Sure, classics like The Love Boat and Family Ties are beloved by many, but let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the lesser-known gems from the ’80s that truly tugged at our heartstrings. These shows, often short-lived, left a lasting impression on an impressionable young girl in oversized corduroys and a Dorothy Hamill haircut.
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Double Trouble (1984–85)
What’s more captivating than twins? This show featured the trendiest and most stylish twin sisters, Jean and Liz Sagal—yes, the sisters of Married… With Children and Sons of Anarchy star Katey Sagal. In its inaugural season, the twins navigated life in Des Moines, but after a move to New York City in season two, the antics ramped up with plenty of twin switcheroo shenanigans. I even tried to sport pink fluorescent suspenders in a failed homage to them! -
Spencer (1984–85)
In just six episodes, Chad Lowe played a teenage troublemaker who couldn’t stay out of trouble. The show eventually morphed into Under One Roof with a new lead actor, but I proudly stood by as one of the six avid fans of both series. -
It’s Your Move (1984–85)
Before Jason Bateman became a household name, he starred in this charming show about a teenage con artist who pulled off all sorts of playful mischief, including selling term papers. It was short-lived, barely competing with Dynasty during its time slot. -
Jennifer Slept Here (1983–84)
Ann Jillian, known for It’s a Living, starred in this quirky series about a ghost haunting a family’s home, visible only to the teenage son. Despite its absurd premise, I adored it, especially the catchy theme song that brought a delightful dose of nostalgia. -
Throb (1986–88)
This show followed a recently divorced woman working at a record label, featuring a very young Paul Walker as her son and Jane Leeves from Frasier as her roommate. I might be the only one who remembers it, but it was a quirky little slice of life. -
Three’s a Crowd (1984–85)
Let’s be honest—Three’s Company wasn’t exactly Shakespeare, but its spin-off, Three’s a Crowd, at least allowed Jack Tripper to ditch the pretense of being gay to keep his apartment. Sadly, it still lacked the charm of the original and only managed to last 22 episodes. -
Square Pegs (1982–83)
Fans of Square Pegs often ponder, “What happened to Lauren Hutchinson?” While Sarah Jessica Parker’s character thrived, Lauren, played by Amy Linker, seemed to fade away. The show was a charming take on high school life, portraying two misfits navigating adolescence with a theme song from The Waitresses that still resonates. -
The Littles (1983–85)
Based on a series of books, The Littles featured tiny, mouse-like people living in the walls of a family’s home. While the books had their charm, the animated adaptation felt a bit off, as seeing tiny beings on screen didn’t quite translate as well as it should have. -
Joanie Loves Chachi (1982–83)
This Happy Days spin-off explored the relationship between Joanie and Chachi as they pursued their dreams of rock stardom in the big city. The theme song could easily bring a tear to the eye. -
My Sister Sam (1986–88)
This series felt like a spiritual sequel to Mork & Mindy, starring Pam Dawber as a photographer whose teenage sister, played by Rebecca Schaeffer, unexpectedly moves in with her. It was a heartwarming show cut short by tragedy when Schaeffer was killed by a stalker shortly after its cancellation. -
Marlo and the Magic Movie Machine (1977–80)
A true obscure find, this educational Saturday morning show featured Marlo, a programmer with a quirky computer named “Machine.” The show was filled with flashing lights and odd graphics as they tackled movie-related games. Not much is remembered about it, but it had its own unique charm.
These nostalgic gems may not get the recognition they deserve, but for true Gen X-ers, they evoke fond memories of a simpler time in television history.
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In summary, while the ’80s had its fair share of iconic shows, these eleven hidden gems deserve a moment in the spotlight for their unique contributions to television history.