Let's delve into the world of 1980s television and uncover some forgotten gems that, in my opinion, deserve a second look. It's fascinating how certain shows can leave a lasting impression, while others fade into obscurity despite their initial popularity.
The Golden Age of TV
The 1980s was a decade of diverse and imaginative television, from crime-fighting animals to sci-fi robots and everything in between. While some shows like “The Golden Girls” and “Miami Vice” have rightfully earned their place in TV history, others have been left by the wayside.
Uncovering the Forgotten
One such show is “The Hogan Family”, originally titled “Valerie”, which chronicled the life of a mother, Valerie Hogan, and her struggles to balance career, family, and an absent husband. This family sitcom, starring the talented Valerie Harper, ran for six seasons and was a platform for the young Jason Bateman's career.
“Small Wonder” is another forgotten gem. This sci-fi sitcom, created by Howard Leeds, told the story of a robotics engineer and his secret creation, a humanoid robot resembling a little girl. It was a massive hit with children, but has since been largely forgotten.
Launching Careers
“Bosom Buddies”, starring Tom Hanks, is a show that dominated ratings in the early 80s. The show's premise, about two friends disguising themselves as women to find affordable housing, launched Hanks' career and showcased his early comedic talent.
“Empty Nest”, a spin-off of “The Golden Girls”, followed the story of a widowed pediatrician and his struggles with his daughters. This show, starring Richard Mulligan and featuring guest appearances by the Golden Girls themselves, ran for seven seasons and provided a platform for the talented cast to explore new characters.
Fantasy and Friendship
“Free Spirit” was a fantasy sitcom that followed the adventures of a high-spirited witch, Winnie, played by Corinne Bohrer. This show was a breakthrough for Alyson Hannigan, who earned a Young Artist Award nomination for her role.
“Kate & Allie”, created by Sherry Coben, focused on the friendship between two divorced mothers navigating life in 1980s New York. Susan Saint James and Jane Curtin starred as the leads, offering a unique perspective on female friendship and parenting.
Sci-Fi Adventures
“Misfits of Science”, a sci-fi comedy-drama, followed the adventures of a group of individuals with superpowers. Fronted by Dean Paul Martin, the show offered a unique take on the superhero genre and showcased the talents of Courteney Cox, among others.
A Deeper Look
These shows, while forgotten by many, offer a glimpse into the diverse and imaginative world of 1980s television. They showcase the talent of actors like Tom Hanks and Alyson Hannigan early in their careers, and provide a unique perspective on family, friendship, and the human condition.
It's a reminder that sometimes the most memorable shows are the ones that take us on unexpected journeys and offer a fresh take on familiar themes. So, let's not forget these hidden gems and the impact they had on shaping the television landscape.
