Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1989: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind the clock back to 1989 – a year of big hair, even bigger shoulder pads, and some of the most iconic TV shows to ever grace our screens. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the thrilling to the downright bizarre, 1989 had it all. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan looking to reminisce or a curious newcomer eager to explore the classics, you’re in for a treat. We’ve dusted off the VHS tapes and scoured the TV Guide archives to bring you the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from this unforgettable year. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of television. The countdown begins now!
Dekalog

Dekalog

Release Date: 1989-12-10

Genres: Drama

Hey friend, have you heard of the TV show “Dekalog”? It was released on December 10, 1989, and originally aired on Polish television. Set in late-Communist Poland, the show revolves around the lives of residents in a housing complex. It’s a thought-provoking series that explores deep moral and existential questions, drawing inspiration from the Ten Commandments. The lead actors deliver powerful performances, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in complex human emotions and the complexities of life.

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Seinfeld

Seinfeld

Release Date: 1989-07-05

Genres: Comedy

“Seinfeld” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1989 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the life of a stand-up comedian named Jerry Seinfeld and his quirky group of friends as they navigate the ups and downs of living in New York City during the ’90s. With its witty humor and relatable characters, this show about nothing is definitely worth a watch!

Cast: Jerry Seinfeld (Jerry Seinfeld) , Jason Alexander (George Costanza) , Michael Richards (Cosmo Kramer) , Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Elaine Benes)

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Tags: new york city, stand-up comedy, observational comedy, manhattan, new york city, sitcom

Agatha Christie's Poirot

Agatha Christie’s Poirot

Release Date: 1989-01-08

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Agatha Christie’s Poirot” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 1989. Set in various locations like England and Egypt, the series follows the brilliant Belgian detective Hercule Poirot as he unravels a series of top-notch deceptions. With the talented David Suchet leading the cast, this show promises an intriguing and refined detective experience for fans of Agatha Christie’s iconic character.

Cast: David Suchet (Hercule Poirot)

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Writers: Agatha Christie

Tags: based on novel or book, detective, private investigator, period drama, private detective, united kingdom, belgian, murder mystery, 1930s

Traffik

Traffik

Release Date: 1989-06-22

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Traffik” is a gripping British TV show from 1989 that delves into the dark world of the illegal drugs trade. With its interwoven narratives, we get a unique perspective from Afghan and Pakistani growers, German dealers, and British users. This highly acclaimed series, starring Bill Paterson, Lindsay Duncan, and Julia Ormond, was not only nominated for six BAFTA Awards but also won three, along with an International Emmy Award for best drama. It even inspired the 2000 crime drama film “Traffic” and the 2004 American TV miniseries of the same name.

Cast: Bill Paterson (John Lithgow) , Lindsay Duncan (Helen Rosshalde) , Jamal Shah (Fazal) , Vincenzo Benestante (Domenquez) , Talat Hussain (Tariq Butt) , Juraj Kukura (Karl Rosshalde) , Julia Ormond (Caroline Lithgow)

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Tags: drug dealer, drug trade, drugs

Quantum Leap

Quantum Leap

“Quantum Leap” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1989. It follows the journey of Dr. Sam Beckett, a scientist who mysteriously travels through time within his own lifetime. With the help of his holographic guide, Al, Sam leaps into different lives, striving to correct past mistakes and hoping to find his way back home. Starring Scott Bakula, Dean Stockwell, and Deborah Pratt, this sci-fi series will keep you hooked with its thrilling time-travel adventures.

Cast: Scott Bakula (Sam Beckett) , Dean Stockwell (Admiral Albert “Al” Calavicci) , Deborah Pratt (Narrator (voice))

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Tags: hologram, time travel, alternate timeline, changing the past or future, changing history

Tales from the Crypt

Tales from the Crypt

“Tales from the Crypt” is a thrilling and entertaining TV show that aired in 1989. Hosted by the creepy yet charismatic Crypt Keeper, it brings to life the chilling and dark stories from the classic E.C. Comics. With talented actor John Kassir leading the way, get ready to be spooked and amused as you witness insane Santas and honeymooners with a deadly twist. It’s a must-watch for horror enthusiasts and fans of macabre tales.

Cast: John Kassir (Crypt Keeper (voice))

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Tags: puppet, based on comic, anthology, gothic horror, dark fantasy, horror anthology, supernatural power, horror

A Bit of Fry & Laurie

A Bit of Fry & Laurie

Release Date: 1989-01-13

Genres: Comedy

“A Bit of Fry & Laurie” is a hilarious British comedy TV show that aired in 1989. It features the brilliant comedic duo of Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie, both former members of the Cambridge Footlights. With its clever wordplay and witty turns of phrase, this series is sure to keep you entertained and laughing throughout.

