Summary

  • The '80s were defined by memorable TV characters like Knight Rider, Miami Vice, and The A-Team.
  • Sitcoms in the 1980s provided commentary on pop culture and deeper themes through colorful characters.
  • Characters like Michael Knight, Sonny Crockett, and B.A. Baracus became iconic symbols of the '80s culture.

The 1980s were full of interesting TV characters, but some truly defined the decade. Several cult classic ‘80s TV shows introduced an array of personalities who were bold, exciting, and reflective of the time. Like multiple iconic movie characters that defined the 1980s, these TV characters were unforgettable. From the rebellious and argumentative to the charming and witty, the ‘80s established so many brilliant characters in a world of bright colors, catchy music, and an overall cheesy atmosphere.

Sitcoms from the 1980s were particularly prominent, as the use of comedy was a great way for a show to provide commentary on pop culture and the era in general. The decade of the '80s was an interesting time for the TV industry, which shifted and started to focus on deeper themes and storylines that other shows had previously avoided tackling. While nostalgia for the 1980s never really ended, these characters encapsulated the decade and made it timeless.

10 Michael Knight (David Hasselhoff)

Knight Rider (1982–1986)

David Hasselhoff’s Michael Knight in Knight Rider was a huge figure in the 1908s for several reasons. His iconic look, which consisted of a big leather jacket and his staple curly-haired mullet, was easily recognizable and relevant to the style of the era. Michael Knight’s wild adventures and fearless attitude were brilliant in the ‘80s, especially as his missions were so action-packed and exciting. Knight and his self-driving talking car, “KITT,” became pop culture phenomenons and have since been referenced and parodied in a number of films and TV shows.

Knight’s technological knowledge was another key element of his character, mainly because of the prominence of sci-fi movies in the 1980s. KITT’s array of futuristic gadgets added to Knight’s appeal as a character and assisted him with his justice-driven attempts at taking down the corrupt and morally wrong. Knight Rider spawned a wide range of merchandise, ranging from children’s toys to video games, and became a huge part of ‘80s culture. The blend of sci-fi and action genres in Knight Rider was brilliant, but the titular character carried its success.

Knight Rider
TV-PG
Action
Crime
Drama

Knight Rider is a 1982 television series starring David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, an ex-cop who fights crime with the help of KITT, an advanced, artificially intelligent car. The show combines action and science fiction elements, with Michael and KITT taking on various high-tech criminal threats.

Cast
David Hasselhoff , Edward Mulhare , Richard Basehart , Patricia McPherson , Rebecca Holden , Peter Parros , Shawn Ora Engemann , Ann Turkel
Release Date
September 26, 1982
Seasons
4
Main Genre
Action
Creator(s)
Glenn A. Larson
David Hasselhoff as Michael Night and KITT in Knight Rider 03.
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David Hasselhoff is Michael Knight, a hero fighting evil with his partner: a super car called KITT. Welcome to the world of the Knight Rider.

9 James "Sonny" Crockett (Don Johnson)

Miami Vice (1984–1989)

James "Sonny" Crockett, portrayed by Don Johnson in Miami Vice, was another ‘80s icon who was easily identifiable by his appearance. Sonny’s consistent look of pastel colors and cool shades made him look suave yet relaxed at the same time, which was also reflective of his nature. Sonny faced multiple problems throughout Miami Vice, such as when he shifted into a drug-dealing alter-ego, which gave a much-needed emotional depth to the character. Sonny’s stressful past impacted his personality, but his flaws were one of the qualities that made him so relatable.

Despite his hard life, Sonny tried his best not to let it impact his career as a police officer. Sonny was generally responsible and dedicated to putting bad guys away. His difficulties with his family, divorce, and becoming a widower were gritty but realistic, which contributed to his overall appeal. The character beautifully encapsulated the 1980s because of his glitzy lifestyle and complex backstory, amazingly engagingly blending themes of wealth and conflict. Many resonated with Sonny because he pursued the American Dream but remained grounded until Miami Vice was canceled.

Miami Vice
TV-14
Action
Crime
Drama

Miami Vice is a groundbreaking 1984 television series starring Don Johnson as Sonny Crockett and Philip Michael Thomas as Ricardo Tubbs, two undercover detectives in the Vice unit of the Miami-Dade Police Department. Set against a backdrop of Miami's vibrant nightlife, the show is known for its stylish visuals, contemporary music, and exploration of the drug trade and other criminal activities.

