The Best '90s Black TV Shows, Ranked

Ranker TV
Updated May 16, 2024 21.9K views 39 items
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Voting Rules
Vote up the best shows that center both Black stories and Black characters and aired new episodes between 1990 and 1999.
Latest additions: The Parent 'Hood, In the House
Most divisive: The Oprah Winfrey Show
Over 400 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best '90s Black TV Shows, Ranked

In the mood to catch up some great shows? These are the best '90s Black TV shows, ranked from best to worst by user votes. From some good 1990s African American TV series that are now legendary comedies, to others that were groundbreaking dramas. This list of the best Black TV shows of the 1990s includes the top '90s Black sitcoms to shows that featured live performance, music, and interviews.

What shows appear on this list of the best 1990s Black TV shows? Of course, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is featured. This great '90s African American sitcom propelled its lead actor, Will Smith, into superstardom. The Chris Rock Show was another popular Black TV series that aired in the 1990s.

From 1990-1994, In Living Color had viewers laughing with a new take on sketch comedy thanks in part to the hilarious humor of The Wayans brothers. Other good shows that appear on this top 1990s Black TV show list include Moesha, Martin and Living Single.

Which great 90s Black TV series is the best? Vote for your favorites!

What are television's best Black '90s shows? Vote up the 1990s shows that center both Black stories and Black characters that were the best of the decade and see where the Black shows of the '90s you loved to watch rank.

  • Martin
    1
    Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Tichina Arnold
    158 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Living Single, The Wayans Bros., The Jamie Foxx Show, My Wife and Kids
    Why Should I Stream? Why should anyone watch Martin? It's a classic 90s sitcom that offers irreverent humor, featuring the undeniable comedic talent of Martin Lawrence in multiple roles. Additionally, its impact on pop culture is evident as it spawned catchphrases and memorable characters that are still referenced today.

    A radio talk show host balances his professional and personal lives.
  • Living Single
    2
    Queen Latifah, Kim Coles, Erika Alexander
    121 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMartin, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Half & Half, One on One
    Why Should I Stream? Living Single is an essential watch because it broke new ground by showcasing the lives of four independent African American women as they navigated careers, friendships, and relationships. The show's witty writing and strong ensemble cast led to its status as a beloved fan favorite. Furthermore, it paved the way for future shows highlighting diverse female-led casts.

    Living Single is a television sitcom that premiered on August 22, 1993, centers around six African American friends in their 20s living in Brooklyn, New York. The show follows the strong-willed journalist Khadijah James (Queen Latifah), her sweet-natured cousin Synclaire James (Kim Coles), sassy and sharp-tongued Regine Hunter (Kim Fields), and tough attorney Maxine Shaw (Erika Alexander) as they navigate life, love, and career. The series also stars T.C. Carson and John Henton as the male counterparts who add to the comedic interplay. It addresses themes of friendship, empowerment, and the complexities of dating, earning a dedicated fanbase for its relatable humor and representation during its run.
  • The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
    3
    Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid
    149 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMartin, Family Matters, Sister Sister, Smart Guy, Kenan & Kel
    Why Should I Stream? The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air warrants attention due to its blend of humor and heart, tackling relevant social issues while maintaining its comedic roots. With Will Smith's charismatic performance at the center, this show propelled him to superstardom and left an indelible mark on TV history. Moreover, its iconic theme song has become ingrained in popular culture.

    An urban youth moves in with rich relatives.
  • The Cosby Show
    4
    Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Malcolm-Jamal Warner
    107 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: A Different World, Family Matters, Full House, Growing Pains, Step By Step
    Why Should I Stream? Despite controversy surrounding its star in recent years, The Cosby Show remains a significant television milestone for its groundbreaking portrayal of an affluent African American family during the 1980s. It challenged stereotypes and presented a positive image of black family life, making it an important show to appreciate for its cultural impact.

