Something special happened with Black TV in the ‘90s. It was the Golden Age of Black sitcoms. We had so many shows about families supporting one another, best friends staying loyal no matter what and single parents keeping the family together. As Black History Month approaches you might want to revisit some of these classics. To that end, here’s our helpful roundup of where you can stream all the best Black TV comedies of the ‘90s.
Martin – Max
“Martin” worked so well because it was authentic. You never felt like you were watching a TV show. You were just hanging out with your friends, cracking jokes and getting into trouble. That’s why its popularity endures to today.
Suggested Reading
Kenan & Kel – Paramount+
There’s a special magic between Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell that will never dim. No matter how long it’s been since we’ve seen them on screen together, we’re always hit with an instant feeling a joyful nostalgia.
Living Single – Hulu, Max
Khadijah, Max, Regine and Synclaire were “Black Girl Magic” before it was a hashtag.
A Different World – Max
A whole generation of Black teenagers chose to attend an HBCU because of “A Different World.” That’s an impact no other show can claim.
Smart Guy – Disney+
Sure T.J. is exceptionally intelligent, but he’s also just a kid who’s big brain can’t keep him from getting caught up in his older brother’s shenanigans. It’s not the most complex show, but that doesn’t make it any less fun.
Sister, Sister – Hulu, Paramount+
Tia and Tamera Mowry had a comedic performance reminiscent of Lucy and Ethel on “I Love Lucy.” Yes, a big part of their chemistry comes from being twins, but you also can’t teach timing and talent. Plus, we here for everything Jackee Harry does.
Moesha – Paramount+
Brandy’s Moesha was truly ahead of her time. She was independent, confident, fearless, smart and gorgeous. Frank never deserved her or Dee.
Family Matters – Hulu, Max
When you get past the overwhelming amount of Urkel, “Family Matters” is a really beautiful series about a middle class Black family who love and support one another through everything. Even when he’s being a cheap grump, we know how much Carl loves Harriet.
The Wayans Bros. – Max
When you have the last name Wayans, and your family created “In Living Color,” you have to do something really fresh and unique to stand out. Shawn and Marlon did exactly that as brothers who often found themselves in the most over the top ridicuous situations, but somehow made it all seem totally normal.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – Paramount+, Max, Hulu
“Fresh Prince” has become such an enduring classic because there’s a member of the Banks family that everyone identifies with. You may not be as cool as Will, but you might relate to Carlton’s ambition and drive. Perhaps you’re eternally exasperated like Geoffrey? Or maybe it changes from episode to episode?
In Living Color
Jamie Foxx, Damon Wayans, Jim Carrey, Jennifer Lopez and David Alan Grier are just a few of the countless careers launched by this groundbreaking sketch comedy series. Sadly, it’s not streaming on any of the major platforms, so you’ll have to find your favorite sketches on YouTube.
Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper – Max
“Hangin’” With Mr. Cooper” occasionally gets lost in the mountain of family sitcoms from the ‘90s. However, Mark Curry’s portrayal of a former NBA player who becomes a high school teacher was so down to Earth and likable, the show remains a fan favorite.
The Jamie Foxx Show – Max
Before he became an Oscar-winning multihyphenate, Jamie Foxx offered us a glimpse at how talented he is on his self-titled sitcom. If you needed a precursor to how spectacular Jamie would be, look no further than his underrated sitcom.
Roc
It’s a travesty that this trailblazing series isn’t available to stream. The way it deftly blended comedy and drama set the tone for many of today’s prestige series. When you factor in how much of the show was aired live, it becomes even more impressive.
The Arsenio Hall Show
Modern late night TV is built on Arsenio Hall’s shoulders. He brought a new voice and new ideas to the format, forever changing it. There would be no Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Fallon with Arsenio’s influence.
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