The Best '90s Teen Shows, Ranked
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What happens when you take a wide-eyed adolescent boy and throw him headfirst into the chaotic world of adolescence? You get a charming coming-of-age tale filled with life lessons learned through trial and error. Starring Ben Savage as our lovable protagonist Cory Matthews, this show boasted a colorful cast of characters who taught us valuable nuggets of wisdom about love, friendship, and growing up. With Mr. Feeny as our guiding star, we were all along for the ride on this roller coaster called life.
Ah, the quintessential high school experience - lockers slamming, bells ringing, and a ragtag group of friends navigating the ups and downs of teenage life. With its memorable characters like Zack Morris, A.C. Slater, and Kelly Kapowski, this show was a bona fide hit that captured the hearts of adolescents everywhere. Packed with humor and heartwarming moments, it tackled issues that were both timeless and relatable. This teen classic had it all - love triangles, school dances, and even an unforgettable caffeine pill meltdown.
In West Philadelphia born and raised - you know the words! When this wisecracking street-smart teenager found himself living with his wealthy family in Bel-Air, hilarity ensued. Featuring Will Smith as the irresistible goofball who charmed audiences with his antics while navigating life in an entirely new world. The show delivered equal parts humor and heartbreak while addressing real-life issues like racism and class differences - truly elevating it from mere sitcom to cultural phenomenon.
- 4WB, UPN
Vampires beware; there's a new slayer in town! This cult classic redefined what it meant to be a teen hero by placing a spunky blonde cheerleader at the helm of saving humanity from supernatural threats. Sarah Michelle Gellar portrayed our fearless heroine who balanced homework with vanquishing evil forces alongside her ragtag team known as The Scooby Gang. Its seamless blend of horror elements with witty dialogue and unforgettable characters made it a groundbreaking series that left an indelible mark on pop culture.
- 5ABC, WB
Who wouldn't want magical powers to navigate the treacherous waters of high school? This bewitching show starred Melissa Joan Hart as the young witch who juggled her newfound abilities with the typical struggles of adolescence. Armed with her trusty talking cat, Salem, and quirky aunts Hilda and Zelda, viewers were treated to a delightful mix of supernatural shenanigans and teenage angst. With its enchanting cast and compelling storylines, this show cast a spell on audiences that lingers to this day.
- #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
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Picture this - a group of groovy friends in the midst of flared pants and disco fever, hanging out in their favorite basement. This sitcom transported us to the heart of the 70s, providing nostalgic laughs while tackling timeless teen issues. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Topher Grace, Ashton Kutcher, and Mila Kunis, it blended uproarious humor with heartfelt moments. From first loves to family squabbles, this blast from the past resonated with viewers across generations.
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- #23 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 7FOX, NBC
There's no denying that life in Beverly Hills comes with its fair share of drama. This iconic soap opera showcased just that while focusing on a group of high school friends navigating their way through love triangles, scandalous secrets, and heartache. Boasting an ensemble cast including Jason Priestley and Shannen Doherty – it set the standard for teen dramas with its blend of glitz, glamour, and gripping storylines that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Set in the picturesque town of Capeside, this drama captured the trials and tribulations of teenage life like no other. With its dreamy backdrop and complex characters portrayed by James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams - it was impossible not to get swept up in their emotional journey. Tackling love triangles, identity struggles, and life-changing decisions - this show became synonymous with 90s teen angst.
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It's not often that a show manages to capture the raw and unfiltered essence of adolescence, but this groundbreaking drama did just that. With its refreshingly honest portrayal of teenage life through the eyes of Claire Danes' angsty Angela Chase, it tackled themes of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery with an authenticity rarely seen on television. Though its run was short-lived, its impact was profound – leaving a lasting impression on viewers who found solace in its relatable characters and brutally real storylines.
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- 10Nickelodeon
Breaking down the fourth wall like it's nobody's business, this quirky show followed the life of a sardonic teen as she navigated the trials and tribulations of high school with her unique brand of wit and wisdom. Melissa Joan Hart portrayed our lovable heroine whose candid monologues struck a chord with viewers who saw themselves in her honest take on adolescence. From first crushes to sibling rivalry - this TV gem spoke directly to our hearts.
