The ’90s were a time of great television and even better characters. They managed to make a mark on a generation of television watchers that has truly stood the test of time. That’s why we thought we’d definitively say who the best 90’s television characters are.
From The Fresh Prince to Chandler Bing, the decade brought us some lovable, if a bit crazy, fictional characters. Whether your favorite is on the list or missing, we know that you’ll recognize some of these all-time favorites.
Tim Taylor – Home Improvement
This wholesome family show about an everyday man who pioneered DIY projects on television before it was a thing had us all falling in love with the head of the household, Tim Taylor. He was continually getting into trouble but always finding a strategic and thoughtful, way out.
Karen Walker – Will & Grace
Karen was the character you truly loved to hate. She brought venom and comedy together in a way that had you waiting for her to show up again. The obnoxious multimillionaire who was always getting into trouble and only sometimes showing a softer side somehow found her way into our hearts.
Steve Urkel – Family Matters
Urkel became a national phenomenon before we even realized what was happening. As a lovable nerd that found himself in different clumsy situations, we always wanted what was best for him. His love for the young daughter in the family was both endearing and sweet. Which is why we still love this adorable dork today.
Carrie Bradshaw – Sex & The City
What woman growing up in the ’90s didn’t watch Carrie Bradshaw weekly. Her truthful reflection of women and how we navigate relationships brought us both heartbreak, comedy, and reflection. We could all see a little bit of ourselves in her, which is probably why we continued to tune in.
Dr. Fraiser Crane – Frasier
Frasier is a character that many people in the ’90s followed from one show to the next. He got his start as a radio host on the popular show Cheers before finally getting his own primetime spot. We watched him battle with his insecurities through both humor and vulnerability, which is why we all kept rooting for the sometimes egotistical guy.
Will Smith – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
A true representation of how two cultures can crash but still manage to get along, Will’s journey through arriving and thriving in Bel-Air created a personality none of us will ever forget. His sarcasm and immaturity got him into some trying situations, but in the end, he always had his family to rely on it.
Chandler Bing – Friends
There were so many characters on the cast of Friends that audiences fell in love with, but Chandler had a genuinely amazing arch. We saw him go from an immature commitment-phobe to one of our favorite husbands of all time. His personal insecurities gave way to some serious strength and vulnerability, all through the use of great comedic timing. How could we not love him?
Did your favorite 90s character make the list? If not, let us know who you were rooting for.
