The Best '90s Children's Shows
1Rugrats was a show that stole the hearts of countless 90s kids with its unique animation, unforgettable characters, and relatable storylines. Following the hilarious adventures of Tommy Pickles and his diaper-clad gang, the show perfectly captured the wild imagination and innocence of childhood, making it a fan favorite among kids and parents alike.
- Premiered: August 11, 1991
featured
subscription
paid
- 2
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air took the sitcom world by storm, showcasing the incredible talent and charisma of a young Will Smith. As the lovable, street-smart cousin from Philadelphia, Smith brought laughter and heart to a wealthy Bel-Air family, tackling issues of race and class while keeping audiences entertained with his witty humor and infectious personality.
- Premiered: September 10, 1990
featured
subscription
paid
3Hey Arnold! struck a chord with 90s kids with its diverse cast, memorable catchphrases, and heartfelt stories. The show followed the adventures of the ever-optimistic Arnold and his lively, urban neighborhood friends, teaching kids valuable life lessons and fostering a sense of empathy for others.
- Premiered: October 7, 1996
featured
subscription
paid
4Recess transported kids back to their favorite part of the school day, chronicling the shenanigans of a quirky group of friends on the playground. With spirited characters like T.J., Spinelli, and Gus, Recess was all about having fun, standing up for your friends, and embracing your own unique qualities.
- Premiered: August 31, 1997
subscription
5Tiny Toon Adventures breathed new life into the beloved Looney Tunes characters, introducing a younger generation to the wacky humor and antics of their favorite cartoon stars. The show was a comedic romp of epic proportions, leaving both kids and adults in stitches with its clever catchphrases and zany plots.
- Premiered: September 14, 1990
featured
paid
6Doug captured the everyday trials and tribulations of adolescence, as the relatable protagonist faced bullies, crushes, and the awkwardness of growing up. The show resonated with kids through its honest and heartfelt storylines, creating a bond between viewers and the lovably nerdy main character.
- Premiered: August 11, 1991
featured
subscription
paid
7The Magic School Bus made learning fun, as the unforgettable Ms. Frizzle and her magical bus took students on extraordinary adventures. Exploring topics like dinosaurs, outer space, and the human body, the show educated and entertained kids with its wild imagination and eccentric cast of characters.
- Premiered: September 11, 1994
featured
subscription
free
paid
8Sabrina the Teenage Witch enchanted viewers with its blend of supernatural and high school drama. Starring Melissa Joan Hart as the lovable witch, the show offered up events of magical mayhem and life lessons, appealing to the young and young at heart alike.
- Premiered: September 20, 1996
featured
subscription
free
paid
9Boy Meets World was a coming-of-age tale that followed the journey of Cory Matthews, as he navigated the trials and joys of life with his family and friends. The show tackled serious issues while still managing to keep fans laughing, creating memorable moments that would stay with kids throughout the years.
- Premiered: September 24, 1993
featured
subscription
free
paid
10Goosebumps brought the spine-tingling stories of R.L. Stine to life, terrifying and captivating 90s kids with its eerie tales and sinister creatures. The show masterfully blended horror and suspense, creating an afterschool ritual for those who loved a good scare.
- Premiered: November 3, 1995
featured
subscription
paid
11Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brought a unique blend of action, humor, and pizza-loving reptiles to the small screen. The adventures of Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael, as they battled villains and navigated their sewer home, struck a chord with youngsters, leaving a lasting impact on 90s pop culture.
- Premiered: December 28, 1987
featured
subscription
free
paid
12Are You Afraid of the Dark? gathered fans around the campfire for chilling stories and creepy tales. The Midnight Society's spooky stories kept kids on the edge of their seats, fostering a love for all things eerie while testing the limits of their nerves.
- Premiered: July 16, 1992
featured
subscription
paid
13Dexter's Laboratory delighted kids with its inventive animation and quirky humor, as the child genius Dexter cooked up crazy inventions while attempting to keep his meddling sister, Dee Dee, at bay. The show blended intelligence and wit, resulting in a cartoon masterpiece.
