1986 in American television

See also: 1985 in television, other events of 1986, 1987 in television and the list of 'years in television'.

Hit Television Shows

• The Cosby Show (1984-1992)
• Cheers (1982-1993)
• Family Ties (1982-1989)

Other Popular Television Shows

• The A-Team (1983-1987)
• Dallas (1978-1991)
• Dr Who (1963-1989)
• Jeopardy! (1984-present)
• Late Night with David Letterman (1982-1993)
• Saturday Night Live (1975-present)
• Sesame Street (1969-present)
• The Tonight Show (1954-present)
• The Wheel of Fortune (1975-present)

Events

• May 22 - Cher calls David Letterman an "A**hole" on the air during a taping of Late Night with David Letterman.
• October – The FOX Broadcasting Company becomes the United States' fourth television network.

Births

• June 13 - The Olsen twins

Deaths

• January 14 - Donna Reed, actress