Cast: Stephen Fry () , Hugh Laurie ()

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Tags: sketch comedy, double act

The Mobile Cop Jiban

The Mobile Cop Jiban

“The Mobile Cop Jiban” is a thrilling Japanese tokusatsu TV series that aired from January 29, 1989, to January 28, 1990. With 52 action-packed episodes and a feature movie, it follows the story of a young man and a girl who fight for justice and protect the people they love. Combining elements from the iconic American film “Robocop” and the 1970s tokusatsu series “Robot Detective,” this show promises an exciting blend of drama, romance, and heroic adventures.

Cast: Shouhei Kusaka (Naoto Tamura/Jiban) , Michiko Enokida (Chief Youko Katagiri) , Kunio Konishi (Seishiro “Seishi” Muramatsu) , Konomi Mashita (Ayumi Igarashi (Tamura)/Midori Hayakawa) , Shozo Iizuka (Dr Jean Marrie (voice)) , Akira Ishihama (Yanagida) , Leo Meneghetti (Doctor (Doutor) Jean Marrie) , Akemi Kogawa (Cannon) , Kazuko Yanaga (Madogarbo (voice)) , Ami Kawai (Marshall)

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Writers: Noboru Sugimura

Tags: police, detective, superhero, robot, super power, metal hero, henshin heroes, kaijin, tokusatsu

Lonesome Dove

Lonesome Dove

Release Date: 1989-02-05

Genres: Drama, Western

“Lonesome Dove” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the Wild West in 1989. Starring Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones, it follows the thrilling journey of two retired Texas Rangers who embark on one final adventure. After stealing a massive herd of cattle, they assemble an unexpected team to drive the cattle thousands of miles to Montana. With a star-studded cast and an exciting storyline, this show is a must-watch for fans of Westerns and epic adventures.

Cast: Robert Duvall (Augustus “Gus” McCrae) , Tommy Lee Jones (Woodrow F. Call) , Diane Lane (Lorena Wood Parker) , Robert Urich (Jake Spoon) , D.B. Sweeney (Dish Boggett) , Danny Glover (Joshua Deets) , Ricky Schroder (Newt Dobbs) , Glenne Headly (Elmira Boot Johnson) , Steve Buscemi (Luke) , Anjelica Huston (Clara Forsythe Allen) , Frederic Forrest (Blue Duck) , Barry Corbin (Roscoe Brown) , Chris Cooper (July Johnson) , William Sanderson (Lippy Jones) , Timothy Scott (Pea Eye Parker) , Barry Tubb (Jasper Fant) , Gavan O’Herlihy (Dan Suggs) , Frederick Coffin (Big Zwey) , Travis Swords (Allan O’Brien) , Kevin O’Morrison (Doctor) , Ron Weyand (Old Hugh) , Lanny Flaherty (Soupy Jones) , James McMurtry (Jimmy Rainey) , Sonny Carl Davis (Bert Borum)

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Writers: Larry McMurtry, William D. Wittliff

Tags: texas ranger, cattle drive, miniseries, wild west, 19th century, early america

Mystery Science Theater 3000

Mystery Science Theater 3000

Release Date: 1989-11-19

Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Mystery Science Theater 3000” is a hilarious TV show that premiered on November 19, 1989. It follows a spaceship pilot who gets trapped by crazy scientists and is forced to endure a series of hilariously bad B movies. Luckily, he has his witty robot friends to keep him company and together they provide hilarious commentary on the films. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves cheesy movies and a good laugh!

Cast: Michael J. Nelson (Mike Nelson) , Kevin Murphy (Tom Servo) , Mary Jo Pehl (Pearl Forrester) , Kevin Murphy (Professor Bobo) , Bill Corbett (Observer/Brain Guy) , Bill Corbett (Crow T. Robot) , Patrick Brantseg (Gypsy)

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Writers: Jim Mallon, Colleen Henjum, Frank Conniff, Mary Jo Pehl, Paul Chaplin, David Sussman, Trace Beaulieu, Mike Dodge, Kevin Murphy, Michael J. Nelson

Tags: film in film, space, puppetry, robot, space station

The Kids in the Hall

The Kids in the Hall

Release Date: 1989-10-24

Genres: Comedy

“The Kids in the Hall” is a hilarious Canadian sketch comedy group that started in 1984. With talented comedians like Mark McKinney, Scott Thompson, Dave Foley, Kevin McDonald, and Bruce McCulloch, this show is sure to keep you laughing. It premiered on October 24, 1989, and is considered one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Mark McKinney () , Scott Thompson () , Dave Foley () , Kevin McDonald () , Bruce McCulloch ()

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Tags: sketch comedy

The Young Riders

The Young Riders

Release Date: 1989-09-20

Genres: Western, Drama

“The Young Riders” is an exciting American Western TV series that takes us back to the Nebraska Territory in the years leading up to the American Civil War. It follows a group of young Pony Express riders based at Sweetwater Station, as they navigate the challenges of their dangerous job. With a talented cast including Stephen Baldwin, Josh Brolin, and Travis Fine, this show premiered on ABC in 1989 and ran for three thrilling seasons until 1992.

