The Best 1980s Horror Series
- 1Paul Sparer
Tales from the Darkside, a 1980s horror anthology, kept viewers on the edge of their seats, with spine-chilling stories designed to leave a lasting impression. Created by George A. Romero, the mastermind behind Night of the Living Dead, the show boasted a rotating cast of established and rising stars. With the haunting theme music and eerie settings, Tales from the Darkside maintained a loyal fanbase who craved the heart-pounding suspense of each episode, cementing its place in horror television history.
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- 2John Kassir, Kirk Douglas
Tales from the Crypt, another anthology series that dominated the horror scene in the '80s, delivered scream-worthy stories narrated by the enigmatic Cryptkeeper. Adapted from EC Comics, the show featured top-notch acting and an array of shocking plot twists. With its dark humor and star-studded guest appearances, Tales from the Crypt became an iconic part of the 1980s horror landscape, forever etching the cackling Cryptkeeper in our nightmares.
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- 3Colm Feore, Louise Robey, Chris Wiggins
Enter Friday the 13th: The Series, a gripping foray into the macabre that took viewers on a thrilling, supernatural treasure hunt. Though unrelated to the slasher film franchise, the show centered on a group of intrepid explorers who journeyed to recover cursed objects. With its eerie atmosphere, unforgettable characters, and heart-stopping drama, Friday the 13th: The Series became beloved in its own right and gained a cult following.
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- 4Kevin Nealon, Wil Wheaton, Jerry Stiller
Monsters, an oft-overlooked gem on the '80s horror television scene, provided a weekly dose of monstrous tales with a campy, yet unnerving, twist. Showcasing the talents of a varied cast, Monsters depicted encounters with creatures that ranged from terrifying to tragic. With gritty special effects and memorable storylines, the show managed to draw in loyal audiences and remained a cult favorite for horror connoisseurs.
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- 5Robert Englund
Freddy's Nightmares, an anthology series that was ahead of its time, lurked in the darkest recesses of horror television. Based on the iconic A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise, the show explored Freddy Krueger's sinister character and origins, as well as daring to introduce new nightmare-inducing stories. While the series was short-lived, it garnered the attention and adoration of horror aficionados worldwide.
- 6Eve Crawford
The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents brought the master of suspense back to television screens with thought-provoking, hair-raising tales that showcased the work of promising young actors. Following in the footsteps of its illustrious predecessor, the show aired provocative storylines alongside chilling tales of crime and consequences. With its touch of class and nod to the original series, The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents continued to captivate horror fans with its unsettling, suspenseful stories.
- 7Carol Lynley, Darren McGavin, Simon Oakland
The Night Stalker, a chilling series from the late 70s and spanning into the 80s, introduced audiences to investigative reporter Carl Kolchak, played by the charismatic Darren McGavin. Delving into paranormal occurrences and unexplained phenomena, Kolchak's determination to uncover the truth resonated with viewers and sparked their imaginations. The Night Stalker's uncanny mix of horror and intrigue carved its place in television history as a genuinely unique and unsettling experience.
- 8
Elvira's Movie Macabre
Cheech Marin, Cassandra Peterson, John ParagonElvira's Movie Macabre, featuring the irreverent and seductive Mistress of the Dark, wrapped late-night horror fans in a welcoming embrace. Known for her charm, wit, and double entendres, Elvira's commentary on classic horror flicks added hilarity to the macabre and garnered her legions of devoted admirers. With its spookily delightful hostess and campy approach, Elvira's Movie Macabre remains a cult classic.
- 9John J. York, Lance LeGault
Werewolf, a captivating series that debuted in the late '80s, chronicled the thrilling transformation and subsequent struggles of Eric Cord, played by John J. York. With its compelling plotlines and chilling visuals, Werewolf's haunting portrayal of lycanthropy electrified fans who eagerly tuned in for each suspenseful episode. The show's extraordinary special effects and breathtaking storytelling ensured that Werewolf would leave an indelible mark on the annals of horror television.
- 10Peter Cushing, Jon Finch, Julia Foster
Hammer House of Horror, a British anthology series, conjured a sinister atmosphere with its polished and intelligent stories of suspense and horror. Featuring established actors and inspired by the legendary Hammer Films, the show won the admiration of a dedicated audience and critical acclaim. With its refined narrative style and unforgettable imagery, Hammer House of Horror demonstrated the tremendous impact of a well-crafted horror tale on the small screen.
- 11Don Messick, Casey Kasem, Heather North
Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo, while known for its disproportionate emphasis on humor, nevertheless secured a special place in the hearts of horror fans. Showcasing the beloved duo's adventures as they unmasked so-called supernatural occurrences, the series remained a cherished childhood gateway into the darker depths of horror. Bolstered by memorable characters and innocently spooky escapades, Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo entertained generations of budding horror enthusiasts.
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- 12William Conrad, David Birney, Bill Bixby
Tales of the Unexpected (US), another thrilling anthology series from the 1980s, presented chilling, suspenseful stories that left viewers questioning their assumptions. With its clever plot twists and array of talented actors, the show kept audiences on tenterhooks from beginning to end. Tales of the Unexpected captivated both horror and drama lovers alike, proving that an expertly woven tale holds universal appeal.
- 13James Coburn
Darkroom, a short-lived but memorable addition to the '80s horror TV lineup, delivered tales of terror in a uniquely unsettling format. Hosted by the mysterious and enigmatic James Coburn, the series wove together supernatural surprises and hair-raising scares, leaving viewers hungry for more. Despite its brief run, Darkroom earned a cult following and continued to linger in the memories of devoted fans.
- 14Willie Rushton
The Trap Door, an animated, claymation horror-comedy series from the 1980s, brought dark humor and a macabre aesthetic that appealed to a young audience. In an era steeped in live-action horror, The Trap Door managed to captivate viewers with its distinct visual charm and offbeat storytelling. The show went on to become a cult classic, demonstrating that even the most unconventional expressions of horror can find their niche.
