Best 80s Shows Streaming On Hulu: A Nostalgic Trip
Hey guys! Ready for a total blast from the past? If you're anything like me, you probably have a soft spot for the neon-drenched, big-haired, synth-tastic decade that was the 1980s. And what better way to relive those glory days than by diving into some classic 80s shows? Hulu has a treasure trove of these gems, so let's get ready to fire up that streaming device and get our nostalgia on!
Why 80s Shows Still Rock
The enduring appeal of 80s shows is something truly special. It's more than just a trip down memory lane; it's a reminder of a time when storytelling felt different, when characters were larger than life, and when the music was, well, totally awesome! The 1980s was a decade of bold experimentation in television, and it gave us some of the most iconic and memorable shows ever created. From groundbreaking dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, the 80s had it all.
What makes 80s shows so special? For starters, there's the fashion. Who can forget the shoulder pads, leg warmers, and acid-wash jeans? The clothes were loud, the hair was even louder, and it all contributed to the decade's unique visual style. But it's not just about the aesthetics. 80s shows often tackled important social issues, like the Cold War, economic inequality, and the AIDS crisis, in ways that were both thought-provoking and entertaining. They weren't afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
Moreover, the characters in 80s shows were incredibly relatable. They were flawed, complex, and often struggled with the same problems that we do today. We rooted for them, laughed with them, and cried with them. And let's not forget the music! The 80s produced some of the most iconic and influential songs of all time, and many of these tunes were featured prominently in our favorite shows. From synth-pop to new wave to hair metal, the music of the 80s is instantly recognizable and brings back a flood of memories.
Top 80s Shows You Can Stream on Hulu Right Now
Alright, let's dive into the good stuff! Here’s a rundown of some of the best 80s shows you can binge-watch on Hulu right now. Get ready to clear your schedule, because you're in for a treat!
1. Miami Vice
Miami Vice is the epitome of 80s cool. This groundbreaking cop show, which revolutionized television with its stylish visuals, pulsating soundtrack, and gritty storytelling, remains a cultural touchstone. Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of Miami, Miami Vice follows detectives James "Sonny" Crockett (Don Johnson) and Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs (Philip Michael Thomas) as they navigate the dangerous world of drug trafficking, murder, and corruption. What set Miami Vice apart was its unique blend of action, drama, and style.
The show's creator, Michael Mann, brought a cinematic sensibility to television, using vibrant colors, cutting-edge music, and fast-paced editing to create a visually stunning experience. The show's soundtrack, featuring artists like Phil Collins, Jan Hammer, and Glenn Frey, became a phenomenon in its own right. Miami Vice wasn't just a cop show; it was a cultural statement. The show's influence can still be seen in movies, music videos, and other forms of media today.
Beyond its style, Miami Vice also tackled serious issues, such as drug addiction, political corruption, and the plight of refugees. The show's willingness to address these topics made it more than just mindless entertainment; it made it a reflection of the times. Miami Vice is a must-watch for anyone who wants to experience the best of 80s television. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, and its influence can still be felt today. So, grab your sunglasses, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to cruise the streets of Miami with Crockett and Tubbs!
2. The A-Team
The A-Team! What a classic! This action-packed adventure series follows a group of former Special Forces soldiers who are wrongly accused of a crime and go on the run as mercenaries. Led by the charismatic John "Hannibal" Smith (George Peppard), The A-Team uses their unique skills and resources to help those in need while staying one step ahead of the law. The A-Team was known for its over-the-top action sequences, witty banter, and memorable characters. Each member of the team had their own distinct personality and skillset, which made them a formidable fighting force.
There's the smooth-talking con man Templeton "Faceman" Peck (Dirk Benedict), the skilled mechanic and pilot H.M. "Howling Mad" Murdock (Dwight Schultz), and the musclebound B.A. Baracus (Mr. T), who famously hated flying. Together, The A-Team took on impossible missions, outsmarted their enemies, and always managed to escape from seemingly hopeless situations. What made The A-Team so appealing was its sense of fun and adventure. The show never took itself too seriously, and the characters were always cracking jokes and making wisecracks.
The A-Team was also a master of improvisation, using whatever materials were available to build weapons, vehicles, and traps. The show's action sequences were often cartoonish and unrealistic, but that was part of its charm. The A-Team is a perfect example of 80s escapism. It's a show that you can watch and enjoy without having to think too hard. So, if you're looking for some lighthearted action and adventure, be sure to check out The A-Team on Hulu!
3. Hill Street Blues
Switching gears a bit, Hill Street Blues is a groundbreaking police procedural that revolutionized the genre. Set in an unnamed urban precinct, Hill Street Blues follows the lives of the officers and detectives who work there. What set Hill Street Blues apart was its realistic portrayal of police work, its complex characters, and its willingness to tackle tough social issues. The show's creator, Steven Bochco, wanted to create a police drama that was more than just shootouts and car chases.
Hill Street Blues explored the personal lives of its characters, showing their struggles with relationships, addiction, and the pressures of the job. The show also dealt with issues like racism, poverty, and police brutality. Hill Street Blues was a critical and commercial success, winning numerous awards and influencing countless other police dramas. Its realistic portrayal of police work and its complex characters made it a groundbreaking show. Hill Street Blues is a must-watch for anyone who's interested in police procedurals. It's a show that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it's sure to keep you hooked from the first episode.
4. Cheers
Who doesn’t love Cheers? This iconic sitcom, set in a Boston bar, follows the lives of the bar's owner, employees, and regular customers. Led by the charming and witty Sam Malone (Ted Danson), Cheers was known for its sharp writing, its memorable characters, and its heartwarming stories. Cheers was more than just a sitcom; it was a family. The characters on Cheers were all flawed and imperfect, but they cared about each other and supported each other through thick and thin.
The show explored themes of love, friendship, and loss in a way that was both funny and poignant. Cheers was a critical and commercial success, running for 11 seasons and winning numerous awards. Its memorable characters, sharp writing, and heartwarming stories made it one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. Cheers is a perfect example of a show that gets better with age. Its themes are timeless, and its characters are as relatable today as they were in the 1980s. So, grab a beer, pull up a stool, and get ready to spend some time with the gang at Cheers!
5. St. Elsewhere
And finally, St. Elsewhere! This medical drama, set in a rundown Boston hospital, follows the lives of the doctors, nurses, and patients who work and stay there. St. Elsewhere was known for its realistic portrayal of hospital life, its complex characters, and its dark humor. What set St. Elsewhere apart was its willingness to take risks and push boundaries. The show often dealt with controversial issues, such as euthanasia, AIDS, and mental illness. St. Elsewhere was a critical darling, but it never achieved the same level of commercial success as some of the other shows on this list.
However, its influence on the medical drama genre is undeniable. Its realistic portrayal of hospital life and its complex characters paved the way for shows like ER and Grey's Anatomy. St. Elsewhere is a must-watch for anyone who's interested in medical dramas. It's a show that's both challenging and rewarding, and it's sure to stay with you long after you've finished watching it.
Honorable Mentions
Of course, there are tons of other fantastic 80s shows on Hulu that deserve a shout-out: Night Court, Remington Steele, and L.A. Law. Happy watching!
Get Your 80s Fix on Hulu Today!
So there you have it, folks! A totally awesome list of 80s shows you can stream on Hulu right now. Whether you're looking for action, comedy, drama, or just a trip down memory lane, Hulu has something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, put on your leg warmers, and get ready to relive the glory days of the 1980s. Happy binge-watching!
Now, tell me, which of these totally tubular shows are you planning to watch first? Let me know in the comments below!