1. Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo (1980-1982)
A spin-off of the original Scooby-Doo series, this show introduced Scooby's plucky nephew, Scrappy-Doo. The show's popularity was due to its unique combination of mystery-solving and slapstick humor. It became a pop culture staple, with catchphrases like "Puppy Power!" The voice cast included Don Messick (Scooby-Doo), Casey Kasem (Shaggy), and Lennie Weinrib (Scrappy-Doo).
2. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983-1985)
This animated series followed the adventures of Prince Adam, who transformed into the powerful He-Man to protect the mystical land of Eternia from the evil Skeletor. The show's popularity was due to its action-packed storylines, memorable characters, and unique toy line. It became part of pop culture with the iconic phrase "By the power of Grayskull!" The voice cast included John Erwin (He-Man), Alan Oppenheimer (Skeletor), and Linda Gary (Teela).
3. The Smurfs (1981-1989)
Based on the Belgian comic series, this animated show followed the lives of small blue creatures known as Smurfs, living in a hidden village and constantly evading the evil wizard Gargamel. The show's popularity stemmed from its unique characters, catchy theme song, and moral lessons. It became part of pop culture with the widespread use of the term "Smurf" as a verb or adjective. The voice cast included Don Messick (Papa Smurf), Danny Goldman (Brainy Smurf), and Lucille Bliss (Smurfette).
4. Muppet Babies (1984-1991)
An animated series featuring younger versions of the beloved Muppets characters, as they used their imaginations to go on various adventures. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and the lovable Muppet characters. It became part of pop culture with memorable catchphrases like "Gonzo the Great!" The voice cast included Greg Berg (Fozzie), Katie Leigh (Rowlf), and Laurie O'Brien (Piggy).
5. ThunderCats (1985-1989)
An animated series that followed a group of cat-like humanoid aliens who defended their new home on the planet Third Earth from various villains. The show's popularity was due to its action-packed storylines, memorable characters, and unique toy line. It became part of pop culture with the iconic phrase "ThunderCats, ho!" The voice cast included Larry Kenney (Lion-O), Earle Hyman (Panthro), and Lynne Lipton (Cheetara).
6. Transformers (1984-1987)
Based on the popular toy line, this animated series followed the ongoing battle between the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons, warring factions of sentient robots that could transform into vehicles and other objects. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, action-packed storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture with phrases like "More than meets the eye!" The voice cast included Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime), Frank Welker (Megatron), and Chris Latta (Starscream).
7. Voltron: Defender of the Universe (1984-1985)
An animated series that followed a team of young pilots who controlled five lion-shaped robots that combined to form the powerful Voltron. The show's popularity was due to its action-packed storylines, memorable characters, and unique toy line. It became part of pop culture with the iconic phrase "Form Voltron!" The voice cast included Michael Bell (Lance), Neil Ross (Keith), and B.J. Ward (Princess Allura).
8. DuckTales (1987-1990)
An animated series that followed the adventures of the wealthy Scrooge McDuck and his grandnephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie as they searched for treasure and battled villains. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and catchy theme song. It became part of pop culture and inspired several spin-offs and a reboot in 2017. The voice cast included Alan Young (Scrooge McDuck), Russi Taylor (Huey, Dewey, and Louie), and Terry McGovern (Launchpad McQuack).
9. Inspector Gadget (1983-1986)
An animated series that followed the adventures of a clumsy, bionic detective named Inspector Gadget, who, with the help of his niece Penny and dog Brain, battled the villainous Dr. Claw. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture with the iconic catchphrase "Go-Go Gadget!" The voice cast included Don Adams (Inspector Gadget), Cree Summer (Penny), and Frank Welker (Brain).
10. Alvin and the Chipmunks (1983-1990)
An animated series that followed the adventures of three singing chipmunks, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, and their human caretaker, Dave Seville. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. The show's catchy renditions of popular songs made it part of pop culture and led to several spin-offs and feature films. The voice cast included Ross Bagdasarian Jr. (Alvin, Simon, and Dave) and Janice Karman (Theodore).
1. Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (1968-2001)
A live-action educational series that taught children about emotions, life lessons, and various educational topics through songs, stories, and visits to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Hosted by Fred Rogers, the show's popularity was due to its gentle approach to teaching, relatable characters, and lasting impact on generations of children. It became part of pop culture with iconic elements like Rogers' cardigan sweaters and the phrase "Won't you be my neighbor?"
12. You Can't Do That on Television (1979-1990)
A live-action Canadian sketch comedy show aimed at kids and teens, featuring a cast of young actors performing comedic skits, interviews, and musical performances. The show's popularity was due to its unique format, irreverent humor, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture with the iconic catchphrase "I don't know," which would trigger a bucket of green slime to be dumped on the speaker. The show helped launch the careers of actors like Alanis Morissette and Christine McGlade.
