10 Shows and Movies Similar to 21 Jump Street (1987)

Description: This classic buddy cop series shares with '21 Jump Street' the dynamic of two contrasting partners working together to solve crimes. Both shows mix action with humor and feature young, charismatic leads. The street-level policing and focus on youth-related crimes are also similar themes.

Fact: The iconic red Gran Torino was almost another color - white was initially considered. Huggy Bear, the streetwise informant, was one of TV's first recurring African-American characters in a positive role. The show was known for its innovative use of slow-motion action sequences.

Description: Like '21 Jump Street', 'CHiPs' focuses on young police officers, though in this case they're motorcycle cops. Both shows blend action with lighthearted moments and feature attractive young leads. The California setting and focus on youth culture are additional similarities.

Fact: Erik Estrada, who played Ponch, did most of his own motorcycle stunts. The show was initially going to be called 'CHiPs 99' but was changed before production. It was one of the first shows to regularly feature helmet cameras for motorcycle POV shots.

Description: This action-comedy shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on young, rebellious characters fighting authority figures. Both shows blend car chases with humor and feature attractive leads. The Southern setting provides a different but equally distinctive backdrop.

Fact: Over 300 General Lees were used during the show's run due to jumps. The Confederate flag on the roof was controversial even during original airing. John Schneider (Bo Duke) was only 18 when cast and had to get his parents' permission.

Description: This private investigator series shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on a young, charismatic lead solving crimes in an unconventional way. Both shows blend action with humor and feature beautiful locations (Hawaii vs. urban California). The theme of proving oneself is strong in both.

Fact: Tom Selleck was almost cast as Indiana Jones but couldn't due to his 'Magnum' commitment. The famous mustache was Selleck's own - producers initially wanted him to shave it. The show was one of the first to regularly use Steadicam technology.

Description: This action series shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on young, attractive leads doing dangerous work (stuntmen vs. undercover cops). Both shows blend action with humor and romance. The theme of proving oneself in a tough profession connects both series.

Fact: Lee Majors did many of his own stunts despite being in his 40s. The show featured cameos from numerous Hollywood stars playing themselves. It was one of the first shows to regularly showcase behind-the-scenes stunt work.

Description: This groundbreaking police drama shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on the personal lives of police officers and the challenges they face. Both shows blend drama with moments of humor and feature ensemble casts. The realistic portrayal of police work was innovative for both series.

Fact: The show pioneered the use of overlapping dialogue and multiple storylines. It was one of the first shows to feature handheld camera work for a more documentary feel. The famous roll call scenes were ad-libbed by the actors.

Description: While more sci-fi oriented, 'Knight Rider' shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on a young, charismatic lead fighting crime with unconventional methods. Both shows feature cool vehicles (KITT vs. police cruisers) and blend action with lighthearted moments.

Fact: The voice of KITT was provided by William Daniels, who played Mr. Feeny in 'Boy Meets World'. The show's famous opening narration was recorded in one take. The Trans Am used in the show had to be replaced frequently due to stunt damage.

Description: Like '21 Jump Street', 'Miami Vice' is a police procedural that blends action with drama, focusing on undercover cops. Both shows explore themes of identity and morality, with stylish visuals and a strong emphasis on youth culture. 'Miami Vice' is known for its groundbreaking use of music and fashion, setting trends in the 1980s.

Fact: The show was created by Anthony Yerkovich, who also worked on 'Hill Street Blues'. It was one of the first TV shows to feature contemporary pop music as part of its soundtrack. The pastel-colored suits worn by the characters became a fashion trend.

Description: Like '21 Jump Street', 'Hunter' features a tough, street-smart cop taking on dangerous cases. Both shows blend action with character drama and feature attractive leads. The focus on undercover work and street-level crime connects the two series.

Fact: Fred Dryer, who played Hunter, was a former NFL player. The show was originally conceived as a more violent series but was toned down for network TV. Hunter's signature leather jacket became iconic in the 1980s.

Description: While more action-oriented, 'The A-Team' shares with '21 Jump Street' a focus on a team of specialists working outside conventional systems. Both shows feature charismatic leads and blend action with humor. The theme of outsiders fighting for justice connects both series.

Fact: Mr. T's iconic mohawk was a result of his real-life refusal to cut his hair for the role. The show was originally conceived as a cross between 'Mission: Impossible' and 'The Dirty Dozen'. Despite all the gunfire, no one was ever shown being killed on screen.