10 Saturday Morning Cartoons ’80s Kids Were Obsessed With

Back in the ’80s, Saturdays were a special time for kids across the country. The simple pleasure of waking up to the excitement of watching animated adventures and fantastical worlds unfold was unmatched. These shows ranged from action-packed superhero sagas to zany comedies, each unique in their own way but all holding a cherished place in the hearts of those who tuned in. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the cartoon favorites that made Saturday mornings so memorable.

10. Inspector Gadget (1983-1985)

The air buzzed with anticipation when “Inspector Gadget” hit the screens in the early ’80s. It featured a detective who, frankly, wasn’t the sharpest tool in the shed but had a supernatural advantage thanks to his body being chock-full of interesting contraptions. The show revolved around his goofy attempts to thwart the mean Dr. Claw, who always seemed to be one step ahead.

Children reveled in the antics of the mechanically enhanced Gadget, though it was actually his savvy niece Penny and their intelligent dog Brain who solved cases behind the scenes. It was this twist that added an extra layer of fun to the episodes, as the young and the furry outsmarted the baddies while the clueless Gadget took the credit. These adventures continued to resonate, leading to live-action adaptations that entertained a new wave of fans.

9. Dungeons & Dragons (1983-1985)

Before anyone could blink, “Dungeons & Dragons,” the show, took kids from their living rooms to lands filled with magic, creatures, and nail-biting danger. This cartoon was inspired by the already popular role-playing game and saw a group of school friends propelled into a mystical realm after a rollercoaster ride gone strangely magical. The rich storytelling captivated those who loved the idea of an alternate reality brimming with possibilities.

The series was a playground for the imagination, giving everyone a ticket to explore alongside characters striving to return to their normal lives. Unforgettable because of its daring take on action for a cartoon meant for kids, it pushed boundaries that left parents a little uneasy but captured children’s hearts and minds just the same. It all amounted to an affair that was talked about long after the show had ended.

8. ThunderCats (1985-1989)

Enter “ThunderCats,” a show about noble cat-like aliens stranded on a strange world called Third Earth. Their objective was clear: settle their new home and battle the evil Mutants who would do anything to see them fail. With their awe-inspiring abilities and a dash of science fiction, the ThunderCats, led by brave Lion-O, became weekend heroes for many.

The program was not just about good versus evil; it had depth in its writing and character arcs that resonated with its audience. The camaraderie among the ThunderCats and their determination to overcome the spine-chilling Mumm-Ra made for some of the most thrilling showdowns on Saturday mornings. While later versions of the series have surfaced, none seem to hold the magic that the original had in spades.

7. He-Man And The Masters Of The Universe (1983-1985)

When “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” erupted onto the scene, it presented kids with the dual life of Prince Adam—who transformed into a muscle-packed hero to save the universe from evildoers like Skeletor. This show was perfect for those who daydreamed about living exciting double lives and craving action that pitted blatant good against clear-cut evil.

He-Man stood out not only for the battles and fantasy elements but also for its educational slant. Every episode wrapped up with a moral lesson, which helped soothe parents who frowned upon the idea of a show tailored to sell action figures. Consequently, He-Man proved to be more than just entertainment—it was a character who modeled heroism and wisdom, sealing his place in the annals of children’s programming.

6. The Real Ghostbusters (1986-1991)

With “The Real Ghostbusters,” the ghost-chasing escapades continued from the hit movie, capturing the hearts and imaginations of countless young fans. The Saturday edition featured a crew of fresh voice actors who brought a different spark to the beloved characters: a group dedicated to ridding the world of pesky ghosts and creatures through a variety of comic mishaps and spine-tingling adventures.

Kids remained hooked on the show even though it transitioned to a more kid-friendly vibe as the seasons progressed. Changes were made to align with network preferences, but the essence of ghost-busting fun remained intact. “The Real Ghostbusters” stood the test of time, continuing to usher in various sequels in the franchise, proving that a good spook can indeed be timeless.

5. The Transformers (1984-1987)

Robotic protagonists from “The Transformers” brought their intergalactic war to Earth, immediately ensnaring the attention of young viewers. With Autobots and Decepticons transforming from vehicles to robots, it wasn’t hard to see why this show quickly mounted to the pinnacle of ’80s cartoon fame. Allies and foes clashed in epic showdowns, drawing lines between good and evil in a clear, yet memorable way.

What made “The Transformers” stick was the connection that viewers formed with the characters. Whether it was through the onscreen chemistry of the Autobots or their toy figurines that children could own, the mix of humanity and machinery touched a chord. The characters within those metallic exteriors were relatable and endeared themselves to their audience, proving that heart isn’t something exclusive to flesh and blood.

4. The Smurfs (1981-1989)

“The Smurfs” brought an enchanting twist to Saturday mornings, charming everyone with their whimsical village life and names that perfectly captured their personalities. These small blue creatures lived together in harmony, each with their quirks and traits, navigating their way through life while dodging the clutches of their archenemy, the wizard Gargamel.

The appeal of the Smurfs lay in their simplicity and the warmth they exuded. Their catchphrases and smurfy language added an element of delight to each episode, making the language as much a part of their character as their blue skin. The series went on for almost a decade, and with their recent reappearances in live-action films, the Smurfs prove that true charm never fades.

3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987-1996)

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) series, despite facing criticism for its perceived violence and commercialism, struck a chord with its target demographic, becoming a cultural phenomenon in the process. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the show revolves around the four titular turtles—Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo—who battle a rotating cast of villains, keeping the narratives fresh and engaging.

Originally comic book characters, the turtles were given distinct personalities in the animated series, which not only entertained but also helped solidify these personas in the franchise’s legacy. The series blended the best elements of 1980s cartoons, including strong writing and impactful voice acting, transforming Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo into household names far beyond their artistic namesakes. This fusion of action and character-driven storytelling ensured the lasting popularity of TMNT, influencing various sequels, merchandise, and a broad fan base spanning generations.

2. Jem (1985-1988)

Immersed in the vivid colors and fashion trends of the 1980s, Jem perfectly captures the essence of the decade. The series centers on Jerrica Benton, a woman leading a double life reminiscent of a superhero’s. By day, she is a corporate executive striving to propel her company and music band to success, devoid of interference from rival groups or unscrupulous businessmen. By night, she transforms into Jem, the flamboyant frontwoman of Jem and The Holograms.

The dual identity angle adds a layer of excitement typical of superhero tales, making it relatable and thrilling for young viewers. The show is also notable for its unique approach to music; the performances within Jem were fashioned after the then-popular music video style showcased on MTV, complete with big hair and extravagant outfits, all of which left a lasting impression on its audience.

1. DuckTales (1987-1990)

Before the advent of Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers, there was DuckTales, a show that has been widely credited with setting the stage for future animated hits from Disney. The series chronicles the thrilling escapades of Scrooge McDuck along with his grandnephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie. They embark on adventures around the globe, searching for treasures to augment Scrooge’s wealth or battling nefarious foes intent on usurping these riches.

DuckTales might have had a straightforward plot, but the dedication to crafting compelling narratives and multidimensional characters was clear. As children, viewers might not have appreciated this depth, but as adults, the sophistication of the series’ storytelling garners respect and nostalgia. The characters have remained iconic, buoyed by both the original episodes and recent series reboots. Adding to its lasting legacy is the series’ catchy theme song, composed by Mark Mueller, which has become an enduring earworm for anyone who’s watched the show.