13. Kids Incorporated (1984-1994)
A live-action musical series that followed a group of young performers who sang and danced in a local music club. The show's popularity was due to its talented cast, engaging storylines, and catchy musical performances. It became part of pop culture and helped launch the careers of several young actors, including Fergie, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Mario Lopez.
14. The Great Space Coaster (1981-1986)
A live-action puppet show that followed the adventures of three young astronauts and their puppet friends as they explored outer space. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture with the iconic theme song and catchphrase "No gnews is good gnews!" The puppeteers included Jim Martin (Gary Gnu) and Kevin Clash (Goriddle Gorilla).
15. Pee-wee's Playhouse (1986-1990)
A live-action children's show that followed the quirky and imaginative character Pee-wee Herman in his fantastical playhouse. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture with iconic elements like the secret word and Chairry, the talking chair. The show starred Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman and featured actors like Laurence Fishburne (Cowboy Curtis) and Lynne Marie Stewart (Miss Yvonne).
16. The Care Bears (1985-1988)
A show based on the popular line of plush toys, following a group of colorful bears with symbols on their bellies that represented their unique personalities and powers. The show's popularity was due to its endearing characters, engaging storylines, and emphasis on caring and friendship. It became part of pop culture, spawning movies, toys, and books. The voice cast included Billie Mae Richards (Tenderheart Bear), Jayne Eastwood (Cheer Bear), and Luba Goy (Gentle Heart Lamb).
17. Zoobilee Zoo (1986-1987)
A show set in a fantastical world inhabited by anthropomorphic animal characters known as Zoobles, who loved to sing, dance, and perform. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture and is remembered for its catchy theme song. The cast included Ben Vereen (Mayor Ben), Sandey Grinn (Bill Der Beaver), and Karen Hartman (Whazzat Kangaroo).
18. The Raccoons (1985-1991)
A show that followed the adventures of a group of raccoons as they tried to protect their forest home from the greedy industrialist Cyril Sneer. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and environmental themes. It became part of pop culture and is remembered for its catchy theme song "Run With Us." The voice cast included Len Carlson (Bert Raccoon), Bob Dermer (Ralph Raccoon), and Susan Roman (Melissa Raccoon).
19. Square One Television (1987-1994)
A show that aimed to teach mathematics to children in a fun and engaging way. It featured a mix of sketches, music videos, and game show segments, all designed to make learning math entertaining. The show's popularity was due to its unique approach to education, engaging content, and memorable characters. The cast included Larry Cedar (Dirk Niblick), Beverly Leech (Mathman), and Reg E. Cathey (Archie).
20. Today's Special (1981-1987)
A show set in a department store, focusing on the adventures of Jeff, a mannequin who came to life at night, his friend Jodie, and their puppet friends. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. It became part of pop culture and is remembered for its catchy theme song. The cast included Jeff Hyslop (Jeff), Nerene Virgin (Jodie), and Bob Dermer (Sam Crenshaw).
21. Pinwheel (1977-1989)
A show that combined live-action and puppet segments to create a fun, educational experience for children. The show's popularity was due to its engaging content, memorable characters, and the fact that it was one of the first shows on the newly-launched Nickelodeon channel. The cast included Arline Miyazaki (Aurelia), George James (Jake), and Craig Marin (Puppeteer).
22. Garfield and Friends (1988-1994)
A show that followed the adventures of the famously lazy, lasagna-loving cat Garfield, his owner Jon Arbuckle, and their friends. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and the fact that it was based on the beloved comic strip by Jim Davis. The voice cast included Lorenzo Music (Garfield), Thom Huge (Jon), and Gregg Berger (Odie).
23. The Mysterious Cities of Gold (1982-1983)
A show that chronicled the adventures of a young Spanish boy named Esteban, who joined a quest to find the legendary Seven Cities of Gold in the New World. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, rich historical context, and memorable characters. The voice cast included Shiraz Adam (Esteban), Janice Chaikelson (Zia), and Adrian Knight (Tao).
24. David the Gnome (1985-1988)
A show based on the book "The Secret Book of Gnomes," following the adventures of a wise gnome named David and his wife Lisa as they helped animals and other creatures. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and positive messages about nature and kindness. The voice cast included Tom Bosley (David) and Jane Woods (Lisa).
25. 321 Contact (1980-1988)
A show that aimed to teach science to children through engaging segments, such as experiments, interviews with experts, and short dramas. The show's popularity was due to its unique approach to education, engaging content, and memorable characters. The cast included Luisa Leschin (Robin), Judy Leak (Trini), and Alaina Reed (Aunt Dolores).
