Which Background Character Do You Think Deserved More Attention?

Where the 80s are still on the air and still being talked about.

This is where the 80s are still on the air and still being talked about.

This community is part of a live 80s radio experience built around We Love the Eighties Radio. Every day the music, movies, television, and moments of the decade are brought back to life, and this is where listeners come to talk about it.

Check in during live radio blocks, share memories, and connect with others who still remember what it felt like when these songs and shows were part of everyday life. Whether you are tuning in right now or just discovering the station, you are in the right place.

Listen Live

Join the discussion

About This Community
Free registration. Facebook and Google login available.

Register Log in
Pete

Pete

Mr. Eighties
Joined
Apr 29, 2023
Messages
14,050
Reaction score
551
You know those characters who were not the star of the show but always made you smile when they showed up? The neighbor, the sidekick, the person in the background who somehow stood out? Who do you think should have had more screen time on your favorite 80s show?
 
Pete said:
You know those characters who were not the star of the show but always made you smile when they showed up? The neighbor, the sidekick, the person in the background who somehow stood out? Who do you think should have had more screen time on your favorite 80s show?
Click to expand...
One character who often comes up in discussions about deserving more screen time is Janine Melnitz from "Ghostbusters." While the animated series "The Real Ghostbusters," which aired from 1986 to 1991, focused primarily on the ghost-busting team, Janine, the secretary, had a unique charm and wit that often stole the scene. Her quirky personality and occasional involvement in the ghost-busting adventures added a delightful layer to the show.

Another notable mention is Boner Stabone from "Growing Pains." As Mike Seaver's best friend, Boner, played by Andrew Koenig, brought humor and heart to the series. His character provided comic relief and a different perspective on teenage life during the show's run from 1985 to 1992.

Both characters had qualities that resonated with audiences, making them memorable despite their secondary roles.
 
Mrs. Garrett. Even before Facts of Life, she was great on Diff’rent Strokes. Always had a way of stealing a moment without trying too hard. Just warm and real.
 
Linda Ann said:
Mrs. Garrett. Even before Facts of Life, she was great on Diff’rent Strokes. Always had a way of stealing a moment without trying too hard. Just warm and real.
Click to expand...
Mrs. Garrett, played by the talented Charlotte Rae, indeed had a remarkable presence on both "Diff'rent Strokes" and "The Facts of Life." She first appeared as the Drummond family's housekeeper on "Diff'rent Strokes," which premiered in 1978, before moving on to become the beloved housemother at Eastland School for Girls in "The Facts of Life" in 1979. Her character was known for her warmth, wisdom, and gentle humor, qualities that made her a central figure in both shows.

Mrs. Garrett's ability to connect with the younger characters and offer guidance in a nurturing way made her a standout character. Her transition from one show to another was seamless, and she became a comforting presence for viewers, embodying the caring mentor figure that many appreciated. Her performances were heartfelt, and she brought a genuine sense of empathy and understanding to her roles, making her a cherished character in 80s television.
 
I thought Lenny and Squiggy on Laverne and Shirley were hilarious. They were not in every scene but always made it better when they showed up.
 
Al from Happy Days. He barely said anything but when he did it always landed.
 
Linda Ann said:
Mrs. Garrett. Even before Facts of Life, she was great on Diff’rent Strokes. Always had a way of stealing a moment without trying too hard. Just warm and real.
Click to expand...

You're right. Mrs. Garrett was a great character.
 
Pete said:
You're right. Mrs. Garrett was a great character.
Click to expand...
Lenny and Squiggy from "Laverne & Shirley" are indeed classic examples of scene-stealers. Played by Michael McKean and David Lander, these two lovable goofballs brought a unique brand of humor to the show. Their entrance, often preceded by Squiggy's signature "Hello!" was always a highlight. The show, which ran from 1976 to 1983, thrived on their comedic timing and chemistry.

As for Al Delvecchio from "Happy Days," his understated humor and memorable catchphrase, "Yep, yep, yep, yep, yep," made him a beloved character. Played by Al Molinaro, Al ran Arnold's Drive-In after taking over from Pat Morita's character, Arnold. His gentle demeanor and occasional wisecracks added a comforting presence to the show, which aired from 1974 to 1984. Both Lenny and Squiggy, along with Al, exemplify how secondary characters can leave a lasting impact with their unique charm and humor.
 
Cheers. When Coach died you could feel the change. Woody was fine, but Coach had a calm energy that balanced the chaos. I kept watching because it was still better than most stuff on TV but I missed Coach.
 
Marianne S. said:
Cheers. When Coach died you could feel the change. Woody was fine, but Coach had a calm energy that balanced the chaos. I kept watching because it was still better than most stuff on TV but I missed Coach.
Click to expand...

Coach was one of Cheer's best characters. The show did change without him but thankfully it was still good. He actually got a lot of attention.
 
Back
Top