The 1980s were a golden age for children's television, with shows that ranged from educational to pure, unadulterated fun. While some classics like DuckTales and ThunderCats have enjoyed revivals and reboots, many near-perfect series have slipped through the cracks of pop culture memory. Here are 10 forgotten gems that deserve a second look.
1. 'Minipops' (1983)
This British series featured child performers dressed and made up as adults, singing pop hits. It only lasted eight episodes, but its controversial approach—kids singing lyrics like "we make love"—made it a cultural flashpoint. Today, groups like Kidz Bop clean up lyrics, but Minipops remains a bizarre, forgotten precursor.
2. 'Fraggle Rock' (1983–1987)
Jim Henson's puppet musical fantasy was a co-production between the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. It used colorful creatures to teach kids about prejudice and identity. The show was revived in 2020 with Fraggle Rock: Rock On! and a 2022 reboot, but the original remains a near-perfect blend of silliness and substance.
3. 'Reading Rainbow' (1983–2006)
LeVar Burton hosted this PBS series that inspired a love of reading. Each episode featured a celebrity-narrated book, with Burton visiting places tied to the theme. The show was revived on YouTube via Sony's KidZuko brand, but its original run is a forgotten treasure for many.
4. 'ThunderCats' (1985–1989)
This sci-fi fantasy series followed humanoid cat-like creatures on Third Earth, battling the Mutants of Plun-Darr. The show was so popular that a movie adaptation was planned in 2007 but shelved. A 2011 reboot was deemed too dark, but the original's battle cry—"ThunderCats, Ho!"—still echoes for fans.
5. 'Babar' (1989–2001)
Based on Jean de Brunhoff's books, this Canadian animated series aired on HBO. It followed the elephant Babar from his tragic childhood (his mother was killed) to his reign as king. The show taught kids about loss, perseverance, and community, all wrapped in a gentle, hot-air-balloon-riding adventure.
6. 'JEM' (1985–1988)
This series about a rock star and her holographic alter ego was a glittery, music-filled romp. It tackled themes of identity and friendship, and its catchy songs still stick in the mind. Though largely forgotten, JEM was a near-perfect blend of music and empowerment.
7. 'The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers' (1986–1989)
This space western combined sci-fi and cowboy tropes, following a team of rangers protecting the galaxy. Its serialized storytelling and mature themes set it apart, but it never achieved the fame of contemporaries like He-Man.
8. 'M.A.S.K.' (1985–1986)
Short for Mobile Armored Strike Kommand, this series featured vehicles that transformed into battle machines. It was essentially a toy commercial, but its action-packed episodes and cool gadgets made it a Saturday morning staple that few remember today.
9. 'The Mysterious Cities of Gold' (1982–1983)
This French-Japanese co-production followed a young boy searching for lost cities of gold in the 16th century. Its blend of history, adventure, and animation was ahead of its time, but it remains a cult classic rather than a household name.
10. 'Danger Mouse' (1981–1992)
This British animated series parodied James Bond with a secret agent mouse. Its witty humor and slapstick comedy influenced shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, but the original is often overlooked in favor of its 2015 reboot.
These shows may have faded from memory, but they represent the creativity and charm of '80s kids' TV. Whether you're a nostalgic parent or a curious newcomer, these near-perfect series are worth rediscovering. For more forgotten gems, check out our list of Forgotten Fantasy Gems That Are Perfect from First Page to Last.
