The Best '80s Black Sitcoms
Although the Black sitcom boom happened in the '90s, the 1980s had a ton of hilarious African American comedy shows as well. Black sitcoms have been around since the early days of network television, but shows like The Cosby Show and Diff'rent Strokes are arguably more famous than any other Black sitcoms throughout TV history. Â
Which shows appear on this list of the top '80s Black sitcoms? A Different World and What's Happening Now!! top our list. Other shows include Benson, Amen, and The New Odd Couple.Â
Where do your favorite 1980s funny Black sitcoms fall on this list? Be sure to vote up the best ones, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Then, check out our list of '80s black TV shows.
- 1Sherman Hemsley, Isabel Sanford, Mike Evans
- Premiered: January 18, 1975
This iconic show features the lovable, upwardly mobile African American family led by George (Sherman Hemsley) and Louise (Isabel Sanford), earning several Emmy nominations for their portrayals. The series, which ran for 11 seasons, tackles important topics of race, class, and gender with humor and heart. Groundbreaking in its time, The Jeffersons remains a timeless classic that continues to entertain and inspire viewers today.
- 2Lisa Bonet, Kadeem Hardison, Jasmine Guy
- Premiered: September 24, 1987
Spinning off from The Cosby Show, this college-set sitcom centers around the lives of students at the fictitious Hillman College, a historically black institution. Boasting an ensemble cast that included Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, and Cree Summer among others, the series touched on issues such as racism, sexism, and political activism while maintaining its comedic edge. Garnering multiple NAACP Image Awards during its six-season run, A Different World paved the way for other series to explore the diverse experiences of black youth in America.
- 3Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Malcolm-Jamal Warner
- Premiered: September 20, 1984
Led by comedy legend Bill Cosby as Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad as Claire Huxtable, this groundbreaking family sitcom was designed to challenge racial stereotypes and highlight positive role models within the African American community. With numerous accolades including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series under its belt, The Cosby Show remains one of television's most beloved programs despite recent controversies surrounding its lead actor.
- 4Conrad Bain, Gary Coleman, Todd Bridges
- Premiered: November 3, 1978
Charming audiences during its eight-season tenure with Gary Coleman's unforgettable catchphrase ("Whatchu talkin' 'bout Willis?"), this sitcom follows two orphaned brothers adopted by wealthy businessman Phillip Drummond (Conrad Bain). While tackling serious subjects like racism and drug abuse in a light-hearted manner with memorable guest stars like Nancy Reagan, Diff'rent Strokes managed to entertain viewers while simultaneously delivering thought-provoking messages.
- 5Redd Foxx, Dennis Burkley, Marguerite Ray
- Premiered: March 15, 1980
A spinoff of the successful Sanford and Son series, this sitcom focuses on widower Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) as he navigates life, love, and business in Los Angeles. Known for Foxx's quick wit and comedic timing, the show garnered high ratings and praise for its unique portrayal of an older black man as the central character. Despite only running two seasons, Sanford left a lasting impression on viewers and demonstrated the staying power of Redd Foxx's talent.
- 6Marla Gibbs, Hal Williams, Alaina Reed-Hall
- Premiered: September 14, 1985
Centered around Marla Gibbs' character Mary Jenkins, a gossipy housewife residing in apartment 227 of a Washington D.C. building, this sitcom showcased strong female characters bonding over everyday life experiences. With both humor and heartwarming moments featuring talents like Jackée Harry who won an Emmy Award for her role as Sandra Clark, 227 solidified itself as a firm favorite during its five-year run.
