The Most Influential ‘90s Comedy Shows, Ranked

Help shape these rankings by voting on this list of The Most Influential ‘90s Comedy Shows, Ranked

Voting Rules

Vote up the '90s comedies that shaped a generation.

From sipping coffee with Friends to counting the minutes until the bell rings and school is over with Daria, these are the comedies that influenced an entire generation of couch potatoes. Excluding any sitcoms or comedies that kicked off in the '80s (sorry, Seinfeld), here are a few favorites whose reach is still felt today. Vote up the shows that continue to influence pop culture, vote down the shows best forgotten.

Latest additions: Flash Forward, Sports Night, Sister, Sister

Ranked by

1
Martin
Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Tichina Arnold
29 votes
- Premiered: August 27, 1992
A radio talk show host balances his professional and personal lives.
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2
Beavis and Butt-head
Mike Judge
21 votes
- Premiered: March 8, 1993
In a refreshing departure from the norm, this animated sitcom explores the antics of two socially awkward, heavy metal-loving teenagers navigating the complexities of adolescence. Beavis and Butt-head, voiced by creator Mike Judge, provide a humorous perspective on everyday life, with their dim-witted yet endearing personalities. Since its debut in the early 1990s, the show has garnered a cult following and received critical acclaim for its satirical take on pop culture, music videos, and societal norms. The series has earned multiple award nominations, including an Emmy nod for Outstanding Animated Program, solidifying its place as a beloved fixture in television history.
3
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid
28 votes
- Premiered: September 10, 1990
In the early 1990s, a sitcom emerged that deftly combined humor and heart, exploring themes of family, class, and culture. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a beloved classic, follows the life of West Philadelphia-born teenager, Will Smith (played by none other than Will Smith), as he adjusts to his new life with wealthy relatives in their posh Bel-Air mansion. With its talented ensemble cast, including the late James Avery as stern yet caring Uncle Phil and Alfonso Ribeiro as the endearingly dorky cousin Carlton, the show earned numerous award nominations and wins during its six-season run. The series remains a touchstone of television history, fondly remembered for its catchy theme song, memorable moments, and the undeniable charm of its star, Will Smith.
4
Friends
Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow
36 votes
- Premiered: September 22, 1994
Set in the heart of New York City, this beloved sitcom explores the intricacies of friendship through the lives of six close-knit individuals. Over the course of ten seasons, audiences watch as Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), Ross Geller (David Schwimmer), Monica Geller (Courteney Cox), Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry), Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc), and Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow) navigate love, career challenges, and personal growth. With its witty humor and relatable storylines, it's no wonder the show garnered numerous accolades, including six Primetime Emmy Awards. Notorious for its memorable catchphrases and iconic moments, the series has earned an enduring legacy in television history.
5
Living Single
Queen Latifah, Kim Coles, Erika Alexander
16 votes
- Premiered: August 22, 1993
Four women sharing a New York brownstone disagree on everything.
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6
Animaniacs
Rob Paulsen, Tress MacNeille, Jess Harnell
25 votes
- Premiered: September 13, 1993
Animaniacs boasts a clever mix of nostalgia and contemporary humor. The show follows the antics of the Warner siblings - Yakko (Rob Paulsen), Wakko (Jess Harnell), and Dot (Tress MacNeille) as they embark on a series of zany adventures, while frequently breaking the fourth wall. With its witty satire, the series manages to entertain both new viewers and long-time fans. Receiving praise for its engaging storytelling, Animaniacs has garnered multiple award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nod. The show's unique combination of slapstick comedy, musical numbers, and pop culture references ensures that laughter is never far away.

Martin

Beavis and Butt-head

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Friends

Living Single

Animaniacs