1. Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers first captured the nation’s attention in the ‘70s as the bubbly Chrissy Snow on Three’s Company. Her cheerful persona made her a household name, but her career faced some challenges after she left the show due to a contract dispute. However, she made a spectacular comeback in the ‘80s with the wildly popular sitcom Step by Step, where she played the matriarch of a blended family. The show’s success reminded audiences of her comedic chops and charm, allowing her to once again dominate the small screen.
Somers also ventured into the world of infomercials, where she became a health and wellness icon, especially known for her ThighMaster exercise device. Her transition into self-help and fitness became a major part of her identity in the ‘80s. She built a new career in the fitness industry, where her influence extended beyond TV. Suzanne Somers not only made a comeback in acting but reinvented herself as a health guru, demonstrating her versatility and staying power.
2. Alan Alda
Alan Alda was already an established star by the ‘70s, thanks to his role as Hawkeye Pierce on MASH*. However, the ’80s saw him transition from television comedy to film and even hosting roles. His charisma and sharp wit led to his involvement in several major motion pictures, including The Four Seasons and Crimes and Misdemeanors, cementing his position as a respected actor in Hollywood. Alda’s move into film wasn’t just a phase—his performances in both comedies and dramas showcased his range, proving he could thrive both in front of the camera and behind it.
In the 1980s, Alda also became a fixture on the talk show circuit, often appearing as a guest on late-night programs. His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level only increased his popularity during this decade. While his MASH* days may have ended, his continued success in both television and film proved that he was far from a one-hit wonder. Alda’s evolution as an actor throughout the ’80s was one of the most impressive comebacks of the decade.
3. John Travolta
John Travolta was one of the biggest stars of the ‘70s, thanks to his roles in Welcome Back, Kotter and the iconic Saturday Night Fever. However, after the success of Grease in 1978, Travolta’s career seemed to stall, and he struggled with finding his footing in the ‘80s. His comeback came in 1989 with Look Who’s Talking, a comedy that paired him with Kirstie Alley. The film was a huge success, reminding audiences of his irresistible charm and comedic timing.
In the ’80s, Travolta’s shift from musical and drama roles to comedy marked a major turning point. His new career direction proved he was not only a versatile actor but also a Hollywood survivor who could reinvent himself. He capitalized on this new success, leading to more roles in both comedies and thrillers. Travolta’s ability to bounce back so strongly made him one of the most notable comebacks of the decade.
4. Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett rose to stardom in the ‘70s as one of the original Charlie’s Angels, where her stunning beauty and infectious smile made her an instant icon. However, after her departure from the show, Farrah’s career hit some bumps, and she struggled to find roles that matched her early success. Her comeback came in the ‘80s when she starred in the controversial TV movie The Burning Bed, where she portrayed a battered woman seeking justice. The performance earned her critical acclaim, demonstrating her serious acting abilities.
In addition to The Burning Bed, Farrah’s ’80s career saw her take on a variety of roles, including comedic parts and even some appearances in commercials. Her return to the spotlight, especially with The Burning Bed, helped redefine her career and showed that she was much more than a pinup girl. Fawcett’s range as an actress was finally recognized, making her comeback one of the most successful of the decade.
5. Billy Crystal
Billy Crystal’s journey from the ‘70s into the ‘80s was a slow burn that finally ignited into a career full of iconic roles. In the late ‘70s, he had small roles in TV shows like Soap before landing a breakout role as Jodie Dallas, the first openly gay character on American television. The ‘80s saw Crystal hit it big in comedy, with a starring role in When Harry Met Sally…, a film that became a cultural touchstone. His witty, lovable persona made him a household name by the end of the decade.
In addition to his acting success, Billy Crystal became a mainstay on the talk show circuit and a frequent host of Saturday Night Live. His energetic and witty performances in both film and television during the ‘80s solidified his place as one of the decade’s top comedic actors. By the time the ‘90s rolled around, Billy Crystal was an undeniable star who had managed a major career resurgence.
6. Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro, best known for his intense and often intimidating roles in ’70s classics like Taxi Driver and The Godfather Part II, entered the ‘80s with a more eclectic filmography. After some quieter years, De Niro made a stunning comeback in the ‘80s with roles in films like The King of Comedy and Midnight Run. His ability to take on both dramatic and comedic roles showcased his range, and audiences were reminded of his incredible talent.
De Niro’s comedic performances, particularly in Midnight Run, were a stark contrast to his earlier roles, but they were incredibly successful. By the end of the decade, De Niro was back on top, solidifying his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His shift from gritty dramas to more light-hearted roles in the ‘80s was a successful rebranding that set the stage for his dominance in Hollywood for decades to come.
7. Jack Nicholson
Jack Nicholson had a legendary run in the ‘70s with standout roles in films like One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Chinatown, but the ‘80s were the decade that solidified his place in pop culture as an all-time great. Nicholson’s comeback was cemented with his role as the Joker in Batman (1989), which gave him a chance to showcase his sinister charm and unique brand of humor. The film became one of the highest-grossing films of the decade, and Nicholson’s portrayal of the iconic villain is still considered one of the best in cinematic history.
In addition to Batman, Nicholson had a variety of successful roles throughout the ‘80s, including Terms of Endearment and The Shining. His ability to effortlessly switch between intense dramas and quirky comedies kept him relevant in Hollywood. Nicholson’s career renaissance in the ‘80s showed that he had staying power, and by the end of the decade, he was considered one of the most respected actors of his time.
