Can’t-Miss Modern Shows that Recreate the '80s

It’s time to puff up your hair and break out the shoulder pads! The '80s were a fun decade, and many modern audiences are nostalgic for what seems like a much simpler time. So there’s little wonder that we see so many great shows set back in the '80s. If you’re keen to binge-watch some nostalgia, try these shows on for size!

Stranger Things

Stranger Things is a fascinating sci-fi inspired TV series starting in 1983. The 4 young protagonists want to break out the Dungeons & Dragons cards and win the school science competition, but instead find themselves humanity’s hope against a violent invasive alien presence. With a kidnapped friend to rescue, a strangely gifted young girl in their midst, and only their science wits to rely on, it’s a great modern take on the era. The much anticipated 4th season begins May 27, 2022.

This is Us

Now going into its final season, This is Us alternates between the present and the '80s. It’s a sometimes touching, sometimes fun, look back at childhood and the complicated dynamics of family. Parents Jack and Rebecca Pearson have triplets, but lose one of their children. So they adopt in a third, believing it’s the number they were meant to have. Bring some tissues, but it’s a great watch.

The Goldbergs

Based on the creator (Adam Goldberg) and their childhood, this period sitcom is a nostalgic look back at childhood in the '80s. He’s even used some authentic stock video, home videos, and recreated videos in the series - you get to see the originals at the end. It’s a great way to remind yourself of '80s pop culture and just immerse yourself in the decade.

GLOW

Take a look inside the workings of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW) as an aspiring actor tries to break into the wrestling scene. Eventually getting her fair chance to shine, it’s a fascinating look at niche aspects of '80s TV culture.

Cobra Kai

A continuation of the Karate Kid films, this series sees Johnny Lawrence reopen the karate dojo and rekindle his old rivalry with Daniel LaRusso. Sadly, Johnny turned out a bit of a loser and  has a ton of baggage to unpack. After saving his teenage neighbor from bullies, however, he makes his mark on the world teaching karate to social outcasts, and finds a new purpose in life.

Pose

It’s time to discover a part of the '80s we rarely see. This TV drama focuses on the African American and LGBTQ subcultures in New York in the '80s through ballroom dancing. Bringing a host of interesting dancers and models together, it’s a fascinating look at a side of the '80s and early '90s we rarely get to see on TV.

Snowfall

Get your '80s and crime fix all in one series. Set in LA in 1983, this crime/drama series focuses on the first crack epidemic and how it shaped the city’s culture. Following everything from a young drug dealer to the niece of a crime cartel’s boss, it’s a tension-filled and high-energy look at the dirty side of '80s culture.

Each of these modern TV shows set in the '80s brings something different to the table. Which is your favorite? Be sure to let us know!

Photos courtesy Depositphotos