1. Captain Caveman
If you’ve ever wondered where the inspiration for modern caveman characters came from, look no further than Captain Caveman. A hilariously clumsy prehistoric hero, Captain Caveman had a lot of charm despite his antics and inability to be quite as heroic as you’d expect. With his trusty club, he would often save the day in a way that was more luck than skill, teaming up with a group of teenagers for adventures. The show had its moments of genuine fun, making it one of those nostalgic, early ’80s favorites that seemed to disappear too soon. It might not be the most polished show, but Captain Caveman’s slapstick humor made him a character kids adored.
2. Clutch Cargo
Clutch Cargo was a pioneer in early television animation, though its odd style makes it hard to forget. This show from the late ’50s and early ’60s used a technique called “Syncro-Vox,” where real human mouths were superimposed onto the animated characters. The result? A slightly unsettling but unforgettable aesthetic. Clutch, the titular adventurer, traveled the world solving mysteries with his young sidekick Spinner and their dog, Paddlefoot. While it didn’t have the fluid animation of later cartoons, it captured a sense of adventure that resonated with kids of its time. Its unique approach might look strange today, but it paved the way for experimentation in animation.
3. The Herculoids
In the late ’60s and early ’70s, The Herculoids were everywhere, capturing the imagination of kids with their wild mix of action and fantasy. The show featured Zandor, a brave leader, his son Dorno, and a team of bizarre creatures who protected their home on the planet Quasar. Characters like Tundro (a rhinoceros-like creature) and Igoo (a giant gorilla) became instantly iconic. The Herculoids took on the forces of evil in epic battles, and their bravery and strange abilities made them unforgettable. Sadly, they’ve been overshadowed by other more popular superhero teams, but they still remain an emblem of retro animation.
4. Mr. T
Before he was a reality TV star, Mr. T was the star of his own animated series in the ’80s. The show featured him as a tough guy with a heart of gold, leading a group of teens on wild adventures. Mr. T was famous for his role in The A-Team, but this animated series was a different type of entertainment. He didn’t just punch bad guys; he inspired kids to work together and face challenges head-on. The show might not have aged as well, but it certainly left a mark on ’80s pop culture, with his iconic gold chains and catchphrases.
5. Jabberjaw
If you’re a fan of goofy underwater antics, then Jabberjaw was probably on your radar in the ’70s. This talking, saxophone-playing shark was the lead character of a Hanna-Barbera series that tried to mix rock ‘n’ roll with an underwater mystery-solving crew. Jabberjaw, with his bumbling yet lovable persona, was often the comic relief as he and his friends ventured on adventures beneath the sea. The show was reminiscent of Scooby-Doo, but the underwater setting made it a fun twist. Even though Jabberjaw faded from view, his deep voice and musicality were enough to make him memorable.
6. Speed Buggy
Another creation from the ’70s, Speed Buggy was Hanna-Barbera’s attempt to cash in on the success of Scooby-Doo with a talking car as the main character. The show revolved around a group of teenagers and their talking dune buggy, Speed Buggy, who was always ready for action. It was a fun, goofy ride with plenty of adventures involving the team solving mysteries while racing through different terrains. While the show never reached the iconic status of its peers, Speed Buggy still holds a special place for its high-energy style and the unique idea of a sentient car.
7. The Little Prince
Based on the famous novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince had an animated series that aired in the ’80s. While not as well-known today, the series captured the essence of the novel’s charm and whimsy. The Little Prince, along with his friends like the Fox, traveled to different planets in each episode, teaching life lessons about love, friendship, and loss. The show stood out for its philosophical undertones, making it a standout in children’s animation at the time. Though overshadowed by more action-packed cartoons, the series left a lasting impression on viewers with its deep messages.
8. Galaxy Rangers
If you loved sci-fi action with a Western twist, then Galaxy Rangers was the perfect show for you. This ’80s gem featured a team of intergalactic lawmen who combined futuristic technology with the rugged charm of Wild West heroes. The Rangers had unique powers, and they fought against alien threats, showcasing both laser gun fights and the kind of morality you’d expect from a Western hero. The show’s animation was groundbreaking for its time, with high-quality designs and complex storylines. Sadly, it never reached the level of mainstream success it deserved, but it still has a loyal fanbase who fondly remembers its epic space adventures.
9. The Wacky Races
While many know Wacky Races as a classic Hanna-Barbera property, not everyone remembers the charm of its zany characters. The show followed a series of colorful characters as they raced across the country in wild vehicles, each one more ridiculous than the last. The catch was that the races were full of sabotages, mischief, and laughter, with villains like Dick Dastardly and Muttley always trying to cheat their way to the finish line. While Wacky Races was popular in its time, its frenetic energy and silly humor seem to have been forgotten in the modern era. But for those who remember, it remains one of the most fun and chaotic race series out there.
10. The Smurfs
Though The Smurfs had their heyday in the ’80s, many people forget just how huge they were during that time. This little blue community of characters had their own television show, comic book series, and a whole line of merchandise. The Smurfs lived in mushroom houses and went on all sorts of whimsical adventures, usually involving the evil wizard Gargamel. The show had a massive cultural impact, from pop culture references to toys, but it’s often overshadowed by more current animated hits. Their adorable looks and positive messages still make them a beloved part of many childhoods.
11. Thundarr the Barbarian
Before the days of He-Man, there was Thundarr the Barbarian, an epic post-apocalyptic hero with a magical sword and a mission to save the world. The show aired in the early ’80s, blending sword-and-sorcery fantasy with futuristic dystopian settings. Thundarr, along with his sidekick Ookla the Mok and sorceress Ariel, traversed a desolate Earth, battling mutants and ancient magical forces. The show had all the action and excitement that defined cartoons of the era but never quite gained the lasting popularity of other franchises. It’s a shame, as Thundarr offered something unique in the world of ’80s animation.
12. Dungeons & Dragons
The ’80s was full of adventure, and Dungeons & Dragons (the animated series) brought the famous tabletop game to life in an animated form. A group of kids find themselves transported into a fantasy world, where they must face various mythical creatures and solve quests. The series was a hit for its engaging characters and its close ties to the fantasy genre, which was gaining popularity at the time. The show never really saw a proper conclusion, and the unanswered ending still bothers fans to this day. Still, it stands out as one of the era’s most ambitious adaptations of a game, and for those who remember it, the show will always hold a place in their nostalgic hearts.