Cast: Stephen Baldwin (Buffalo Bill Cody) , Josh Brolin (Wild Bill Hickok) , Travis Fine (Ike McSwain) , Don Franklin (Noah Dixon) , Ty Miller (The Kid) , Gregg Rainwater (Running Buck Cross) , Yvonne Suhor (Louise McCloud) , Clare Wren (Rachel Dunne) , Anthony Zerbe (Teaspoon Hunter) , Christopher Pettiet (Jesse James) , Don Collier (William Tompkins, Shop Keeper)

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Father Dowling Mysteries

Father Dowling Mysteries

Release Date: 1989-01-20

Genres: Comedy, Crime, Mystery

“Father Dowling Mysteries” is a captivating American television series that aired from January 20, 1989, to May 2, 1991. Starring talented actors like Tom Bosley, Tracy Nelson, and James Stephens, the show follows the adventures of Father Dowling, a character created by Ralph McInerny in a series of mystery novels. Produced by The Fred Silverman Company and Dean Hargrove Productions, this intriguing series takes you on a thrilling journey filled with suspense and intrigue as Father Dowling solves perplexing mysteries alongside a talented cast.

Cast: Tom Bosley (Father Frank Dowling) , Tracy Nelson (Sister Stephanie ‘Steve’ Oskowski) , James Stephens (Father Philip Prestwick) , Anthony LaPaglia (Paul Damon) , John Slattery (Doug) , Mary Wickes () , Michelle Forbes (Gym Instructor) , Stella Stevens (Katherine ‘Kate’ St. Urban)

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Tags: chicago, illinois, detective, priest, religion

Alien Nation

Alien Nation

“Alien Nation” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1989. Set in Los Angeles, it follows Detective Matthew Sikes as he reluctantly teams up with an alien named George Francisco. Together, they solve crimes while navigating the complexities of their unique partnership. With a touch of romance and a talented cast including Michele Scarabelli, Ron Fassler, and Gary Graham, this sci-fi series is definitely worth checking out!”

Cast: Michele Scarabelli () , Ron Fassler () , Gary Graham () , Eric Pierpoint () , Terri Treas () , Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs () , Sean Six () , Lauren Woodland () , Jeff Doucette (Burns) , Molly Morgan () , James Greene () , Jenny Gago () , Jeffrey Marcus (Albert Einstein)

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Tags: police, culture clash, detective, alien, extraterrestrial, los angeles, california, police detective, alien race, based on movie, buddy cop, socially conscious

Coach

Coach

Release Date: 1989-02-28

Genres: Comedy

“Coach” is a hilarious and heartwarming TV show that premiered in 1989. It follows the life of Hayden Fox, a grumpy coach of a college football team, as he tries to balance his career, being a father, and dealing with the ups and downs of family life. With a talented cast including Craig T. Nelson and Jerry Van Dyke, this show is a must-watch for anyone who loves sports and comedy.

Cast: Craig T. Nelson (Coach Hayden Fox) , Jerry Van Dyke (Luther Van Dam) , Shelley Fabares (Christine Armstrong) , Bill Fagerbakke (Dauber Dybinski) , Kenneth Kimmins (Howard Burleigh) , Clare Carey (Kelly Fox) , Kris Kamm (Stuart Rosebrock) , Pam Stone (Judy Watkins) , Georgia Engel (Shirley Burleigh) , Katherine Helmond (Doris Sherman)

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Bangkok Hilton

Bangkok Hilton

Release Date: 1989-11-05

Genres: Drama

“Bangkok Hilton” is a gripping Australian mini-series from 1989 that follows the journey of a young woman searching for her long-lost father. After a chance encounter with a charming man named Arkie Regan, her life takes a dark turn when he plants drugs in her luggage, leading to her imprisonment in the infamous Bangkok Hilton prison. Starring Nicole Kidman and featuring a talented cast, this thrilling drama will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness her fight for survival and await the authorities’ decision on her fate.