    The Cosby Show, a groundbreaking sitcom of the 1980s, explores the life of an African American family navigating through love, laughter, and life's challenges. With an ensemble cast led by Bill Cosby (Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable) and Phylicia Rashad (Clair Huxtable), the series garnered numerous awards and nominations, including Emmy and Golden Globe nods. Set in a Brooklyn brownstone, the show delves into relatable themes such as parenting, education, and career aspirations, all while maintaining a humorous and heartwarming tone. The Cosby Show's thought-provoking narrative and memorable characters continue to resonate with audiences, leaving a lasting legacy in television history.
  • Family Matters
    5
    Reginald VelJohnson, Judyann Elder, Darius McCrary
    111 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveFull House (1987–1995), Sister Sister (1994–1999), Step by Step (1991–1998), Boy Meets World (1993–2000), Saved by the Bell (1989–1993)
    Why Should I Stream? Family Matters stands as an iconic sitcom from the 90s that addressed various social issues while providing laughs through its colorful characters, most notably Steve Urkel portrayed by Jaleel White. The show effortlessly balanced serious topics with heartwarming moments, making it relatable for viewers across generations. Its longevity is evidence of its enduring appeal to fans.

    In the realm of classic sitcoms, Family Matters stands out as a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of an African-American family navigating life's challenges and triumphs. With nine seasons that ran from 1989 to 1998, this wholesome show garnered immense popularity, becoming synonymous with 90s television. The series primarily revolves around the lovable character, Steve Urkel (Jaleel White), whose quirky antics and memorable catchphrases never fail to entertain. Despite not being a critical darling, Family Matters left an indelible mark on pop culture, serving as a testament to its enduring appeal and relatability for audiences spanning generations.
  • In Living Color
    6
    Keenen Ivory Wayans, Jim Carrey, Kelly Coffield Park
    95 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: MADtv (1995–2016), Saturday Night Live (1975–present), Chappelle's Show (2003–2006), Key & Peele (2012–2015), The Chris Rock Show (1997–2000)
    Why Should I Stream? In Living Color earns praise for its bold and groundbreaking comedic sketches that pushed the envelope and made audiences laugh with its biting satire and memorable characters. The series launched the careers of comedy legends like Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and the Wayans family. Not only did it influence future sketch comedy shows, but it also left an undeniable mark on pop culture.

    Comedy show parodies all facets of life.
  • A Different World
    7
    Lisa Bonet, Kadeem Hardison, Jasmine Guy
    105 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Cosby Show, Moesha, Girlfriends, In Living Color, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper
    Why Should I Stream? A Different World is worth watching as it offers a fresh perspective on college life through the lens of young African American students at a historically black university. The show's ability to tackle real-life issues while maintaining humor and relatability makes it stand out in television history. It also helped launch the careers of several talented actors, including Jada Pinkett Smith and Jasmine Guy.

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of a historically black college, A Different World masterfully explores the lives and relationships of its diverse ensemble cast. With six critically acclaimed seasons, this groundbreaking sitcom broke barriers by delving into social issues and college life from a fresh perspective. The series boasts a talented lineup, including the ambitious Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy) and the lovable Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison). Garnering prestige throughout its run, A Different World resonated with audiences and critics alike for its authentic portrayal of growth, friendship, and the search for identity.
  • Sister, Sister
    8
    Tia Mowry-Hardrict, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Jackée Harry
    98 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMoesha (1996–2001), Smart Guy (1997–1999), Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996–2003), Kenan & Kel (1966 - 2000), The Parent 'Hood (95 - 99)
    Why Should I Stream? Sister, Sister deserves attention for showcasing the lives of two identical twins separated at birth who later reunite accidentally as teenagers living under one roof. With Tia and Tamera Mowry leading the cast, this show provided wholesome entertainment centered around family values combined with adolescent adventures. It remains a beloved classic in 90s television programming.

    Twins, separated at birth, scheme to bring their single adoptive parents together.
  • The Wayans Bros.
    9
    Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, John Witherspoon
    89 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: In Living Color, Martin, The Jamie Foxx Show, My Wife and Kids, Everybody Hates Chris
    Why Should I Stream? Watching The Wayans Bros is essential because of their dynamic chemistry that translated into hilarious sitcom antics centered around brotherhood and family business experiences. As pioneers in both film and television comedy, Shawn and Marlon Wayans' unique brand of humor made this show a standout during its time on air. Its memorable catchphrases and situations continue to resonate with fans today.

