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- ABC/Home Improvement, Fox Film Corporation/The Simpsons, NBC/The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
The Best '90s Sitcoms, Ranked
- Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright
A groundbreaking and enduring animated sitcom, The Simpsons captured the hearts of both children and adults alike throughout the 1990s. With an impressive voice cast featuring Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, and Harry Shearer, the show introduced a colorful world inhabited by unforgettable characters like Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie Simpson. As America's favorite dysfunctional family unit living in the fictional town of Springfield. The Simpsons garnered numerous accolades including 34 Primetime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. Its impact on pop culture is enormous with catchphrases like "D'oh!" becoming part of everyday language.
More The Simpsons- Dig Deeper...The Best Episodes of The Simpsons
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- #8 of 539 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt
Set within a cozy Boston bar aptly named Cheers, this beloved sitcom ran for eleven successful seasons from 1982 to 1993. Cheers was known for its witty humor and lovable ensemble cast that included Ted Danson as bartender Sam Malone alongside Rhea Perlman as sassy waitress Carla Tortelli. This critically-acclaimed show earned many awards during its run including 28 Primetime Emmy Awards out of an impressive 117 nominations. Its memorable theme song became synonymous with the idea of camaraderie and friendship - making Cheers an instrumental piece in defining '90s pop culture.
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- #4 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow
A cultural phenomenon that defined a generation, Friends followed six close-knit friends navigating life, love, and laughter in New York City. The ensemble cast featuring Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer became household names thanks to their hilarious performances as Rachel Green, Monica Geller-Bing, Phoebe Buffay-Hannigan, Joey Tribbiani, Chandler Bing, Ross Geller respectively. Over ten wildly popular seasons from 1994 to 2004, Friends garnered numerous accolades including multiple Emmy Awards while spawning catchphrases like "How you doin'?" that continue to resonate with fans today.
More Friends- Dig Deeper...The Best Characters On 'Friends', Ranked
- And Deeper...The Best 'Friends' Episodes Ever, Ranked
- #15 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Tim Allen, Patricia Richardson, Earl Hindman
Starring Tim Allen as an eccentric TV personality and family man, Home Improvement showcased the light-hearted misadventures of the Taylor family through eight successful seasons. With Patricia Richardson playing Jill Taylor, Tim's long-suffering wife, and a young Jonathan Taylor Thomas as their son Randy, the show struck a chord with audiences for its relatable family dynamics and clever humor. An undeniable hit during the '90s, Home Improvement cemented its place in sitcom history by winning multiple awards and setting the stage for many spin-offs and career opportunities for its cast members.
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- #23 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid
This iconic '90s sitcom launched Will Smith's acting career into superstardom as he played a fictionalized version of himself - a charming yet mischievous teenager from Philadelphia sent to live with his wealthy relatives in their Bel-Air mansion. With standout performances by James Avery as stern Uncle Phil and Alfonso Ribeiro as preppy cousin Carlton Banks, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air masterfully combined heartfelt moments with hilarious hijinks over six popular seasons. The show received multiple awards during its run while also leaving an indelible mark on fashion trends and pop culture with its catchy theme song and memorable dance moves.
- Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher
A period sitcom set in Wisconsin during the late 1970s, That '70s Show debuted in 1998 boasting a talented ensemble cast featuring Topher Grace, Laura Prepon, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Danny Masterson and Wilmer Valderrama who played teenagers Eric Forman, Donna Pinciotti, Jackie Burkhart Michael Kelso Steven Hyde Fez respectively. This nostalgia-driven series cleverly captured teenage life amidst shifting cultural attitudes of '70s era America earning positive reviews critical acclaim throughout its eight-season run. With memorable catchphrases like "Burn!" and iconic introductions of future A-list actors, That '70s Show remains a steadfast favorite among sitcom enthusiasts.
