Today, we’re turning the dial back to a magical era the 1980s, when Canadian TV shows were bursting with charm, creativity, and unforgettable characters. This was the time before endless streaming, when you’d rush to the TV and wait for your favorite show to come on.
In this nostalgic journey, we’ll explore 10 of the most iconic 1980s Canadian TV shows the ones that shaped childhoods, entertained families, and left a lasting mark on pop culture. If you grew up in Canada or just love classic TV, you’re in for a warm, memory-filled ride.
What You will see in this Article
- Introduction
- Why 1980s Canadian TV Shows Were So Special
- Criteria for Selecting These Classic Shows
- Top 10 Iconic 1980s Canadian TV Shows
- Impact of 1980s Canadian TV on Pop Culture
- Fun Nostalgic Facts About Old Canadian Shows
- Why You Should Revisit These Shows
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Call to Action
Why 1980s Canadian TV Shows Were So Special
Canadian TV in the 1980s had a distinctive style and spirit. It was simple, heartfelt, and often educational yet always entertaining.
Here’s what made them stand out:
- Homegrown talent – Many actors who later became stars got their start here
- Original stories – Focused on Canadian life, values, and humor
- Diverse genres – Cartoons, teen dramas, sketch comedies, educational shows
- Wholesome vibes – Safe for kids yet enjoyable for adults
Unlike big U.S. productions, these shows were relatable, down-to-earth, and personal.
Criteria for This Top 10 List
To make this list authentic and nostalgic, I picked shows based on these factors:
- Aired mainly in the 1980s
- Produced or co-produced in Canada
- Had high cultural impact
- Still have fan recognition today
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Top 10 Iconic 1980s Canadian TV Shows
1. Degrassi Junior High (1987–1989)
“Degrassi” was revolutionary. It tackled real-life teen problems like peer pressure, bullying, drugs, relationships, and self-esteem.
It gave Canadian teens a voice, showing that their struggles mattered. Many of its young actors became household names.
Fun fact: It was later followed by Degrassi High and Degrassi: The Next Generation, proving its timeless appeal.
2. Fraggle Rock (1983–1987)
Created by Jim Henson and filmed in Toronto, this colorful puppet series became a global hit.
It used music, humor, and adventure to teach lessons about friendship, cooperation, and diversity.
Why it stood out: Every character had charm, and its world-building was rich and magical.
3. The Raccoons (1985–1991)
This animated series followed Bert Raccoon and his friends as they protected their forest from greedy industrialist Cyril Sneer.
It was fun, adventurous, and subtly encouraged kids to care about the environment.
Bonus: Its catchy theme song, “Run with Us,” became an anthem for Canadian kids.
4. You Can’t Do That on Television (1979–1990)
A hilarious sketch comedy for kids that launched the careers of stars like Alanis Morissette.
It was unpredictable, silly, and full of green slime (which inspired Nickelodeon’s iconic slime tradition!).
Why we loved it: It treated kids like they were smart enough to get the jokes.
5. Mr. Dressup (1967–1996)
Though it started earlier, Mr. Dressup was a beloved presence through the 1980s.
Ernie Coombs and his puppet friends Casey and Finnegan entertained children with arts, crafts, stories, and songs.
Nostalgia hit: It was gentle, creative, and made every child feel special.
6. Today’s Special (1981–1987)
This unique show featured a mannequin who came to life at night inside a department store.
It mixed live action, puppetry, and music to create a magical atmosphere for preschoolers.
Why it worked: It turned ordinary spaces into wonderlands of imagination.
7. The Friendly Giant (1958–1985)
This long-running classic was still airing in the early ’80s.
With its calm storytelling, miniature furniture, and gentle giant narrator, it provided a peaceful start to the day for countless Canadian kids.
Signature style: Slow, soothing, and deeply comforting.
8. Danger Bay (1984–1990)
An action-adventure drama about a marine biologist and his kids who protected wildlife and solved environmental mysteries.
It mixed family fun with real-world science and conservation.
Cool part: It promoted nature awareness long before it was trendy.
9. The Edison Twins (1982–1986)
This educational adventure series followed two brilliant twins solving everyday problems with science.
It encouraged curiosity, teamwork, and creative thinking among kids.
Why it stood out: It made learning look fun and exciting.
10. Bizarre (1980–1986)
A sketch comedy series for older audiences starring John Byner and Bob Einstein (as Super Dave Osborne).
It blended sharp satire, slapstick humor, and outrageous stunts.
Legacy: It was edgy yet proudly Canadian, and Super Dave became a pop-culture icon.
Impact of 1980s Canadian TV on Pop Culture
These shows didn’t just entertain they shaped culture:
- Helped launch international careers for Canadian actors and creators
- Gave Canada a strong TV identity separate from Hollywood
- Inspired future shows in both Canada and the U.S.
- Created catchphrases, songs, and moments still remembered today
Even decades later, their influence can be seen in modern TV storytelling.
Fun Nostalgic Facts About Old Canadian Shows
- Many were filmed in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal studios
- Budgets were small, but creativity was huge
- Some shows aired in multiple languages (English & French)
- Reruns are still streamed today by fans who grew up with them
Why You Should Revisit These Shows
Watching these old classics again can:
- Bring back childhood memories
- Show how storytelling has evolved
- Offer wholesome, low-stress content in a fast-paced world
- Help younger viewers appreciate TV history
They’re like time capsules filled with joy and creativity.
Conclusion
The 1980s were truly a golden age of Canadian television. From heartfelt dramas like Degrassi to silly comedies like You Can’t Do That on Television and magical kids shows like Fraggle Rock, these programs defined a generation.
They weren’t just shows they were friends, teachers, and cultural icons. Revisiting them is like visiting an old hometown: familiar, comforting, and full of stories worth remembering.
FAQs
1. What were some popular 1980s Canadian children’s shows?
Shows like Mr. Dressup, Today’s Special, Fraggle Rock, and The Friendly Giant were beloved by kids.
2. Which 1980s Canadian TV show tackled serious teen issues?
Degrassi Junior High stood out for its honest look at real-life teen struggles.
3. Are these old Canadian shows available to watch now?
Yes! Many are available on YouTube, CBC Gem, and streaming platforms in Canada.
4. Why are 1980s Canadian shows still loved?
Because they were authentic, heartfelt, and creative, offering timeless stories and life lessons.
5. Did any 1980s Canadian TV shows influence Hollywood?
Yes You Can’t Do That on Television inspired Nickelodeon’s slime, and Degrassi shaped modern teen dramas.
Call to Action
Feeling nostalgic already? 🎬
Revisit these classic 1980s Canadian TV shows with your friends or family tonight.
Share this article with anyone who grew up in the ’80s and let the memories flood back!