Where to Watch
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*Availability in US
Cast
Don Johnson , Philip Michael Thomas , Saundra Santiago , Olivia Brown , Michael Talbott , Edward James Olmos , John Diehl , Rico Paisley
Release Date
September 16, 1984
Seasons
5
Main Genre
Crime
Creator(s)
Anthony Yerkovich
Miami Vice cast photo
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8 B.A. Baracus (Mr. T)

The A-Team (1983–1987)

Mr. T’s B.A. Baracus in The A-Team, one of the best “Dad Shows” of all time, was a massive figure in 1980s culture. Baracus had plenty of hysterically funny moments in The A-Team, but his most hilarious quirk was easily his adamance about getting on planes. The character’s legendary style of massive gold chains and rings was a trademark of Baracus’, and an enormous fashion statement relative to the 1980s. The decade also celebrated physical strength and huge muscles, a category he was very much suited to. His name perfectly represented his personality – “Bad Attitude.”

Baracus’ rebellious qualities and gruff exterior were brilliant in The A-Team’s most action-packed scenes. However, his underlying heart of gold allowed him to be a loyal teammate. The A-Team ended in 1987, but the character’s immortality as an ‘80s icon continued in many ways. Baracus was a huge role model in regard to diversity representation in TV, and the actor was also a vocal advocate for bullying. His comical factors were also greatly appreciated years later, such as in Mr. T crossover fan art and the cultural impact of catchphrases like “I pity the fool.”

7 Fonzie (Henry Winkler)

Happy Days (1974-1984)

Henry Winkler’s character in Happy Days, Fonzie, defined not just the 1980s but also TV in general. While Fonzie’s mark on the 1970s was prominent, he was also a notable character of the ‘80s. His slicked-back hair, leather jacket, and jeans made Fonzie the ultimate bad boy, but despite being a troublemaker, it was difficult not to love him. Fonzie’s famous gestures and catchphrases were a big part of his charm and contributed to him becoming a household name.

The character's success resulted in a wide range of Happy Days merchandise flying off the shelves, solidifying him as a favorite face in pop culture. Fonzie went on to be referenced in other TV shows. For example, in Friends, Phoebe’s irritating doctor didn’t shut up about Fonzie as she gave birth. Fonzie was a near-caricature, and his look and personality were incredibly ‘80s, but the character was truly timeless overall.

Henry Winkler as Fonzie holding up an object in Happy Days
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6 Hawkeye (Alan Alda)

MASH (1972-1983)

MASH’s Capt. Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce, played by Alan Alda, was another character that influenced the 1970s but made the biggest impact in the ‘80s. Hawkeye’s sharp wit and ability to joke in the darkest of moments helped him cope with the heartbreaking realities of the Korean War, which was relatable for many, regardless of their military status. However, Hawkeye’s strong moral compass overpowered everything else, and the fascinating portrayal of his mental health struggles was groundbreaking for the time.

His dedication and compassion for his fellow soldiers made him an endearing character. Hawkeye’s friendship with Mike Ferrell’s B.J. was another element that audiences connected with, especially in the last moments of MASH, one of the best final sitcom scenes of all time. Hawkeye’s narrative drove the show, but his battles against authority and anti-establishment ruling were what made him so important in the ‘80s. His journey throughout the show caused significant development for Hawkeye, growing and changing as the war broke him. However, his complex characterization was what made him so beloved and launched his eternal legacy.

MASH TV show and movie
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5 Jessica Fletcher (Angela Lansbury)

Murder, She Wrote (1984–1996)

In the crime drama TV showMurder She Wrote, Angela Lansbury played novelist Jessica Fletcher. From her small town in Maine, Fletcher launched a side career as a detective that took her across the US and worldwide. With her keen observational skills, she solved all manner of mysteries. Fletcher stood out from some of the best TV detectives because she was approachable, which made people open up to her easily. In the ‘80s, fictional female detectives were relatively minimal, and because Fletcher was an amateur, her drive to be taken seriously was impactful.

Fletcher empowered women by defying stereotypes with her wisdom and relatability. Although she was very competent, she also wasn’t afraid to learn something new when needed and took on each challenge with a positive attitude. Fletcher’s commitment to discovering the truth was unmatched, but her personality was what truly resonated with audiences. There were elements to Fletcher’s character that continued to be relatable for decades after the show’s ending, proving herself to be a classic TV character throughout the ‘80s and into the upcoming Murder, She Wrote movie.

murder she wrote
Murder, She Wrote
Mystery

Murder, She Wrote was a long-running Drama and Crime television series created by Richard Levinson, Peter S. Fischer, and William Link. Starring Angela Lansbury, the series chronicled a mystery writer that become involved in solving many of the murders that sparked in her fictional hometown of Cabot Cove.

