With many new shows coming to life on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu or HBO Max, it is easy to forget the shows that created this industry. Instead of watching the latest episode of a series, try a brand-new series, maybe even one from a different time!
10. Boy Meets World (1993 – 2000)
Beginning in middle school, Cory Matthews and his best friend, Shawn Hunter, learn how to create relationships with classmates and respect those older than them. As time goes on, the boys tackle real world issues, along with classic teenage problems. Each season correlates with a new part of life, from middle school to high school to college to eventually marriage.
9. Oz (1997 – 2003)
Based in the Emerald City from “The Wizard of Oz,” members of different racial and social groups are placed into a strongly balanced prison with the intention of creating peace. Although tensions were meant to be put at ease, the complete opposite occurs. Fights take place daily due to arguments over power regarding drug trade, or even prisoners themselves, resulting in inmates being beaten, raped or even killed. Some are there trying to survive while others will do anything to not let that happen.
8. That 70’s Show (1998 – 2006)
Five teenagers, countless adventures, and one basement – the beginning of teenage lifestyle. These teens come from all walks of life: a conspiracy theorist, a foreign exchange student, an on again off again couple and the kid with the basement. They go through life getting over the obstacles of being a teen in the 70’s, having conversations about their futures but, most importantly, being a teenager.
7. 90210 (1990 – 2000)
Moving from a small midwestern town to Beverly Hills, a family tries to adjust to a new way of life while the kids try to meet their parents’ expectations. They adhere to the hardships of fitting in with societal norms of highschoolers while the principal is their own father. With love triangles of both teenagers and parents, crime and school obligations these teenagers are quick to realize their life is nothing like the one they left in the Midwest.
6. Will and Grace (1998 – 2006)
Many see the friendship between Will and Grace as something more than just friends, but little do many people know Will is gay. They are the definition of best friends by confiding in one another, sharing secrets and even considering children together. By working together, they conquer life, one relationship, one hardship and one life-altering situation at a time.
5. Dawson’s Creek (1998 – 2003)
Dawson and Joey have been best friends since childhood, but things start to change as they enter high school. With their friends entering relationships, they begin to wonder if their friendship is something more. The undeniable chemistry between them soon vanishes when a new girl comes to town, taking Dawson’s eyes off of Joey. Does he go for the new girl in town or the one he has known from day one?
4. Law & Order (1990 – 2010)
True crime comes to life through the viewpoints of both the police and the court. Using adaptations of events in the real world characters investigate each crime as they debate on what the evidence shows them. They work with expert teams and other agencies across New York to bring people to justice and reduce the crime on the streets.
3. The West Wing (1999 – 2006)
Set in the White House, President Barlet, an economist and politician, tries to solve the world’s problems, along with the problems right behind his own doors. The struggle between the nation’s needs and political realities creates a long line of issues. With scandals, threats and attempts at success, many wonder what will come of the country.
2. Felicity (1998 – 2002)
Recent graduate Felicity makes a life-changing decision to stray from the path her parents set for her and follow her high school crush to college. Upon arrival, she realizes he does not reciprocate the same feelings, leaving her to create new relationships to prove her parents wrong. Throughout her college experience she experiences highs and lows, countless love triangles and finds herself quickly entering adulthood.
1. Friends (1994 – 2004)
Six friends living in Manhattan, N.Y. tackle life together through heartbreak, career changes and some of life’s biggest events. Along with each friend comes a new story to tell and a new plot line to be developed. Each episode comes with a new segment of life, allowing the viewer to navigate through life with the characters.
Finding new shows is hard, especially when it feels like there are few to pick from. Instead of watching a show currently on, try one that has already had its time. It is simple to underestimate the context and power of a show from the 90’s, but in reality these shows will hook its viewers in from the very start. The popularity of the show from when it started to today has not changed, only the viewers watching it have.
