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The 1990s was a decade filled with tumultuous changes and cultural shifts, encompassing everything from the rise of grunge music to the emergence of the internet. In the midst of this whirlwind, television served as a reliable constant, with some shows evolving into iconic pillars of pop culture while others remained hidden gems, cherished by a select audience. Here, we highlight ten of the most underrated television shows from the ’90s that managed to cultivate a devoted fan base, even if they did not achieve significant acclaim during their original broadcasts. These series brought unique, creative narratives to the screen, prompting later generations to revisit and analyze their episodes.
10 ‘In Living Color’ (1990 – 1994)
This groundbreaking sketch comedy series, In Living Color, redefined the genre with its vibrant creativity and fearless humor. Created by Keenen Ivory Wayans, it featured a rotating ensemble of comedy talents like Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez. Sketches like “Men on Film” showcased its innovative approach to comedy, blending socially relevant themes with laugh-out-loud moments.
Sketch Comedy With an Edge
Though In Living Color delivered sharp social commentary and unforgettable characters, its bold narrative style was often too provocative for mainstream audiences. While some viewers were alienated by its audacity, the series ultimately garnered a strong following, influencing future generations of comedians.
9 ‘The Pretender’ (1996 – 2000)
In a more unconventional vein, The Pretender told the story of Jarod, a brilliant individual raised within a secretive government facility. After escaping, Jarod utilized his unique skill of impersonating experts in various professions to assist those in need and unravel the mysteries of his past.
Clever Disguises and Plot Twists
This distinctive crime drama floundered in ratings during its original run, but its intricate storytelling captivated a loyal fan base. Each episode centred on Jarod’s latest role, from doctor to undercover cop, contributing to the show’s lasting appeal.
8 ‘Red Dwarf’ (1988 – 1999)
Blending science fiction with comedy, Red Dwarf is set in a post-apocalyptic future, where Dave Lister, the last human alive, navigates among a motley crew that includes a humanoid cat and a neurotic AI. Despite its unique concept and humor, the show’s low production values led it to be overlooked by many viewers outside the UK during its initial airing.
Satire and Comedy Go Hand-in-Hand
The series offered sharp satire and absurd storylines, developing a dedicated following over its run. Its blend of comedy and thought-provoking themes earned Red Dwarf a legacy that has endured through revivals and continued fan enthusiasm.
7 ‘The Kids in the Hall’ (1988 – 1995)
Moving beyond typical sitcom fare, The Kids in the Hall emerged as a bold Canadian sketch comedy show. With its cast of talented performers, it delighted audiences with unpredictable and bizarre humor that challenged social norms.
A Hilarious, Genre-Defying Sketch Comedy
This show embraced unconventionality, cultivating a fervent fan base thanks to its subversive jokes and boundary-pushing segments. Although it initially struggled to find a broad audience, its impact on the comedy landscape has been widely recognized in retrospect.
6 ‘Millennium’ (1996 – 1999)
Produced by Chris Carter, known for The X-Files, Millennium focused on Frank Black, a former FBI profiler wrestling with his psychic connections to criminals. As he investigated horrific events leading up to the year 2000, Frank’s journey explored the dark corners of humanity.
Overshadowed by a Sci-Fi Sibling
While overshadowed by The X-Files, this show carved its niche by offering a profound examination of psychological and existential themes, characterized by Lance Henriksen’s compelling performance.
5 ‘Babylon 5’ (1994 – 1998)
Set within a space station serving as a diplomatic hub, Babylon 5 explored intergalactic politics through an expansive five-season arc. The series was lauded for its intricate storytelling and complex character interactions.
Intelligent Sci-Fi Storytelling
Its innovative narrative structure and thought-provoking themes resonated with fans, leading to ongoing appreciation and revival discussions long after its original conclusion.
4 ‘The State’ (1993 – 1995)
Another underrated gem, The State, was a groundbreaking sketch comedy show, combining a diverse range of bizarre sketches and sharp humor created by a group of rising talents including Michael Ian Black and Ken Marino.
Zany but Innovative
With a fast-paced style and fearless comedic approach, The State challenged viewers to embrace the absurdity in life and comedy, leaving a lasting impression in the realm of satire.
3 ‘My So-Called Life’ (1994 – 1995)
In a world saturated with teenage dramas, My So-Called Life distinguished itself through its authentic portrayal of high school angst, following the life of Angela Chase and her struggles with identity and relationships.
Poignant Display of Teenage Angst
The show broke the mold of traditional teenage narratives, offering a raw look at adolescence that resonated deeply with viewers, albeit resulting in its premature cancellation.
2 ‘Strangers With Candy’ (1999 – 2000)
Created by a brilliant ensemble including Stephen Colbert and Amy Sedaris, Strangers With Candy explored the hilariously dark journey of a middle-aged woman returning to high school to seek redemption.
An Inspiring and Subversive Comedy
This series provided a unique perspective on familiar themes, earning a cult following due to its sharp satire and unforgettable performances, especially by Sedaris.
1 ‘Mystery Science Theater 3000’ (1988 – 1999)
Mystery Science Theater 3000, often referred to as MST3K, depicted a janitor trapped in space, forced to watch terrible movies while offering humorous commentary with the help of his robot companions.
Affectionately Roasts Cinematic Failures
This show celebrated the charm of B-movies, delivering witty critique while fostering a whimsical and absurd cinematic experience, leaving an indelible mark on cult television.
Source
movieweb.com