    Two young brothers try their wings in New York.
  • Def Comedy Jam
    10
    Kid Capri, D.L. Hughley, Adele Givens
    63 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveComicView (1992–2014), P. Diddy's Bad Boys of Comedy (2005–2007), HBO's All Def Comedy (2016–2018), BET's Comic Relief (1990 - 2006), Live at the Apollo (1987 – present)
    Why Should I Stream? Def Comedy Jam is an iconic showcase of stand-up comedy that provided a platform for numerous African American comedians during the 90s. Produced by Russell Simmons, this series played an integral role in launching the careers of legends such as Bernie Mac, Dave Chappelle, and Chris Tucker. Its raw and unapologetic humor makes it an essential viewing experience for comedy enthusiasts.

    Def Comedy Jam is a HBO television series produced by Russell Simmons. The series had its original run from July 1, 1992 to January 1, 1997. The show returned on HBO's fall lineup in 2006. Def Comedy Jam helped to launch the careers of several African-American stand-up comedians.
  • Moesha
    11
    Brandy Norwood, William Allen Young, Marcus T. Paulk
    89 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Sister Sister, A Different World, Smart Guy, One on One, Girlfriends
    Why Should I Stream? Moesha earns a spot on the watch list for its depiction of a spirited teenage girl navigating high school, friendships, and family dynamics in the late 90s. With R&B star Brandy as the lead, this show tackled relevant issues like race, teen pregnancy, and substance abuse with sensitivity and grace. Moesha's cultural impact has left a lasting impression on television audiences.

    A teen-ager experiences love and life.
  • The Jamie Foxx Show
    12

    The Jamie Foxx Show

    Jamie Foxx, Garrett Morris, Ellia English
    84 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMartin, The Wayans Bros., In Living Color, My Wife and Kids, The Bernie Mac Show
    Why Should I Stream? The Jamie Foxx Show is a must-watch for its blend of music, comedy, and romance that showcased the multifaceted talent of its star, Jamie Foxx. Set in a family-owned hotel, the series highlighted relatable themes such as entrepreneurship and ambition while delivering consistent laughs. Its charm and wit make it an enduring sitcom favorite among viewers young and old.

    An aspiring performer works at his aunt and uncle's hotel.
  • Kenan & Kel
    13
    Kenan Thompson, Kel Mitchell
    75 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: All That (1994–2005; 2019–present), Good Burger (1997 film), Drake & Josh (2004–2007), iCarly (2007–2012), Victorious (2010 - 2021)
    Why Should I Stream? Kenan & Kel resonated with viewers due to its humorous portrayal of two best friends getting into various antics while trying to navigate adolescence. Starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, this classic Nickelodeon sitcom showcased their comedic chemistry that was first established on All That. The show's lighthearted approach to friendship continues to entertain viewers of all ages.

    A lively, comedic romp through the '90s, Kenan & Kel showcases the dynamic duo of Kenan Rockmore (Kenan Thompson) and Kel Kimble (Kel Mitchell) as they navigate the pitfalls of adolescence. With a comedic chemistry that has inspired a generation of entertainers, this Nickelodeon classic garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase during its four-season run. In addition to numerous Kids' Choice Awards nominations, the series also earned a prestigious CableACE Award for Best Children's Program. As the lovable troublemakers embark on a variety of misadventures, viewers are treated to a healthy dose of hilarity, heart, and nostalgia.
  • Hangin' with Mr. Cooper
    14
    Mark Curry, Raven-Symoné, Saundra Quarterman
    73 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveFamily Matters, A Different World, Sister Sister, Roc (91 - 94), The Parent 'Hood (95 -99)
    Why Should I Stream? Hangin' with Mr. Cooper merits a watch for its refreshing take on the traditional sitcom formula by centering around a former NBA player turned high school teacher and coach living with two female roommates. Mark Curry's affable performance combined with witty writing made this show both relatable and enjoyable for audiences during its five-season run.

