The 1980s were filled with uproarious African American comedy shows that brought joy to viewers, even though the Black sitcom boom truly soared in the ’90s. From the early days of network television, Black sitcoms have graced our screens, but it is The Cosby Show and Diff’rent Strokes that have etched themselves into the annals of TV history as the most renowned.
Now, let’s dive into the thrilling world of ’80s Black sitcoms! A Different World and What’s Happening Now!! triumphantly claim the top positions on our list, leaving audiences in stitches. Joining them are Benson, Amen, and The New Odd Couple, which have also secured their place among the best.
Where do your beloved funny Black sitcoms from the 1980s stand on this extraordinary list? Share your thoughts and let us know which ones you consider to be the crème de la crème. Feel free to enlighten us in the comments section below! And while you’re at it, don’t miss out on our compilation of ’80s black TV shows, guaranteed to keep you entertained.
1. The Jeffersons
The Jeffersons is an iconic show that revolves around the lovable African American family, headed by George (Sherman Hemsley) and Louise (Isabel Sanford). Their portrayals earned the show several Emmy nominations, which is pretty impressive! Spanning 11 seasons, this series fearlessly takes on important issues like race, class, and gender, all while keeping the audience entertained with its humor and heartfelt moments. It was truly groundbreaking during its time, and even today, The Jeffersons remains a timeless classic that continues to entertain and inspire viewers.
Premiered: January 18, 1975
Actors: Sherman Hemsley, Isabel Sanford, Mike Evans
2. A Different World
Spinning off from The Cosby Show, this college-set sitcom focuses on the lives of students at the fictional Hillman College, a historically black institution. With a talented ensemble cast including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, and Cree Summer, among others, the show tackles important topics like racism, sexism, and political activism while still delivering laughs. Throughout its six-season run, A Different World earned numerous NAACP Image Awards, setting the stage for other series to delve into the varied experiences of black youth in America.
Premiered: September 24, 1987
Actors: Lisa Bonet, Kadeem Hardison, Jasmine Guy
3. The Cosby Show
Led by comedy legend Bill Cosby as Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad as Claire Huxtable, this awesome family sitcom aimed to challenge racial stereotypes and showcase positive role models within the African American community. It’s received lots of praise, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. Despite recent controversies involving its lead actor, The Cosby Show is still cherished by many as one of TV’s all-time favorites.
Premiered: September 20, 1984
Actors: Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Malcolm-Jamal Warner
4. Diff’rent Strokes
Charming audiences for eight seasons, this sitcom became a favorite with Gary Coleman’s iconic catchphrase, “Whatchu talkin’ ’bout Willis?” It tells the story of two orphaned brothers who are adopted by a wealthy businessman named Phillip Drummond, played by Conrad Bain. The show tackles serious subjects like racism and drug abuse, but does so in a lighthearted manner. It even features memorable guest stars like Nancy Reagan. Diff’rent Strokes not only entertains viewers but also delivers thought-provoking messages.
Premiered: November 3, 1978
Actors: Conrad Bain, Gary Coleman, Todd Bridges
5. Sanford
Sanford and Son, a popular TV series, had a spinoff that revolved around the life of widower Fred Sanford in Los Angeles. Played by the talented Redd Foxx, this sitcom tackled the ups and downs of Fred’s life, love, and business. With Foxx’s sharp humor and impeccable comedic timing, the show received great ratings and acclaim for its groundbreaking portrayal of an older black man as the main character. Although it only lasted for two seasons, Sanford made a lasting impact on viewers and showcased the enduring talent of Redd Foxx.
Premiered: March 15, 1980
Actors: Redd Foxx, Dennis Burkley, Marguerite Ray
6. 227
Let’s talk about the sitcom centered around Marla Gibbs’ character, Mary Jenkins. She’s this gossipy housewife living in apartment 227 in Washington D.C. It’s a show that brings together these amazing female characters, who bond over their everyday life experiences. And let me tell you, it’s got a great mix of humor and heartwarming moments.
One standout talent from the show is Jackée Harry, who won an Emmy Award for her role as Sandra Clark. Her performance adds so much to the overall appeal of 227. It’s no wonder this show became a firm favorite during its impressive five-year run.
Premiered: September 14, 1985
Actors: Marla Gibbs, Hal Williams, Alaina Reed-Hall
7. Amen
Sherman Hemsley makes a comeback on TV in the 80s classic Amen. He plays Deacon Ernest Frye, a guy who navigates the responsibilities of managing his Philadelphia church while juggling his family life. Joining him is Clifton Davis as Reverend Reuben Gregory. Their different personalities create entertaining dynamics throughout the show’s five-season run. The cast’s incredible chemistry, along with hilarious storylines that tackle important social issues, makes Amen an unforgettable addition to the list of fantastic black sitcoms of its time.
Premiered: September 27, 1986
Actors: Sherman Hemsley, Clifton Davis, Anna Maria Horsford
8. Gimme a Break!
Featuring Nell Carter as Nell Harper, Gimme A Break! tells the story of a housekeeper who becomes a surrogate mother for three orphaned girls after their mother’s passing. Over six seasons, the show takes us on their journey through loss, love, and self-discovery. Nell Carter’s incredible performance even earned her two Emmy nominations.
The series goes beyond just entertainment, as it tackles important topics like racism and LGBTQ+ acceptance in a way that is easy for viewers to digest. It manages to address these issues without losing its palatable and enjoyable nature.
Gimme A Break! is a sitcom that perfectly balances humor, heartache, and relevant themes. It has become a beloved show from its era and continues to hold its special place in the hearts of many.
Premiered: October 29, 1981
Actors: Nell Carter, Dolph Sweet, Kari Michaelson
9. Family Matters
Family Matters” was initially focused on the Winslow family, who belonged to the middle-class. However, it didn’t take long for the sitcom to transform into a platform for Jaleel White’s eccentric depiction of the nerdy neighbor, Steve Urkel. Throughout its nine-season tenure, the show received numerous accolades such as NAACP Image Awards and Young Artist Awards, all thanks to its incredibly talented cast members. The secret to its enduring popularity lies in its ability to strike a perfect balance between heartfelt storylines and hilarious slapstick comedy. Even today, “Family Matters” remains a beloved classic that continues to bring joy to audiences
Premiered: September 22, 1989
Actors: Reginald VelJohnson, Judyann Elder, Darius McCrary
10. What’s Happening Now!!
What’s Happening Now!! was a revival of the beloved 1970s sitcom. It caught up with the main characters Raj, Dwayne, and Rerun several years after the original show, as they tackled the ups and downs of adult life. With their trademark humor, they faced challenges in relationships, career growth, and parenthood. This series not only brought back nostalgic memories but also introduced fresh storylines that kept viewers hooked. What’s Happening Now!! managed to maintain the spirit of its predecessor throughout its three-season run, charming fans all over again.
Premiered: 1985
Actors: Martin Lawrence, Fred Berry, Anne-Marie Johnson
11. Benson
Featuring Robert Guillaume reprising his Emmy-winning role from Soap, Benson DuBois made a smooth transition from butler to the state governor’s director of household affairs in this clever spinoff series. With its sharp wit and Guillaume’s impeccable comedic timing, Benson earned numerous Emmy nominations throughout its seven-season run. The show skillfully tackled political intrigue and social issues, serving up biting satire that left audiences chuckling. It stands as a remarkable testament to the increasing visibility of black actors in significant television roles during the 1980s.
Premiered: September 13, 1979
Actors: Robert Guillaume, James Noble, Inga Swenson
