him relatable and endearing to audiences.
- Actor: Ed O'Neill
- 2
An ambitious, conservative high school student, with dreams of wealth and political power in stark contrast with his liberal, ex-hippie parents. His constant attempts to outsmart those around him, often leading to humorous confrontations and debates, made him a stand-out character of the decade. Though he could be selfish, his genuine love for his family and growth as a person throughout the series showcased his complexity and depth.
- Actor: Michael J. Fox
- 3
A handsome, mustached private investigator living in a luxurious Hawaiian estate, solving crimes with a touch of humor and action-packed excitement. His laid-back demeanor, iconic red Ferrari, and penchant for Hawaiian shirts made him the epitome of tropical chic on television. Balancing machismo with sensitivity, he was an endearing and relatable hero for 1980s audiences.
- Actor: Tom Selleck
- 4
The lovable, mild-mannered amphibian who served as the calm center amidst the zany, colorful cast of characters in a beloved children's television show. His level-headed leadership and self-awareness allowed him to manage the chaos and entertain audiences with wit and charm. As a symbol of gentle wisdom and perseverance, he became an enduring icon for both kids and adults alike.
- Actor: Jim Henson
- 5
A leather jacket-wearing, motorcycle-riding, embodiment of '50s cool in a '70s/'80s sitcom. He progressed from a side character to a mainstay due to his undeniable charisma and ability to solve problems with a snap of his fingers or a well-timed "Aaay!". Despite his tough exterior, his loyalty and fatherly guidance to his friends made him lovable and a pop culture icon.
- Actor: Henry Winkler
- 6
The diplomatic, wise captain of the USS Enterprise-D, who led his crew through the uncharted depths of space with a strong moral compass and a love of Shakespeare. His rational, yet compassionate approach to problem-solving made him an inspiring leader that fans could look up to and admire. With a blend of intellect, gravitas, and warmth, he embodied the best qualities of humanity and became a sci-fi icon.
- Actor: Patrick Stewart