    A former NBA player returns home to coach at his old high school.
  • Soul Train
    15
    Nick Cannon, Rosie Perez, Don Cornelius
    63 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveAmerican Bandstand (1952–1989), Solid Gold (1980–1988), Dance Fever (1979−1987), Top of the Pops UK (64 –06), New York Hot Tracks (82 -88)
    Why Should I Stream? Soul Train is an undeniable staple in television history as it spotlighted black music artists and popular dance styles over three decades. Hosted by Don Cornelius, this influential music-dance program featured iconic performances from legendary artists like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and James Brown as well as contemporary acts. Its impact on pop culture and the music industry makes it essential viewing.

    Soul Train is an American musical variety television program, which aired in syndication from 1971 until 2006. In its 35-year history, the show primarily featured performances by R&B, soul, and hip hop artists, although funk, jazz, disco, and gospel artists have also appeared. The series was created by Don Cornelius, who also served as its first host and executive producer. Production was suspended following the 2005–06 season, with a rerun package airing for two years subsequently. As a nod to Soul Train's longevity, the show's opening sequence contained a claim that it was the "longest-running first-run, nationally syndicated program in American television history," with over 1,100 episodes produced from the show's debut through the 2005-06 season. Despite the production hiatus, Soul Train will continue to hold that honor until at least 2016, if and when its nearest competitor, Entertainment Tonight, completes its 35th season. If ET does not complete a 35th season, Wheel of Fortune would surpass it in 2018 if it continues to air.
  • The Parkers
    16
    Countess Vaughn, Mo'Nique, Dorien Wilson
    64 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMoesha, Living Single, Girlfriends, Half & Half (film), One on One
    Why Should I Stream? The Parkers holds appeal for its comedic portrayal of a mother-daughter duo attending college together, providing an entertaining take on family relationships and personal growth. Starring Mo'Nique and Countess Vaughn, this spin-off from Moesha was celebrated for its strong performances and unique premise, making it a memorable sitcom worth exploring.

    A teenager and her mother study together at college.
  • The Steve Harvey Show
    17
    Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, Wendy Raquel Robinson
    74 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveFamily Matters, Moesha, Sister Sister, The Jamie Foxx Show, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper
    Why Should I Stream? The Steve Harvey Show stands out for its perfect blend of humor, warmth, and life lessons as it followed the lives of two former R&B singers turned high school teachers. With Steve Harvey's magnetic charisma at the helm, this show tackled topics like education and mentorship with heart while keeping audiences laughing throughout its six-season run.

    The Steve Harvey Show, was a sitcom that aired from 1996 to 2002 on The WB Television Network. It was created by Winifred Hervey and directed by Stan Lathan.
  • Smart Guy
    18
    Tahj Mowry, Jason Weaver, Essence Atkins
    69 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveSister Sister, Kenan & Kel, Boy Meets World (1993–2000), The Parent 'Hood (95 - 99), Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996 – 03)
    Why Should I Stream? Smart Guy is worth watching for its unique premise focusing on a young boy genius navigating high school years ahead of his age group. This humorous approach to growing up too fast offered valuable insights into the importance of enjoying one's youth while also celebrating intelligence in a light-hearted manner.

    T.J. Henderson, a 10-year-old genius tries to fit in as a sophomore in high school.
  • Thea
    19
    Thea Vidale, Adam Jeffries, Jason Weaver
    21 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: My Wife and Kids (2001–2005), Malcolm & Eddie (96 - 00), Roc (91 -94), Hangin' with Mr. Cooper(92 –97), Family Matters
    Why Should I Stream? Thea showcased the life of a widowed mother raising her five children single-handedly while balancing work responsibilities, offering viewers authentic portrayals of resilience and familial love. Starring comedienne Thea Vidale, this short-lived sitcom provided an honest glimpse into the challenges faced by working-class African American families during that era.

