The 1980s were a fantastic time for science fiction, with exciting stories appearing in both movies and television. While ’80s sci-fi films are often more celebrated, some TV series from that era also stand out. Many great sci-fi shows from the decade haven’t received the recognition they deserve. With so many successful shows like Knight Rider, Star Trek: The Next Generation, V, and Red Dwarf, it’s easy to understand how even quality shows could be forgotten over time.
Even though many people have forgotten how good these 1980s sci-fi shows were, they’re still really fun to watch. In a way, being overlooked actually makes them more special – they’ve become hidden treasures from a decade full of fantastic sci-fi. It’s a shame they were ever forgotten, but at least they still stand out as being truly great.
7) Automan (ABC, 1983-1984)
Okay, so if we’re talking about ’80s sci-fi that needs a modern update, I’m putting Automan at the top of the list. The show’s about this cop who’s a computer whiz, and he basically creates a holographic, AI superhero to fight crime with him. It was a really fun buddy-cop show, and honestly, the idea of a tech expert teaming up with an AI crimefighter feels super relevant today. Plus, even now, the original still has a lot of charm!
6) Something Is Out There (NBC, 1988)
Many fantastic science fiction shows have flown under the radar, but the 1988 series Something Is Out There is particularly notable for its unrealized promise. Often seen as a forerunner to The X-Files, the show centers on a police officer investigating disturbing murders who discovers an alien danger. He then joins forces with a telekinetic being to save the planet. While the show’s mix of sci-fi and police work didn’t last long, it remains a great, yet largely forgotten, series from the 1980s.
5) Alien Nation (Fox, 1989-1990)
The 1980s gave us another sci-fi buddy cop show with Alien Nation, a series many now overlook despite being quite good for its time. The show imagined a future where humans and alien refugees lived together on Earth, and focused on a human-alien partnership within the LAPD. Despite dealing with complex issues, Alien Nation was a fun and engaging sci-fi show that hasn’t received the recognition it deserves.
4) The Greatest American Hero (ABC, 1981-1983)
The 1980s had a lot of fantastic sci-fi shows that have faded from memory, and The Greatest American Hero is a prime example. This funny superhero show centers around Ralph, a man given a suit by aliens that grants him superpowers when he wears it. It was a truly enjoyable and lighthearted series that doesn’t get much attention these days.
3) Max Headroom (ABC, 1987-1988)
If you’re looking for a sci-fi show that deserves more attention, check out Max Headroom. It’s a stylish and surprisingly accurate look at a future where powerful TV networks control everything, following an investigative journalist as he navigates this world. Though it didn’t last long on air, Max Headroom has become a beloved classic for many.
2) The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers (1986-1989)
Originally aired between 1986 and 1989, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers is a largely forgotten show. This space western was remarkably innovative for its time, centering on a team dedicated to establishing law and order on the galaxy’s outer edges. Despite being a truly great show, it’s largely unknown today, and many haven’t even heard of it.
1) Voyagers! (NBC, 1982-1983)
Though not flawless, Voyagers! was a fantastic and largely forgotten TV show from the 1980s. It featured a somewhat clumsy time traveler from the future who teamed up with a knowledgeable teenager from 1982. Together, they jumped through history, fixing problems in the timeline. The show was a clever blend of comedy, education, and smart storytelling, offering a fresh take on time travel adventures.
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2026-02-01 20:40