The Best 1980s ABC Comedies, Ranked

Updated October 30, 2023 798 votes 126 voters

Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best 1980s ABC Comedies, Ranked

Voting Rules

Upvote your favorite ABC Comedies that aired on TV in the '80s

Take a stroll down memory lane with the best 1980s ABC comedy shows, ranked by user votes. The best '80s ABC comedy shows came in many forms, from will-they-or-won't they romantic comedy to sitcoms packed with earnest life lesson. Some of the top 1980s ABC comedies were led by future mega-stars and other '80s ABC comedy series created iconic characters as part of ensembles.

This list of '80s ABC comedy shows includes Growing Pains, a great '80s sitcom that the whole family could enjoy. Fun fact: Leonardo DiCaprio had a role later in this series. Mr. Belvedere and Perfect Strangers are other good ABC comedy series from the 1980s.

Some of the best '80s ABC comedies also incorporated drama. The Wonder Years, Moonlighting, and Roseanne expertly weaved in serious subjects and high emotions between the laughs. This 1980s ABC comedy shows list can answer lots of questions, but one will forever remain a mystery: Who's the Boss?

What 1980s ABC comedy series do you think was the funniest? Make it known by voting up your favorites and downvoting the shows that didn't make you laugh. If you've seen them, then rerank to create your own '80s ABC comedies list!

Latest additions: Head of the Class, Just the Ten of Us, Perfect Strangers

Ranked by

1
Who's the Boss?
Judith Light, Tony Danza, Alyssa Milano
31 votes
- Premiered: September 20, 1984
In this charming '80s sitcom, viewers are invited into the lives of a modern family navigating the challenges of daily life with humor and heart. Who's the Boss? centers around Tony Micelli (Tony Danza), a retired baseball player turned housekeeper, and Angela Bower (Judith Light), a successful advertising executive. Together, they redefine traditional gender roles while raising two spirited children, Samantha (Alyssa Milano) and Jonathan (Danny Pintauro). The show garnered multiple award nominations during its eight-season run, including Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe nods, as it showcased the evolving dynamics of the American family unit through laughter and light-hearted storytelling.
- The 70+ Best Longest Running Sitcoms
- #48 of 164
  The Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #77 of 277
  The 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
2
Happy Days
Ron Howard, Henry Winkler, Tom Bosley
33 votes
- Premiered: January 15, 1974
Set in the nostalgic era of the 1950s and '60s, Happy Days transports viewers to a simpler time in the charming town of Milwaukee. The show's compelling charm lies in its relatable storylines that center around everyday life experiences such as friendship, family, and love. With an ensemble cast that includes Richie Cunningham (Ron Howard), Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli (Henry Winkler), and Joanie Cunningham (Erin Moran), the show's characters leave a lasting impression on viewers. The series not only garnered numerous awards and nominations during its 11-season run but also cemented its place in popular culture, making it a beloved classic for generations to come.
3
Mork & Mindy
Robin Williams, Pam Dawber, Jonathan Winters
27 votes
- Premiered: September 14, 1978
A comedic gem from the late 1970s, Mork & Mindy explores the eccentric and endearing friendship between an extraterrestrial visitor and a young Colorado woman. With Robin Williams portraying the lovable alien Mork and Pam Dawber as his human companion Mindy, the show's whimsical humor and heartfelt moments earned it multiple Emmy Award nominations. The sitcom, set in the picturesque city of Boulder, artfully combines elements of science fiction and slapstick comedy, making it a standout series during its four-season run. As viewers follow Mork's journey to understand Earth's customs and culture, they are treated to a charming and nostalgic television experience.
- #124 of 265
  The Best Duos of All Time
- #33 of 164
  The Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #48 of 277
  The 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
4
Moonlighting
Cybill Shepherd, Bruce Willis, Allyce Beasley
35 votes
- Premiered: March 3, 1985
Moonlighting, an innovative dramedy series of the 80s, cleverly weaves together humor, romance, and intrigue. The show follows the unlikely partnership between former model Maddie Hayes (Cybill Shepherd) and wisecracking private detective David Addison (Bruce Willis). Together, they navigate the unpredictable world of crime-solving while grappling with their undeniable chemistry. As a five-time Emmy Award winner, Moonlighting boasts a stellar cast, sharp writing, and memorable guest appearances that have garnered critical acclaim. The show's unique blend of genres and captivating character dynamics have secured its status as a cult classic, leaving a lasting impact on television history.
- #109 of 356
  TV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #87 of 164
  The Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #31 of 101
  The Best Dramedy TV Series
5
Growing Pains
Alan Thicke, Joanna Kerns, Kirk Cameron
36 votes
- Premiered: September 24, 1985
Psychiatrist Jason Seaver raises a family in suburban New York.
6
The Wonder Years
Fred Savage, Jason Hervey, Olivia d'Abo
32 votes
- Premiered: January 31, 1988
The Wonder Years, a nostalgic coming-of-age dramedy, invites audiences to revisit the trials and triumphs of adolescence through the eyes of Kevin Arnold (Fred Savage). Set against a backdrop of late-60s suburban America, the show's enduring charm lies in its relatable themes of friendship, family, and first love. Critics have lauded both Savage's authentic portrayal and the series' poignant storytelling, leading to multiple Emmy nominations and wins. With a memorable soundtrack that perfectly captures the era, The Wonder Years continues to resonate with viewers of all ages, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the bittersweet beauty of growing up.
- What Happened To The Cast Of The Wonder Years?
- #33 of 277
  The 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #32 of 101
  The Best Dramedy TV Series

Who's the Boss?

Happy Days

Mork & Mindy

Moonlighting

Growing Pains

The Wonder Years