Top 80s TV Shows About Aliens: A Nostalgic Trip

Hey guys, let's fire up the DeLorean and zoom back to the rad decade of the 1980s! Specifically, we're diving headfirst into the totally tubular world of 80s TV shows about aliens. This era was a goldmine for sci-fi, with extraterrestrials gracing our screens in all sorts of crazy and unforgettable ways. From friendly visitors to menacing invaders, these shows captured our imaginations and sparked a lifelong fascination with the unknown. So, buckle up, grab your leg warmers, and let's explore some of the best 80s TV series about aliens, complete with a healthy dose of nostalgia and insider info.

V: The Arrival of the Visitors

V is a series that stands tall among the giants of 80s alien TV. This show, which first aired in 1983 as a miniseries and later evolved into a full-fledged series, wasn't just about aliens; it was a cultural phenomenon. The Visitors, a group of seemingly benevolent extraterrestrials, arrive on Earth with promises of advanced technology and a cure for our problems. However, beneath their charming facade lurks a sinister plan: to harvest humans for their resources. This is where the story gets really interesting. The narrative skillfully uses the alien invasion as an allegory for societal anxieties, drawing parallels to real-world issues like fascism and propaganda. The Visitors are led by the iconic Diana, a cold and calculating alien with an insatiable appetite for power. The special effects, while somewhat dated by today's standards, were groundbreaking at the time, featuring impressive spacecraft and the aliens' reptilian features revealed beneath their human disguises.

The show is packed with suspense, action, and compelling characters, making it a must-watch for any sci-fi fan. V explores themes of resistance, courage, and the importance of standing up against oppression. The series' impact is still felt today, with numerous references and homages in other media. The Visitors' iconic look, with their red jumpsuits and reptilian eyes, has become instantly recognizable. The show’s success also spawned a sequel, V: The Final Battle, and a subsequent series that continued the story. The characters were well-developed, with the human resistance fighting valiantly against the Visitors' machinations. This series successfully blended sci-fi with social commentary, making it a captivating and thought-provoking experience. The show's legacy endures as a high-water mark for 80s sci-fi television, demonstrating how alien narratives can be used to reflect and comment on contemporary issues in a creative and engaging way. This particular program wasn't just entertaining; it served as a cautionary tale, warning about the dangers of blindly trusting those who promise salvation without question. The themes of power, control, and resistance are timeless, ensuring that V remains relevant and impactful even decades after its initial release.

ALF: The Furry Alien from Melmac

Now, let's shift gears from the dark and serious tone of V to the lighthearted and hilarious world of ALF. Airing from 1986 to 1990, ALF (which stands for Alien Life Form) is a sitcom about a furry, wise-cracking alien who crash-lands in the Tanner family's garage. ALF, a sarcastic and food-obsessed extraterrestrial from the planet Melmac, quickly becomes a member of the family, bringing chaos and laughter into their lives. This show was a huge hit, primarily due to ALF's comedic timing, his witty remarks, and his constant hunger for cats. He wasn’t your typical alien invader; he was a lovable goofball who just wanted to eat, watch TV, and annoy the neighbors. The show blended slapstick humor with heartwarming family moments, appealing to a broad audience.

The premise of ALF is simple yet effective: a family hides an alien from the government while dealing with his antics. The show's success lay in its characters, particularly ALF himself. His puppet design was innovative for the time, and his personality, a mix of childlike wonder and cynical wit, made him an instant icon. The Tanner family, though often exasperated by ALF, genuinely loved him. Their interactions created some of the funniest and most touching moments of the series. Episodes often revolved around ALF's attempts to fit in, his various schemes, and his constant need to avoid being discovered. ALF also touched on deeper themes, such as the importance of family, acceptance, and the challenges of being different. The show's success also led to a spin-off animated series and other merchandise, cementing ALF's place in pop culture history. The show's legacy is a testament to the power of laughter and the ability of a silly alien puppet to capture the hearts of millions. The show's unique blend of humor and heart made it a standout in the crowded landscape of 80s sitcoms. For many, ALF was a childhood favorite, a reminder of a simpler time filled with laughter and memorable characters. It remains one of the most beloved and recognizable alien-themed sitcoms of all time.

Starman: A Journey of Discovery

Based on the 1984 film of the same name, the Starman TV series aired from 1986 to 1987. This show tells the story of an extraterrestrial who comes to Earth in the form of a human and teams up with a human woman to find his son. This series emphasizes the themes of love, family, and the search for belonging. The Starman character, played by Robert Hays, is a gentle and curious alien who struggles to understand human customs and emotions. The series explores their journey across America, filled with adventure, danger, and heartwarming moments. They encounter various challenges and obstacles, as they are pursued by government agents. The series had a strong emotional core, emphasizing the bonds of friendship and family. The alien’s perspective on humanity provides a fresh and often humorous look at human behavior.