    Thea is an American sitcom that premiered September 3, 1993 on ABC, and last aired on February 14, 1994, for a total of 19 episodes. Starring comedienne Thea Vidale, the series marked the first time an African American female comedienne was the star of a series named after her.
  • The Arsenio Hall Show
    20
    Bill Murray, Arsenio Hall, Burton Richardson
    54 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveThe Chris Rock Show, Late Night with David Letterman (1982–1993), The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (2015–present), Late Night with Conan O'Brien(93 -09 ), Jimmy Kimmel Live! (2003 – present)
    Why Should I Stream? The Arsenio Hall Show is significant in late-night talk show history for breaking barriers as the first program hosted by an African American to achieve mainstream success. With Arsenio Hall's charisma and lively interviews, it revolutionized the format while providing a platform for numerous artists and celebrities. Its cultural impact and influence on future television hosts make it essential viewing.

    The Arsenio Hall Show is an American late-night talk show created and hosted by Arsenio Hall. There are two separate programs that have been titled The Arsenio Hall Show, both airing in syndication. The first premiered on January 3, 1989, and ran until May 27, 1994. The second series debuted on September 9, 2013 and was canceled on May 30, 2014. Both series were produced by Hall's production company, Arsenio Hall Communications. The original series was produced and distributed by Paramount Domestic Television and taped at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, California. The second series was shot at Sunset Bronson Studios and was produced by Tribune Broadcasting, Octagon Entertainment, and Eye Productions; it was distributed by CBS Television Distribution.
  • Malcolm & Eddie
    21
    Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Eddie Griffin, Karen Malina White
    50 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveIn Living Color, Martin, The Wayans Bros., Roc (1991–1994), The Jamie Foxx Show
    Why Should I Stream? Malcolm & Eddie warrants attention because it brought together two talented comics - Malcolm-Jamal Warner and Eddie Griffin - creating hilarious chemistry as they navigated their vastly different personalities in pursuit of success. Their distinct comedic styles kept audiences entertained throughout the series' four-season run as they depicted relatable experiences involving friendship, ambition, and love.

    Two friends share an apartment in Kansas City.
  • Roc
    22
    Charles S. Dutton, Ella Joyce, Rocky Carroll
    53 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Family Matters, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper, Martin, Malcolm & Eddie, The Steve Harvey Show
    Why Should I Stream? Roc is noteworthy for its realistic portrayal of a working-class African-American family in Baltimore, balancing humor with social commentary. Starring Charles S. Dutton as Roc Emerson, this series tackled issues like crime, racism, and poverty while maintaining its warmth and relatability. Roc's unique blend of drama and comedy make it a standout show from the early 90s.

    A hard-working man supports his extended family.
  • Cousin Skeeter
    23
    Rondell Sheridan, Angela Means, Meagan Good
    26 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Kenan & Kel, Smart Guy, Sister Sister, My Brother and Me (2004 - 05), The Famous Jett Jackson (98 - 01)
    Why Should I Stream? Cousin Skeeter offers viewers a quirky take on family sitcoms by featuring a puppet character named Skeeter who moves in with his human relatives. This unconventional Nickelodeon series balanced humor with heartwarming themes such as family unity and self-acceptance while showcasing the comedic talents of its young stars.

    Cousin Skeeter is an American children's television show, which ran on Nickelodeon from 1998 to 2001. It starred Robert Ri'chard as Bobby, a young boy whose life changed when his strange cousin Skeeter came to live with his family. With Skeeter's help, Bobby learns life lessons and tackles the ups and downs of growing up. The show also included Meagan Good as Bobby's friend Nina, Rondell Sheridan as Bobby's father Andre, and Angela Means as Bobby's mother Vanessa. Skeeter is portrayed by a hand puppet with Bill Bellamy providing his voice, and Drew Massey performing the puppetry, assisted by Alice Dinnean. Within the show, Skeeter is treated like a regular human and no mention of him being a puppet is made. Although the series was shot in a single-camera format, the show used a laugh track. The show's theme song is an alternate version of 702's 1997 hit "Steelo", written by Missy Elliott.
  • The Hughleys
    24
    D. L. Hughley, Elise Neal, Eric Allan Kramer
    53 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveIn Living Color, Everybody Loves Raymond (1996–2005), Malcolm & Eddie (96 – 00), My Wife and Kids (2001–2005), King of Queens (1998–2007)
    Why Should I Stream? The Hughleys provides a refreshing perspective on suburban life as it follows an African American entrepreneur who moves his family from inner-city Los Angeles to the predominantly white suburbs. With D.L. Hughley at the helm, this sitcom skillfully blended humor with thought-provoking discussions about race relations and social issues during its four-season run.

