As a proud child of the ’80s, I have a soft spot for classics like The Love Boat and Family Ties, but the shows that truly tug at my heartstrings are the lesser-known gems that only lasted a season or two. These shows captivated my imagination during my formative years, especially while I was sporting my wide-wale corduroys and a Dorothy Hamill haircut.
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Double Trouble (1984–85)
Who doesn’t love a good twin story? Double Trouble featured the fabulous Jean and Liz Sagal, sisters of Katey Sagal from Married…With Children. The first season was set in Des Moines, where the twins hung out in their dad’s dance studio. In the second season, they moved to NYC to live with their eccentric aunt, leading to delightful mix-ups and comedic chaos. I even tried to emulate their style with a pair of pink fluorescent suspenders, but it didn’t quite work out. -
Spencer (1984–85)
For a brief six episodes, Chad Lowe charmed us as Spencer, a teenage troublemaker with a knack for getting into mischief. After a quick actor change and a title switch to Under One Roof, the show faded into obscurity, but I was one of the few who eagerly tuned in. -
It’s Your Move (1984–85)
Before Jason Bateman became a household name, he starred in It’s Your Move, where he played a clever teen who delighted in pulling pranks, like selling term papers. Though it struggled against Dynasty in the ratings, it remains a fond memory for me. -
Jennifer Slept Here (1983–84)
Ann Jillian is best known for It’s a Living, but her follow-up, Jennifer Slept Here, was a quirky show about a ghost haunting her former home, visible only to a teenage boy. The theme song was delightfully cheesy, a lost art in today’s television landscape. -
Throb (1986–88)
This series followed a recently divorced woman working at a record label, featuring a young Paul Walker as her son and Jane Leeves from Frasier as her roommate. I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who remembers this hidden treasure! -
Three’s a Crowd (1984–85)
The spinoff of Three’s Company saw Jack Tripper living openly with his girlfriend, Vicky, after no longer needing to pretend to be gay. Unfortunately, the show lacked the charm of its predecessor, yet I somehow managed to watch all 22 episodes. -
Square Pegs (1982–83)
Square Pegs was a high school comedy that resonated with nerds like me. It followed two misfit girls navigating their teenage years. The theme song, performed by The Waitresses, is unforgettable. But what happened to Lauren Hutchinson? -
The Littles (1983–85)
Based on a series of books, The Littles featured tiny, mouse-like creatures living in the walls of a home. While the premise sounded intriguing, the animated adaptation didn’t quite capture the magic of the original stories. -
Joanie Loves Chachi (1982–83)
A spinoff of Happy Days, this show followed Joanie and Chachi as they pursued their dreams of rock stardom. Erin Moran’s performance was endearing, and the theme song still brings a tear to my eye. -
My Sister Sam (1986–88)
I viewed My Sister Sam as a spiritual successor to Mork & Mindy, starring Pam Dawber as a photographer who takes in her teenage sister, played by Rebecca Schaeffer. The show’s cancellation was a tragic loss, especially after Schaeffer’s untimely death. -
Marlo and the Magic Movie Machine (1977–80)
This obscure educational show featured Marlo, a programmer with a talking computer named “Machine.” It was full of flashing lights and odd movie-related games, making it a unique Saturday morning experience that has faded from memory.
These shows, though perhaps forgotten by many, still hold a special place in the hearts of those of us who grew up in the ’80s. If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge about home insemination, you can check out this helpful resource and explore this insightful article about gender prediction tools. For those looking into practical options, BabyMaker’s home insemination kit is a great authority on the subject.
In summary, these underrated television shows from the ’80s bring back fond memories for those of us who were there. Each one has its unique charm and qualities that made them special, even if they didn’t last long on the air.