The #1 TV show in 1980 was Dallas, the popular CBS primetime soap opera.
The Reign of Dallas in 1980
In the 1980-81 television season, which encompasses much of the calendar year 1980, Dallas dominated American airwaves. Its immense popularity culminated in one of television's most iconic cliffhangers: "Who shot J.R.?" The episode, which aired in March 1980, left viewers in suspense for months, with the resolution episode in November 1980 breaking records as the highest-rated single television episode at the time. This cultural phenomenon solidified its position as the undisputed top-rated program.
Below is a glimpse at the top-rated television programs for the 1980-81 season, highlighting Dallas's leading position:
| Rank | Program | Network |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dallas | CBS |
| 2 | The Dukes of Hazzard | CBS |
| 3 | 60 Minutes | CBS |
| 4 | M*A*S*H | CBS |
Dallas captivated audiences with its dramatic storylines centered on the wealthy and feuding Ewing family of Texas oil barons. Its success set a precedent for future serialized dramas and demonstrated the power of a gripping storyline to capture the nation's attention.
