I was just going off to college in the late 90's / early 2000's so there was a timespan of several years that I was too busy doing other things and I missed a lot of great primetime shows. Since I've been a Netflix Stream Team member, I've had the chance to play a little catch up. Here are some pretty awesome throwback shows you may have missed but that you can stream right now.
Throwback shows from the 90's + 2000's to watch now:
The West Wing - My husband and I had just finished the 4th season of House of Cards and we were a little depressed it was over. We were searching for a new show to watch when I stumbled upon a recommendation for The West Wing. There's a reason this political drama was critically acclaimed and won so many awards. It's clever, well-written, and the characters draw you in. The cast is superb with perfect comedic timing and I'm thankful there are 7 seasons for us to binge watch.I can't recommend this show enough.
Frasier - I was just a small child when Cheers was on the air, but I do remember watching it with my parents. This spin-off featuring Dr. Frasier Crane, a successful therapist, was just done right. The show is witty and the cast has fantastic chemistry. I don't think that Frasier got as much fanfare as other shows on primetime, but I'd have to say that this show is definitely on par with the likes of Seinfeld and Friends. Don't overlook this one.
Friends - This was a show that I actually did carve out time to watch, but I can't resist watching over and over again. I'm so glad that Netflix brought this show to its streaming line-up. You'll get to know and love these 6 friends over the course of 10 seasons. The comedy and story lines never gets old for me. The only thing that could be better than watching Friends commercial-free for 22 minutes of light-hearted bliss would be to see a Friends reunion... they did it for Full House so maybe there's hope for it yet!
Malcolm in the Middle - If you missed Malcolm in the Middle, this is a must-watch. This sitcom tells of the story of a gifted young teen that tries to survive life with his dysfunctional family. The show is consistently funny and showcases a skewed version of most families so it's ultra relatable. Jane Kaczmarick really steals the show for me in this series - maybe it's a mom thing. Either way, this intelligent show shouldn't be missed.
The X-Files - Maybe paranormal / science fiction themes aren't really your thing, but The X-Files shouldn't be overlooked just because of that. The X-Files is a brilliant show and unlike any other series I've seen. Watching the two FBI agents (Mulder the believer, and Scully the skeptic) investigate the unexplained things in this world is like watching a mini-movie each time. The way the show was filmed, the writing, the characters, the acting - it all works together in perfect harmony.
Gilmore Girls - When I admitted to some friends that I hadn't seen Gilmore Girls yet, I was met with GAPING stares. They simply couldn't believe I'd missed seeing this show during it's 7 seasons. The talented actors in this show make it so easy to watch and become enamored the characters and their relationships. There is plenty of drama, sarcasm, and love to go around. I've already finished the 1st season and can't wait to continue.
What were your favorite shows of the 1990's and 2000's?
Disclosure: As a member of the Netflix Stream Team, I received a promotional item for sharing information about the service. All opinions are my own.
Amber Ludwig says
Oooh i just finished watching ER in its entirety for like the millionth time over lol!! Love that show!! My So Called Life and Roseanne are another 2 I could watch again and again!!
Jamie S says
This is a great list! I've been toying with starting Gilmore Girls myself lately (thanks Netflix!) and I also can watch a million Friends re-runs despite knowing every episode word for word. Scrubs was pretty funny too, if you are a fan of slapstick comedy and wild, imaginative daydreams!
Mia says
I have just begun watching Gilmore Girls and am enjoying it.
Amber Ag says
The only show I haven't watched from that list was West Wing. I'll have to give it a try. I liked the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. I watched that show a lot.
Jessica says
Loved ER and The X-Files! I couldn’t been more than 5 or 6 at the time but I was obsessed with this two shows. Watched them again from beginning to end as a grown up and they’re even better than I remember them to be. I’m actually starting ER again, probably my third or fourth time watching, and it is still as good as the first time.