Nostalgia Unleashed: Favorite TV Shows of the 90s and 2000s

Are you a fan of classic TV shows from the 90s and 2000s? Join me as I dive into some of my favorite series from those years, including My Mad Fat Diary and Forever Knight.

My Mad Fat Diary

Funny how a show can find its way to me through platforms like Netflix. Currently, I’m rewatching My Mad Fat Diary, a series based on the book by Rae Earl. Originally set in the 80s, the series was later adapted to the 90s, making its on-screen debut. The protagonist, Rae, has a poignant backstory – she emerges from a mental hospital after a suicide attempt. The series delves into her life, dealing with her mother, attending psychiatric appointments, and keeping a diary which is the main plot device.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the show is surprisingly humorous, much like the book. I find it quite amusing, and it likely helps that I have a bit of a bias, as I have a fondness for Ian Hart, who stars as the psychiatrist. His role in the film Backbeat also adds to my appreciation for this character.

Forever Knight

Heading into more semi-fantasy territory, Forever Knight is one of my all-time favorite shows from the 90s. This Canadian series ran from 1992 to 1996 and was about an 800-year-old vampire who also worked as a detective. The vampire, Ian Somerhalder, has evolved from a dark, evil presence to someone who seeks redemption by combating crime with his unique abilities. He also embarks on a journey to find a 'cure' for vampirism, causing amusement for other vampires. This show captures a unique blend of detective work and supernatural themes, making it a standout in its genre.

Miscellaneous Series

Other favorite TV shows from the 90s and 2000s include:

Friends: If there were a reboot, I’d sign up without a second thought. X-Files: Watched it obsessively, but started to lose interest after the first movie. Buffy the Vampire Slayer: At the top of the list of my favorites, especially because I can name every episode from all seven seasons, including the director, writer, and producers. I rewatched the series multiple times during my high school years, a period when I didn’t have many friends, but I was never alone thanks to Buffy. Seinfeld: For me, this is the quintessential 90s show. While there were many nostalgic series from that era, I believe Seinfeld best represents the spirit of the decade.

Through these nostalgic shows, we can revisit a time in popular culture when storytelling was rich and diverse. Whether it's My Mad Fat Diary with its blend of drama and humor, or Buffy the Vampire Slayer with its epic tale of friendship and slaying, these series continue to resonate with fans across generations.