As a series, it did technically begin "in the 80s" but considering only one episode aired in that decade (December 17th 1989), the phrase in the 80s is being used very loosely.-However, The Simpsons did air as commercials bumpers on The Tracy Ullman Show which began in 1987, so The Simpsons, just not the show, did have their debut in the 80s.
The ratings were abysmal.
That '80s Show - 2002 After the Kiss 1-8 was released on: USA: 3 April 2002
That '80s Show - 2002 Pilot 1-1 was released on: USA: 23 January 2002
manimal
The 80s
Columbo, Magnum P.I
That '80s Show - 2002 Punk Club 1-10 was released on: USA: 17 April 2002
That '80s Show - 2002 My Dead Friend 1-5 was released on: USA: 20 February 2002
That '80s Show - 2002 Katie's Birthday 1-7 was released on: USA: 27 March 2002
That '80s Show - 2002 Sophia's Depressed 1-13 was released on: USA: 29 May 2002
That '80s Show - 2002 Double Date 1-9 was released on: USA: 10 April 2002