The 15 Best 90s TV Shows

• Year Released: 1987
• Number of Seasons: 8

Full House was an iconic family sitcom that revolved around Danny Tanner, widowed father, and his family. The Tanner family consisted of Danny’s best friend and brother-in-law who helped him to raise his three daughters, D.J., Stephanie, and Michelle.

Full House was set in San Francisco and followed the sometimes funny and sometimes emotional journey as they navigated the many challenges of growing up and being an adult.

• Year Released: 1987
• Number of Seasons: 7

Star Trek: The Next Generation was a science fiction television series that was a sequel to the original Star Trek series. The show was set in the 24th century, and followed the adventures of the starship USS Enterprise-D and its crew, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard. TNG explored new worlds as the crew encountered strange species.

The show addressed many ethical and philosophical dilemmas by exploring thought-provoking themes while showcasing action-packed space exploration.

• Year Released: 1987
• Number of Seasons: 11

Married... with Children was created by Ron Leavitt and Michael G. Moye, and revolved around the dysfunctional Bundy family. Ed O’Neill played the protagonist and shoe salesman who was the working-class father of the classic American family.

Throughout the show, the Bundy family navigated all of the challenges of everyday life, and viewers got a kick out of their unconventional relationships and all of the edginess and sarcasm. Married... with Children is loved by many for its lovable and memorable characters who represented the average American family and all its complexities.

• Year Released: 1988
• Number of Seasons: 6

The Wonder Years was a coming-of-age drama series set in the early 1970s. The show is narrated by character Kevin Arnold as an adult reflecting on his youth. The show follows Kevin through all the awkward moments of growing up with his friends Paul and Winnie. 

The Wonder Years uses a nostalgic lens to explore the struggles of adolescence and all of the societal changes occurring during the 70s. It touches on themes like complicated families, love, and altering historical events, all of which struck a chord with viewers. The Wonder Years is a timeless portrayal of the journey from childhood to adulthood.

• Year Released: 1989
• Number of Seasons: 4

Saved by the Bell revolved around the lives of a group of high school friends at Bayside High School in California. The show’s lighthearted humor and display of relatable teenage experiences made it a cultural phenomenon.

It tackled various issues faced by teenagers, such as friendships, relationships, and challenges of being a high school student. The iconic group of characters, Zack, Kelly, Slater, Screech, Jessie, and Lisa left a lasting impact on the show’s viewers.

• Year Released: 1989
• Number of Seasons: 9

Seinfeld is one of the most iconic sitcoms in television history. It was created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, who also starred in the show as the main character. Set in NYC, Seinfled followed the life of comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his quirky group of friends—George, Elaine, and Kramer. 

The show was one of the first of its kind to master the 'show about nothing' concept. Seinfeld’s dry humor made even the most mundane everyday occurrence for the characters funny and entertaining. It will forever be remembered for its distinct characters, memorable catchphrases, and its ability to find humor in the ordinary.

• Year Released: 1990
• Number of Seasons: 5
• Notable Cast Members: Keenan Ivory Wayans, Jim Carrey, Damon Wayans, David Alan Grier, Tommy Davidson, Marlon Wayans, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, Chris Rock, Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Kim Wayans

In Living Color was a groundbreaking sketch comedy show, created by Keenen Ivory Wayans. The series played a significant role in reimagining television comedy and diversifying the comedy landscape. The star-studded cast, many of whom were Wayans' siblings, were predominantly black, and the show tackled many social and political issues through cheeky sketches. 

Their skits covered a wide range of topics having to do with pop culture, pushing boundaries that captivated viewers. In Living Color influenced many comedians to come and served as a platform for lots of emerging talent.

• Year Released: 1990
• Number of Seasons: 6

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air starred Will Smith in the titular role. The show followed Will, who was a teenager sent from his home in Philadelphia to live with his affluent Aunt and Uncle in their Bel-Air mansion. Will’s interactions with his Bel-Air family lead to countless hilarious and heartwarming moments. 

Fresh Prince had one of the catchiest theme songs of all time, as well as countless memorable scenes. Will Smith and the cast effortlessly balanced humor while also tackling social issues such as race, family, and the challenges of adulthood. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air will forever be a classic sitcom beloved by all.

• Year Released: 1991
• Number of Seasons: 8

"Home Improvement" was a popular sitcom that followed Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor, the host of a home improvement TV show called "Tool Time."

The series showcased Tim's sometimes hilarious attempts at balancing his demanding job with his role as a husband and father. Home Improvement not only entertained viewers with its hilarious situations and Tim's antics but also offered a glimpse into the everyday struggles of the modern American family.

• Year Released: 1992
• Number of Seasons: 5

"Martin" was a sitcom that revolved around Martin Payne, who was a funny radio personality on the station WZUP from Detroit. The show was known for its eccentric characters and quick comedic style. Martin had some truly memorable catchphrases, and explored all of the dynamics of relationships and friendships in hilarious ways.

The quick-witted humor and top-notch acting makes Martin an extremely memorable show that perfectly captured urban culture and all of its nuances.

• Year Released: 1993
• Number of Seasons: 6

"The Nanny" was a sitcom that followed Fran, who was an independent woman from Queens that became the nanny for the wealthy Sheffield family in Manhattan. Fran had an unconventional approach to childcare, and brought lots of humor into the Sheffield household.

The series was beloved for the way it portrayed the dynamics between Fran and Mr. Sheffield and how it explored the themes of family.

• Year Released: 1993
• Number of Seasons: 7

"Boy Meets World" was a sitcom that chronicled the life of Cory Matthews, as he navigated the challenges of growing up. All of his adventures happened alongside his best friend Shawn, his girlfriend and later wife Topanga, and his teacher Mr. Feeny. Boy Meets World was set in Philadelphia, and captured all the complexities of family dynamics, dating and maturing throughout the years.

Over the course of the show's run, it offered valuable life lessons and tackled serious issues all with a humorous touch.

• Year Released: 1994
• Number of Seasons: 10

Friends is arguably the most iconic sitcom of all time. The show was created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman and was set in New York City, revolving around the lives, friendships, and romantic experiences of six friends—Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe.

The show’s humor and relatable characters captured audiences by representing the ups and downs of young adulthood and the importance of friendship. The timeless themes and lovable cast made it a beloved show that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

• Year Released: 1994
• Number of Seasons: 11

All That was a popular sketch comedy show that’s described as the children's version of "Saturday Night Live". The show featured young comedic talent who performed recurring sketches and musical performances.

All That’s relatable scenarios that resonated with its young audience by introducing a range of hilarious and lovable characters. The show’s catchphrases have become an iconic part of pop culture, and helped to launch the careers of several actors and comedians.

• Year Released: 1996
• Number of Seasons: 6

3rd Rock from the Sun was a quirky and inventive sitcom that followed a group of extraterrestrial beings who were sent to Earth in human bodies to observe human behavior. The aliens were led by Dick Solomon as they navigated human life, trying to understand its emotions and social norms.

The series’ comedic commentary on human nature and society captivated audiences by playing into the dynamics between the aliens and the humans they interact with.