26. Heathcliff (1984-1988)
A show based on the comic strip character Heathcliff, a mischievous orange cat who often got into trouble in his neighborhood. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and the fact that it was based on the beloved comic strip by George Gately. The voice cast included Mel Blanc (Heathcliff), Donna Christie (Sonja), and Danny Mann (Hector).
27. Out of This World (1987-1991)
A show that followed the adventures of Evie, a teenage girl who discovers she has supernatural powers because her father is an alien from the planet Antares. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. The cast included Maureen Flannigan (Evie), Donna Pescow (Donna), and Joe Alaskey (Uncle Beano).
28. The Adventures of Teddy Ruxpin (1987-1988)
A show that followed the adventures of a young boy named Teddy Ruxpin and his friends as they searched for a collection of magical crystals. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and the fact that it was based on the popular animatronic toy. The voice cast included Phil Baron (Teddy Ruxpin), Will Ryan (Grubby), and John Stocker (Tweeg).
29. The Smoggies (1988-1991)
A show that followed the adventures of a group of environmentally-conscious island dwellers as they tried to protect their home from the pollution-spreading Smoggies. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and environmental themes. The voice cast included Harvey Atkin (Captain Clarence), Sonja Ball (Emma), and Terrence Scammell (Polluto).
30. Maya the Bee (1975-1980)
A show that followed the adventures of a young bee named Maya as she explored the meadow, making friends with other insects and learning valuable life lessons. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and positive messages. The voice cast included Doris Belack (Maya), Barry Gordon (Willy), and Paul Eiding (Flip).
31. Count Duckula (1988-1993)
A show that featured a vegetarian vampire duck who, instead of sucking blood, craved ketchup. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. The voice cast included David Jason (Count Duckula), Jack May (Igor), and Brian Trueman (Nanny).
32. She-Ra: Princess of Power (1985-1987)
A show that followed the adventures of Princess Adora, the twin sister of He-Man, as she transformed into She-Ra to protect the planet Etheria from the evil Hordak. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and empowering female protagonist. The voice cast included Melendy Britt (She-Ra/Princess Adora), George DiCenzo (Hordak), and Linda Gary (Shadow Weaver).
33. Pingu (1986-2000)
A show that featured a lovable penguin named Pingu, who lived in the South Pole with his family and friends. The show's popularity was due to its charming stop-motion animation, engaging storylines, and the unique way the characters communicated through non-verbal sounds. The voice cast included Carlo Bonomi (Pingu) and David Sant (Pingu's father).
34. The Littles (1983-1986)
A show that followed the adventures of a family of tiny people with tails, who lived secretly in the walls of a human family's house. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and unique premise. The voice cast included Bettina Bush (Lucy Little), Jimmy Keegan (Tom Little), and Alvy Moore (Grandpa Little).
35. The Get Along Gang (1984-1985)
A show that followed the adventures of a group of animal friends who learned important life lessons about friendship, teamwork, and cooperation. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and positive messages. The voice cast included Lennie Weinrib (Montgomery Moose), Bettina Bush (Dotty Dog), and Georgi Irene (Zipper Cat).
36. Fraggle Rock (1983-1987)
A show created by Jim Henson that took place in a fantastical world inhabited by a diverse group of creatures called Fraggles, Doozers, and Gorgs. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and catchy songs. The cast included Jerry Nelson (Gobo Fraggle), Steve Whitmire (Wembley Fraggle), and Dave Goelz (Boober Fraggle).
37. Eureeka's Castle (1989-1995)
A show set in a magical castle inhabited by various puppet characters who engaged in fun, educational activities. The show's popularity was due to its engaging content, memorable characters, and the fact that it was co-created by R.L. Stine, the author of the popular Goosebumps series. The cast included Pam Arciero (Magellan), Cheryl Blaylock (Eureeka), and Lynn Hippen (Bogge).
38. Reading Rainbow (1983-2006)
A show that encouraged children to read by featuring books and stories, along with host LeVar Burton's engaging commentary and insight. The show's popularity was due to its focus on literacy, memorable segments, and the enthusiastic hosting by LeVar Burton. The cast included LeVar Burton (Host) and various guest readers.
39. Danger Mouse (1981-1992)
A show that followed the adventures of a British secret agent mouse and his loyal hamster sidekick, Penfold. The show's popularity was due to its witty humor, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. The voice cast included David Jason (Danger Mouse), Terry Scott (Penfold), and Edward Kelsey (Baron Silas Greenback).
