Top 10 ‘80s Shows That Properly Handled Serious Topics

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10. The Wonder Years (1988-93) - Cultural Shifts; Politics; Dreams; Parenting; Winnie Cooper’s brother Brian being killed in Vietnam.

9. The Hogan Family (1986-91) - Safe sex practices; AIDS crisis; Infamous death of the title character played by Valerie Harper.

8. Hill Street Blues (1981-87) - Racism in the police force.

7. Fame (1982-87) - Drunk driving; Alcohol use disorder; Depression and self-destruction.

6. 21 Jump Street (1987-91) - Consequences of guns; Illegal substance use; Criminal activity; Satanic panic that worried parents of Punk and Heavy Metal fans; AIDS crisis; School tormentors.

5. Family Ties (1982-89) - Alcohol use disorder; Substance use disorder; Anxiety; Inappropriate behavior.

4. A Different World (1987-93) - Apartheid; AIDS crisis; Racism; Interracial relationships; Los Angeles Riots; Domestic Violence; Date Rape.

3. Diff’rent Strokes (1978-86) - Epilepsy; Abduction; Just Say No campaign.

2. The Golden Girls (1985-92) - Menopause; Alzheimer’s disease; Prejudice; End of life choices; AIDS crisis; Gambling disorder.

1. Degrassi Junior High (1987-89) - Unplanned pregnancy; Anxiety, and much more.

Honorable Mentions:

• The Facts Of Life (1979-88) - The good, the bad & everything in between.
  
• Punky Brewster (1984-88) - Reflecting on the Challenge disaster.
  
• Mr. Belvedere (1985-90) - Predators in Prime Time.
  
• Growing Pains (1985-92) - The effects of grief.
  
• St. Elsewhere (1982-88) - Doctors & high drama.