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- #29 of 71 onThe Best After School Shows from the '90s
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Ah, those nostalgic days when life seemed simpler – or was it? This coming-of-age series followed Kevin Arnold as he navigated the trials of adolescence during one of America's most turbulent eras - the late 60s and early 70s. With Fred Savage at the helm alongside his trusty sidekick Paul Pfeiffer (played by Josh Saviano) and unrequited love Winnie Cooper (Danica McKellar), this show struck a perfect balance between heartwarming nostalgia and poignant storytelling that tugged at our heartstrings.
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- 12ABC, WB
Seeing double? This family sitcom starred Tia and Tamera Mowry as two long-lost twins who were reunited after being separated at birth. Alongside their adoptive parents and wisecracking little brother Roger, they filled our screens with laughter while tackling common adolescent issues like love, friendship, and self-discovery. The undeniable chemistry between these real-life sisters made this show an instant hit – proving that sometimes two is better than one.
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High school can be a cruel world, especially when you're caught between the geeks and the freaks. This short-lived but critically acclaimed dramedy took us on a journey through the often-painful experience of adolescence with an ensemble cast including Linda Cardellini, James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Jason Segel. Showcasing the rawness of teenage life with humor and honesty, it became an instant cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
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- #105 of 282 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #15 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- 14MTV
Armed with razor-sharp wit and an unapologetically cynical outlook on life, this animated series introduced us to the smart-mouthed high school outcast we couldn't help but adore. Voiced by Tracy Grandstaff, our sardonic heroine navigated the treacherous waters of teenage life with biting sarcasm – making her an instant icon for misfits everywhere. With its unique animation style and scathing social commentary on American suburban culture – it became a cult classic that still resonates with audiences today.
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- #176 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 15NBC
She may have been known for her fabulous hats, but there was so much more to this coming-of-age comedy than its quirky fashion choices. Starring Mayim Bialik as the titular character, it chronicled her journey through adolescence alongside her best friend Six (Jenna von Oÿ) while tackling issues like body image, substance abuse, and relationships. With its catchy theme song and unforgettable characters, it blossomed into a beloved TV classic that remains dear to our hearts.
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- 16Nickelodeon
Who loves orange soda? We all know the answer to that iconic catchphrase from this hilarious teen sitcom starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. Following the misadventures of two best friends as they navigate life's ups and downs, their infectious chemistry and slapstick humor made it a staple of 90s television. From good-natured pranks to outrageous schemes, this dynamic duo kept us laughing and eagerly awaiting their next wild ride.
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- 17WB, CW
When it comes to wholesome family drama, this show was heaven-sent. Centered around a reverend's family navigating life's challenges in a small town, it tackled various social issues with warmth and sincerity. With an ensemble cast led by Stephen Collins and Catherine Hicks, it delivered both heartwarming moments and valuable lessons about love, faith, and family values. Its longevity proved that sometimes TV can be a source of comfort and inspiration.
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- #16 of 43 onThe Best '90s TV Dramas, Ranked
- 18WB, UPN
Aliens among us? This sci-fi teen drama explored that very possibility as it followed the lives of three extraterrestrial-human hybrids trying to blend in with their human peers while evading government capture. Starring Shiri Appleby, Jason Behr, and Katherine Heigl, the show seamlessly mixed romance and suspense with its unique premise – making it a fan favorite that still holds a special place in our hearts.
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- 19Nickelodeon
Ever wondered what it would be like to have superpowers? This sci-fi teen drama gave us a glimpse into that world as it followed a young girl (played by Larisa Oleynik) who gained extraordinary abilities after an accident with a mysterious chemical. Juggling her newfound powers while navigating the challenges of adolescence, this show captivated viewers with its thrilling storylines and relatable characters – making it a true 90s gem.