40. Double Dare (1986-1993)
A game show that pitted two teams of kids against each other in a series of trivia questions and messy physical challenges. The show's popularity was due to its exciting format, fun challenges, and the charismatic hosting by Marc Summers. The cast included Marc Summers (Host), Harvey (Announcer), and Robin Marrella (Assistant).
41. Jem and the Holograms (1985-1988)
A show that followed the adventures of a music executive named Jerrica Benton who transformed into the glamorous rock star Jem with the help of a holographic computer named Synergy. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and catchy musical performances. The voice cast included Samantha Newark (Jem/Jerrica), Britta Phillips (Jem's singing voice), and Patricia Alice Albrecht (Pizzazz).
42. Fraggle Rock: The Animated Series (1987)
An animated adaptation of the beloved Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock, which continued to follow the adventures of the fun-loving Fraggles, hardworking Doozers, and giant Gorgs. The show's popularity was due to its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and the legacy of the original series. The voice cast included Townsend Coleman (Gobo Fraggle), Rob Paulsen (Boober Fraggle), and Barbara Goodson (Red Fraggle).
43. The Wuzzles (1985)
A show that featured a group of hybrid animals living on the Isle of Wuz, each one a combination of two different species. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. The voice cast included Bill Scott (Moosel), Brian Cummings (Bumblelion), and Jo Anne Worley (Rhinokey).
44. ALF (1986-1990)
This live-action sitcom followed the story of a friendly extraterrestrial named Gordon Shumway, also known as ALF (short for Alien Life Form), who crash-landed on Earth and was taken in by the Tanner family. The show's popularity was due to its unique premise, engaging storylines, and the lovable character of ALF, who brought humor and heart to every situation. The combination of puppetry and special effects used to bring ALF to life made the show stand out. The main cast included Paul Fusco (ALF's voice and puppeteer), Max Wright (Willie Tanner), and Anne Schedeen (Kate Tanner).
45. Adventures of the Gummi Bears (1985-1991)
Adventures of the Gummi Bears was an animated series that followed a group of magical, anthropomorphic bears who lived in the hidden kingdom of Gummi Glen. The Gummi Bears used their wisdom and special Gummiberry Juice to help protect their home and friends from various threats. The show was well-known for its appealing characters, magical setting, and action-packed storylines. The voice cast included June Foray (Grammi Gummi), Lorenzo Music (Tummi Gummi), and Katie Leigh (Sunni Gummi).
46. The Real Ghostbusters (1986-1991)
The Real Ghostbusters was an animated spin-off of the popular Ghostbusters film franchise. It featured the same characters as the movies, with the team of ghostbusters battling supernatural forces and capturing ghosts in New York City. The show was well-received for its humor, creative storylines, and faithful adaptation of the beloved movie characters. The voice cast included Frank Welker (Dr. Peter Venkman), Arsenio Hall (Winston Zeddemore), and Maurice LaMarche (Dr. Egon Spengler).
47. Denver, the Last Dinosaur (1988-1990)
Denver, the Last Dinosaur was an animated series about a group of teenagers who discover a dinosaur egg that hatches to reveal Denver, a friendly, talking dinosaur. The show followed their adventures as they navigated modern life with their prehistoric friend. The show gained popularity for its unique premise, catchy theme song, and lovable characters. The voice cast included Adam Carl (Wally), Kath Soucie (Casey), and Frank Welker (Denver).
48. The Snorks (1984-1989)
An animated series that took place in the underwater world of Snorkland, inhabited by small creatures called Snorks, who had snorkels on their heads. The show followed the adventures of a group of young Snorks as they explored their world, made friends, and faced various challenges. The show was praised for its imaginative setting, engaging stories, and fun, relatable characters. The voice cast included Michael Bell (Allstar Seaworthy), Nancy Cartwright (Daffney Gilfin), and Barry Gordon (Tooter Shelby).
49. The World of David the Gnome (1985-1988)
A Spanish series based on the book series by Dutch author Wil Huygen. The show followed the life of David, a wise and kind-hearted gnome, and his wife Lisa as they encountered various animals and other gnomes in their forest home. The show was well-received for its gentle storytelling, beautiful animation, and educational content about nature and wildlife. The voice cast included Tomás Rubio (David), Matilde Conesa (Lisa), and José María Cordero (Swift).
50. Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light (1987)
A cartoon set in a futuristic world called Prysmos, where technology had ceased to function, and magic became the primary source of power. The story followed two opposing groups of knights, the Spectral Knights and the Darkling Lords, as they competed for control of the magical energy on their planet. The show was known for its intriguing premise, elaborate magical battles, and complex character relationships. The voice cast included Neil Ross (Leoric), Peter Cullen (Cryotek), and Chris Latta (Reekon).
