The 1980s and 1990s saw a shift towards more complex and nuanced portrayals of mothers in media. TV shows like "The Cosby Show" (1984-1992) and "Roseanne" (1988-1997) introduced more realistic, working-class mothers who balanced family responsibilities with personal aspirations. These characters were multidimensional, flawed, and relatable, paving the way for future representations of motherhood.