Classic Sitcoms From The 1980s That Still Make Us Laugh

Cheers

The 1980s provided homes around the world with some of the most memorable TV sitcoms in history. These timeless shows not only brought laughter to the living room but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. If you doubt the impact that many '80s sitcoms continue to have on the world around you, consider how often you hear the retro theme song used in a modern commercial versus how many reboots you watch today. And watch the spinoffs, and how often you hear people quoting the signature phrase.

Family dynamics and escape from the workplace took center stage in '80s sitcoms. Meanwhile, the characters became our extended family, and their phrases echoed in our daily conversations. Let's take a trip down memory lane as we revisit some of the standout sitcoms of the '80s that have left a lasting legacy, proving that laughs really have no expiration date.

Sometimes, you want to go where everyone knows your name, and creators James Burrows and Glenn Charles made that possible when they brought "Cheers"'s colorful group of bartenders and patrons into our living rooms. The show's star, Ted Danson, played Sam Malone, a charming ex-baseball player turned bartender whose charisma ultimately set the tone for the series.

However, a show about a baseball player turned bartender wouldn't be enough to make a lasting impact on its own. That's where the cast of "Cheers" comes in handy. The show is still a well-known example of '80s sitcom history, largely due to the interactions between customers visiting the bar and the employees who work there. Whether it was Cliff Clavin's intellectual musings or Norm Peterson's marital complaints, the relatable characters found on "Cheers" cemented the show's position in pop culture history.

The Golden Girls

Premiering in 1985, this is another example of a show that has stood the test of time. The refreshing blend of humor, heart and enduring friendship continues to be a source of joy to people around the world. The show revolved around a stellar cast, including Bea Arthur (Dorothy), Betty White (Rose), Estelle Getty (Sophia) and Rue McClanahan (Blanche), who played four older women, Who found herself single for many reasons. And sharing a roof.

In addition to being comedy gold, "The Golden Girls" also raised some major social issues that are still prevalent in our modern world almost 40 years after its debut. Whether it's Rose's fear of AIDS, Blanche's grappling with her own undiagnosed homophobia, or the underlying theme of ageism, "The Golden Girls" makes you want to look at someone you love and thank them for being a friend. want to give.

The Cosby Show

"The Cosby Show" was a groundbreaking 1980s sitcom that focused on a successful African American family, the Huxtables, and their jobs, education, love life and more. Created by Michael Leeson and Ed Weinberger, the show starred Bill Cosby, who played Doctor Heathcliff Huxtable. Their unique sweaters, one of which you can see in this photo, became a visual trademark for the show, which ran from 1984 to 1992. Phylicia Rashad played Claire Huxtable, a successful lawyer, and focused primarily on how both parents raised their five children, with Dr. Huxtable often showing her children growing up and moving into the family home. Encourage you to go out.

When "The Cosby Show" debuted, there were a lot of stereotypes revolving around African American families, and a sitcom that took a humorous, yet dark take on those things was revolutionary. As the show progressed, Huxtable's children began dating, married, and started families of their own, increasing the show's appeal to its audience.

family relations

While it's hard to turn on the TV without seeing something about the growing political divide between right and left, the first bold leap into this area was "Family Ties," a 1982 sitcom created by Gary David Goldberg. Although the show dealt with a lot of difficult subjects, it largely revolved around Alex P. Keaton, played by a young Michael J. Fox, a conservative young Republican with high aspirations, and his interactions with his left-leaning, liberal family. The show was largely set in the Reagan era and took a tasteful yet hilarious approach to the ideological differences that are still prevalent in our world today. Steven Keaton, played by Michael Gross, and his wife Elise, played by Meredith Baxter, were also the parents of Mallory and Jennifer. However, it was Fox who really stole the show with his portrayal of Alex.

square pegs

"Square Pegs" didn't have as long a lifespan as some of the other shows on this list, but this short-lived series left a lasting impression on viewers, largely due to its humorous approach to the trials and tribulations of high school life. Created by Anne Beets, the show focused on Weimawi High School, specifically the two students in this image, Patty Green and Lauren Hutchinson. Of course, the role of Patty Greene was played by a young Sarah Jessica Parker, who left her mark in countless movies and TV shows, most notably, "Sex and the City."

Sure there have been shows about high school before, but "Square Pegs" took a fresh approach by eliminating many of the traditional high school stereotypes that other shows took. That's why the show's quirky humor made it a hit among fans. While the show only aired on CBS for the 1982–83 season, it remains a source of joyful nostalgia for millions.

growing pains

Airing from 1985 to 1992, "Growing Pains" is one of the most beloved '80s sitcoms of all time. Thanks to the lovable Seaver family shown in this image, the show is still considered an excellent example of a classic sitcom. Created by Neil Marlens, the show revolves around psychiatrist Dr. Jason Seaver, played by Alan Thicke, and his wife Maggie, played by Joanna Kerns. The couple are raising their three children, Mike, Carol and Ben. Mike, the eldest son, quickly becomes the standout star of the series, thanks to the charisma of the young Kirk Cameron.

In addition to the comedic timing and humor that made the show a hit, the writers were also able to present the ups and downs of a family growing up in a realistic manner along with some unforgettable moments of humor. If you were asked to name the quintessential sitcom of the '80s, "Growing Pains" would be at the top of your list.