    The Hughleys is an American sitcom that aired on ABC from September 22, 1998 to April 28, 2000 and on the UPN network from September 11, 2000 to May 20, 2002. It starred comedian D. L. Hughley as the main character, Darryl Hughley, and Elise Neal as Yvonne, his hard-working wife, who move their family from the inner city to suburban Los Angeles.
  • Gullah Gullah Island
    25
    Ron Daise, Natalie Daise, Vanessa Baden
    54 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveBlue's Clues (1996–2020; 2021-present), Bear in the Big Blue House (1997–2006), Eureeka's Castle(89 - 95), Allegra's Window (94 – 96 ), Out of the Box(98 -03)
    Why Should I Stream? Gullah Gullah Island is important to watch because it introduced audiences to the rich cultural heritage of the African American Gullah community in South Carolina through educational storytelling and music. Aimed at young children, this groundbreaking preschool program celebrated diversity by sharing folklore, customs, and lessons that continue to resonate with viewers today.

    An African-American couple shares songs, stories, dances and humor with preschoolers.
  • Oz
    26
    Ernie Hudson, Terry Kinney, Harold Perrineau
    45 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveThe Wire (2002–2008), Six Feet Under (2001–2005), The Sopranos (99 -07), Breaking Bad (08 –13), Boardwalk Empire (10 –14)
    Why Should I Stream? Oz captivated viewers with its gritty depiction of life inside a maximum-security prison, exploring complex themes like power struggles, redemption, and morality amid harsh circumstances. With its ensemble cast, including Harold Perrineau and J.K. Simmons, this groundbreaking drama pushed the boundaries of television storytelling and set the stage for numerous other acclaimed series in its wake.

    Venturing into the mystical realm of witches and wizards, this critically-acclaimed drama series explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and morality. With a richly textured narrative that delves into both the supernatural and human aspects of its characters, viewers are treated to a fascinating examination of the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones and themselves. The ensemble cast, led by the enigmatic Wilhemina "Winnie" West (Jane Doe), boasts impressive performances that have garnered numerous award nominations. As the story unfolds, audiences are immersed in a world where spells and secrets intertwine, while still managing to avoid revealing any major plot twists.
  • The Oprah Winfrey Show
    27
    Oprah Winfrey, Nate Berkus, Gayle King
    52 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveEllen: The Ellen DeGeneres Show (2003-present), Rachael Ray (V series)(06 -preseent ), Dr. Phil (02 - present), The View (97 –present) , The Talk (2010–present)
    Why Should I Stream? The Oprah Winfrey Show is unmissable due to its incredible impact on American culture and television as it revolutionized the talk show format over 25 years on air. Hosted by media mogul Oprah Winfrey, this program delved into various topics like self-improvement, social issues, and celebrity interviews while consistently inspiring millions of viewers worldwide.

    Oprah discusses topics with guests, before a studio audience.
  • Out All Night
    28
    Vivica A. Fox, Patti LaBelle, Morris Chestnut
    41 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMartin, Living Single, A Different World, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper (92 – 97), Malcolm & Eddie (96 –00)
    Why Should I Stream? Out All Night proved one-of-a-kind as it followed the antics of former singer-turned-nightclub owner Chelsea Paige (Patti LaBelle) and her quirky employees. This short-lived sitcom showcased Patti LaBelle's charm as well as performances from then-rising stars Morris Chestnut and Duane Martin, making it a worthwhile excursion into early 90s television.

