Best Drama TV Shows Of The 80s: A Nostalgic Trip

Hey everyone! Buckle up, because we're about to take a righteous trip back in time to the totally awesome 80s! Today, we're diving deep into the dramatic side of television. We're talking about the best drama TV shows of the 80s. This decade brought us some iconic series that still resonate today. From gripping crime dramas to heartwarming family sagas, the 80s offered a rich tapestry of storytelling that captivated audiences worldwide. So, grab your leg warmers, tease your hair, and let's get started. We'll explore some of the most memorable and influential drama shows that defined the decade, looking at their plots, characters, and lasting impact on television.

The Rise of the Prime-Time Soap Opera

The 1980s was the era of the prime-time soap opera. These shows were the epitome of drama, featuring complex plots, scandalous affairs, and larger-than-life characters. They dominated the television landscape and became cultural phenomena, influencing fashion, social trends, and even the way we talked. Dynasty and Dallas were the kings and queens of this genre. They brought us a world of wealth, power, and betrayal. These shows set the standard for what a prime-time soap opera could be, with their glamorous settings, over-the-top storylines, and unforgettable characters. These shows were more than just entertainment; they were a weekly event, with viewers eagerly anticipating the next cliffhanger or dramatic revelation. The success of these shows paved the way for future generations of soap operas and helped to shape the landscape of television drama.

Dallas, which premiered in 1978, continued its reign throughout the 80s, becoming one of the most-watched shows in television history. The Ewing family's saga of oil, money, and backstabbing was a national obsession. Then there was Dynasty, which focused on the Carringtons, a wealthy family living in Denver. With its glamorous fashion, catfights, and scandalous affairs, Dynasty became a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion and social trends. The show's popularity even led to the creation of a spin-off, The Colbys, further solidifying the prime-time soap opera's dominance. The success of these shows demonstrated the audience's appetite for long-form storytelling and complex character development. The format of these shows allowed for intricate plots that unfolded over multiple seasons, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the characters' lives. The use of cliffhangers and dramatic twists at the end of each episode ensured that audiences would tune in the following week to see what happened next. The shows’ impact extended beyond the screen. They influenced fashion trends, with shoulder pads and big hair becoming staples of the decade, and they also sparked conversations about wealth, power, and social class. These shows weren't just about entertainment; they provided a mirror reflecting the aspirations and anxieties of the time.

These shows set the stage for later shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and Melrose Place. They proved that audiences loved the drama and complexities of interpersonal relationships. The success of shows like Dallas and Dynasty also changed the way television was produced and consumed. Networks realized that these types of shows could generate high ratings, leading to more investment in production quality. They also realized that audiences would watch these shows in syndication, extending their life beyond their initial run. This also led to a more global audience as these shows were translated into multiple languages and aired worldwide.

Cop Shows and Crime Dramas

The 80s also saw a surge in cop shows and crime dramas, reflecting the decade's fascination with law and order. Shows like Miami Vice and Cagney & Lacey brought a fresh perspective to the genre, with stylish visuals, gritty storylines, and memorable characters. These shows tackled tough social issues and showcased the challenges faced by law enforcement. Miami Vice with its pastel colors and new wave soundtrack, redefined the cop show, turning it into a stylish and visually stunning experience. The show's focus on undercover work and drug trafficking reflected the changing times. The stylish look of the show heavily influenced men's fashion in the 80s. Cagney & Lacey, on the other hand, broke new ground by focusing on two female detectives navigating the male-dominated world of law enforcement. The show's realistic portrayal of police work and its exploration of personal and professional challenges resonated with viewers. They brought a sense of realism and social commentary to the genre. These shows also helped to shape the image of the police in popular culture, and they continue to be referenced in television and film today.

Miami Vice wasn't just a cop show; it was a cultural phenomenon. Its use of music and fashion set it apart from other shows in the genre. Its slick visuals and vibrant colors, matched with the soundtrack of the new wave, made it a visual and auditory feast. The show reflected the decadence and glamour of Miami, but also its dark underbelly of crime. The characters, especially Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs, were incredibly stylish and cool, reflecting the fashion trends of the time. The show's influence extended to music, fashion, and even the way people talked. It showed that the police force wasn't always stoic and rule-abiding. These cops had problems of their own and struggled with the moral ambiguities of their job. The show also reflected the era's changing attitudes towards drugs and crime, which were reflected in the show's storylines.

