Indeed, the 1990s were television’s golden age. Before streaming became prevalent, these iconic series united millions of viewers who spent their evenings in front of the TV, watching the latest episodes of their favorite sitcoms. Today, we’re bringing you 8 of the most well-loved TV shows from the 1990s that you can rewatch on select streaming services.
8. Law & Order
Who could forget Dick Wolf’s iconic show with its “dun-dun” introduction? Each Law & Order episode followed the New York City police as they investigated crime. It’s followed by district attorneys who attempt to prosecute the offenders, along with some workplace drama. It’s perfect for those who want a glimpse into how criminal proceedings work.
7. Freaks and Geeks
Freaks and Geeks launched the careers of its stars, including Linda Cardellini and Seth Rogen. It became relatable to many teenage viewers as it avoided typical TV clichés, blending with the awkwardness of our teenage years. Sadly, this show only lasted 18 episodes before it was canceled.
6. Frasier
Frasier is a spin-off of Cheers, which became one of the most critically acclaimed sitcoms of its time. The show won a total of 37 Emmys throughout its 11-year run. The story follows psychiatrist-turned-radio advice show host Frasier Crane as he reconnects with his family and makes new friends in Seattle. The great chemistry and brilliant writing kept the show going strong throughout the decade.
5. ER
Way before Grey’s Anatomy, we had ER, where author Michael Crichton drew on his experiences as a medical student in Chicago. It told the story of the medical field’s high-stakes environment in a big-city emergency room. The cast included George Clooney, which put him in megastardom. Familiar faces, such as Zac Efron and Alexis Bledel, even became guest stars in its later seasons.
4. Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy the Vampire Slayer popularized the coming-of-age vampire series genre. It shows a teenager having fun in an awkward way while fighting monsters. It’s a perfect mix of laughs, tears, comedy, and drama intended for younger audiences. It’s the perfect time to rewatch the series you watched as a teen.
3. Twin Peaks
We can’t talk about an iconic ’90s show without Twin Peaks. It was a crazy concept by David Lynch, who brought it to TV. The story centers on the unalived teenager Laura Palmer. It explored darkness in a small town, followed by a police investigation. You just have to watch it again to remember how crazy the series was and how you question fantasy from reality.
2. The X-Files
The X-Files sits at the top of the list when it comes to sci-fi TV series. The show already inspires two revivals and multiple films. Not to mention, Scully and Mulder, one of the most iconic will-they-won’t-they couples in TV history. The story revolves around FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena, which has captured the audience’s fascination with conspiracy theories.
1. Friends
This is probably one of the OG ’90s sitcoms that you can just play around in the background. Friends follows six friends as they navigate life, love, and careers in New York City. It turned its cast, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer, into household names in the industry. The show was so popular that it has gained fans from different age groups to this day. Not to mention, the merchandise and occasional attractions they still hold.