- Premiered: May 4, 1996
featured
paid
14Animaniacs burst onto the scene with its unforgettable cast of characters and hilariously irreverent humor. Yakko, Wakko, and Dot, along with a slew of other zany characters, entertained audiences with their madcap antics and catchy songs, making it a smash hit for both kids and adults.
- Premiered: September 13, 1993
featured
subscription
paid
15Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers put a new spin on the famous Disney chipmunk duo, as Chip, Dale, and their team of crime-fighting friends embarked on thrilling adventures. The show appealed to kids' sense of adventure and camaraderie, as well as their love for these iconic characters.
- Premiered: March 4, 1989
featured
subscription
paid
16All That delighted audiences with its uproarious skits and talented young cast, which included future stars like Kenan Thompson and Amanda Bynes. The variety show was a Saturday night staple for kids, introducing unforgettable characters and catchphrases that still resonate with fans today.
- Premiered: April 16, 1994
featured
subscription
paid
17Arthur struck a chord with its lovable characters, relatable problems, and catchy theme song. The show followed aardvark Arthur and his friends as they navigated the ups and downs of elementary school and childhood, teaching kids valuable lessons about friendship, responsibility, and self-esteem.
- Premiered: October 7, 1996
featured
subscription
free
paid
18Rocko's Modern Life provided a unique balance of lighthearted fun and subtle adult humor. The show, centering around the life of Rocko the wallaby and his friends, was filled with colorful animation and surreal adventures, making it a favorite among '90s kids and adults alike.
- Premiered: September 18, 1993
featured
subscription
paid
- 19
The Simpsons broke boundaries, delivering razor-sharp wit and satire within its seemingly wholesome animated format. With its rich cast of characters and Springfield setting, the show offered laughs and commentary that resonated with kids and their parents, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking classic.
- Premiered: December 17, 1989
featured
subscription
free
paid
20Dinosaurs brought prehistoric fun to the small screen, showcasing the quirky Sinclair family and their relatable struggles. While offering plenty of laughs with its larger-than-life dinosaur characters, it also addressed real-world issues and values, making it all the more appealing to '90s families.
- Premiered: April 26, 1991
featured
subscription
paid
- 21
Saved by the Bell followed lovable heartthrob Zack Morris, his friends, and their high school escapades, from love triangles to schemes and high jinks. The show, blending nostalgia and youthful energy, remains a beloved staple of '90s after-school viewing.
- Premiered: November 30, 1988
featured
subscription
paid
22Kenan & Kel showcased the irresistible comedic chemistry between Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, playing off their previous success on All That. Their zany antics and timeless “Who loves orange soda?” catchphrase endeared the show to kids, making it a memorable '90s classic.
- Premiered: July 15, 1996
featured
subscription
paid
- 23
Pinky and the Brain cleverly combined wit and slapstick humor with its focus on two genetically enhanced lab mice, the brilliant Brain and the lovably dimwitted Pinky. The show's formula of Brain's futile quest for world domination and Pinky's clueless chaos made it a popular staple for after-school viewing.
- Premiered: September 9, 1995
featured
paid
24The Wild Thornberrys revealed the exciting world of wildlife through the eyes of Eliza Thornberry and her eccentric family. Her adventures, interacting with animals using her secret power to speak to them, captured the imagination of kids, inspiring curiosity about the natural world.
- Premiered: September 1, 1998
featured
subscription
paid
25CatDog captivated audiences with its inventive concept, featuring a half-cat, half-dog hybrid navigating the challenges of life. The show added a unique twist to the age-old tale of sibling rivalries, while delivering nonstop laughs and genuinely heartwarming moments.
- Premiered: April 4, 1998
featured
subscription
paid
26Mighty Morphin Power Rangers revolutionized children's programming with its action-packed adventures and vibrant costumes. The show captured the imaginations of kids everywhere as they watched a diverse group of teens transform into powerful superheroes to save the world from evil.