The show is notable for its exploration of themes beyond the typical alien invasion narrative. It's a road trip story that focuses on the relationships between the characters. The series is filled with touching moments, as Starman learns about love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Each episode focuses on their interactions with others, highlighting the beauty and flaws of humanity. The series' success was due in part to its positive portrayal of extraterrestrials. The alien is portrayed not as a threat, but as a being seeking understanding and connection. The show's ending left viewers with a sense of hope and optimism, highlighting the importance of compassion and acceptance. Starman stands out for its blend of sci-fi elements with a human-centric narrative. The series has aged well, resonating with audiences who appreciate a good story and characters they can connect with. Starman offered a refreshing take on alien encounters, focusing on emotional connection rather than conflict. The show’s legacy reflects its exploration of universal themes that continue to move and captivate audiences. The gentle approach makes it a unique addition to the 80s alien TV show roster.

Automan: A Holographic Hero

Automan, which aired in 1983, gave us a glimpse into a world where a super-powered being could materialize from thin air. The series follows Walter Nebicher, a computer programmer who creates Automan, a holographic entity capable of fighting crime. The show combined sci-fi and action, with impressive special effects for the time, featuring Automan's ability to create vehicles and weapons from light. The premise allowed for a lot of creative visuals and exciting storylines. Automan, a hero of pure light, becomes the ultimate crime-fighting partner.

The show's appeal was rooted in its unique concept. The special effects and Automan's abilities were groundbreaking for television at that time. The visuals of Automan and his light-based creations were exciting and visually stunning. The show had a dynamic, action-packed plot, and the heroes dealt with villains in futuristic cars and using advanced weapons. The plots included a mix of action, mystery, and technological advancements. Automan stood out for its use of early CGI effects, which were innovative and visually impressive. The show was a blend of futuristic technology and detective work. Automan's legacy is one of early experimentation with CGI and its impact on action television. The concept of a hero born from computer programming was futuristic and intriguing. Automan remains a fun example of 80s sci-fi, demonstrating the era’s enthusiasm for technology and creative storytelling. The show was a trendsetter, using early computer graphics to craft an exciting series filled with action and adventure.

_Other Notable Mentions

While the series mentioned above are some of the most memorable, the 80s were also rich with other alien-themed shows that deserve a nod:

• Misfits of Science: This show featured a group of individuals with special abilities, including an alien character. This blend of superhero and sci-fi elements was an interesting addition to the decade's television landscape. While it only lasted for a short period, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the genre.
• Amazing Stories: Though an anthology series, Amazing Stories frequently featured episodes with alien themes, offering a variety of unique and imaginative stories.

The Enduring Legacy of 80s Alien TV

So, what made these 80s alien TV shows so special, guys? Well, the era was a fertile ground for creativity. The shows offered a blend of thrilling sci-fi elements with social commentary. These series weren't just about spaceships and extraterrestrials; they were often allegories for real-world issues and human experiences. They tackled themes of fear, hope, and the human condition. The visual effects, while sometimes dated by today's standards, were cutting-edge at the time and were often a spectacle. The characters were memorable and the stories, engaging. These shows reflected the technological optimism and cultural anxieties of the time, sparking conversations and inspiring generations of viewers.

The nostalgia factor is also huge. These shows bring back memories of childhoods spent glued to the TV, anticipating the next episode. The soundtracks, fashion, and overall aesthetic of the 80s add to the charm. Revisiting these shows is like taking a trip back in time, reminding us of the entertainment that shaped our love for sci-fi. The themes explored are timeless, ensuring that the legacy of these shows continues. The impact is seen in the countless references, homages, and continuations that have followed over the years. The genre remains a source of inspiration for writers, directors, and audiences alike.

In conclusion, the 80s were a golden age for TV shows about aliens. These shows offered a mix of thrills, humor, and social commentary. From the terrifying Visitors to the lovable ALF, these series created memorable characters and stories that continue to entertain and inspire. So, next time you're looking for a dose of nostalgia, consider revisiting one of these classic shows. You might just find yourself transported back to a time when anything seemed possible, and the stars were just within reach. Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane. I hope you enjoyed our exploration of some of the best 80s TV series about aliens! Keep watching the skies, guys! You never know what you might find! And remember, keep those leg warmers handy!