1987 Celebrity: A Walk Down Memory Lane With The Stars Of The Year

Lucienne Brown 20 May 2025

Picture this: the year 1987, a time when leg warmers were cool, big hair was king, and the world was obsessed with the glittering world of celebrities. This wasn’t just any year; it was a year when Hollywood and pop culture collided in a dazzling display of star power. If you’re a fan of 80s nostalgia or just curious about the iconic figures who shaped that era, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the world of 1987 celebrity and uncover the stories behind the glitz and glamour.

In 1987, the entertainment industry was booming, and celebrities were more than just famous faces—they were cultural icons. They influenced fashion, music, and even the way people lived their lives. From movie stars to pop icons, the year was packed with unforgettable moments that continue to resonate today. So, buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a journey through one of the most memorable years in pop culture history.

Before we dive deep into the lives and times of these 1987 celebrities, let’s set the scene. This was a year when technology was evolving, and the world was becoming more connected. MTV was king, and music videos were the ultimate way to showcase talent. It was also a time when scandals and triumphs alike dominated the headlines, making 1987 a year that truly defined the celebrity landscape. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Biography of Key 1987 Celebrities
The Big Screen Icons of 1987
Pop Icons Who Ruled the Charts
Fashion Trends Shaped by 1987 Celebrities
Scandals That Made Headlines
Awards and Achievements in 1987
Music of the Year: Hits and Highlights
Television Stars Who Captured Hearts
Sports Celebrities Who Made Waves
The Legacy of 1987 Celebrities

Biography of Key 1987 Celebrities

Data and Facts About the Stars

Let’s kick things off by looking at some of the key celebrities who made waves in 1987. These were the people who shaped the year, and their influence is still felt today. Here’s a quick rundown of who they were:

Name	Birth Date	Profession	Notable Works
Tom Cruise	July 3, 1962	Actor	“Top Gun,” “The Color of Money”
Madonna	August 16, 1958	Singer, Actress	“Like a Prayer,” “Who’s That Girl”
Michael J. Fox	June 9, 1961	Actor	“Back to the Future,” “Family Ties”
Bon Jovi	March 2, 1962	Musician	“Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Wanted Dead or Alive”

These stars weren’t just famous—they were cultural phenomena. Their work in film, music, and television set the tone for the entire year, and their influence continues to be felt today.

The Big Screen Icons of 1987

1987 was a year when movies were more than just entertainment—they were events. Stars like Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, and Eddie Murphy dominated the box office with their incredible performances. Let’s break down some of the biggest hits of the year:

Top Gun: Tom Cruise became a household name with this blockbuster about fighter pilots. The film’s soundtrack, featuring songs like “Take My Breath Away,” became a cultural phenomenon.
The Untouchables: Robert De Niro and Kevin Costner teamed up for this crime drama that won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: John Candy and Steve Martin’s hilarious misadventures turned this film into a holiday classic.

These movies weren’t just successful—they defined the year. They showed audiences what was possible on the big screen and set the bar for future films.

Pop Icons Who Ruled the Charts

Madonna, Bon Jovi, and More

Music was a huge part of 1987, and the pop icons of the year were some of the biggest names in the business. Madonna, Bon Jovi, and Whitney Houston were just a few of the artists who dominated the charts. Let’s take a closer look:

Madonna: Her album “Like a Prayer” became one of the best-selling albums of the year, and her music videos pushed the boundaries of what was possible on MTV.
Bon Jovi: “Slippery When Wet” was the soundtrack of the year, with hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive” taking the world by storm.
Whitney Houston: Her powerful voice and emotional ballads made her a global sensation, and her album “Whitney” became a massive success.

These artists weren’t just musicians—they were cultural icons who influenced fashion, dance, and even politics. Their impact on the music industry was undeniable, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Fashion Trends Shaped by 1987 Celebrities

When it came to fashion, 1987 was all about excess. Celebrities like Madonna, Cher, and Cyndi Lauper set the trends that everyone wanted to follow. From big hair to bold colors, the fashion of the year was all about making a statement. Here are some of the key trends:

Leg warmers and oversized sweaters
Shoulder pads and power suits
Neon colors and bold accessories

These trends weren’t just for the runway—they were for everyday life. Celebrities made fashion accessible and fun, and their influence can still be seen in modern styles today.

