15 Defunct TV Shows from the ’80s That Deserve a Reboot
The 1980s were a golden period for television, marked by a wide range of unforgettable programs that enthralled viewers. However, many of these initiatives have been long forgotten or are no longer shown.
- Tricia Quitales
- 5 min read
Many classic TV shows emerged in the 1980s; some of them have not aired in decades. Although a few of these initiatives have left enduring legacies, many have disappeared from public awareness. This article presents 15 shows from that era that merit a modern reboot, revitalizing classic ideas.
1. The A-Team
Fotopersbureau De Boer on Wikimedia
Comprising a group of top mercenaries on the run from the military, the A-Team was an action-packed show that solved problems and battled injustice wherever they went. During its original run, it was a hit because of its unusual combination of camaraderie, action, and comedy. A modern reboot can modernize the team with a varied cast of characters and exciting, modern missions mirroring the difficulties of modern society.
2. Knight Rider
Unknown author on Wikimedia
Following Michael Knight, a man with a shadowy past, Knight Rider teamed up with Kitt, an advanced artificial intelligence tool, to combat crime. The show’s fast cars, high-tech gadgetry, and action-packed storylines made it popular. Rebooting this show can revolve around self-driving vehicles and advanced artificial intelligence, offering a fresh approach for today’s viewers.
3. The Wonder Years
20th Television & Lee Daniels Entertainment on Wikimedia
Set in the late 1960s and early ’70s, The Wonder Years was a sincere coming-of-age narrative about Kevin Arnold navigating adolescence. The show engaged viewers with its mix of comedy, drama, and nostalgia. A reboot can center on today’s youth and address modern family dynamics, technology, and social media.
4. Alf
Unknown author on Wikimedia
Alf introduced Gordon Shumway to viewers, an alien from Melmac who finds his way into the dysfunctional Tanner family’s house. The show combined charming family moments with oddball comedy. Using CGI and special effects to bring Alf’s antics to life in a fresh manner, a reboot might profit from the current alien obsession.
5. Perfect Strangers
Miller-Boyett production on Wikimedia
Perfect Strangers centered on the misadventures of naive immigrant Balki Bartokomous from the fictional island of Mypos and his austere American cousin Larry. Their unusual relationship was a comedic gold mine, and the program developed as a fan favorite. With a fresh perspective on their improbable friendship, a reboot can show cultural variances in a modern setting.
6. Family Ties
Ubu Productions/Paramount Television on Wikimedia
The Keaton family showed the conflict between idealistic parents and their conservative, Reagan-loving son, Alex P. Keaton. The program humorously and heartily tackled political and social concerns. Focusing on today’s generational gap and changing political environment, a reboot could present a comparable dynamic.
7. Growing Pains
Warner Bros. Television Studios on Wikimedia
With psychologist dad Jason, his stay-at-home wife Maggie, and their kids navigating daily life, this sitcom centered on the Seaver family. The family-friendly humor mixed with important problems made it interesting and relevant. A reboot can look at the contemporary family dynamics, including juggling jobs, parenting, and how social media shapes kids.
8. The Greatest American Hero
Following NYC on Pexels
The Greatest American Hero chronicled the tale of an average teacher who received a superhero suit but found it difficult to learn its abilities. It became a cult classic from the mix of comedy and superhero action. With a more diverse lead and a fresh interpretation of the “reluctant hero” idea in a world full of actual heroes, a reboot might be interesting.
9. The Fall Guy
Universal Pictures on Wikimedia
Lee Majors starred in The Fall Guy, which included a stuntman moonlighting as a bounty hunter, frequently finding himself in dangerous circumstances. There was adventure, humor, and action on the show. Modern action buffs could find a reboot appealing since it combines exciting stunts with crime-solving using the most recent technology in filmmaking for striking visuals.
10. Chips
James Collington on Pexels
Chips followed two California motorcycle police officers as they battled crime and patrolled the highways. Among the most-watched shows of the 1980s, it was one with a mix of action and lighthearted events. A reboot might modernize the show’s idea about contemporary policing concerns, including social justice and technology in law enforcement.
11. Dynasty
Aaron Spelling Productions, CBS Television Distribution, ABC on Wikimedia
Dynasty was a prime-time soap opera focusing on the affluent Carrington family and their conflicts in personal and business life. Celebrated for its extravagant drama and glitzy settings, it caught the reality of the ’80s. A reboot might modernize the program by including varied characters and modern themes, including corporate avarice and environmental responsibility.
12. Moonlighting
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Moonlighting combined mystery, romance, and comedy with Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd as private detectives who bickered constantly but also had obvious chemistry. The show’s mix of genres set it ahead of its time. Using contemporary technology and crime-solving techniques, a reboot can center on a new pair solving cases while juggling their complex personal lives.
13. Punky Brewster
Punky Brewster on Wikimedia
Punky Brewster related the tale of a spunky young child named Punky and her exploits alongside her adopted father, Henry. The program was a delightful narrative of family, friendship, and conquering hardship. Emphasizing themes of inclusion, foster care, and community support, a reboot can follow Punky’s daughter or a new young girl confronting modern challenges.
14. Tales from the Darkside
Lucas Pezeta on Pexels
Often leaving viewers with a startling twist, the Darkside presented a range of eerie, suspenseful, and supernatural stories. Every week, the anthology structure led to a different kind of horror. A reboot might create more visually spectacular episodes using today’s special effects while preserving the creepy atmosphere that made the original so appealing.
15. The Equalizer
Original: Universal Television, CBS Studios Vector: Sramio on Wikimedia
Edward Woodward played a former intelligence agent turned vigilante who aids in the needs of those seeking justice. The show’s tough attitude made it a favorite, even though it combined action with a strong moral compass. With fresh technology and various social concerns exploring how justice has changed in the twenty-first century, a reboot could present a more modern take.