Near the turn of the millennium, there were many iconic shows that made their debut, and a lot of them are still popular today. As said by TheGirlWithNoName in a recent article on the subject, the 1990s were a transformative decade for children’s television, which could be a reason for the ongoing popularity. As technology has advanced, it has allowed the TV world to fall into a quantity-over-quality hole. This has only worsened since AI was introduced in more recent years. But a couple of decades ago, TV was in an amazing in-between stage—a time when stories were still well thought out and television shows were carefully crafted. Combine that with technology that was advanced enough to create decent graphics, and you had a more timeless era of television
Most of us have probably already rewatched our favorites from this golden age—once or twice, give or take. So what should we do when we have repeated that list one too many times? Perhaps the answer isn’t to search through the masses of current shows, but rather to watch something new or forgotten from this great era.
1. Braceface (2001-2004)
Where to watch now: Tubi, Pluto TV, Prime Video
This animated series first premiered in Canada on Teletoon before being accessible on ABC and Disney after its success. The show follows a thirteen-year-old named Sharon who is a pretty typical teenager… until the day she gets braces. Braces add another strain to middle school struggles, but hers in particular add unique difficulties because they are a bit faulty in that they interfere with electronics at random times—causing her to go through embarrassing and strange situations. This adds a humorous layer to the show that plays more like an animated teen drama than a Saturday morning cartoon.
Braces or not, Sharon is a relatable character for anyone who has felt awkward, clumsy, or out of place before. And unlike similar shows of its time, the show follows Sharon through less-than-ideal situations. In the past and especially in the present, shows typically stray away from any topics that are too serious. This show explores real-life situations, and it tackles many of the more serious situations in an optimistic yet befitting manner.
The voice of Sharon was originally played by Alicia Silverstone, known for her iconic role in Clueless, and her younger brother was voiced by Superbad’s Michael Cera. Having such a talented team of actors and actresses is probably a big part of why the show was such a success at the time.
Much of the show is heavy with Y2K lingo and music, but I think that is partly why it would be a good rewatch, especially for those who want to bring back some classic nostalgia feels
2. Phil of the Future (2004–2006)
Where to watch now: Disney+
This show is a hidden gem that may have been forgotten by those who watched it in the mid-2000s. Although the series only lasted two seasons, I’d say this is another example of the quality over quantity concept—because those two seasons are superb.
It follows a fifteen-year-old named Phil—shocking—who is from the future; the year 2121 to be exact. Phil’s family goes on a time-traveling vacation and ends up stranded in 2004 because their device malfunctioned. (So much for the future having glitch-free electronics.) The two seasons follow the family as they do their best to exist in this ancient time while also working to repair their way home.
The story is cute, and the cast dynamics make the comedic yet sincere characters even more enjoyable to watch. It is entertaining yet easy to follow, and the light-hearted nature of it makes it a great comfort show.
3. As Told by Ginger (2000–2006)
Where to watch now: Paramount+
This animated series was another diamond that some may have missed during the dawn of the millennium. The story follows a preteen named Ginger who goes through the various trials and tribulations of pre-teen life. The great thing about this show is that, even though it is animated, it still keeps things pretty realistic. The characters actually age and their clothes even change each episode–which, if you think about it, doesn’t usually happen in animated series. I mean, can you imagine SpongeBob in something other than a squished little tie and pants combo?
Things are also realistic when it comes to the plotline. An article by Teen Vogue explained that it touched on some harder topics, too, like breakups, socioeconomic status, self-esteem, depression, single parenthood, and even death. As with other gems of this time, As Told by Ginger manages to creatively blend comedy, drama, and compelling character arcs in a way that is relatable and optimistic. This is a great show for those navigating the troublesome world of adolescence, but great for adults too, because the truth is, we deal with the same sort of issues. I mean, Bowling for Soup said it clearly–high school never ends.
4. The Wild Thornberrys (1998–2004)
Where to watch now: Paramount+
To deviate from some of the more typical teenage stories, I had to add this classic, yet possibly still forgotten, animated family show to the list. The Wild Thornberrys follows the Thornberry family as they travel the world in their filmaking RV. For those who dreamed of a childhood filled with travel and more natural educational experiences, this show exemplifies that to a T. Despite the show revolving around the family, there is a stronger focus on the 12 year old daughter, Eliza, who has a special ability that allows her to talk to animals— which certainly comes in handy with her family’s nomadic lifestyle.
Although this is considered a children’s show, when it was originally produced, it was aimed at an adult audience. Which, honestly, is probably why this show is such an easy rewatch. The humor is suitable for a wider audience than just preteens, making it enjoyable for all ages. While some of the other shows listed are great because of their real-life situations and underlying moral focus, this show is great because it’s simply unique and funny, but also educational. Each episode involves different adventures and usually includes various animals that are portrayed in an accurate, informative manner.
5. Life with Derek (2005–2009)
Where to watch now: Tubi
This was a show that aired when Disney Channel was in its prime—think Suite Life of Zach and Cody, Hannah Montana, and That’s So Raven. All of these shows were spectacular, but they may have cast a shadow over lesser-known(but still equally great) shows such as Life with Derek—which is why it is certainly worth a revisit!
The story follows a set of step-siblings, Casey and Derek, played by Ashley Leggat and Michael Seater, who don’t exactly get along. But it is their rivalry and clashing banter that make it so entertaining to watch. Their relationship is the basis of the show, and rightly so, because their chemistry is out of this world. So much so that a strange, yet strong following of certain ‘Dasey’ fanfiction started—but that is neither here nor there! Such a pivot into the creative world just proves that this show is worth watching, if anything, because of the entertaining dynamic between the two main characters.
This blended family, comedic, teen drama has a total of five seasons and a movie to boot—plenty to binge and enjoy when you are in a 2000s mood.
I remember them all…except braceface