TV Shows from the 1980s That Should Be Revived

Television from the 1980s has a distinct charm that resonates even today. That decade encouraged creativity, letting networks experiment with diverse genres and capturing audiences in ways that remain memorable. Many of these shows continue to be discussed because of their innovative approach, which helped shape television history. While classics like Magnum, P.I., MacGyver, and Matlock have already seen modern adaptations, there are still numerous series worthy of a full revival. Watching them on TV, episode after episode, provides an experience that a one-off movie cant match.

Murder, She Wrote

Running from 1984 to 1996, Murder, She Wrote featured Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, an amateur detective whose sharp intuition and authorial experience helped solve crimes in Cabot Cove, Maine. The shows 12-season run solidified its place in TV history. Attempts to reboot it in the 2010s never materialized, and while a film with Jamie Lee Curtis as Jessica is planned, the series weekly mystery format works best for television, highlighting Fletchers wit and investigative prowess.

Knight Rider

Knight Rider (19821986) starred David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, a man given a new identity and paired with KITT, an AI-enhanced supercar, to fight crime. Despite multiple spin-offs and reboot attempts, none have captured the energy of the original. The series would benefit from a modern TV revival, allowing for longer character arcs and the trademark interplay between Michael and KITT, while keeping its iconic theme music alive.

Moonlighting

Moonlighting (19851989) paired Cybill Shepherds Maddie Hayes with Bruce Willis David Addison in a quirky detective agency. The shows mix of comedy, drama, and romantic tension remains unique, and it has never been remade. Recreating its chemistry could be challenging, but the concept of witty detective duos is timeless and could thrive in a contemporary setting.

The Golden Girls

The Golden Girls (19851992) followed four older women navigating friendship, love, and lifes challenges. Its humor and warmth made it iconic, and the premise remains relevant today as many older adults seek connection. A modern reboot could continue this tradition, potentially introducing a new ensemble while preserving the originals charm.

The A-Team

The A-Team (19831987) showcased a group of ex-military operatives combining action and comedy. A 2010 film failed to capture the magic of the series, but a streaming revival could balance action and humor effectively. The chemistry of the team, along with strategic storytelling, would appeal to contemporary audiences.

ALF

From 1986 to 1990, ALF offered a mix of sci-fi and family comedy through the antics of Gordon Shumway, an alien living with the Tanner family. While past reboot attempts flopped, a streaming adaptation could bring this humorous, heartwarming concept to new audiences, possibly even leaning into retro nostalgia.

227

227 (19851990) chronicled life in an apartment building through the eyes of housewife Mary Jenkins. The ensemble comedy remains relatable, highlighting neighborly interactions and everyday conflicts. Updating it for modern social dynamics could make it both fresh and familiar.

Designing Women

Designing Women (19861993) followed the professional and personal lives of the women running Sugarbaker & Associates. Its witty dialogue and ensemble dynamics made it beloved. A revival could modernize workplace challenges while retaining the clever humor that made the original a hit.

Airwolf

Airwolf (19841987) featured a high-tech helicopter and its pilot, Stringfellow Hawke, in action-packed missions. With todays special effects and higher budgets, a modern reboot could fulfill the shows original potential, updating political and technical elements for contemporary audiences.

The Fall Guy

The original The Fall Guy (19811986) starred Lee Majors as Colt Seavers, a stuntman and bounty hunter. Its episodic stunts and action sequences made it ideal for TV. With a mix of modern stunts and procedural storytelling, it could easily captivate viewers today.

The Greatest American Hero

The Greatest American Hero (19811983) followed teacher Ralph Hinkley, who gains alien superpowers but loses the instructions, leading to humorous mishaps. The rise of superhero content makes a reboot appealing, and modern adaptations could explore diverse casting and contemporary humor.

The Highwayman

The Highwayman (1987) envisioned a futuristic world of high-tech trucks, law enforcement, and sci-fi adventures. With todays technology and budgets, a revival could finally realize the series ambitious vision, blending action, sci-fi, and episodic storytelling effectively.

Author: Lucas Grant