- Premiered: August 28, 1993
featured
free
paid
27Bill Nye the Science Guy made science accessible and fun for '90s kids with its blend of education, humor, and entertaining experiments. The show, starring the charismatic Bill Nye, fostered a fascination for learning and inspired young minds to embrace the wonders of science.
- Premiered: September 10, 1993
featured
paid
28Aaahh!!! Real Monsters offered a unique, albeit creepy, glimpse into the world of monsters as they navigated both the human world and their own dimension. The show effortlessly blended dark humor with captivating visuals, keeping '90s kids glued to their screens.
- Premiered: October 21, 1994
featured
subscription
paid
29Clarissa Explains It All captured the essence of teenage life in the '90s as it chronicled the life of Clarissa Darling, played by the talented Melissa Joan Hart. The show resonated with fans for its honest depiction of adolescence, tackling issues ranging from sibling rivalry to teenage crushes.
- Premiered: March 1, 1991
featured
subscription
paid
30The Powerpuff Girls demonstrated that girls can be tough and save the day too. Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup fought villains with their superpowers in the city of Townsville, teaching kids about the power of teamwork and the importance of standing up for what's right.
- Premiered: November 18, 1998
featured
subscription
free
paid
31Darkwing Duck thrilled fans with its action-packed adventures in the city of St. Canard. As the crime-fighting hero, Darkwing Duck showed kids the value of bravery and perseverance, while also making them laugh with his wit and humor.
- Premiered: September 6, 1991
subscription
paid
32Rocket Power zoomed across screens with its exciting look at surf and skate culture. The show followed the fast-paced lives of four friends as they navigated both extreme sports and everyday adolescent struggles, instilling a sense of adventure in the hearts of '90s kids.
- Premiered: August 16, 1999
featured
subscription
paid
- 33
Legends of the Hidden Temple took viewers on an exhilarating journey filled with puzzles, obstacles, and ancient temples. The show, which combined game show elements with history and adventure, captivated kids as they cheered on their favorite teams in hopes of uncovering hidden treasures.
- Premiered: September 11, 1993
subscription
34Goof Troop carried on the legacy of Disney's beloved Goofy character, as it showcased his relationship with his son Max and their zany suburban adventures. The show, heartwarming and fun, was a perfect addition to the afternoon cartoon line-up.
- Premiered: September 5, 1992
featured
subscription
paid
35Johnny Bravo, with his signature pompadour and sunglasses, won over viewers with his blend of over-the-top machismo and slapstick humor. The show provided endless laughs as the titular character encountered various misadventures in his quest for love.
- Premiered: July 7, 1997
featured
paid
- 36
Double Dare tested participants' knowledge, skill, and ability to withstand gross challenges in this wildly popular game show. The mix of trivia, physical challenges, and slime-filled obstacles left viewers eagerly anticipating each new episode.
- Premiered: June 25, 2018
featured
subscription
paid
- 37
SpongeBob SquarePants delighted audiences with its infectious humor and quirky undersea world. With its lovable main character SpongeBob and his friends, the show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on '90s kids and beyond.
- Premiered: May 1, 1999
featured
subscription
paid
38The Angry Beavers followed the wacky lives of brothers Norbert and Daggett in their dam home. Their absurd and often hilarious antics entertained viewers, reinforcing the importance of family and sibling bonds.
- Premiered: April 19, 1997
featured
subscription
paid
39Gargoyles took a darker approach to animation, weaving a complex narrative of mythical creatures caught between their past and modern life. The show's intriguing storyline and visually stunning animation made it a standout during its time on air.
- Premiered: October 24, 1994
featured
subscription
free
paid
40The Ren & Stimpy Show, with its offbeat humor and eye-catching animation, pushed boundaries and gained a dedicated following. The unpredictable antics of Ren the dog and Stimpy the cat kept viewers on their toes and forever altered the animation landscape.
- Premiered: August 11, 1991
subscription
41Pokémon captured '90s kids' imaginations with its fantastical world of creatures and battles. The adventures of Ash Ketchum and his pursuit to become a Pokémon Master hooked viewers from the start, igniting a cultural phenomenon that spanned games, cards, and countless other merchandise.