Where to Watch
  • stream
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Not available

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*Availability in US
Cast
Angela Lansbury
Release Date
January 1, 1984
Seasons
12
Network
CBS
Streaming Service(s)
Peacock

4 Blanche Devereaux (Rue McClanahan)

The Golden Girls (1985-1992)

Rue McClanahan’s best-known role as Blanche Devereaux in all seven seasons of The Golden Girls left a lasting impression on popular culture in the 1980s. The amazingly funny divorcee spent her days in Miami with her friends in a retirement home, but Blanche broke out of the archetypal old lady character in multiple unexpected ways. Blanche was a confident, independent woman who embraced her sexuality later in life with zero apology. Although it was odd to see a female character so focused on intimacy, it broke down the stigma that older women shouldn’t have an interest in sex.

Blanche’s vibrancy was a core part of her character, but she did have her profound moments. The Golden Girls tackled various social issues, but Blanche’s open-mindedness didn’t always apply to every situation. Despite this, Blanche was eager to develop as a person and be more understanding, such as in Becky’s artificial insemination storyline in the episode “The Accurate Conception.” Blanche’s commitment to her friends in The Golden Girls cast and enjoying life made her a complex character, but one that quickly became loved throughout the 1980s for the same reasons.

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3 Thomas Magnum (Tom Selleck)

Magnum, P.I. (1980-1988)

Tom Selleck's best role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I. was legendary in the ‘80s because of how the titular character navigated life. The private investigator was remembered for his flashy lifestyle—living in a mansion for free and racing around in sports cars—but also because Magnum fit the PI stereotype in a refreshing way. Magnum’s natural charisma and solid instincts were two of his best qualities. But, unlike other detectives in TV shows, his loyalty to his loved ones allowed him to be more understanding and flexible in his role.

Magnum’s past as a Navy SEAL and Vietnam War veteran made his character complicated at times, but it also gave him some profound storylines that were unusual for the time. Magnum’s journey with PTSD was painfully relatable to many, but it also provided hope by showing a character who moved on with life despite a harrowing history. Although Magnum was a serious character, he was also humorous and carefree, which was demonstrated through his colorful Hawaiian shirts and Detroit Tigers baseball cap.

2 Sam Malone (Ted Danson)

Cheers (1982-1993)

Ted Danson's character, Sam Malone, in Cheers, owned the titular bar and was known for his womanizing ways. His love for his patrons was wholesome, but Sam’s difficulties with being a recovering alcoholic and relationships made him flawed yet relatable. Sam was much more than a bartender. He was resilient and witty, with a winning smile, which added a layer of humanity to his character. One particular thing about the character that was so real was Sam and Diane’s relationship. Their relationship was captivating but failed because of their differences, which was one of the harsh realities of Cheers overall.

Another relatable factor to Sam’s character was what he represented as a small business owner. Several of the best episodes of Cheers were about Sam’s financial troubles and the pressures he faced to keep his bar afloat. Trying to keep his business going and give his customers a familiar place to go was important for Sam, and many were able to relate to it. Although Sam Malone was far from a perfect character, he was a fascinating reflection of society’s attitude in the 1980s – a hard worker, charming soul, and all-around decent person.

1 J.R. Ewing (Larry Hagman)

Dallas (1978-1991)

Larry Hagman’s J.R. Ewing from Dallas was one of the most defining characters of the 1980s. His ruthless and cunning demeanor was a captivating character study because J.R. was so complex. J.R. was not afraid to resort to manipulation and blackmail, but his jarring tactics to retain control of Ewing Oil were part of the reason why the character was so iconic. His relationships with his family, particularly his brother Bobby, were often strained, but J.R. did become softer and more approachable when his loved ones needed help.

A massive part of why J.R. was such a staple of the ‘80s was the famous cliffhanger in the episode "A House Divided." The mystery surrounding who shot J.R. was one of the biggest TV show cliffhangers of all time, especially because of the marketing campaign CBS launched alongside the storyline. If Dallas was a defining TV show of the 1980s, then oil tycoon J.R. Ewing was the poster child, and his determination and cutthroat actions represented that.