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Public Service Announcements (PSAs) from the late 1970s, '80s, and early '90s hold a special place in history. These decades were the peak of impactful PSAs, often starring famous faces eager to champion causes ranging from anti-drug campaigns to safeguarding public spaces, road safety, and educating children about personal boundaries. Below, we’ve highlighted some standout PSAs from that time (and don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments!).
1. “Strong Kids, Safe Kids,” with Henry Winkler, John Ritter, and Others
This 42-minute educational PSA, aimed at teaching children about sexual abuse, stars Henry Winkler (appearing as both himself and his iconic character, the Fonz) alongside other celebrities. It also includes a segment featuring a man singing awkward yet enlightening songs about body parts (the song begins around the 10-minute mark).
2. “Before it’s Too Late, Vaccinate,” starring Bill Cosby
This ‘80s PSA, urging parents to vaccinate their children “before it’s too late,” remains surprisingly relevant today.
Cosby was a regular face in PSAs, supporting causes like the Red Cross, Farm Aid, and campaigns against drug abuse, as well as encouraging voter registration.
3. "Clean up New York," directed by David Lynch
While this video doesn’t star a celebrity, it was created by one: David Lynch, the visionary behind films like Eraserhead and Mulholland Drive, as well as the TV series Twin Peaks. The unsettling portrayal of littering’s consequences is unforgettable.
4. “Don’t Even Try It,” starring Pee Wee Herman
Dressed in his iconic Pee Wee outfit, Paul Reubens delivered a stark warning about the risks of crack cocaine in this ‘80s PSA. He wasn’t alone in this effort; Olivia Newton-John and Clint Eastwood also appeared in serious campaigns addressing the same issue.
5. “Too Legit To Quit,” with MC Hammer
In this PSA, MC Hammer cleverly incorporates his chart-topping hit to emphasize the importance of proper grammar and encourage students to stay in school.
6. “Don’t Smoke, R2!” featuring characters from Star Wars
The beloved robotic pair from a galaxy far, far away took a stand against smoking in this PSA. C3P0 and R2D2 (portrayed by Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker) weren’t the only Star Wars figures to advocate for a cause; another PSA highlights the risks of drinking at the Cantina and driving.
7. “Take Pride in America,” starring Clint Eastwood
Even I wouldn’t dare litter if it meant upsetting Clint Eastwood.
8. “Don’t Play with Matches,” featuring Michael J. Fox
In this PSA, part of the “One to Grow On” series that aired during NBC’s Saturday morning cartoons from 1983 to 1989, Fox warns children about the dangers of playing with matches, emphasizing that it’s anything but cool.
Other stars who appeared in “One to Grow On” segments include Justine Bateman, David Hasselhoff, and Mr. T, along with numerous others.
9. “Be Smart, Don’t Start,” starring The Jets
The Jets, a popular family band, delivered a memorable message about the risks of underage drinking through a catchy and impactful song.
10. “Try to Remember Electrocution,” featuring Alf
This 1987 PSA aired after the episode "Try to Remember," where Alf suffers an electric shock while using a hand mixer in the bathtub, leading to memory loss. (The episode was later edited to remove the electrocution scene, replacing it with Alf hitting his head.) Alf, voiced by Paul Fusco, also starred in a “Keep America Beautiful” PSA.
11. “Buckle Up,” starring Joey Lawrence
Long before voicing the lead in Disney’s animated film Oliver & Company and popularizing "Whoa!" on Blossom, Joey Lawrence featured in this Department of Transportation PSA, encouraging children to wear seat belts and reminding parents to lead by example.
