Take a nostalgic trip back to explore the best TV shows of the 90s!
The 1990s were a golden age of television, a decade that brought us some of the most iconic and influential shows in history. This era saw the rise of groundbreaking sitcoms, gripping dramas, and innovative animated series that still resonate with audiences today.
Whether the witty banter of Friends, the eerie mysteries of The X-Files, or the quirky humour of Seinfeld, these are the best TV shows of the 1990s, the ones that defined a generation and continue to capture hearts across the globe.
Friends (1994-2004)
Who doesn’t love Friends? This classic 90s sitcom focuses on a group of young friends as they navigate life and love in New York City, blending laughs and heart like few others. Led by the remarkable talents of Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer, Friends has become a cultural phenomenon that has sparked plenty of iconic catchphrases and beloved characters to this day. Whether you’re a longtime fan or never seen an episode, there’s never a bad time to binge through this iconic 90s TV show!
Streaming on: Netflix.
Seinfeld (1989-1998)
The Soup Nazi, Newman, and the oddity known as Krammer are just a few of the incredible jokes and characters birthed on one of the funniest television shows of all time. Often dubbed “a show about nothing,” Seinfeld revolutionized television with its unique blend of humour, delves deep into the absurdities of everyday life. Brought to life by comedian and creators Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, as well as a brilliant supporting cast, this clever sitcom has become a pop-culture institution that delights audiences more than two decades on.
Streaming on: Netflix.
The X-Files (1993-2002)
The truth is out there, and can be found on one of the most intriguing shows of the 90s, The X-Files. This iconic television program blends science fiction, horror, and drama into a show like no other, playing on societal anxieties around government conspiracies and extraterrestrial life that resonates even stronger today than it did back in the early 90s. Yet the real heart of the show are FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, as with their contrasting beliefs, witty banter, and brilliant on-screen chemistry captivated audiences around the world. The X-Files influenced an entire generation of sci-fi television, garnered critical acclaim and awards, and maintained a loyal fan base, solidifying its lasting impact on pop culture.
Streaming on: Disney Plus.
The Simpsons (1989-present)
Although it started in the late ’80s, The Simpsons hit its stride in the ’90s, becoming one of the most influential and beloved TV shows of the 1990 and eventually the longest-running animated series of all time. The Simpsons redefined the family sit-com: gone were the days of happy-go-lucky fair like The Brady Bunch or Full House, but instead looking at the chaotic dynamic of modern families in a way that felt fresh and innovative. With its irreverent humour, clever writing, and sharp satirical commentary on American culture, The Simpsons has left an indelible mark on pop culture, and is an essential binge watch.
Streaming on: Disney Plus.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
Supernatural monster-of-the-week horror and high school drama? Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a 90s cult classic show that follows the exploits of Buffy, a woman born into a line of “Slayers” destined to battle vampires, demons, and monsters. Aided by her loyal group of friends and a Watcher who hones her craft, Buffy solves mysteries and fights the forces of evil to protect the world, all while managing the trials and tribulations of high school. One of the best tv shows of the 90s!
Streaming on: Disney Plus.
Twin Peaks (1990-1991)
Horror maestro David Lynch titillated and terrified audiences with one of the best shows of the 90s. Twin Peaks is a surreal mystery series that follows the investigation by FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper into the murder of homecoming queen Laura Palmer in the fictional town of Twin Peaks, Washington. What makes this show special is the unconventional blend of detective fiction with eerie atmosphere, complex storylines, supernatural elements, and campy portrayals of eccentric characters. Even with only two seasons, Twin Peaks brought an entirely new style and vibe to screens around the world, influencing a generation of TV creators and establishing itself as one of the most unique shows on television.
Streaming on: Paramount Plus.
ER (1994-2009)
A pioneer of medical dramas, ER combined intense emergency room action with deep character development, setting the stage for future hospital-based shows. Not only did it have heart, but it also served up the unexpected and the as-yet unseen. With its stellar ensemble cast, including George Clooney, Julianna Margulies, and Noah Wyle, it forever changed the landscape of medical dramas. The show’s gritty realism, gripping plot twists, and urgent love stories made it edge-of-your-seat viewing.
Streaming on: Binge.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990-1996)
Now this is the story all about how The Fresh Prince is one of the best 90s shows of all time. This breakout role for Will Smith happens to also be a fictionalized retelling of his own upbrining—a street-smart teenager from West Philadelphia who is sent to live with his wealthy uncle and aunt in their opulent Bel-Air mansion. The clash between his urban background and the upper-class lifestyle leads to plenty of laughs and a few nods to important social issues, making The Fresh Prince a defining show of the 90s (and no doubt one of the best theme songs of all time).
Streaming on: Stan.
Frasier (1993-2004)
One of the most renowned sitcoms in history, Frasier has left an indelible mark on television. What started as a spin-off of the legendary Cheers quickly morphed into a whole new breed of sophisticated sitcom. Follow the life of a Seattle radio psychiatrist Frasier Crane as he reconnects with his father Martin and sibling rivalry with his fellow psychiatrist brother, Niles. Unlike other sit-coms from the 90s, Frasier aimed for more refined humour, trading on-the-nose humour for clever wit and sharp barbs that earned the show 37 Primetime Emmy Awards.
Streaming on: Paramount Plus.
Daria (1997-2002)
Back when MTV was known for more for music videos than reality shows, Daria represents the best of 90s television. Created as a spin-off of Beavis and Butt-Head, the show centres on Daria Morgendorffer, an intelligent, cynical high school student, and her best friend Jane Lane as they satirise high school life, culture, and social classes in a way few shows were doing before Daria. And with a dry wit and reeking of cynicism, this might be the show that best captures the listlessness and irony drench experience of Gen X.
Streaming on: Paramount Plus.
For more recommendations, learn about the 16 Best Hollywood Golden Age Films of All Time. And catch the latest movie releases at Australia’s 14 Best Retro, Boutique and Most Unique Cinemas.