Scandals That Made Headlines

The Dark Side of Fame

Not everything was sunshine and rainbows in 1987. Scandals were a big part of the year, and they often overshadowed the positive achievements of celebrities. Here are some of the biggest scandals of the year:

Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” Controversy: The music video for her hit single caused outrage among religious groups, leading to boycotts and protests.
Charlie Sheen’s Drug Problems: The young actor’s struggles with addiction became public, and it was a reminder of the darker side of fame.
O.J. Simpson’s DUI: Before his infamous trial, O.J. Simpson was already in the headlines for a DUI arrest that year.

These scandals showed that even the biggest stars weren’t immune to the pressures of fame. They were human, and their struggles were often played out in the public eye.

Awards and Achievements in 1987

1987 was a year of recognition, and many celebrities were honored for their contributions to the arts. Here are some of the biggest awards of the year:

Academy Awards: “The Last Emperor” won Best Picture, and Daniel Day-Lewis took home the Best Actor award for “My Left Foot.”
Grammy Awards: Whitney Houston won Album of the Year for “Whitney,” and U2’s “The Joshua Tree” won for Best Rock Performance.
Emmy Awards: “The Cosby Show” won Outstanding Comedy Series, and Ed Asner won for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

These awards were a testament to the incredible talent and hard work of the celebrities of the year. They showed that success wasn’t just about fame—it was about making a real impact on the world.

Music of the Year: Hits and Highlights

Music was the heartbeat of 1987, and the hits of the year were unforgettable. From power ballads to dance anthems, the songs of the year captured the spirit of the times. Here are some of the biggest hits:

“Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi: This anthem about love and perseverance became a cultural phenomenon.
“Like a Virgin” – Madonna: Her music and videos pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable, making her a trailblazer for women in music.
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” – Whitney Houston: Her voice and energy made this song a global hit.

These songs weren’t just catchy—they were meaningful. They spoke to the hopes and dreams of a generation, and their influence can still be heard in modern music today.

Television Stars Who Captured Hearts

Television was also a huge part of 1987, and the stars of the small screen were just as beloved as their movie counterparts. Shows like “The Cosby Show,” “Cheers,” and “The Golden Girls” dominated the ratings, and their stars became household names. Here are some of the key players:

Bill Cosby: His sitcom was a cultural phenomenon, and his character Cliff Huxtable became a role model for fathers everywhere.
Ted Danson: His portrayal of Sam Malone on “Cheers” made him a fan favorite, and the show’s humor and heart made it a must-watch.
Bea Arthur: Her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude on “The Golden Girls” made her a legend in the world of comedy.

These stars showed that television could be just as powerful as film or music. They brought joy and laughter into homes across the world, and their influence continues to be felt today.

Sports Celebrities Who Made Waves

Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky, and More

Sports were also a big part of 1987, and the athletes of the year became celebrities in their own right. Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky, and Joe Montana were just a few of the names that dominated the headlines. Here’s a look at their achievements:

Michael Jordan: The young basketball star was just starting to make a name for himself, and his incredible skills on the court made him a fan favorite.
Wayne Gretzky: The hockey legend continued to break records, and his dominance on the ice was unmatched.
Joe Montana: The quarterback’s leadership and precision made him one of the greatest players in NFL history.

These athletes weren’t just sports stars—they were cultural icons. Their achievements inspired millions of fans around the world, and their legacies continue to inspire new generations of athletes.

The Legacy of 1987 Celebrities

As we look back on 1987, it’s clear that the celebrities of the year left an indelible mark on pop culture. Their influence can still be seen in music, film, television, and even sports. They showed us that fame wasn’t just about being famous—it was about making a difference. Whether through their art, their activism, or their personal struggles, these stars taught us valuable lessons about life, love, and perseverance.

Celebrity Gossip, Entertainment News & Celebrity News 100 Gloriously

Celebrities Born in 1987 PS Celebrity

Next-Gen Icon