The 1980s were an unforgettable era for TV theme songs. While some shows delivered on the promise of their catchy intros, others had us humming along to tunes that were way better than the content that followed. Whether it was an earworm melody or lyrics that stuck with you for decades, these theme songs were often the best part of the viewing experience. Here are 12 TV shows from the ’80s with theme songs better than the show itself.
1. The Greatest American Hero (1981-1983) – “Believe It or Not”
“Believe It or Not” by Joey Scarbury became a pop hit, and for good reason. The soaring melody and hopeful lyrics made it a feel-good anthem of the early ’80s. Unfortunately, the show itself, which followed an awkward superhero learning to use his powers, struggled to find the same success. While The Greatest American Hero had its charms, it never quite lived up to the promise of its theme song.
2. Charles in Charge (1984-1990) – “Charles in Charge”
With its upbeat tempo and sing-along lyrics, Charles in Charge had a theme song that made you feel like every day was Saturday morning. The show, starring Scott Baio as a college student turned live-in babysitter, was light and sometimes goofy, but never as catchy as its opening tune. The theme song became a nostalgia staple, even if the show itself faded from memory.
3. The Fall Guy (1981-1986) – “Unknown Stuntman”
Sung by series star Lee Majors, The Fall Guy theme song, “Unknown Stuntman”, was a clever and catchy ode to Hollywood’s unsung heroes. The lyrics humorously referenced big movie stars and highlighted the dangerous work of stunt performers. While the show, which followed a stuntman moonlighting as a bounty hunter, was decent, it rarely reached the heights of its memorable theme song.
4. The Facts of Life (1979-1988) – “The Facts of Life”
“You take the good, you take the bad”—who doesn’t know the opening lines to The Facts of Life theme song? The cheery, life-lesson-filled lyrics made this tune an instant classic. The show itself had a solid run but often struggled with tone and storylines that didn’t quite match the promise of its catchy intro. It’s a case where the theme song outshined the on-screen drama.
5. Perfect Strangers (1986-1993) – “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now”
Perfect Strangers had an incredibly uplifting theme song, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now”, with its soaring melody and hopeful vibe. The show followed the odd-couple dynamic of Larry and his distant cousin Balki, offering lighthearted sitcom fare. While the series had its moments, it was the infectious theme song that kept audiences coming back, even when the jokes didn’t always land.
6. My Two Dads (1987-1990) – “You Can Count on Me”
The theme song for My Two Dads had a breezy, soft rock vibe that was pure ’80s gold. The lyrics promised loyalty and friendship, setting up high hopes for the show. While the series, about a teenage girl raised by two very different men, had an interesting premise, it often played out with predictable sitcom clichés. The theme song remained the standout element.
7. Growing Pains (1985-1992) – “As Long as We Got Each Other”
With its warm harmonies and wholesome lyrics, Growing Pains theme song, “As Long as We Got Each Other”, became an anthem of family love and support. Sung by B.J. Thomas and, in later seasons, joined by Jennifer Warnes, the song felt like a comforting hug. While the show itself had its highs and lows, the theme song consistently delivered those nostalgic feels.
8. Small Wonder (1985-1989) – “She’s a Small Wonder”
Small Wonder featured a theme song that was as sugary as they come, with lyrics describing the show’s premise of a robot girl living with a suburban family. The upbeat tune had a bubblegum pop appeal that stuck in your head. The show, on the other hand, was known for its awkward acting and bizarre premise, proving that the jingle was truly its greatest asset.
9. Silver Spoons (1982-1987) – “Together”
“Here we are, face to face, a couple of Silver Spoons”—the theme song for Silver Spoons was catchy and brimming with optimism. The sitcom followed the life of a rich kid reconnecting with his playful father, offering light family fare. While the show had its charms, the theme song was the real highlight, perfectly capturing the essence of ’80s sitcom warmth.
10. Mr. Belvedere (1985-1990) – “According to Our New Arrivals”
Sung by Leon Redbone, the theme song to Mr. Belvedere had a jazzy, laid-back feel that set it apart from other sitcom intros. The show followed an English butler adjusting to life with a typical American family, leading to sitcom shenanigans. While the series had a respectable run, the quirky, memorable theme song remained its most enduring element.
11. The Hogan Family (1986-1991) – “Together Through the Years”
The Hogan Family had a theme song with a classic ’80s ballad feel, featuring warm lyrics and a melody that made you feel right at home. The show, originally titled Valerie, underwent several rebrands and cast changes, leading to a bit of an identity crisis. Despite the drama behind the scenes, the theme song remained a comforting constant.
12. The Love Boat (1977-1986) – “The Love Boat”
“The Love Boat” theme song, performed by Jack Jones, was nothing short of iconic. The smooth, lounge-style vocals invited audiences to “set a course for adventure”, promising romance and fun on the high seas. While the show had plenty of cheesy charm, the theme song’s glamorous and inviting vibe often outshined the sometimes corny plotlines. It remains a timeless piece of TV nostalgia.
The ’80s gave us a treasure trove of theme songs that often stood head and shoulders above the shows they introduced. These tunes became ingrained in our collective memory, proving that sometimes all it takes is a great song to make a show unforgettable. Even if the sitcoms and dramas themselves have faded from memory, their theme songs continue to bring a smile to our faces.