Cagney & Lacey broke barriers with its focus on two female detectives. It showed the challenges women faced in the male-dominated world of law enforcement, while still solving crimes. They were also wives, mothers, and people struggling with their own lives. Their personal lives and struggles were just as important as their work. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its exploration of personal and professional challenges. The show's characters were relatable and complex, and their interactions felt authentic. The show's success proved that there was an audience for female-led shows, and it paved the way for future shows featuring strong female leads. It had a lasting impact on television by showing that women could be at the center of a show, and still pull off the tough task of police work.

The Rise of the Legal Drama

The 1980s saw the emergence of the legal drama, with shows that focused on courtroom battles and the complexities of the legal system. Shows like L.A. Law brought a new level of sophistication to the genre. With its ensemble cast, complex storylines, and exploration of ethical dilemmas, L.A. Law redefined what a legal drama could be. L.A. Law was known for its stylish look, which featured a sleek, modern aesthetic and its exploration of complex legal and ethical issues. The show's ensemble cast featured a diverse group of lawyers who worked at a prestigious Los Angeles law firm. Each episode typically featured multiple cases, allowing the show to explore different areas of the law and offer a glimpse into the characters' personal lives. The show's success helped to popularize the legal drama, and it paved the way for future shows in the genre. Its influence can be seen in shows like The Practice, Law & Order, and Suits. The show's emphasis on character development and its willingness to tackle complex issues helped to set it apart from other shows of its time. The storylines were also known for their realism, with the writers often drawing inspiration from real-life cases. The success of L.A. Law helped to shape the landscape of television drama.

L.A. Law wasn't just a courtroom drama; it was also a show about the personal lives of its characters. The show delved into the characters' relationships, personal struggles, and ethical dilemmas, which humanized the lawyers and made the show relatable to a wide audience. The characters were often flawed, and their actions sometimes had consequences. They dealt with their own personal struggles and also had to navigate the complexities of their jobs. The show's success demonstrated that there was an audience for shows that explored the complexities of human relationships in addition to legal cases. The show's influence can still be seen in many legal dramas today.

Family Dramas and Sitcoms with Depth

The 1980s also gave us some great family dramas and sitcoms that explored relatable themes and challenged traditional family dynamics. Shows like The Cosby Show and Family Ties offered a fresh perspective on family life, with humor and heart. The Cosby Show showed a successful black family, breaking barriers and celebrating black culture. The Huxtables were a loving and supportive family, and their interactions resonated with audiences. While later, controversial issues arose around its star, at the time, the show made strides in portraying positive black images on television. The show's success helped to pave the way for other shows featuring black families, and its influence can still be seen today. Family Ties offered a funny yet poignant look at the changing values of the 1980s, through the lens of a family with liberal parents and a conservative son. The show tackled social issues while also maintaining a sense of humor and warmth. These shows offered a balance of humor and heart, making them hugely popular with audiences. The success of these shows demonstrated the power of television to connect with viewers on a personal level.

The Cosby Show and Family Ties tackled complex issues in a way that resonated with audiences. They proved that a family sitcom could be both funny and thought-provoking. These shows were influential in their day, and they paved the way for future shows that explored complex family dynamics. They helped to show how families can face challenges, learn from their mistakes, and ultimately stay together. They also challenged the stereotypes that were often portrayed on television. These shows also provided a source of comfort and familiarity for viewers. They offered a glimpse into the lives of other families, and they showed that families, no matter how different, can share similar experiences. These shows also showed the power of the family dynamic to create a sense of community.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy

The drama TV shows of the 1980s left an undeniable mark on television history. From the glitz and glamour of the soap operas to the gritty realism of the cop shows and legal dramas, these shows captivated audiences and shaped the way we watch TV today. They provided a lens through which we could view the world, reflecting the values, anxieties, and aspirations of the decade. They also helped to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and promote diversity on television. The success of these shows proved that there was an audience for diverse stories, and that audiences were willing to watch complex, multi-layered stories. The characters and storylines have become iconic, and their influence can still be seen in the shows we watch today.

So, the next time you're looking for a good show to binge-watch, why not take a trip back to the 80s? You might just rediscover your favorite show from a simpler time. Until next time, stay awesome, and keep those memories alive!