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- #23 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- John Stamos, Bob Saget, Dave Coulier
Launching the careers of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Full House became a staple in '90s television. The show centered around widowed father Danny Tanner (Bob Saget) who enlisted his brother-in-law (John Stamos) and best friend (Dave Coulier) to help raise his three daughters. This heartwarming sitcom ran for eight seasons from 1987 to 1995 and charmed audiences with its wholesome family values, humor, and relatable storylines. Full House's popularity led to spin-offs such as Fuller House, solidifying its place within '90s pop culture.
- Ben Savage, William Daniels, Betsy RandleIn this coming-of-age sitcom, audiences are taken on a journey through the trials and tribulations of adolescence as they follow the life of young protagonist Cory Matthews (Ben Savage). Set in a suburban backdrop, Boy Meets World explores the complexities of friendship, family, and love while delivering valuable life lessons through humor and relatability. With a memorable ensemble cast, including the wise and quirky Mr. Feeny (William Daniels) as their guiding light, this beloved '90s TV series has garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim throughout its seven-season run. As Cory navigates the challenges of growing up, viewers are treated to an authentic portrayal of the human experience that resonates with all ages.
- Kelsey Grammer, John Mahoney, Jane Leeves
Spinning off from Cheers' character Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), Frasier provided a sophisticated and witty take on familial relationships and personal growth. Set in Seattle, the show co-starred David Hyde Pierce as Niles Crane, Frasier's fussy brother, John Mahoney as their gruff father Martin Crane, Jane Leeves as their housekeeper Daphne Moon-who becomes Niles' love interest-and Peri Gilpin as Roz Doyle, Frasier's feisty radio producer. The show ran for eleven seasons from 1993 to 2004 winning multiple accolades including 37 Primetime Emmy Awards proving itself an enduring success within '90s television history.
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- #16 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- Ed O'Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate
Breaking away from traditional family sitcom conventions, Married... with Children gave viewers an unapologetically dysfunctional suburban family led by Ed O'Neill as shoe salesman Al Bundy and Katey Sagal as his loud-mouthed wife Peggy Bundy. Running for eleven seasons from 1987 to 1997, this irreverent show pushed boundaries with its provocative humor while earning multiple awards nominations during its successful tenure on TV screens across America—becoming a cherished part of '90s pop culture history.
- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Married... With Children' Seasons, Ranked
- #10 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tiffani Thiessen, Mario López
A quintessential teen sitcom set in the halls of Bayside High School, Saved by the Bell followed Zack Morris (Mark-Paul Gosselaar), Kelly Kapowski (Tiffani Thiessen), A.C. Slater Mario Lopez Lisa Turtle Lark Voorhies Screech Powers Dustin Diamond Jessie Spano Elizabeth Berkley through their trials tribulations growing up amidst love triangles friendships wild schemes that often landed them in trouble Principal Richard Belding played Dennis Haskins.
- Kevin James, Leah Remini, Jerry Stiller
With a cast comprised of Kevin James (Doug Heffernan), Leah Remini (Carrie Heffernan), Jerry Stiller (Arthur Spooner), Patton Oswalt (Spence Olchin) among others, The King of Queens quickly established itself as a fan-favorite sitcom showcasing the everyday lives working-class couple living in Queens, New York. Running for nine seasons until 2007, this witty and relatable comedy won viewers' hearts with its humorous take on marriage and family life.
More The King of Queens- Dig Deeper...The Best King Of Queens Episodes
- #99 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Reginald VelJohnson, Judyann Elder, Darius McCrary
Families worldwide welcomed Steve Urkel into their homes when Family Matters premiered in 1989. Jaleel White's iconic portrayal of the lovable, yet clumsy neighbor became the focal point of this wholesome sitcom about the Winslow family led by Reginald VelJohnson as Carl Winslow and Jo Marie Payton as Harriette Winslow. Throughout its nine-season run, Family Matters warmed hearts with its focus on love, support, and understanding - making it an essential piece of '90s pop culture.
