6 TV Shows From the 1980s That Aged Like Fine Wine

From iconic dramas to beloved comedies, these 1980s shows are examples of television masterpieces.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The 1980s delivered several iconic TV shows that are now considered masterpieces, including Cheers, Dallas, and Miami Vice. These new innovations, along with a dedication to sincere, thoughtful writing, gave viewers some of the best television ever made.

Why it matters

Great television shows, the true masterpieces of the medium, are rare instances where all the collaborative efforts work in perfect harmony, creating something special. These 1980s shows introduced new styles of storytelling that are still widely used today, proving that mission-driven, character-driven television can survive and thrive.

The details

The article highlights six 1980s TV shows that have aged exceptionally well: Miami Vice, St. Elsewhere, The Golden Girls, Dallas, Cheers, and Hill Street Blues. These shows pushed the boundaries of television, incorporating adult themes, cinematic production values, and innovative storytelling techniques that set them apart from their contemporaries. From the psychological toll of undercover police work in Miami Vice to the ensemble cast and finale twist of St. Elsewhere, these programs demonstrated the potential of the medium to create lasting, impactful television.

  • Miami Vice aired from 1984 to 1989.
  • St. Elsewhere aired from 1982 to 1988.
  • The Golden Girls aired from 1985 to 1992.
  • Dallas aired from 1978 to 1991.
  • Cheers aired from 1982 to 1993.
  • Hill Street Blues aired from 1981 to 1987.

The players

Miami Vice

A stylish, game-changing police procedural that followed the crime-fighting exploits of detectives James 'Sonny' Crockett and Ricardo 'Rico' Tubbs.

St. Elsewhere

An unpredictable medical drama with an all-star, talented cast that gave viewers an up-close view of the inner workings of a hectic hospital.

The Golden Girls

A quintessential example of excellent sitcom writing that followed the day-to-day lives of four older women who shared a house in Miami, Florida.

Dallas

A series that followed the wealthy Ewing family, a Dallas-based family who made their fortune in the oil business, and the devious schemes of J.R. Ewing.

Cheers

A sitcom that invited viewers to watch the regulars and staff of the Boston bar Cheers pass the time by sharing stories, laughs, and the occasional insult.

Hill Street Blues

A bona fide television masterpiece that played a large role in how modern television approaches building a dramatic narrative, giving viewers an immersive ride along with the police officers who reported to the crowded Hill Street Station.

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The takeaway

These 1980s TV shows demonstrate that when all the collaborative elements of television production work in perfect harmony, the result can be timeless masterpieces that push the boundaries of the medium and influence generations of storytellers to come. The innovation, character depth, and thoughtful writing of these programs prove that mission-driven, character-driven television can survive and thrive, even decades later.