    Out All Night is an American sitcom that aired on NBC from September 19, 1992 to July 9, 1993 for one season. The series stars Patti LaBelle, and was created by Andy Borowitz, Susan Borowitz, and Rob Edwards.
  • South Central
    29
    Jennifer Lopez, Maia Campbell, Larenz Tate
    36 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Roc (1991–1994), Moesha (1996–2001), In the House (95 –99 ), The Parenthood (1995–1999), The Wayans Bros
    Why Should I Stream? South Central merits consideration for its honest portrayal of life in inner-city Los Angeles during the early 90s amidst gang violence, drugs, and economic hardships. Starring Larenz Tate, this critically praised yet short-lived drama provided a platform for important conversations about race relations, poverty, and resilience within marginalized communities in America.

    South Central is an American comedy-drama series that aired on the Fox network from April 5, 1994 to June 7, 1994. It was cancelled following its first season, with the airing of only 10 episodes.
  • My Brother and Me
    30
    Arthur Reggie, Ralph Woolfolk, Jimmy Lee Newman
    15 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveKenan & Kel, Cousin Skeeter, Sister Sister, Smart Guy, The Famous Jett Jackson (98 -01)
    Why Should I Stream? My Brother and Me is a classic Nickelodeon sitcom that offers an entertaining glimpse into the lives of two African American brothers navigating their preteen years in Charlotte, North Carolina. Its wholesome approach to family-centered storytelling makes it an enjoyable watch for those seeking lighthearted content with relatable themes.

    Eight-year-old Dee Dee and his brother grow up in North Carolina.
  • The Chris Rock Show
    31
    Chris Rock, Grandmaster Flash, Monteria Ivey
    51 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveIn Living Color, Saturday Night Live (1975–present), Def Comedy Jam (92 -08), Chappelle's Show (03 -06), Late Night with Conan O'Brien
    Why Should I Stream? The Chris Rock Show stands out among late-night talk shows for its biting humor and incisive commentary on politics, race relations, and popular culture delivered by legendary comedian Chris Rock. Over five seasons on HBO, this Emmy-winning series solidified Rock's presence as a powerful voice in comedy while providing a platform for musical guests and insightful interviews.

    The Chris Rock Show is a late night comedy talk show featured on HBO. It was created by Chris Rock and featured various guests. The show won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Variety or Music Program in 1999. It ran for five seasons from 1997 to 2000.
  • C Bear and Jamal
    32
    Margaret Cho, Debbie Allen, Tone-Lōc
    9 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids (1972–1985), Waynehead (TV series)(96 -97 ), Captain Planet and the Planeteers (tv series )(90 -96 ), Duckman: Private Dick/Family Man (tv series )(94 –97 ), Quack Pack (tv series)(96)
    Why Should I Stream? C Bear and Jamal is notable for centering around an imaginative young boy named Jamal who learns important life lessons from his animated stuffed bear. With rapper Tone Loc voicing the titular character, this educational cartoon offered valuable insights into friendship, responsibility, and self-confidence while targeting young children of color.

    C Bear and Jamal is an animated children's television show that premiered on the Fox Kids Fprogramming block in 1996. It features an elementary-aged school kid named Jamal, whose constant companion was "C Bear", a hip hop teddy bear who sings. Film Roman co-produced the show.
  • Station Zero
    33
    Carlito Rodriguez
    10 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveBeavis and Butt-head (93 -11), Waynehead (TV series)(96 -97 ), MTV Downtown(tv series )(99 -2000), Cel Damage(video game)( 2001), Clerks: Tale from the Quick Stop (TV series)(95)
    Why Should I Stream? Station Zero set itself apart as an innovative animated series that showcased hip-hop culture through the lens of four teenagers running their own television station. Its unique approach to blending music, humor, and animation made it a standout show during its brief time on air.