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- #64 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Doris Roberts
Starring Ray Romano as a sports writer and family man Raymond Barone, Everybody Loves Raymond connected with audiences through its portrayal of realistically flawed characters and relatable issues, making it one of the most beloved sitcoms of the '90s era television. Co-starring Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, and Madylin Sweeten, the show garnered numerous accolades throughout its nine-season run including 15 Primetime Emmy Awards for its critically acclaimed performances by cast members.
- Dig Deeper...The Best Everybody Loves Raymond Episodes
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- #80 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- John Lithgow, Jane Curtin, Kristen Johnston
This unique and quirky '90s sitcom featured an ensemble cast led by John Lithgow as Dick Solomon - an alien posing as a human alongside his extraterrestrial family (Kristen Johnston, French Stewart, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt) sent to Earth to observe human behavior. Cleverly blending science fiction with situational comedy, 3rd Rock from the Sun offered a fresh take on the genre while poking fun at human customs and traditions. With a successful six-season run from 1996 to 2001; the show earned multiple accolades including eight Primetime Emmy Awards for its zany humor and memorable performances by the cast.
- #62 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- #52 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- Trey Parker, Matt Stone
Premiering in 1997, South Park burst onto the scene with its irreverent humor and satirical take on current events. Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, this animated series centered around four foul-mouthed elementary school friends. Known for pushing boundaries in both content and animation style, the show garnered numerous accolades including five Primetime Emmy Awards solidifying its place among popular '90s television shows.
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- #24 of 539 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- Roseanne Barr, John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf
A groundbreaking sitcom that pushed the boundaries of traditional family television, Roseanne starred outspoken and unapologetic Roseanne Barr as a working-class mother living with her husband Dan (John Goodman) and their three children. The show tackled controversial topics such as unemployment, poverty, and LGBT rights throughout its nine-season run from 1988 to 1997. With its authentic portrayal of blue-collar America, sharp wit, and memorable performances by cast members, the show remains a beloved classic in '90s pop culture.
- Fran Drescher, Charles Shaughnessy, Lauren LaneA delightful comedy with a touch of sophistication, The Nanny features the charming Fran Fine (played by Fran Drescher) as she unexpectedly becomes the nanny to a wealthy Broadway producer's three children. Set in an opulent Manhattan mansion, the show artfully combines humor and heart, making it a cherished classic. Throughout its six-season run, The Nanny garnered multiple award nominations, including Emmy and Golden Globe nods for its talented ensemble cast. With memorable performances by Charles Shaughnessy as the dashing Maxwell Sheffield and Daniel Davis as the witty butler Niles, the series remains a beloved gem in television history.More The Nanny
- Melissa Joan Hart, Caroline Rhea, Beth Broderick
Melissa Joan Hart charmed audiences worldwide as Sabrina Spellman – a teenage girl who discovers she has magical powers on her sixteenth birthday – in this popular sitcom based on the Archie Comics character. Sabrina the Teenage Witch enchanted viewers with its blend of supernatural elements, comedy, and teen drama throughout its seven-season run from 1996 to 2003. With memorable characters like Salem - the talking cat - and quirky aunts Hilda (Caroline Rhea) and Zelda (Beth Broderick), this lighthearted series remains a nostalgic favorite among '90s television enthusiasts.
- #101 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #9 of 71 onThe Best After School Shows from the '90s
- #136 of 476 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- Mike Judge, Kathy Najimy, Pamela Adlon
A hilarious animated sitcom that follows the daily life of Hank Hill, a propane salesman, and his quirky family in Texas. The show expertly mixes relatable family dynamics with a distinctly Southern spin, making it a hit among viewers in the '90s. King of the Hill became an instant classic thanks to its witty humor and memorable catchphrases like "I tell you what."
