The 1980s were an era of wild indulgence and non-stop excitement. Explosive, adrenaline-fueled shows ruled the airwaves, capturing the hearts of viewers everywhere. Prepare to be swept away by the most thrilling 1980s action TV series, carefully curated for your enjoyment. These shows transported audiences to captivating worlds, from gritty crime sagas to epic voyages aboard a futuristic starship. Get ready to embark on a journey through the most exhilarating shows of the decade!
Enter the world of MacGyver, a mastermind of ingenuity who always found a way to outsmart the toughest challenges. Another iconic show from this era was Magnum, P.I., which captured the imagination of millions.
The A-Team showcased the power of teamwork and kept audiences on the edge of their seats throughout the 80s. Motorcycle enthusiasts were captivated by the thrilling adventures of CHIPs. This list also includes other unforgettable shows like Hill Street Blues, Tour of Duty, and Miami Vice.
Which 1980s action TV series do you believe reigns supreme? Join the exhilarating journey and share your love for the shows that captivated your heart in that unforgettable decade.
1. The A-Team
The A-Team was definitely one badass action show back in the 80s. It had this awesome gang of characters that you just couldn’t forget – the fearless leader, Hannibal Smith, the smooth-talking con man, Face, the crazy mechanic, Murdock, and the tough-as-nails B.A. Baracus. These ex-commandos were all about crazy adventures and over-the-top action. They never failed to entertain us every single week, and that’s why it became such a huge hit and left a lasting impact on pop culture.
Actors: George Peppard, Mr. T, Dirk Benedict, Dwight Schultz, Melinda Culea
1/23/1983
2. Magnum, P.I.
Magnum, P.I. was a show that had people absolutely captivated. It had this incredible mix of breathtaking places, heart-pounding action, and, let’s not forget, the irresistible charisma of Thomas Magnum, brought to life by the talented Tom Selleck. Taking place in the stunning paradise of Hawaii, Magnum’s job as a private investigator was far from boring. It kept viewers on the edge of their seats with exhilarating car chases, intense shootouts, and thrilling moments of spy-like intrigue. And let’s be real, that signature mustache and tropical shirt added the perfect finishing touch.
Actors: Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley, Larry Manetti, Gillian Dobb
12/11/1980
3. Knight Rider
Knight Rider was a game-changer in the world of action TV shows. It added a futuristic element to the tried and true formula, with the talented David Hasselhoff taking on the role of Michael Knight – a badass crimefighter. But what really set this show apart was his partner in crime-busting: KITT, the artificially intelligent car. Together, they formed an unbeatable team that not only took down bad guys but also delivered some seriously snarky one-liners. It’s no wonder that Knight Rider became an iconic staple of 1980s television.
Actors: David Hasselhoff, Edward Mulhare, Patricia McPherson, William Daniels, Rebecca Holden
9/26/1982
4. MacGyver
MacGyver, the legendary action hero, was loved by those who appreciated a thinking person’s approach to challenges. Instead of resorting to guns and brute force, he relied on his wits and a trusty roll of duct tape. Richard Dean Anderson perfectly embodied this DIY spirit as the clever Angus MacGyver, consistently outsmarting villains and cheating death in every episode of the show. MacGyver’s incredible resourcefulness and knack for solving problems on the spot gained him a devoted following, to the point where people started using his name as a verb in their everyday lives.
Actors: Richard Dean Anderson, Dana Elcar, Bruce McGill, Elyssa Davalos
9/29/1985
5. The Dukes of Hazzard
The Dukes of Hazzard was all about having a blast in the ’80s. It starred the rowdy and lovable duo, Bo and Luke Duke, played by John Schneider and Tom Wopat. These guys were known for tearing up the roads of Georgia in their flashy muscle car, the General Lee. Alongside them were their cousin Daisy and tough-as-nails Uncle Jesse. Together, they constantly clashed with the corrupt Boss Hogg and his henchman, Sheriff Roscoe. This resulted in an endless but seriously entertaining cycle of car chases, close calls, and jaw-dropping stunts. It’s no wonder this show won the hearts of viewers all across the country.
Actors: Tom Wopat, John Schneider, Catherine Bach, Denver Pyle, Sorrell Booke
1/26/1979
6. Miami Vice
Miami Vice was the ultimate representation of the cool and stylish 1980s vibe. It had those neon-soaked visuals, a thumping soundtrack, and the street-smart detectives Crockett and Tubbs, portrayed by Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas. The show was packed with flashy sports cars and intense undercover operations. Miami Vice was like a high-octane thrill ride that really made its mark on the genre.
Actors: Don Johnson, Philip Michael Thomas, Edward James Olmos, Saundra Santiago, Olivia Brown
9/16/1984
7. The Fall Guy
The Fall Guy was a show that revolutionized the world of stunt work and bounty hunting, bringing a surge of thrilling action and an audacious hero named Colt Seavers. The talented actor, Lee Majors, delivered a brilliant performance as Seavers, a stuntman in Hollywood who also pursued fugitives on the side. With his personal expertise in stunts, Majors brought an authentic and captivating energy to this action-packed adventure that captivated audiences throughout the ’80s.
Actors: Lee Majors, Douglas Barr, Heather Thomas
11/4/1981
8. The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk was such an amazing adaptation of the beloved comic book character. It had this cool guy named Dr. David Banner, played by Bill Bixby, who would turn into the massive green monster, played by Lou Ferrigno, whenever he got all angry. This show was like a rollercoaster ride, with a perfect mix of action and drama. It really tugged at your heartstrings as you followed the troubled life of this misunderstood hero.
Actors: Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Jack Colvin, Mariette Hartley
3/10/1978
9. Simon & Simon
Simon & Simon was a total blast! It was this awesome mix of action, detective work, and good old sibling rivalry. Jameson Parker and Gerald McRaney absolutely killed it as Rick and A.J. Simon, these two private investigators who always seemed to get caught up in crazy mysteries and crazy shootouts. And let me tell you, their dynamic was gold! They had such different personalities, and their banter was just so entertaining. It added this really fun, light-hearted vibe to the whole dangerous world of private investigation. No wonder they had such a huge fan base in the ’80s.
Actors: Jameson Parker, Gerald McRaney, Jeannie Wilson, Mary Carver, Eddie Barth
11/24/1981
10. CHiPs
CHiPs was a show that hooked viewers with the exciting escapades of the California Highway Patrol’s most badass motorcycle officers, Jon Baker, played by Larry Wilcox, and Frank “Ponch” Poncherello, portrayed by Erik Estrada. Together, they fearlessly took on high-speed chases, tackled major crimes, and even sprinkled in some much-needed comedic moments. This incredible partnership not only defined the show but also solidified its position in the annals of ’80s television.
Actors: Larry Wilcox, Erik Estrada, Robert Pine, Brodie Greer, Paul Linke
9/15/1977
11. Charlie’s Angels
Charlie’s Angels truly mesmerized viewers with its stunning and smart group of undercover agents, effortlessly blending crime-fighting with a sprinkle of glamour. The trio of ladies, originally portrayed by Jaclyn Smith, Farrah Fawcett, and Kate Jackson, radiated both power and sass, illustrating that intelligence and beauty go hand-in-hand when it comes to vanquishing villains in a stylish manner. Their impact during that era was so immense that they became the shining stars of the decade.
Actors: Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith, Farrah Fawcett, David Doyle, Cheryl Ladd
3/21/1976
