The Best 1980s Adventure TV Series
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Vote up your favorite adventure shows that aired on TV in the '80s
- 1Richard Dean Anderson, Dana Elcar, Bruce McGillWatch for Free with Amazon Prime Free TrialA resourceful agent undertakes secret missions for the government.More MacGyver
- #156 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #10 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- #21 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- 2George Peppard, Mr. T, Dirk BenedictThe A-Team, a classic action-adventure television series from the 1980s, follows an ensemble of ex-US Army Special Forces members who, after being accused of a crime they didn't commit, become soldiers of fortune. Led by the enigmatic and cunning Colonel John "Hannibal" Smith (George Peppard), the team includes the smooth-talking Templeton "Face" Peck (Dirk Benedict), the unpredictable and wild H.M. "Howling Mad" Murdock (Dwight Schultz), and the formidable Bosco "B.A." Baracus (Mr. T). With its signature catchphrases, thrilling car chases, and explosive stunts, the show garnered a dedicated fanbase and received multiple award nominations during its five-season run.More The A-Team
- #51 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #87 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #67 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- 3Tom Wopat, John Schneider, Catherine BachSet against the rural backdrop of Hazzard County, The Dukes of Hazzard follows the adventures of two good-hearted but mischievous cousins, Bo (John Schneider) and Luke Duke (Tom Wopat). With their iconic orange car, the General Lee, they manage to outwit the schemes of the corrupt county commissioner, Boss Hogg (Sorrell Booke), and his bumbling sidekick, Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane (James Best). A perfect blend of action, comedy, and drama, this classic television series garnered a dedicated fan base throughout its seven-season run. The show's charm lies in its memorable characters, thrilling car chases, and endearing portrayal of family values, making it an unforgettable piece of television history.More The Dukes of Hazzard
- #75 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #25 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #32 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 4Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. MosleyPrivate investigator Thomas Magnum solves crimes in Hawaii.More Magnum, P.I.
- #12 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #10 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- #62 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 5David Hasselhoff, Edward Mulhare, Patricia McPhersonIn a seamless fusion of science fiction and crime-fighting drama, Knight Rider transports viewers to a high-tech world where artificial intelligence merges with the quest for justice. This 80s classic, which garnered numerous award nominations, features Michael Knight (David Hasselhoff), a former cop turned crime-fighter, and his advanced talking car, KITT (voiced by William Daniels). Together, they tackle criminal masterminds and nefarious plots, creating a thrilling adventure that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show's unique combination of cutting-edge technology and gripping storytelling has etched its place in popular culture, resonating with fans across generations.More Knight Rider
- #84 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- #49 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #109 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- 6Don Johnson, Philip Michael Thomas, Edward James OlmosMiami Vice, a groundbreaking crime drama of the 1980s, expertly combines the gritty underworld of drug trafficking with the vibrant pastel hues of South Florida's nightlife. This Emmy Award-winning show boasts an ensemble cast led by Don Johnson (Detective James "Sonny" Crockett) and Philip Michael Thomas (Detective Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs) who portray undercover detectives navigating both personal and professional challenges. The series is lauded for its innovative use of contemporary music and stylish visuals, which elevate it beyond a mere procedural drama. Miami Vice encapsulates the essence of a time and place, while exploring the complexities of human nature and the blurred lines between good and evil.More Miami Vice
- #23 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #59 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #109 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 7Lee Majors, Douglas Barr, Heather ThomasStuntman Colt Seavers pursues bail jumpers on the side.More The Fall Guy
- #272 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #177 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- #49 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 8Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar BurtonWatch for Free with Amazon Prime Free TrialThe crew of the starship USS Enterprise explores the galaxy and fosters peace in the 24th century.