Cast: Nicole Kidman (Katrina Stanton) , Denholm Elliott (Hal Stanton) , Hugo Weaving (Richard Carlisle) , Jerome Ehlers (Arkie Ragan) , Judy Morris (Catherine Faulkner) , Norman Kaye (George McNair) , Joy Smithers (Mandy Engels) , Noah Taylor (Billy Engels) , Lewis Fiander (James Stanton) , Gerda Nicolson (Lady Faulkner) , Richard Carter (Detective King) , Pauline Chan (Pretty Warden) , Tan Chandraviroj (Major Sara) , Jonathan Biggins (O’Keefe) , Deborah Kara Unger (Astra) , Vincent Ball (British Attache) , Brian Bovell (Postman) , Helen Mutkins (Jane) , Lee Lin Chin (Gnut) , Lucy Bayler (Sarah) , Deidre Lassau (Miss Howell)

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Writers: Tony Morphett, Ken Cameron, Terry Hayes

Tags: prison, london, england, escape, bangkok, thailand, thailand, father, prison escape, miniseries, drugs, missing parent

I Know My First Name Is Steven

I Know My First Name Is Steven

Release Date: 1989-05-22

Genres: Drama, Crime

“I Know My First Name Is Steven” is a gripping TV show that aired in 1989. Based on a true story, it follows the harrowing journey of 7-year-old Steven Stayner, who was kidnapped by a pedophile named Kenneth Parnell. Enduring unimaginable abuse for seven long years, Steven finally finds a way to escape with another kidnapped boy, leading to their emotional reunion with their families. With a talented cast including Corin Nemec and Cindy Pickett, this heart-wrenching series sheds light on the resilience and strength of the human spirit.”

Cast: Corin Nemec (Steven Stayner) , Cindy Pickett (Kay Stayner) , John Ashton (Del Stayner) , Arliss Howard (Kenneth Parnell) , Luke Edwards (Steven Stayner (Age 7)) , Pruitt Taylor Vince (Irving Murphy) , Jacob Gelman (Timmy White) , Ray Walston (Bob Augustine) , Peter Michael Goetz (Pat Hallford) , Gregg Henry (Officer Kean) , Jim Haynie (Officer Scott) , Barbara Tarbuck (School Counselor) , Scott Curtis (Cary Stayner (Age 11)) , Todd Eric Andrews (Cary Stayner (Age 18)) , Stephanie Walski (Cindy Stayner (Age 9)) , Hilary Morse (Cindy Stayner (Age 16)) , Sumer Park (Jody Stayner (Age 5)) , Shantell Stebbins (Jody Stayner (Age 12)) , Cassy Friel (Cory Stayner (Age 4)) , Marice Leeds (Cory Stayner (Age 11)) , Juney Ellis (Miss Rebecca) , Billy O’Sullivan (Victor (Age 7)) , Jason Presson (Deke) , Stephen Dorff (Pete) , Scott Reeves (Bruce)

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Writers: W.H. Echols II, J.P. Miller

Tags: sexual abuse, based on true story, paedophilia, miniseries

Life Goes On

Life Goes On

Release Date: 1989-09-12

Genres: Drama

“Life Goes On” is a heartwarming TV series that aired from 1989 to 1993. Set in suburban Chicago, it follows the Thatcher family and their everyday lives. The show is notable for being the first to feature a main character with Down syndrome, played by Chris Burke. With a talented cast including Kellie Martin, Bill Smitrovich, and Patti LuPone, “Life Goes On” is a touching and groundbreaking series that explores the ups and downs of family life.

Cast: Kellie Martin (Rebecca ‘Becca’ Thacher) , Bill Smitrovich (Andrew “Drew” Thatcher) , Patti LuPone (Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Thacher) , Chris Burke (Charles “Corky” Thatcher) , Chad Lowe (Jesse McKenna) , Tracey Needham (Paige Thatcher) , Monique Lanier (Paige Thatcher) , Jack Black (Skinhead) , Elizabeth Berkley (Selena) , Josh Lucas (Dylan)

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Tags: chicago, illinois, down syndrome, family drama, suburban chicago

Cops

Cops

Release Date: 1989-03-11

Genres: Reality

“Cops” is a thrilling and action-packed TV show that takes you on a ride-along with real-life law enforcement officers across the United States. Armed with only cameras, these brave officers capture their daily duties of serving and protecting the public. With its release in 1989, this show has become one of the best-voted TV shows of that year, offering an exciting and authentic glimpse into the world of law enforcement.

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Tags: police

Family Matters

Family Matters

Release Date: 1989-09-22

Genres: Comedy

“Family Matters” is a heartwarming dramedy that follows the Winslow family, a middle-class African American household residing in Chicago. Premiering in 1989, this beloved TV show introduces us to their quirky next-door neighbor, Steve Urkel, an ultra-nerd who constantly finds himself in hilarious situations. With a talented cast including Reginald VelJohnson, Darius McCrary, Kellie Shanygne Williams, and Jaleel White, “Family Matters” is a must-watch for its relatable family dynamics and unforgettable characters.

Cast: Reginald VelJohnson (Carl Winslow) , Darius McCrary (Eddie Winslow) , Kellie Shanygne Williams (Laura Winslow) , Jaleel White (Steve Urkel)

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Tags: chicago, illinois, middle class, spin off

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