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- #82 of 539 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, Sean Hayes
This groundbreaking sitcom broke barriers in the '90s by featuring relatable gay characters at its core. The show is centered around best friends Will, a gay lawyer, and Grace, an interior designer, as they navigate life's ups and downs together in New York City. With sharp wit and strong chemistry among its talented cast members, Will & Grace quickly became a fan favorite.
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- Drew Carey, Diedrich Bader, Christa Miller
Set in Cleveland, Ohio, this uproarious sitcom follows the life of affable everyman Drew Carey as he juggles work at a department store with his chaotic personal life. Supported by an ensemble cast of eccentric characters like Mimi Bobeck and Oswald Harvey, The Drew Carey Show won audiences over with its unique blend of comedy and heart.
More The Drew Carey Show- #86 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- Patrick Duffy, Suzanne Somers, Staci Keanan
A delightful '90s take on the blended family concept, Step by Step brings laughter to viewers as two single parents merge their families into one big household. Witty banter ensues as they navigate parenting six kids with differing personalities while maintaining their relationship at the same time. This wholesome family comedy had fans tuning in for years to enjoy each fun-filled episode.
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- #88 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- Paul Reiser, Helen Hunt, Cloris Leachman
Starring Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt as newlyweds Paul and Jamie Buchman, this charming sitcom explores the humorous ins-and-outs of married life in New York City. Mad About You captured audiences' hearts with its relatable portrayal of love, friendship, and everyday challenges faced by couples everywhere. The well-written dialogue and undeniable chemistry between Reiser and Hunt made this show a must-watch in the '90s.
More Mad About You- #87 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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- Tim Daly, Steven Weber, Crystal Bernard
Set in the small Nantucket Island airport, Wings follows the lives of two brothers running a small airline while dealing with eccentric coworkers and passengers. The quirky ensemble of characters and clever comedic writing made it an instant hit among viewers. This lighthearted sitcom provided laughs and entertainment throughout its run in the '90s.
More Wings- Dig Deeper...The Best Wings Episodes
- #95 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- #102 of 476 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- Laura San Giacomo, George Segal, David Spade
Taking place in the fast-paced world of fashion journalism, Just Shoot Me! follows recent college graduate Maya Gallo as she starts working at her father's magazine Blush. The workplace comedy is filled with witty banter between eccentric coworkers played by a talented cast that kept viewers coming back for more. Its sharp humor and unique premise quickly earned this sitcom a loyal fanbase during its time on air.
More Just Shoot Me!- #206 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Charlie Sheen, Heather Locklear, Barry Bostwick
Michael J. Fox charmed audiences once again as Deputy Mayor Mike Flaherty in this political comedy set in New York City's City Hall. Spin City combined Fox's charismatic performance with a strong ensemble cast to deliver smart humor that resonated with viewers across America. The show's blend of politics, romance, and satire made it an essential viewing experience during the '90s.
More Spin City- #228 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Tia Mowry-Hardrict, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Jackée Harry
This entertaining sitcom revolves around identical twins Tia and Tamera, who were separated at birth but accidentally reunited as teenagers. With their polar opposite personalities, Sister, Sister delivered endless laughs as the girls navigated high school, family life, and sisterhood together. Their relatable teenage situations and comedic timing made it a popular choice for young audiences in the '90s.
- Dave Foley, Vicki Lewis, Stephen Root
This quirky workplace comedy is set in a New York City news radio station and follows the daily lives of its eccentric employees. NewsRadio won over viewers with its clever writing, engaging characters, and talented ensemble cast led by Dave Foley and Phil Hartman. Its unique blend of humor and heart made it a standout sitcom in the '90s.
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- Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Tichina Arnold
Starring comedian Martin Lawrence as radio host Martin Payne, this hilarious sitcom showcased Lawrence's undeniable comedic talent through various characters he portrayed throughout the series. With its witty humor and relatable exploration of relationships and friendships, Martin quickly became a beloved staple of '90s television. Fans couldn't get enough of the show's catchphrases, memorable moments, and uproarious laughs.
More Martin- #149 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
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