- 9Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Jack ColvinA gripping exploration of the human psyche and physical transformation, The Incredible Hulk presents a complex narrative that delves into the life of Dr. David Banner (Bill Bixby) and his monstrous alter ego, the Hulk (Lou Ferrigno). This timeless cult classic from the late 70s and early 80s seamlessly weaves elements of science fiction, drama, and action, capturing viewers' attention while simultaneously providing thought-provoking themes. With a total of three Primetime Emmy Award nominations under its belt, the series has successfully cemented itself in television history. As the show unfolds, audiences are left to ponder the intricate balance between power and vulnerability, strength and weakness, as they witness the internal struggles faced by both Dr. Banner and his green-skinned counterpart.More The Incredible Hulk
- #40 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- #9 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #178 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 10Jan-Michael Vincent, Ernest Borgnine, Alex CordA rogue pilot uses a high-tech attack helicopter to fight crime.More Airwolf
- #100 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- #293 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #22 of 59 onThe Best USA Network Original Series
- 11Robert Wagner, Stefanie Powers, Lionel StanderA self-made millionaire and his journalist wife solve crimes.More Hart to Hart
- #36 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #239 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #27 of 53 onThe Best ABC Dramas of All Time
- 12Larry Wilcox, Erik Estrada, Robert PineCHiPs, a classic American drama series that premiered on September 15, 1977, follows the lives of two motorcycle police officers of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The show stars Erik Estrada as 'Ponch' Poncherello and Larry Wilcox as Jon Baker. Their daily beat includes high-speed chases, rescues, and crime prevention. The series combines action, comedy, and drama while highlighting themes of friendship, law enforcement ethics, and social issues. Despite its lighthearted tone, the show often tackles serious subjects. Notably, Erik Estrada received a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in the series.More CHiPs
- #32 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #152 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #24 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- 13Edward Woodward, Robert Lansing, Steven WilliamsA retired government agent operates a one-man security force.
- 14Stephanie Zimbalist, Pierce Brosnan, Doris RobertsIn a charming fusion of comedy, romance, and mystery, Remington Steele follows the adventures of a clever female private detective, Laura Holt (Stephanie Zimbalist), and her debonair yet enigmatic partner, Remington Steele (Pierce Brosnan). Together, they unravel intricate cases and navigate the complexities of their own evolving relationship. Set in the 1980s, the show's nostalgic charm is enhanced by its glamorous fashion and engaging storytelling. Garnering Emmy and Golden Globe nominations during its five-season run, Remington Steele remains a beloved classic that skillfully balances intrigue and humor while showcasing the undeniable chemistry between its charismatic leads.More Remington Steele
- #16 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #37 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- #83 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- 15Lorne Greene, Michael Landon, Dan BlockerWatch for Free with Amazon Prime Free TrialSet against the rugged backdrop of the American West, this classic television drama chronicles the adventures and tribulations of the Cartwright family, led by patriarch Ben (Lorne Greene), and his three sons - the wise and thoughtful Adam (Pernell Roberts), the gentle and compassionate Hoss (Dan Blocker), and the impulsive and spirited Little Joe (Michael Landon). Throughout its 14-year run, Bonanza garnered numerous accolades, including Emmy nominations and Golden Globe awards, for its compelling storytelling and strong ensemble performances. As the Cartwrights navigate the challenges of frontier life, viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of human emotions, moral dilemmas, and exciting action that transcends time and continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.More Bonanza
- #131 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #36 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- #29 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 16Jack Lord, James MacArthur, Kam FongSet against the picturesque backdrop of the Hawaiian Islands, this riveting crime drama unfolds with a talented ensemble cast that brings each episode to life. Led by Detective Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin) and his partner, Detective Danny Williams (Scott Caan), the elite task force tackles the island's most dangerous cases with unwavering dedication. The show cleverly weaves in local culture and breathtaking scenery, which has garnered a loyal fanbase and multiple award nominations throughout its 10-season run. Hawaii Five-O showcases a perfect balance between thrilling action sequences, engaging character development, and moments of levity, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of the genre.More Hawaii Five-O
- #22 of 30 on30 Words And Phrases You Might Not Realize Originated From A Movie Or TV Show
- #40 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- #21 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- 17William Shatner, Adrian Zmed, Heather LocklearT.J. Hooker is a police drama centered around the titular character, Sergeant Thomas Jefferson "T.J." Hooker (William Shatner). After a personal tragedy, the veteran officer forgoes further promotion, choosing instead to remain on the streets and train new recruits at the academy. The series goes into the day-to-day life of law enforcement officers as they tackle crime and grapple with personal issues. Officer Stacy Sheridan (Heather Locklear), adds to the dynamic story. The major themes include justice, mentorship, and the thin line between personal and professional life in law enforcement. The show fuses action-packed sequences with character-driven stories, reflecting both the dangers and moral complexities of police work in the early '80s.More T. J. Hooker
- #46 of 53 onThe Best ABC Dramas of All Time
- #84 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- #126 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 18William Katt, Connie Sellecca, Robert CulpThe Greatest American Hero, which premiered in 1981, is a unique blend of comedy, drama, and superhero fantasy. The series follows the life of Ralph Hinkley (William Katt), a high school teacher who is gifted a suit by aliens that grants him superhuman abilities. However, he loses the instruction manual and must learn to control his powers through trial and error. With the help of FBI agent Bill Maxwell (Robert Culp) and attorney Pam Davidson (Connie Sellecca), Ralph uses his powers to fight crime. The show's theme song 'Believe It or Not' became a popular hit during its run.
