The 1980s were not just about weird hairstyles and flashy clothes. Some real cartoon classics were made back in the day that are embedded in the minds of generations. Get ready to be hit with some real nostalgia.
Inspector Gadget
Source: Mental Floss
A clumsy and awkward detective that has built-in gadgets all over his clothes and a hat that made everyone laugh is one of the staples of the eighties. It originally ran from 1983 to 1986, but it still continues to air on some kid’s channels.
Jem and The Holograms
Source: Young Entertainment Magazine
Before Hanna Montana, there was Jem and the Holograms. During the day, Jem was an ordinary girl, but at night she transforms into a superstar. The cartoon aired for 2 seasons, 1985-1988.
Gummi Bears
Source: CBR
Gummi Bears is the first Disney project that went one step above the old-fashioned cartoons with silly storylines and bad production. Bears run until the early 90s and are still watched by little kids.
Bananaman
Source: Beano
Probably one of the most ridiculous shows, but also one of the funniest ones at the same time. When Eric eats a banana he is transformed into Bananaman! Even though it ran for only three years in the mid-80s, it was one of the most memorable cartoons.
The Transformers
Source: Cancelled Sci Fi
Robot superheroes that can transform into other machines fighting among themselves! Everyone had their favorite robot that was also sold in the stores so that the kids can play pretend.
Scooby-Doo
Source: Bleeding Cool
Thanks to Scooby-Doo we all grew to love Great Danes. A huge dog that’s scared of everything, especially ghosts, made generations smile. Kids missed those marijuana insinuations, though.
Chip and Dale’s Rescue Rangers
Source: YouTube
Two funny and clumsy chipmunks, Chip and Dale, are fighting crime mostly by accident going from one mishap to another.
The Smurfs
Source: Pinterest
The Smurfs ran for eight years with enormous success. It had over 400 stories, several movies, and a remake. The little blue creatures living in mushrooms are still a valid source of fun for kids and adults alike.
He-man and the Masters of the Universe
Source: CNET
Who has the power? He-man! The blonde hero was only released to boost sales of toys, but it caught on with the kids becoming one of the most popular figures.
Care Bears
Source: 80s Fashion
Care Bears are sweet, cute, and calm teaching kids about friendship. To some, the show was a bit too adorable, but they definitely got their point across.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Source: My Nintendo News
Ninja Turtles were fun to watch for kids and teens alike. The show was a cross between a cartoon and a superhero animated movie. So, there was something for everyone.
ThunderCats
Source: Mental Floss
A cross between cats and humans, mutants, were banished from their home planet. They move to another but are followed by mean creatures who want to steal their powers.
Duck Tales
Source: YouTube
Uncle Scrooge and his three nephews go on a treasure hunt. On the way, they are met with many hurdles that will take them to an adventure of a lifetime.
The Bugs Bunny Show
Source: MUBI
The classic Bugs Bunny show is the staple or Warner Bros. Everyone knows the opening tune and many funny quotes. Ehhh, what’s up Doc?
The Pink Panther
Source: The playlist
The Pink Panther came out in the mid-1960s but continue airing for a couple of decades. The character is based on French detective Jacques Clouseau. After the animated series, two short films, four TV specials, and five video games were released.
