Unforgettable '90s Network TV Shows That Disappeared | MarkMeets | Celebrity News, Music, Movies, TV, London Film Premieres

Television history is replete with shows that have captured our hearts, only to disappear into the annals of forgotten entertainment once their final credits rolled. Even famous stars like Burt Reynolds, Cybill Shepherd, and Ellen DeGeneres have had their moments in such shows. In this article, we’ll revisit the ’90s, a decade filled with memorable network TV shows that ran for multiple seasons, only to vanish from our collective memory. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and rekindle the nostalgia for these shows.

Table of Contents

Evening Shade (1990 – 1994)

Kicking off our journey is “Evening Shade,” a CBS gem that graced our screens from 1990 to 1994. In this series, the legendary Burt Reynolds took on the role of Wood Newton, a retired football player trying to adapt to small-town life. Over four seasons, viewers were treated to a delightful blend of humor and heartwarming moments as Wood shared his life with an ensemble cast that included Ossie Davis, Hal Holbrook, and Marilu Henner.

Blossom (1990 – 1995)

Before Mayim Bialik became known for hosting “Jeopardy!” and her role in “The Big Bang Theory,” she was the star of NBC’s teen-centric sitcom, “Blossom.” This charming series ran for five seasons, offering a nostalgic trip back to the ’90s for those who haven’t had the chance to explore it.

Northern Exposure (1990 – 1995)

Despite being a favorite among 18 to 49-year-olds during its run, “Northern Exposure” on CBS has gradually faded from public conversation. To truly appreciate the hype that surrounded it, you had to be there, as the show’s unique blend of drama and comedy captured the hearts of many.

The Commish (1991 – 1996)

Michael Chiklis is now well-known for his role as Vic Mackey in the gritty “The Shield,” but his earlier stint as Commissioner Tony Scali in “The Commish” on ABC deserves recognition. This network TV character may have been overshadowed by Chiklis’s later intense roles, leaving us wondering if Tony Scali got caught in a showdown with Vic Mackey in the TV afterlife.

Step By Step (1991 – 1998)

The ’90s brought us the iconic TGIF lineup on ABC, which included “Step by Step.” This family sitcom, led by Suzanne Somers and Patrick Duffy, had an impressive seven-season run, but it still tends to be overlooked when compared to other TGIF classics like “Family Matters” and “Sabrina The Teenage Witch.”

Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper (1992 – 1997)

Created by Jeff Franklin, the mastermind behind “Full House,” “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper” featured comedian Mark Curry as a former NBA player turned substitute teacher. Lasting for five seasons on ABC, it even achieved the coveted 100-episode mark, making it eligible for syndication.

Picket Fences (1992 – 1996)

“Blue Bloods” isn’t the only Friday night success story for CBS. “Picket Fences,” a creation of David E. Kelley, may have paved the way for such triumphs, but it seems to have been largely forgotten in today’s TV landscape.

Melrose Place (1992 – 1999)

During the ’90s, the soap opera genre experienced a boom, with “Melrose Place” on Fox becoming one of the most popular shows of the era. Running for seven seasons and over 200 episodes, it even received a hilarious “Wayne’s World” sketch on “SNL.” But can you name a star or character from the show without searching?

Dave’s World (1993 – 1997)

The ’90s had a knack for turning almost any idea into a sitcom, as demonstrated by “Dave’s World.” Inspired by syndicated humorist Dave Barry’s life, this CBS show, led by Harry Anderson, enjoyed considerable success. However, tracking down the out-of-print DVD sets is now the only option for those who want to revisit it.

Grace Under Fire (1993 – 1998)

“Grace Under Fire,” one of Chuck Lorre’s early sitcom successes, starred stand-up comic Brett Butler as a divorced mother in recovery from alcoholism. While it had a five-season run on ABC, mentioning its premise today might lead comedy fans to wonder if it’s related to Lorre’s more recent hit, “Mom.”

Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman (1993 – 1998)

Back in the ’90s, Saturday nights were prime time for network TV, and CBS took full advantage with “Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman.” Starring Jane Seymour, this historical drama ran for six seasons and even spawned two TV movies, yet its impact on the network’s entertainment landscape has been largely forgotten.

NYPD Blue (1993 – 2005)

“NYPD Blue” made history during its 12-season run on ABC, breaking ground with profanity and nudity on network television. It also played a pivotal role in launching David Caruso’s career. However, when discussions of a revival arose, its relatively weaker pop culture imprint may have been a factor in its failure to return.

Cybill (1994 – 1998)

Cybill Shepherd, known for her role in “Moonlighting,” had another moderate hit with CBS’s “Cybill.” While it’s unclear why this series isn’t more readily remembered, its abrupt ending without a proper conclusion might have contributed to its obscurity.

Due South (1994 – 1999)

“Due South,” a Canadian import, managed to endure for four seasons on CBS, following the escapades of a Canadian constable solving crimes with his American counterparts. Its charmingly polite catchphrase didn’t help it stick in the minds of most viewers, but those who remember it might respond with a heartfelt “Thank you kindly.”

Chicago Hope (1994 – 2000)

During the ’90s, “E.R.” dominated the medical drama scene, but “Chicago Hope” on CBS gave it a run for its money with six seasons. The show, overseen by David E. Kelley and featuring a star-studded cast, including Hector Elizando, Mandy Patinkin, and Mark Harmon, couldn’t quite outshine its competitors like “E.R.” and its symbolic successor, “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Party Of Five (1994 – 2000)

Fox’s “Party of Five” was a six-season success story, complete with a spin-off and a recent remastered version in HDR. However, the fate of its spinoff and reboot suggests that the Salinger family’s dramatic exploits weren’t guaranteed to stay in the minds of its fans.