- Premiered: September 7, 1998
42Courage the Cowardly Dog blended horror and humor in its tale of an easily frightened dog protecting his oblivious elderly owners from a myriad of supernatural threats. The show struck a chord with viewers as they witnessed the lovable Courage facing his fears in the name of love and loyalty.
- Premiered: November 12, 1999
featured
subscription
paid
- 43
Buffy the Vampire Slayer gave kids a strong, empowered heroine to root for as she battled the forces of darkness. Buffy's adventures, filled with action, humor, and school life, balanced supernatural elements with relatable teenage struggles, making the show a hit.
- Premiered: March 10, 1997
featured
subscription
paid
44Batman: The Animated Series took a darker, more serious approach to the caped crusader, featuring stunning animation and a gripping storyline. '90s kids were enthralled with Batman's crime-fighting exploits, further solidifying the character's enduring appeal.
- Premiered: September 5, 1992
featured
subscription
paid
45X-Men: The Animated Series brought the iconic Marvel Comics characters to life in a captivating and mature manner. The show delved into themes of prejudice and social acceptance, while also delivering thrilling battles and character dynamics.
- Premiered: October 31, 1992
featured
subscription
paid
46Wishbone
Larry Brantley, Jordan Wall, Christie AbbottWishbone charmed and educated viewers with literary adventures narrated by the titular Jack Russell Terrier. The show ingeniously combined literature and adventure, inspiring kids to explore the wonderful world of books.
- Premiered: October 9, 1995
- 47
Daria's dry wit and intelligence made her an unconventional heroine for '90s kids. The show, tackling teen angst and social issues with a touch of sarcasm, appealed to viewers who sought a break from the typical sunny portrayals of adolescence.
- Premiered: March 3, 1997
featured
subscription
paid
48The Amanda Show showcased the comedic talents of Amanda Bynes, offering side-splitting sketches and eccentric characters. The variety show, a spin-off of All That, drew a dedicated following and forever cemented Bynes' status as a '90s icon.
- Premiered: June 28, 1998
featured
subscription
paid
- 49A superhero with spider-like skills fights villains.
- Premiered: September 10, 1994
featured
subscription
paid
- 50
Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog brought the iconic blue hedgehog from the popular video game to the small screen. The show followed Sonic and his sidekick Tails as they defended their world from the evil Dr. Robotnik, resonating with kids through its high-speed action and colorful animation.
- Premiered: September 6, 1993
featured
subscription
free
paid
51A group of teenagers have adventures while at summer camp.- Premiered: June 1, 1991
featured
subscription
paid
- 52
Dragon Ball Z entranced fans with its thrilling battles, epic storylines, and charismatic characters. The show's impactful story arcs and stunning animation fueled the popularity of Japanese anime in the Western world, leaving a lasting impression on the minds of '90s kids.
- Premiered: April 26, 1989
featured
free
53A girl gains super powers after being doused with a secret chemical.- Premiered: October 8, 1994
featured
paid
54Cow and Chicken, which premiered in 1997, is an animated comedy series that follows the absurd adventures of two sibling protagonists: Cow, a gentle giantess, and Chicken, her older brother who's always getting into trouble. The show often plays with surreal humor and satirical commentary on suburban life. Notable voice actors include Charlie Adler who voices both Cow and Chicken, and Dee Bradley Baker as their adversary, The Red Guy. Despite its offbeat humor, the series has been recognized with an Annie Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement for Voice Acting by a Male Performer in an Animated Television Production.- Premiered: July 15, 1997
featured
paid
55A schoolgirl and her friends transform into powerful heroes to battle the forces of evil.- Premiered: September 11, 1995
56Bear in the Big Blue House is an American children's television series created by Mitchell Kriegman and produced by The Jim Henson Company for Disney Channel's Playhouse Disney preschool television block. Debuting on October 20, 1997, it aired its last episodes in 2006. In 2004, The Jim Henson Company sold the Bear in the Big Blue House franchise to The Walt Disney Company. The characters and show are currently owned by the Disney subsidiary, The Muppets Studio.- Premiered: 1997
- 57FBI special agents probe cases involving phenomena that defy conventional explanations.
