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Millions knew Marcia Strassman as Julie Kotter, and Welcome Back, Kotter had made her famous. But while she might've once prayed for a break like this, once she got it, she prayed every day for it to end.

Some shows are remembered for unforgettable characters, shocking twists, or chaotic reality-TV moments. Others carry a second reputation entirely: the messy one that happened behind the scenes.

The 1980s gave us plenty of unforgettable TV shows, but sometimes one character swallowed the whole thing. A nerdy neighbor could become the real star, a supporting trio could convince writers to bring them back, and a wisecracking puppet could end up plastered on hundreds of products. Decades later, you might barely remember what their shows were about, but you'd recognize these characters in seconds.

Kim Basinger became one of the 1980s’ biggest movie stars before the Boxing Helena dispute led to bankruptcy, millions in losses, and an eventual Oscar-winning Hollywood comeback.

Doris Troy scored an unforgettable American hit with “Just One Look,” but her voice showed up later on some of the 70s' biggest rock classics.

Sure, Jane Birkin has the GOAT of all handbags named after her—but that’s just a minor blip in an extraordinary life that was as daring and unconventional as her style.