- Photo 1:
- Toei Company / AKOM
- Photo 2:
- Hasbro / Sunbow Productions
- Photo 3:
- CBC Television
The Most Unforgettable '80s Cartoons
Ah, the '80s – a golden era for cartoons that weren't just for Saturday mornings. They were a vibe, a legit culture that has stuck with us over the years. We're talking about shows that fueled our imagination and made us rush home from school. So, in a love letter to that rad time, we've pulled together a list celebrating the best 1980s cartoons of all time.
From the epic adventures of The Transformers to the sewers of New York with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, these series were more than just entertainment; they became legends. They introduced us to worlds where cars could transform into giant robots and turtles mastered ninjutsu. Each episode wasn't just a show; it was a whole experience. So, get ready to take a nostalgia-packed trip down memory lane with this list of the best 80s cartoons of all time - and be sure to vote on your favorites to influence the rankings for future readers.
- 1
Inspired by Japanese toyline Microman, Hasbro's second attempt at a product-based television show (after G.I. Joe) was even more successful. Alien robots fighting each other was a no-brainer and the popularity of the Autobots and Decepticons was immense upon release. To this day, the franchise remains in the mainstream.
- Actors: Frank Welker, Peter Cullen, Corey Burton, Chris Latta, John Stephenson
- 2
One of the most popular animated series in television history, the series launched the merch boom of the Ninja Turtles in the late 80s. The show follows Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Rafael as they battle Shredder, Krang, and other bad guys. Interestingly, though the show started off lively with inept villains, the last three seasons of the cartoon were notably darker and more mature and the action was turned up several notches.
- Actors: Rob Paulsen, Cam Clarke, Barry Gordon, Townsend Coleman, Renae Jacobs
- 3
After the ThunderCats flee their dying home planet, they reach Third Earth and establish a lair. When the Mutants follow them there, they must fight them off to ensure their survival as well as the safety of Third Earth. Several comic series and video games were made based on the show, contributing to its lasting popularity.
- Actors: Peter Newman, Gerrianne Raphael, Robert McFadden, Larry Kenney, Earl Hammond
- 4
Prince Adam, through the Sword of Power, transforms into He-Man and is endowed with magical powers. Along with his closest ally Battle Cat, He-Man must defend Eternia from the evil Skeletor. The wildly successful show spawned the spin-off She-Ra: Princess of Power.
- Actors: John Erwin, Alan Oppenheimer, Lou Scheimer, Linda Gary
- 5
Scrooge McDuck and his grandnephews go treasure hunting (after Donald enlists in the Navy) in this classic Disney show. The popularity of DuckTales can be attributed partially to its homages to classic stories and popular culture, as they parodied Shakespeare, Indiana Jones, Sherlock Holmes, and more.
- Actors: Alan Young, Russi Taylor, Chuck McCann, Terence McGovern, Frank Welker
- 6
Cyborg police inspector Inspector Gadget tries his best to foil the schemes of M.A.D., a crime organization whose acronym stands for “Mean And Dirty.” Though he's equipped with dozens of gadgets, the poor inspector is generally incompetent.
- Actors: Don Adams