- Premiered: September 10, 1993
featured
subscription
paid
58Pepper Ann and pals have misadventures while growing up.- Premiered: September 13, 1997
subscription
59Watch for Free with Amazon Prime Free TrialStorytelling, singing and dancing for preschool children.- Premiered: March 2, 1993
featured
free
- 60Sharon Spitz deals with adolescence trials and tribulations of school with a mouth full of metal.
- Premiered: June 30, 2001
featured
free
paid
- 61A 1990s teenager deals with life and family issues.
- Premiered: January 3, 1991
featured
paid
- 62An African-American couple shares songs, stories, dances and humor with preschoolers.
- Premiered: August 29, 1994
featured
subscription
paid
- 63Teens solve neighborhood crimes with the help of a spirit who communicates through writing.
- Premiered: October 4, 1992
64The Adventures of Pete & Pete is an American children's television series produced by Wellsville Pictures and broadcast by Nickelodeon. The show featured humorous and surreal elements in its narrative, and many recurring themes centered on two brothers both named Pete Wrigley, and their various interactions with family, friends, and enemies. The show was created by Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi and began as minute-long shorts in 1989 that aired in between regular programs. Owing to the popularity of the shorts, five half-hour specials were made, followed by a regular half-hour series that ran for three seasons and continued in reruns until around 1999. The N aired reruns of the show between 2002–2003. The first two seasons were released on DVD in 2005; the third was planned for 2006 but was indefinitely postponed. Jason Ankeny of Allmusic called the series "the greatest children's show ever," while IGN called it "One of the most well-written kids shows ever."- Premiered: February 9, 1991
- 65
Wild & Crazy Kids
Donnie Jeffcoat, Omar Gooding, Jessica GaynesChildren compete in physical challenges.- Premiered: January 4, 1990
66KaBlam! is an American animated sketch comedy that ran on Nickelodeon from 1996 to 2000. It features a collection of short films in several different styles of animation, bridged by the characters Henry and June, who introduce the shorts and have adventures of their own in between. Although SNICK aired many Nicktoons not part of its block, KaBlam! was the only Nicktoon created for SNICK. The show became TV-Y in 1997, until later that year.- Premiered: October 11, 1996
- 67
Zoom
Jared NathanZoom is an American television program for ages eight and up, created almost entirely by children. It originally aired on PBS from January 4, 1999 to June 24, 2005. It was a remake of a 1972 TV series by the same name. Both versions were produced by WGBH-TV in Boston. Reruns were aired until around early 2007.- Premiered: 1999
- 68The Mask aka The Mask: Animated Series is an American animated television series based on the film of the same name. The show ran for three seasons, from August 12, 1995 to August 30, 1997 on CBS, and spawned its own short-run comic book series, Adventures of The Mask. John Arcudi, former writer of the original comics, penned two episodes of the cartoon. It originally was played during the CBS Kidshow line-up on Saturday mornings, but after being cancelled, it was moved to Cartoon Network. The show also ran in syndication.
- Premiered: August 12, 1995
- 69Small creatures band together to help their human friends.
- Premiered: April 1, 2000
featured
subscription
- 70The Maximals must save the universe from tyranny.
- Premiered: September 16, 1996
free
- 71Beakman's World is an educational children's television show. The program is based on the Universal Press Syndicate syndicated comic strip You Can with Beakman and Jax created by Jok Church. The series premiered September 18, 1992 on The Learning Channel cable network and in national syndication. On September 18, 1993 it moved from national syndication to CBS Saturday morning children’s lineup. At the peak of its popularity, it was seen in nearly 90 countries around the world. The series was canceled in 1998. Reruns returned to national syndication in September 2006, after which it was transferred to local stations such as KICU. The show debuted a year prior to Bill Nye the Science Guy, which covered similar topics. The show's host, Paul Zaloom, still performs as Beakman in live appearances around the globe.
- Premiered: 1992