- #55 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #161 of 282 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #47 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 19David Hasselhoff, Mitzi Kapture, David ChokachiLifeguards deal with life on and off the beach.More Baywatch
- #186 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #268 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #206 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- 20William Hartnell, Patrick Troughton, Jon PertweeA mysterious traveler can visit any point in space and time.More Doctor Who
- #49 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- #5 of 544 on500+ Movies And Shows With Who In The Title
- #114 of 156 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '70s, Ranked
- 21Holly Robinson Peete, Steven Williams, Peter DeLuise21 Jump Street, which premiered on April 12, 1987, is a crime drama series that follows a group of young-looking cops who go undercover at high schools to bust teenage criminals. The show launched the career of Johnny Depp, who played Officer Tom Hanson. Actors Holly Robinson Peete, Peter DeLuise and Dustin Nguyen also starred in the series. The show tackled various social issues of the time such as drug abuse, hate crimes, and discrimination. Despite its cult following and influence on popular culture, it didn't win any major awards during the original run.More 21 Jump Street
- #246 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #158 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #38 of 49 onThe Best Sitcoms From The '80s, Ranked
- 22Fred Dryer, Stepfanie Kramer, Charles HallahanHunter is an American police drama television show that was created by Frank Lupo, and starring Fred Dryer as Sgt. Rick Hunter and Stepfanie Kramer as Sgt. Dee Dee McCall, which ran on NBC from 1984 to 1991. However, Kramer left after the sixth season to pursue other acting and musical opportunities. In the seventh season, Hunter partnered with two different women officers. The titular character, Sgt. Rick Hunter, was a wily, physically imposing, often rule-breaking detective with the Los Angeles Police Department. The show's main characters, Hunter and McCall, resolved many of their cases by lethal force, but no more so than many other related television dramas.More Hunter
- #14 of 37 on'80s Shows You Want To See Rebooted
- #87 of 158 onThe Best Shows On Peacock And The Series We Can't Wait To Watch
- #67 of 321 onEvery Major Crime TV Show, Ranked By Fans
- 23Frank Welker, Peter Cullen, Corey BurtonThe Transformers is an iconic animated series that captured the imaginations of viewers with its epic saga of Autobots battling their arch-rivals, the Decepticons, for control of their home planet, Cybertron, and later Earth. With memorable characters like the valiant Optimus Prime and the malevolent Megatron voiced by Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, respectively, the series set the standard for a generation of animated adventures. The show blended action, sci-fi intrigue, and themes of heroism, loyalty, and the costs of war. Its legacy goes beyond television, spawning a vast franchise including blockbuster films, comics, and merchandise. The series has received critical acclaim for its complex storytelling and character development within the pantheon of animated series.More The Transformers
- #93 of 540 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- #18 of 193 on190+ Saturday Morning Cartoons From The '80s And '90s
- #40 of 420 onThe 385 Popular Children Cartoons
- 24Telly Savalas, George Savalas, Kevin DobsonSet against the rough backdrop of 1970s New York, Kojak is a police procedural drama that follows the hard-nosed, incorruptible Detective Theo Kojak (Telly Savalas) with his iconic bald charm and a penchant for lollipops. As he leads his team of detectives through the city's maze of crime, Kojak's signature phrase "Who loves ya, baby?" becomes synonymous with his unorthodox methods and tough exterior, which mask a deep compassion - and a relentless pursuit of justice. The primary themes of the series include the battle against corruption, the moral ambiguities of police work, and the struggle for integrity. Savalas's portrayal of Kojak earned him an Emmy and a Golden Globe, cementing the show's place in classic TV lore.More Kojak
