The Best 1990s Teen Shows
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These are the best '90s teen shows, ranked from best to worst by the votes of angsty teens and ex-teens everywhere. The 1990s are one of the greatest decades in TV history. There was top-tier programming in just about every TV subgenre, including shows for young adults. Some top '90s teen series follow the ups and downs of dating in high school, while others are about young adults that are forced to save the world from supernatural forces.Â
What series will you find on this list of the best '90s teen shows? My So Called Life was a great young adult series that defined the grunge era. AIDS, teen pregnancy, and suicide are just a few of the heavy topics that Angela Chase (Claire Danes) and her friends dealt with throughout the course of the short-lived series. Beverly Hills, 90210 is another great teen show that aired in the 1990s. Some 1990s teen viewers synchronized their Swatches so that they never missed an episode of Parker Lewis Can't Lose. Other good young adult programs that are featured on this top '90s teen shows list include Dawson's Creek, Felicity, and Moesha.
What are the best 1990s teen shows? Did the shows you think were the best make this list? Vote up the '90s teen TV shows you think are the best of the decade and see where the teen shows of the 1990s you loved to watch rank.
- Actors: Ben Savage, William Daniels, Betsy Randle, Will Friedle, Rider Strong
- Premiered: September 24, 1993
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.
- Actors: Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid, Alfonso Ribeiro, Janet Hubert
- Premiered: September 10, 1990
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.
- Actors: Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tiffani Thiessen, Mario López, Elizabeth Berkley Lauren, Dustin Diamond
- Premiered: November 30, 1988
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.
- WB, UPN
- Actors: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, James Marsters, Emma Caulfield
- Premiered: March 10, 1997
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.
- ABC, WB
- Actors: Melissa Joan Hart, Caroline Rhea, Beth Broderick, Nick Bakay, Nate Richert
- Premiered: September 20, 1996
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.
- Actors: Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Danny Masterson, Laura Prepon
- Premiered: August 23, 1998
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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