- #53 of 71 onThe Best After School Shows from the '90s
- #199 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #143 of 267 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
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Y'all ready for some down-to-earth humor? This animated sitcom gave us just that as it chronicled the lives of a propane salesman and his quirky family in the heart of Texas. Featuring the voices of Mike Judge and Kathy Najimy – this slice-of-life comedy resonated with audiences who appreciated its relatable characters and satirical take on American culture. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for dry wit, this show proved that sometimes laughter is the best medicine.
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Life's not always smooth sailing when you're suddenly responsible for your siblings' well-being. This poignant drama showcased just that as it followed the lives of five orphaned siblings as they navigated through loss, love, and life after tragedy. With an ensemble cast including Scott Wolf, Matthew Fox, Neve Campbell, and Lacey Chabert – this emotional roller coaster struck a chord with audiences who appreciated its raw portrayal of grief and resilience.
More Party of Five- #208 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #73 of 163 onThe 140+ Best High School Shows, Ranked
- #17 of 43 onThe Best '90s TV Dramas, Ranked
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What do you get when you combine a teenage genius with the pressures of working as a doctor? A groundbreaking medical dramedy starring Neil Patrick Harris as our beloved prodigy, Doogie Howser. Balancing the challenges of a medical career with the trials and tribulations of teenage life, this unique show captured our hearts with its blend of humor, drama, and moments of profound self-reflection.
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- 23Nickelodeon
Cowboy boots and horseback rides took center stage in this lighthearted comedy set on an Arizona dude ranch. With its charming cast (including David Lascher) and comedic tales about city slickers adapting to ranch life – this western-themed sitcom had us dreaming about wide-open spaces and campfire sing-alongs. Its blend of innocent humor and feel-good stories made it an unforgettable part of our childhoods.
- 24Nickelodeon
Camp Anawanna, we hold you in our hearts! This nostalgic teen sitcom took us back to summer camp where we reveled in our favorite childhood memories filled with mischief, camaraderie, and carefree fun. Featuring an ensemble cast of lovable misfits including Donkeylips (Michael Bower) and Ug Lee (Kirk Baily) – it reminded us of simpler times and the joys of making lifelong friends around the campfire.
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- 25UPN
A strong-willed teenager taking on life's challenges headfirst – that's what we got with this hit sitcom starring Brandy Norwood. As it followed her journey through high school (and later college), it tackled various social issues with humor and heart. With relatable characters like Moesha's sassy best friend Kim (played by Countess Vaughn) – this show resonated with audiences who appreciated its honest portrayal of teenage life.
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Welcome to Hillman College! This groundbreaking spin-off series focused on life at a historically black college, showcasing an ensemble cast that included Kadeem Hardison and Jasmine Guy. Filled with laughter, love, and thought-provoking discussions about race and culture – this show quickly became a staple in many households for its ability to entertain while educating viewers about important social issues.
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- 27WB
College can be daunting, but for one young woman, it was also a journey of self-discovery. This coming-of-age drama starred Keri Russell as our lovable heroine navigating her way through love, friendship, and personal growth during her freshman year at university. With its engaging storylines and compelling characters – this show captured the uncertainty and excitement that comes with stepping out into the world on your own.
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Twin sisters, double the drama! This teen soap opera, based on a popular book series, chronicled the lives of two identical twin sisters as they navigated love, friendship, and the challenges of high school. With Brittany and Cynthia Daniel portraying the glamorous Wakefield twins – this guilty pleasure captivated audiences who couldn't get enough of its sudsy storylines and indulgent escapism.
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Surf's up! In this sun-soaked teen sitcom set in Southern California, we followed a group of friends as they pursued their dreams of music stardom while juggling school and relationships. With its catchy tunes and good vibes – this show provided a fun escape into the world of surf, sand, and teenage dreams.
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- 30Fox Broadcasting Company
High school can feel like an unwinnable game, but for one teenager, it was all about outsmarting the system. This clever comedy followed our resourceful protagonist (played by Corin Nemec) as he navigated the social hierarchy of high school with wit and unconventional tactics. With its unique visual style and snappy dialogue – this underrated gem reminded us that sometimes it's not about fitting in, but finding your own way to succeed.
