A Blast from the Past: 1987 TV Commercials

A nostalgic journey through the commercials and promos that graced our screens decades ago.

June 16, 2025 by cryan.com

Ever wonder what television was like over three decades ago? Well, buckle up, because we're taking a trip back to 1987! This recently unearthed video is a time capsule, packed with the commercials and program promotions that filled our screens back then. It's a fascinating look at the trends, the products, and the entertainment that shaped the year.

YouTube Video

What's on this Retro Reel?

This video is a compilation of various segments, offering a diverse glimpse into 1987:

• 1

  Beer Commercials:

  Remember Dawn Adams? She's here, representing Coors Light [00:00:08].
• 2

  Tech and Services:

  New England Telephone shows off its cutting-edge (for the time!) fiber optic network [00:00:44], and Duracell boasts about its improved copper top batteries [00:02:26].
• 3

  Entertainment:

  Jack Wagner's concert gets a shout-out [00:01:13], along with movie promotions for "River's Edge" [00:03:05] and Harrison Ford's "Mosquito Coast" [00:06:13]. Plus, "Crime Story: The Movie" and "The A-Team" were Sunday night must-sees [00:05:54].
• 4

  Food and Beverage:

  Burger King claimed to be "the best food for fast times" [00:02:18], and Bartles & Jaymes got creative with their red wine cooler ads [00:03:40].
• 5

  Automotive:

  Toyota trucks emphasized their reliability and carrying capacity [00:04:16].
• 6

  Public Service and News:

  "Wednesday's Child," a segment focusing on adoption [00:02:50], and WBZ Radio's Dave Maynard morning show [00:04:40] get some airtime. There's also a reminder about the importance of news programs [00:05:08] and a PSA about respecting handicapped parking spaces [00:06:47].
• 7

  Health and Beauty:

  Bain de Soleil offered a free Tan Accelerator [00:01:39], and there's even a message about eating healthy [00:05:39].

Why This Matters

This video isn't just a nostalgic trip. It's a reminder of how much things have changed (and in some ways, stayed the same). It's a glimpse into the cultural landscape of a specific time, offering insights into advertising techniques, entertainment preferences, and societal values. For anyone interested in media history, pop culture, or just a good dose of retro fun, this video is a treasure trove.

So, dive in, enjoy the ride, and let us know what your favorite part is!