“I love it when a plan comes together.”

That line alone sums up why The A-Team still lives in people’s memories forty years after it first aired. It wasn’t just another 80s action show—it was the definitive 80s action show. Oh I mean, there was Knight Rider, Airwolf, countless others. But there was something about the A-Team that made it a step above the rest. Maybe it was Mr T, or maybe something else. Over-the-top plots, exploding jeeps that never hurt anyone, villains who always missed their shots, and a ragtag band of misfits who embodied teamwork. ...if by teamwork you meant people who do completely unrelated things but somehow manage to contribute to the mission being a success. Yeah — the writing wasn't the best, but it was fun.

Why It Worked

• Characters you couldn’t forget. Hannibal with his disguises and cigars, B.A. Baracus with his chains and temper, Face with his charm, and Murdock with his lovable insanity. Each one iconic in their own right, but together unstoppable.
• Ridiculous but charming plots. Every week they’d help the helpless, usually small towns bullied by thugs or corrupt businessmen, and somehow turn a barn into a tank. It was completely ridiculous, but at the same time, that building the thing that would save the day was one of the best parts.
• That van. Black with the red stripe, it was practically the fifth member of the team.

A Symbol of the 80s

The show reflected its time: bright, loud, and optimistic. Violence was everywhere but bloodless. About a zillion bullets were fired every episode, but no one was ever hit. Humor softened the action, and the underdog always triumphed. For kids watching then, it was a perfect fantasy of good guys always winning and doing it with style, and then everyone being ok at the end and making up.

Legacy

Even people who never watched an episode know who Mr. T is. The A-Team’s catchphrases, theme song, and imagery continue to pop up in pop culture. Reruns and DVDs keep finding new fans, while those of us who grew up with it still smile at the thought of Hannibal pulling off his latex mask to reveal he was the villain all along.

So, what about you? Did you grow up watching The A-Team? Do you have a favorite episode, character, or moment? Or maybe you’ve only ever seen it through memes and Mr. T commercials.

And the real question: which is the better catch phrase, "I pity the fool", or "I love it when a plan comes together".

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