- #46 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- #19 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #28 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- 25Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, Bruce WeitzHill Street Blues, a groundbreaking police drama, revolutionized television with its realistic portrayal of the daily lives and struggles faced by the officers and detectives of an urban precinct. Garnering numerous awards and nominations, including 98 Emmy nods, the series consistently presented a raw and gritty atmosphere that captivated audiences throughout its seven-season run. The ensemble cast, led by Captain Frank Furillo (Daniel J. Travanti) and Sergeant Phil Esterhaus (Michael Conrad), navigated the complexities of crime, personal relationships, and bureaucracy with a perfect balance of intensity and occasional humor. Pioneering the serialized storytelling format, Hill Street Blues remains an influential force in modern television.More Hill Street Blues
- #106 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #116 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #64 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 26Stephen Baldwin, Josh Brolin, Ty MillerThe Young Riders is an American Western television series created by Ed Spielman that presents a fictionalized account of a group of young Pony Express riders based at the Sweetwater Station in the Nebraska Territory during the years leading up to the American Civil War. The series premiered on ABC on September 20, 1989 and ran for three seasons until the final episode aired on July 23, 1992.More The Young Riders
- #47 of 51 onWhat's The Most Famous TV Show Set In Every State?
- #60 of 100 onThe 95+ Best Western TV Shows
- #38 of 44 onThe Best 1980s Action TV Series
- 27Kelly Preston, Anne Francis, Richard LewisRiptide is an American TV detective series that ran on NBC from December 3, 1983 to August 22, 1986, starring Perry King, Joe Penny, and Thom Bray. It was created by Frank Lupo and Stephen J. Cannell, and produced by Stephen J. Cannell Productions. The main theme was composed by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter. A mid-season replacement, it debuted as a two-hour TV movie in early 1984.More Riptide
- #72 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #202 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- #125 of 156 onThe 120+ Best Detective Shows of All Time
- 28Terence Knox, Stephen Caffrey, Tony BeckerTour of Duty is an American drama television series on CBS. It ran for three seasons from September 1987 to April 1990 as 58 one-hour episodes. The show was created by Steve Duncan and L. Travis Clark, and produced by Zev Braun. It was the first television series to regularly show Americans in combat in Vietnam and was one of several similarly themed series to be produced in the wake of the acclaimed Oliver Stone film, Platoon.More Tour of Duty
- #30 of 44 onThe Best 1980s Action TV Series
- #23 of 81 onThe Greatest Period TV Shows Set in the 1960s
- #24 of 43 onThe Best CBS '80s Shows, Ranked
- 29Linda Lavin, Philip McKeon, Vic TaybackAlice, a television sitcom that aired from 1976 to 1985, adapted from the Martin Scorsese film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, became a staple of American television throughout its run. The series stars Linda Lavin in the title role as Alice Hyatt, a widowed mother who moves to Phoenix and takes a job as a waitress at Mel's Diner. She works alongside the feisty Flo played by Polly Holliday, and the sweet but dimwitted Vera played by Beth Howland. The show's themes revolve around working-class struggles, women's independence, and the value of camaraderie in the face of life's challenges. Alice was notable for its blend of humor and episodes with a more serious tone, and Lavin received Golden Globe Awards for her performance, while the character Flo's catchphrase, Kiss my grits!, entered the American pop culture lexicon.More Alice
- #144 of 476 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #137 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #249 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 30Rex Smith, Richard Venture, Joe RegalbutoStreet Hawk is an American television series that aired for 13 episodes on ABC in 1985. The series is a Limekiln and Templar Production in association with Universal Television. Its central characters were created by Paul M. Belous and Robert "Bob" Wolterstorff, and its core format was developed by Bruce Lansbury, who had initially commissioned the program's creation. This series was originally planned for the fall of 1984, Mondays at 8:00PM Eastern/7:00PM Central. However, ABC executives changed their minds when the summer series Call to Glory did well, and Street Hawk was pushed to mid-season. Street Hawk made its debut on January 4, 1985 on ABC at 9:00PM Eastern/8:00PM Central and ran until May 16, 1985. Reruns aired on the USA Network on Saturdays at 10:00AM from 1990-91.