Caroline In The City (1995 – 1999)

NBC’s “Must See TV” block in the ’90s featured iconic shows like “Seinfeld,” “E.R.,” and “Friends.” Amidst those heavyweights, Lea Thompson had her own sitcom, “Caroline In The City,” which ran for four seasons. The fact that it almost reached the syndication milestone is intriguing.

The Drew Carey Show (1995 – 2004)

“The Drew Carey Show” served as the launchpad for several comedy stars, including Drew Carey, Dietrich Bader, Ryan Stiles, Craig Ferguson, and Kathy Kinney. Despite its nine-season run on ABC, this series has been unfairly relegated to semi-obscurity.

JAG (1995 – 2005)

Creator Donald Bellisario’s “JAG” is a classic example of a show that almost overshadowed its predecessor. This courtroom procedural, which started on NBC before moving to CBS, eventually led to the creation of the immensely popular “NCIS.” The occasional NCIS crossovers serve as a reminder of this parent show’s enduring legacy.

Suddenly Susan (1996 – 2000)

Brooke Shields, a child star, found success in her adult life with “Suddenly Susan” on NBC. The show came close to reaching the 100-episode syndication milestone and helped boost the career of stand-up comedian Kathy Griffin. If it had reached that milestone, we might still be discussing this workplace comedy today.

The Pretender (1996 – 2001)

“The Pretender” offered an intriguing mix of mystery and suspense, following the exploits of Jarod, portrayed by Michael T. Weiss. Despite four seasons and two TV movies, some viewers are still sore about the cliffhanger featured in the second TV movie, which left many questions unanswered.

3rd Rock From The Sun (1996 – 2001)

“3rd Rock from the Sun” was a perfect storm of entertainment, blending an alien-based concept with a cast that included John Lithgow, Jane Curtin, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kristen Johnston, and French Stewart. With six seasons, several guest appearances by William Shatner, and even a 3D episode, this underrated gem deserves more recognition.

Moesha (1996 – 2001)

The now-defunct UPN network offered some much-needed competition to major networks, thanks in part to the success of “Moesha.” Brandy Norwood played a pivotal role in making this series the most successful in the network’s history.

Nash Bridges (1996 – 2001)

Imagine a dramedy cop series starring Don Johnson and Cheech Marin, with “Lost” creator Carlton Cuse in the mix. That’s “Nash Bridges” for you. Lasting six seasons on CBS, the show’s easygoing style and classic muscle car action failed to create a substantial fan base, even with a 2021 continuation movie.

Dharma And Greg (1997 – 2002)

“Dharma and Greg” was a unique ABC sitcom about a couple who married on their first date, which feels oddly relevant in today’s world of shows like “Married at First Sight” and “Love is Blind.” With Jenna Elfman and Thomas Gibson in the lead roles, this five-season wonder should have made a more lasting impact.

Two Guys And A Girl (1998 – 2001)

An ABC sitcom starring Ryan Reynolds and Nathan Fillion sounds like a recipe for success, but “Two Guys and a Girl” has been largely forgotten. Whether you know it as “Two Guys, A Girl, And A Pizza Place” or by its later title, this four-season sitcom didn’t achieve the lasting recognition it deserved.

Becker (1998 – 2004)

Ted Danson, known for his iconic role in “Cheers,” finally found a long-term hit with “Becker” on CBS. Despite a six-season run, the show’s titular curmudgeon didn’t quite reach the iconic status of Sam Malone.

Wings (1990 – 1997)

“Wings,” a Tim Daly and Steven Weber-led ensemble comedy, managed to last for eight seasons, serving as the perfect companion to iconic NBC shows like “Cheers” and “Frasier.” While there’s no talk of a legacy sequel, the show’s impact on pop culture endures.

Ellen (1994 – 1998)

Ellen DeGeneres is renowned for her talk show, but her earlier sitcom, also called “Ellen,” tends to be forgotten. Originally titled “These Friends of Mine,” this ABC series ran for five seasons, creating a challenge for those trying to distinguish it from a certain long-running TV hit.

Touched By An Angel (1994 – 2003)

The fact that “Touched by an Angel” managed to reach nine seasons in the ’90s is impressive. However, it seems that something was missing, as this uplifting drama didn’t leave a lasting impact after its run.

The Wayans Bros. (1995 – 1999)

The Wayans family, known for their contributions to comedy through “In Living Color” and films like “Scary Movie,” might make you think that “The Wayans Bros.” would be etched into the pop culture zeitgeist. Yet, this WB series appears to have been overshadowed by the merger that created The CW.

Sliders (1995 – 2000)

In the realm of network sci-fi, dedicated fandoms are a hallmark. “Sliders,” led by Jerry O’Connell and his co-stars, survived a network cancellation and a move to the Sci-Fi Channel. The show featured characters adventuring through the multiverse before it became a popular concept. In an alternate universe, “Sliders” might still be running and have its own expansive cinematic universe, but we’re not in that universe, are we?

While the landscape of TV has evolved over the years, these ’90s shows still hold a special place in the hearts of many viewers. Perhaps with a little more recognition and nostalgia, these forgotten gems may yet find their way back into our conversations and hearts.