The 1980s were a golden era for cop shows, with a diverse range of police procedurals and detective dramas captivating audiences. While some iconic series have stood the test of time, others have faded into obscurity, despite their quality and unique appeal. In this article, we'll delve into five forgotten '80s cop shows that still hold up today, exploring their narratives, characters, and the reasons why they deserve a second look.
The Rise of the Police Procedural
The 1980s saw an explosion of police-centric shows, from gritty dramas to light-hearted capers. Shows like "Hill Street Blues" and "Magnum P.I." set the stage, but the decade also birthed a plethora of lesser-known gems. With so many options, some excellent shows inevitably slipped through the cracks. It's time to shine a light on these forgotten gems.
Crime Story: A Dark and Complex Tale
"Crime Story" is a prime example of a show that was ahead of its time. Set in the 1960s, it featured a rich, dark narrative and complex, season-spanning story arcs. Produced by Michael Mann, it laid the foundation for the prestige TV we know today. The show pitted Lt. Mike Torello, a police officer, against Ray Luca, a mobster, exploring their bitter feud and rise to power. Despite critical acclaim and a promising start, "Crime Story" was canceled after two seasons, perhaps due to its narrative complexity and competition from lighter shows like "Moonlighting."
What makes "Crime Story" particularly fascinating is its influence on modern TV. Its narrative structure and complexity set a new standard, but it was a format that audiences of the time weren't quite ready for. Personally, I think it's a testament to the show's vision and bold storytelling that it has aged so well and continues to influence television today.
Matt Houston: A Mixture of Humor and Detective Work
"Matt Houston" is a delightful blend of humor and detective work, created by veteran TV producer Aaron Spelling. The show follows Mattlock "Matt" Houston, an oil baron's son from Texas, who uses his wealth to solve crimes in California. With his fancy car and lawyer sidekick, C.J., Matt's adventures are a light and breezy take on the detective genre. Despite its success and a three-season run, "Matt Houston" has largely been forgotten.
One thing that immediately stands out about "Matt Houston" is its unique blend of humor and detective work. It's a refreshing take on the genre, offering a lighter, more entertaining approach. In my opinion, it's a shame that this show has faded from memory, as it offers a fun, nostalgic trip back to the '80s with a unique twist on the private investigator trope.
Crazy Like a Fox: A Fun Father-Son Duo
"Crazy Like a Fox" is a show that perfectly embodies its title. It follows the adventures of Harrison Joshua "Harry" Fox, a private investigator, and his son of the same name, a lawyer. The show's popularity led to a TV reunion film and Emmy nominations for lead actor Jack Warden. Despite its fun and witty nature, "Crazy Like a Fox" has been largely forgotten.
What many people don't realize is that "Crazy Like a Fox" offers a unique dynamic between a father and son, both with their own unique skills and perspectives. The show's witty dialogue and splendid acting, as praised by the Kansas City Star, create a charming and entertaining watch. It's a shame that this show didn't have a longer run, as it offers a light-hearted, fun take on the detective genre with a unique family dynamic.
Spenser: For Hire - A Character-Driven Journey
Based on Robert B. Parker's novel series, "Spenser: For Hire" is a stylish, character-driven show set in Boston. Spenser, a former boxer and Vietnam veteran, is a private investigator with a strong sense of justice. He works alongside his enforcer, Hawk, and navigates his messy personal life while doing the right thing. Despite a passionate fanbase and a three-season run, "Spenser: For Hire" has been unjustly forgotten.
From my perspective, "Spenser: For Hire" is a show that has aged incredibly well. The writing is sharp, the characters are well-developed, and the stories are engaging. It's a character-driven show that focuses on the personal journeys of its leads, offering a deeper, more nuanced take on the detective genre. The show's source material, Parker's novels, also adds a layer of depth and richness to the narrative.
The Renegades: An '80s Iconic Time Capsule
"The Renegades" is the most obscure entry on this list, but it's a show that deserves a second look. Starring 1980s icon Patrick Swayze, the series follows a street gang coerced into fighting crime as undercover cops. It's a unique blend of "The Warriors" and "21 Jump Street," offering a glimpse into the cool culture of the '80s. Despite its catchy theme song and Swayze's early role, "The Renegades" has been largely forgotten.
What this show really captures is the essence of the '80s. It's a time capsule of fashion, music, and youth culture, all wrapped up in a unique cop show. The gang's hipness contrasted with the square cops is a fun dynamic, offering a fresh take on the genre. It's a must-watch for fans of '80s nostalgia and those who appreciate a show that embraces its era with style and charm.
Conclusion
These forgotten '80s cop shows offer a unique glimpse into the decade's television landscape. From dark and complex narratives to light-hearted detective adventures, each show brings something unique to the table. It's a reminder that sometimes the lesser-known gems are worth revisiting and celebrating. So, if you're a fan of cop shows or simply enjoy a good dose of '80s nostalgia, give these forgotten series a chance - you might just discover a new favorite.
