On this day March 18 1981 the superhero comedy-drama The Greatest American Hero premiered on ABC. The show followed a mild-mannered teacher named Ralph Hinkley who receives a super-powered suit from aliens but loses the instruction manual leading to hilarious and unexpected challenges.
The series ran for three seasons with 45 episodes blending action comedy and heartfelt moments as Ralph tried to master his powers while working with an FBI agent to fight crime. Despite its short run the show became a cult classic and remains a fan favorite.
80s insight: The show's theme song Believe It or Not performed by Joey Scarbury became a huge hit reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and is still considered one of the best TV theme songs of all time.
The series ran for three seasons with 45 episodes blending action comedy and heartfelt moments as Ralph tried to master his powers while working with an FBI agent to fight crime. Despite its short run the show became a cult classic and remains a fan favorite.
80s insight: The show's theme song Believe It or Not performed by Joey Scarbury became a huge hit reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and is still considered one of the best TV theme songs of all time.
