Kids

Blast from the Past: 7 Shows That Turn 40 This Year

by Alexa Villano
September 15, 2025

Forty years on, these shows remain classics and have been introduced to new generations of viewers

For many kids who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s, these shows were more than just TV—they were cultural milestones. Whether it was Saturday morning cartoons or post-homework binge sessions, these series shaped childhoods across generations.

Now, nearly 40 years later, thanks to streaming platforms, YouTube uploads, and DVD collections, these classic titles are back—and ready to be rediscovered by today’s kids and their nostalgic millennial parents.

Here are seven unforgettable shows from 1985 worth revisiting (or introducing to your children) in 2025.

Disney’s Adventures of the Gummi Bears

Premiered: September 14, 1985

Loosely inspired by the candy, this fantasy-adventure series followed six magical Gummi Bears—Zummi, Grammi, Gruffi, Tummi, Sunni, and Cubbi—who live in a medieval world and protect their secrets (including the legendary Gummiberry Juice) from the evil Duke Igthorn and his ogres.

Why it still holds up: A great entry point for kids into fantasy storytelling—with strong messages about courage, teamwork, and friendship.

She-Ra: Princess of Power

Premiered: September 9, 1985

Following the success of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, She-Ra was introduced as his twin sister, Adora, who transforms into the Princess of Power to protect Etheria from the evil Hordak. With a magical sword and a fierce sense of justice, She-Ra became an early icon of girl power.

Why it matters today: A trailblazer in female-led action cartoons, She-Ra became a beloved symbol—particularly for young girls and LGBTQ+ viewers who saw themselves in her strength and self-discovery. Its 2018 reboot introduced her to a new generation.

Jem and the Holograms

Premiered: October 6, 1985

Jem is glamour, glitter, fashion, and fame—all powered by tech. Jerrica Benton leads a double life as the pop star Jem, thanks to a holographic AI named Synergy created by her father. Alongside her bandmates—the Holograms—she takes on rival band The Misfits while running a music label and foster home.

Why it’s still truly outrageous: This show mixed fashion, music, and high-tech fantasy in a way that inspired girls and fueled imagination. A special 40th-anniversary album was even released on Spotify in 2025.

ThunderCats

Premiered: January 30, 1985

When the planet Thundera is destroyed, a group of catlike humanoids—led by young Lion-O—escape to Third Earth, where they battle the evil Mumm-Ra and his minions. Packed with action and lore, the show became a cult favorite among boys and collectors alike.

Why it sticks: Cheetara stood out as a rare female hero—fast, fearless, and formidable. The toys were legendary, and the show’s mix of sci-fi and fantasy still holds nostalgic power.

M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand)

Premiered: September 30, 1985

This animated series followed a special task force that uses transforming vehicles and weaponized masks to battle the criminal organization V.E.N.O.M. Led by Matt Trakker—with help (and comic relief) from his son Scott and robot T-Bob—M.A.S.K. was an action-packed fan favorite.

Why dads love it: If your dad or partner had a collection of these transforming vehicles, don’t be surprised—they were everywhere in ’85. This one’s great for kids who love cars, gadgets, and high-stakes battles.

Small Wonder

Premiered: September 7, 1985

Before AI was a household term, Small Wonder imagined a suburban family secretly raising an android daughter. V.I.C.I. (short for Voice Input Child Identicant), who looked like a normal girl but had super strength, encyclopedic knowledge, and zero social filters.

Why it’s worth revisiting: Equal parts quirky and charming, the show was ahead of its time in exploring themes of technology and family. Watching it now, it’s a fun, retro take on robotics—and kids might enjoy comparing Vicki to Alexa or Siri.

The Golden Girls

Premiered: September 14, 1985

Set in Miami, the show follows three widows and one divorcee—Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia—navigating friendship, aging, and life’s absurdities. With razor-sharp wit and heartwarming moments, The Golden Girls became a multigenerational classic.

Why it endures: It’s still as funny, bold, and relatable today as it was in the ’80s. For many moms and grandmas, this theme song still brings comfort. And yes, Gen Z is watching too.

Timeless Stories, Timeless Lessons

These shows may be turning 40, but they’ve proven ageless in spirit. Whether you’re introducing your kids to your old favorites or rediscovering them yourself, there’s value in revisiting the storytelling, lessons, and characters that shaped your childhood.

We never really outgrow great stories. We just pass them on.