The 1980s created dozens of icons who shaped culture for decades to come. From musicians like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Madonna to actors like Molly Ringwald, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Harrison Ford, the decade was bigger than anyone before.
But, how many ’80s icons do you remember? Take HELLO‘s quiz on 12 of the hottest stars from the decade and test your knowledge!
Question 1) Who is this actor, who was a member of The Brat Pack, starred in films like Blame It on Rio and About Last Night…, and married a fellow movie star?
Demi Moore was the world’s highest-paid actress in the mid-1990s
The answer is…C) Demi Moore!
Demi Moore is now one of the most prominent names in Hollywood, and her journey to stardom began in the ’80s. During that decade, she starred in beloved films like St. Elmo’s Fire and tied the knot with action star Bruce Willis.
There would be no ’80s icon quiz without Madonna. She’s known as the “Queen of Pop” for a reason! Madonna became a global phenomenon with albums Like A Virgin and True Blue and changed the game with her big opinions.
Question 3) Name the model who earned $1,000 a day, pivoted to acting in Batman, and was in a long-term relationship with a member of the Rolling Stones.
Jerry Hall was one of the most sought-after models in the world during the ’80s, appearing on covers of Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and more. She pivoted into acting when she appeared in Tim Burton’s Batman. And in the ’80s, she began dating Mick Jagger, a relationship that lasted for 22 years.
Lisa Bonet rose to fame in The Cosby Show as Denise Huxtable and quickly became a fashion icon. Known for her boho-chic looks, Lisa welcomed her daughter, actress Zoë Kravitz in 1988, with her then-husband, Lenny Kravitz.
The late singer is thought of as one of the greatest musicians of his generation and is one of the best-selling musicians of all time. During the ’80s, Prince released an impressive nine albums, including the iconic 1999 and Purple Rain. In 2016, he tragically passed away at 57 from an accidental overdose.
Grace Jones is a triple threat. The model/singer/actor is known for her iconic looks, shaved head, and disco music. Grace released albums like Slave to the Rhythm and Island Life and appeared in films like Straight to Hell and Siesta.
Cyndi was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2025
The answer is… A) Cyndi Lauper
Known as the “Queen of Quirky Pop,” Cyndi Lauper broke into the industry with her single “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” She has a four-octave vocal range, has won two Grammys, an Emmy, and a Tony.
Brooke married writer/producer Chris Henchy in 2001
The answer is… D) Brooke Shields!
Brooke Shields started modeling when she was just 11 months old and went onto appear on the cover of Vogue. She starred in The Blue Lagoon, Endless Love, and Sahara. Since then, she’s released two books – There Was a Little Girl and Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old.
Boy George, whose real name is George O’Dowd, was the lead singer of Culture Club and released songs like “Karma Chameleon” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me.” His iconic looks with dreadlocks, makeup, and big coats, made him an ’80s icon.
Debbie made a surprise cameo on SNL in May 2026 to introduce Olivia Rodrigo’s performance
The answer is… A) Debbie Harry!
Debbie Harry’s blonde hair was the origin for her band, Blondie. The singer became a punk icon and released songs like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me,” setting the world on fire.
Kim’s daughter Ireland Baldwin is a model and actress
The answer is… D) Kim Basinger!
Kim Basinger starred in 1983’s Never Say Never Again alongside Sean Connery and became a household name. She went on to star in films like The Natural, Batman, and 9½ Weeks. Kim won an Oscar for her role in L.A. Confidential.
George Michael was originally a member of the duo WHAM! who released the beloved Christmas jam “Last Christmas.” He then went solo with his album Faith, becoming a cultural icon before his early death in 2016.
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