1. Larry Dallas (Three’s Company)
As Jack Tripper’s flashy best friend on Three’s Company, Larry Dallas was never meant to be the star. Yet Richard Kline’s performance made the character shine with his quick schemes, smooth-talking charm, and perfectly timed humor. While Jack carried the main storyline, Larry often swooped in with a hilarious subplot or joke that left audiences laughing long after his scenes ended. His presence gave the show an extra layer of comedy, and fans came to anticipate his appearances as much as those of the main trio.
2. Balki Bartokomous (Perfect Strangers)
When Perfect Strangers premiered, the story centered on straight-laced Larry Appleton, but it was Balki Bartokomous, the cheerful cousin from Mypos, who won hearts. With his thick accent, childlike innocence, and endless optimism, Balki quickly became the standout character. His unique sayings like “Don’t be ridiculous!” turned into catchphrases, and his bond with Larry gave the show both humor and heart. By the end of its run, Balki wasn’t just comic relief, he was the true center of the series and a defining face of ’80s sitcoms.
3. Corky Sherwood (Murphy Brown)
Corky Sherwood was introduced as the bubbly, somewhat naïve co-anchor on Murphy Brown, but audiences soon discovered there was much more to her. Played by Faith Ford, Corky grew from ditzy comic relief into a character with depth, kindness, and surprising insight. Her upbeat personality often softened Murphy’s sharp edges, and her fish-out-of-water charm provided some of the show’s funniest moments. Over time, Corky became just as essential to the show’s dynamic as Murphy herself, proving that sometimes the sidekick can hold their own spotlight.
4. George and Louise Jefferson (All in the Family spinoff)
George and Louise Jefferson began as Archie Bunker’s outspoken neighbors on All in the Family, but their chemistry was undeniable. Audiences loved George’s fiery personality paired with Louise’s steady patience, and the couple’s back-and-forth was so strong it earned them their own sitcom, The Jeffersons. What started as a side role became one of television’s most successful spinoffs, running for 11 seasons. Together, George and Louise became cultural icons of the ’70s and ’80s, showing how a supporting duo could build an empire of laughs all their own.
5. Boner (Growing Pains)
On Growing Pains, Richard “Boner” Stabone was Mike Seaver’s goofy best friend, originally meant for small doses of comic relief. But actor Andrew Koenig brought so much warmth and humor to the role that Boner became a fan favorite. His antics, loyalty to Mike, and perfectly timed one-liners made him unforgettable, even in a show centered on family dynamics. While his unusual nickname wouldn’t fly on TV today, Boner stood out as one of the most memorable characters of the series, stealing scenes with his endearing goofiness.
6. Dwayne (What’s Happening!!)
Among the trio of friends in What’s Happening!!, Dwayne stood out with his laid-back personality and signature greeting, “Hey hey hey!” While Roger was the studious one and Rerun was the showman, Dwayne brought a cool, easygoing humor that made him instantly likable. His knack for lighthearted banter and quick reactions often turned simple moments into scene-stealers. Even when the plots centered on the others, Dwayne’s charm and memorable catchphrase gave him a spotlight of his own, making him a key part of the show’s enduring appeal.
7. Skippy (Family Ties)
Marc Price’s portrayal of Skippy on Family Ties was meant to be a quirky side character, but he quickly became central to the show’s charm. Skippy’s awkward devotion to Mallory and his lovable nerdiness made him both hilarious and sympathetic. His exaggerated mannerisms and heartfelt attempts to fit in often stole the spotlight, especially in contrast to the polished Keaton family. Viewers rooted for Skippy even when he failed, and his goofy persistence made him one of the most enduring and endearing sidekicks of ’80s sitcoms.
8. Mr. T as B.A. Baracus (The A-Team)
The A-Team had four main characters, but it was Mr. T’s B.A. Baracus who became the face of the show. With his gold chains, mandinka, and unforgettable catchphrase “I pity the fool!”, B.A. was larger than life. Though technically not the leader, his tough-guy persona and surprising soft spots made him the standout. Kids idolized him, adults quoted him, and his presence alone drew viewers each week. Mr. T turned what could have been a supporting role into a full-blown cultural phenomenon, stealing scenes and cementing himself as an ’80s icon.
9. Wilson (Home Improvement)
Though Home Improvement is best remembered as a ’90s hit, Wilson made his first appearances at the tail end of the ’80s. Always seen behind the backyard fence, Wilson offered sage advice to Tim Taylor, often delivered with humor and wisdom in equal measure. His mysterious half-hidden face became a running gag, but it was his thoughtful words that stuck with audiences. Wilson wasn’t meant to be the focus, but his calming presence and quirky philosophy made him one of the most quoted and beloved characters on the show.
10. Norm and Cliff (Cheers)
At first glance, Norm and Cliff were just regulars at the bar in Cheers, but their presence became the heartbeat of the series. Norm, with his endless one-liners and loyalty to his barstool, delivered some of the show’s biggest laughs, while Cliff’s constant stream of bizarre trivia added a unique flavor to every scene. Together, they created a comedic rhythm that felt essential to the atmosphere of Cheers. Though not the stars, their chemistry and banter gave the show some of its most memorable and comforting moments.
11. Mindy (Mork & Mindy)
While Robin Williams’ Mork was the clear star, Pam Dawber’s Mindy played a crucial role in making Mork & Mindy work. Mindy grounded the series, giving audiences someone relatable to balance Mork’s wild antics. Her patience, timing, and natural chemistry with Williams allowed the comedy to shine while keeping the story heartfelt. Without Mindy as the anchor, Mork’s chaos might have been too much, but together they created a perfect pairing. Dawber’s warmth and strength made her just as important to the show’s success as its eccentric alien.
12. Nell Harper (Gimme a Break!)
When Nell Carter’s Nell Harper first appeared in Gimme a Break!, she was written as a supporting character, a housekeeper who brought humor into the family’s life. But Carter’s commanding performance, rich singing voice, and natural comedic timing quickly shifted the spotlight to her. Audiences connected deeply with Nell’s blend of toughness and warmth, and before long, the show revolved entirely around her. What began as a “sidekick” role transformed into one of the most iconic sitcom leads of the decade, thanks to Carter’s undeniable presence.
13. Detective Wojciehowicz (Barney Miller)
Detective Wojciehowicz, or “Wojo,” started as just one of the ensemble members in Barney Miller, but he quickly stood out with his mix of street smarts, sensitivity, and humor. Played by Max Gail, Wojo brought a relatable humanity to the police precinct, often revealing vulnerability beneath his tough exterior. His interactions with Captain Miller and the rest of the squad gave the show much of its heart. Though part of a large cast, Wojo became one of the most beloved characters, stealing scenes with his depth and warmth.
This story 13 ’80s TV Sidekicks Who Ended Up Stealing the Whole Show was first published on Daily FETCH