    Station Zero (MTV, 1999) is an American animated musical comedy television series. The daily episodes follow a group of kids who ran a fictional public-access TV show called Live From The Bronx, where they watched and critiqued music videos.
  • Me and the Boys
    34
    Steve Harvey, Robin Givens, J. Anthony Brown
    36 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Family Matters, Roc (91 -94), Malcolm & Eddie (96 –00 ), Hangin' with Mr. Cooper (92 –97), The Steve Harvey Show
    Why Should I Stream? Me and the Boys tackled modern family dynamics with humor as it followed a widowed father raising his three sons with the help of his mother-in-law. Starring comedian Steve Harvey in one of his earliest television roles, this heartwarming sitcom provided both laughs and poignant moments throughout its single-season run.

    Me and the Boys is an American sitcom that aired on the ABC network from September 20, 1994 until February 28, 1995. The series features comedian Steve Harvey, who also served as a writer, in his first starring role. The series was created by Bob Myer, Rob Dames and Lenny Ripps, and produced by a.k.a. Productions and Bob Myer Productions in association with ABC Productions.
  • New Attitude (1990 TV Sitcom)
    35

    New Attitude (1990 TV Sitcom)

    Albert Alarr
    8 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMartin, Living Single, A Different World, Hangin' with Mr. Cooper (92 - 97), Roc (1991–1994)
    Why Should I Stream? New Attitude shined a light on entrepreneurship as it chronicled the lives of two sisters running their own beauty salon in Washington D.C., showcasing moments of sisterhood, ambition, and unwavering determination amid comedic situations. This short-lived sitcom captured relatable themes while offering viewers entertaining glimpses into small business ownership within the African American community.

    New Attitude is an American sitcom that aired on ABC in from August to September 1990. Based on the play Beauty Shop by Shelly Garrett, the series aired for six episodes during ABC's TGIF lineup on Fridays.
  • Waynehead
    36
    Gary Coleman, Marlon Wayans, Frank Welker
    10 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids (1972–1985), C Bear and Jamal (tv series )( 96), The PJs (tv series)(99 -2001), Static Shock (00 –04), Hey Arnold! (tv series)(96 –04)
    Why Should I Stream? Waynehead offered an unorthodox take on urban childhood experiences through its animated portrayal of ten-year-old Damian "Damey" Wayne interacting with friends in his Brooklyn neighborhood despite having a club foot. Created by actor Damon Wayans, this Saturday morning cartoon featured lively storytelling combined with important life lessons that resonated with both children and adults alike.

    Waynehead is a Saturday morning animated series created by American actor Damon Wayans. It was produced by Warner Bros. Animation and Nelvana. It ran on Kids' WB from 1996-1997. It is about a young boy named Damien "Damey" Wayne from a poor background with a club foot and was based on Wayans' own childhood in the Chelsea neighborhood in the New York City Borough of Manhattan. Actors cast in the show included Gary Coleman, Orlando Brown and Marlon Wayans. Waynehead lasted for only one season.
  • 704 Hauser
    37
    Maura Tierney, John Amos
    16 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveAll In The Family (1971–1979), The Jeffersons (75-85), Archie Bunker's Place (79 -83), Maude (72 -78), Married... with Children (87 –97)
    Why Should I Stream? 704 Hauser holds significance for reimagining All in the Family's iconic setting by centering around an African American family living in Archie Bunker's former home. With respected actor John Amos leading the cast, this short-lived sitcom tackled social issues and family dynamics while attempting to recapture the essence of its groundbreaking predecessor.

    704 Hauser is an American sitcom that aired on CBS from April to May 1994. A spinoff of All in the Family, the series is built around the concept of a black family, the Cumberbatches, moving into the former Queens home of Archie Bunker years after Bunker had sold the house located at 704 Hauser Street. The All in the Family character Joey Stivic, Archie's grandson, makes a cameo in the first episode.
  • In the House
    38

    In the House

    LL Cool J, Maia Campbell, Alfonso Ribeiro
    0 votes
    A theological and scientific exploration of miracles.
  • The Parent 'Hood
    39

    The Parent 'Hood

    Robert Townsend, Suzzanne Douglas, Reagan Gomez
    0 votes