Black sitcoms have been a staple of television since the early days, but it was in the 1990s that they truly soared in popularity. This vibrant decade brought us an array of hilarious and heartwarming African American sitcoms that graced our screens on different networks.
At the top of the ’90s sitcom chart is the iconic The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. This gem of a show, crafted by the talented duo Andy and Susan Borowitz, showcased the comedic genius of the multi-talented Will Smith. Airing from 1990 to 1996 on NBC, it quickly became a beloved favorite among fans.
Let’s not forget other fantastic Black sitcoms from the ’90s that left a lasting impression. Living Single and Family Matters are definitely worth a mention. And who could resist the charm of Sister, Sister? This delightful sitcom, starring real-life twin sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry, first aired on ABC from 1994 to 1995 and then moved to the WB from 1995 to 1999.
If you’re curious about where your personal ’90s Black sitcom favorites stand in this list, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
(Note: We’ve left out the most polarizing show, Between Brothers, in order to keep the tone light and informal.)
1. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Back in the early 1990s, there was this really cool sitcom that managed to blend humor and heart together. It tackled some important topics like family, class, and culture. Yep, you guessed it – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air! This beloved classic follows the life of Will Smith, a teenager from West Philadelphia (played by none other than Will Smith himself), as he tries to fit in with his wealthy relatives in their fancy mansion in Bel-Air. The show had a seriously talented cast, with James Avery playing the strict yet caring Uncle Phil, and Alfonso Ribeiro as the adorably nerdy cousin Carlton. It received a bunch of award nominations and wins during its six seasons, and it’s still considered a big part of TV history. People love it for its catchy theme song, unforgettable moments, and of course, the undeniable charm of Will Smith.
Premiered: September 10, 1990
Actors: Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid
2. Martin
A radio talk show host balances his professional and personal lives.
Premiered: August 27, 1992
Actors: Martin Lawrence, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Tichina Arnold
3. A Different World
A Different World takes place at a historically black college and delves into the lives and relationships of its diverse cast. With six seasons under its belt, this groundbreaking sitcom tackles social issues and college life with a fresh perspective. The talented ensemble includes the ambitious Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy) and the lovable Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison). Throughout its run, A Different World earned praise for its authentic portrayal of growth, friendship, and the search for identity, resonating with both audiences and critics.
Premiered: September 24, 1987
Actors: Lisa Bonet, Kadeem Hardison, Jasmine Guy
4. Living Single
Four women sharing a New York brownstone disagree on everything.
Premiered: August 22, 1993
Actors: Queen Latifah, Kim Coles, Erika Alexander
5. The Proud Family
The Proud Family, an animated sitcom, is a heartwarming and funny exploration of the life of a close-knit African American family. The show follows Penny Proud (Kyla Pratt), a dynamic protagonist who faces the ups and downs of adolescence with her quirky group of friends and relatives. Combining comedy with meaningful life lessons, the series has received praise from both critics and viewers. It is especially recognized for its portrayal of diverse cultures and strong family values, making it an important contribution to the world of animation. The Proud Family is a prime example of captivating storytelling that connects with audiences of all ages.
Premiered: September 15, 2001
Actors: Kyla Pratt, Tommy Davidson, Paula Jai Parker
6. The Wayans Bros.
Two young brothers try their wings in New York.
Premiered: January 11, 1995
Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, John Witherspoon
7. Sister, Sister
Sister, Sister is a beloved and relatable sitcom that takes us back to the good old days of television. It’s a heartwarming show that delves into the complexities of family, friendship, and self-discovery. The main characters are Tia Landry (played by Tia Mowry) and Tamera Campbell (played by Tamera Mowry), identical twin sisters who were separated at birth but find each other unexpectedly during their teenage years.
The show boasts an ensemble cast, with Jackée Harry playing the sassy adoptive mother Lisa Landry and Tim Reid as the overprotective father Ray Campbell. Together, they create a lighthearted series that has received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations over its six-season run.
What makes Sister, Sister truly special is its engaging storytelling and genuine humor. It manages to strike a chord with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless favorite.
Premiered: April 1, 1994
Actors: Tia Mowry, Tamera Mowry, Marques Houston
8. Family Matters
Family Matters is a classic sitcom that has definitely left its mark. It aired for nine seasons, from 1989 to 1998, and became synonymous with 90s television. The show follows an African-American family as they navigate the ups and downs of life. It’s a heartwarming and humorous portrayal that has resonated with audiences for years.
One character who stole the spotlight is Steve Urkel, played by Jaleel White. Steve is known for his quirky antics and unforgettable catchphrases. He never fails to bring a smile to viewers’ faces. Although the show didn’t receive critical acclaim, it has become a beloved part of pop culture.
Family Matters is a testament to its enduring appeal and relatability. It has managed to captivate audiences from different generations, proving that its themes and characters are timeless. It’s a wholesome show that has touched the hearts of many.
Premiered: September 22, 1989
Actors: Reginald VelJohnson, Judyann Elder, Darius McCrary
9. Moesha
A teen-ager experiences love and life.
Premiered: January 23, 1996
Actors: Brandy Norwood, William Allen Young, Marcus T. Paulk
10. Girlfriends
Black women from different walks of life form intense friendships.
Premiered: September 11, 2000
Actors: Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks, Persia White
11. Kenan & Kel
Get ready for a hilarious trip back to the ’90s with Kenan & Kel. This show follows the misadventures of Kenan Rockmore and Kel Kimble as they navigate the tricky world of adolescence. Their comedic chemistry is off the charts, and it’s no wonder they’ve become an inspiration for so many entertainers.
During its four-season run, Kenan & Kel gained critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. It even scored nominations for Kids’ Choice Awards multiple times. Not only that, but it also won the prestigious CableACE Award for Best Children’s Program. This show has definitely made its mark.
Join these lovable troublemakers as they embark on a variety of hilarious misadventures. Get ready for plenty of laughs, heartfelt moments, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Kenan & Kel is a classic Nickelodeon series that you don’t want to miss.
Premiered: July 15, 1996
Actors: Kenan Thompson, Kel Mitchell
