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Some TV shows truly feel timeless. Even after decades, they still hold up and even garner new fans. For this article, 24/7 Tempo scoured the internet for timeless TV shows people still watch decades later. All the shows we've picked are at least 20 years old. Click through the slideshow to discover 20 TV shows that are still great decades later.
"I Love Lucy" (1951 – 1957)
Even if you've never seen "I Love Lucy," you've definitely heard it mentioned. This iconic show is a favorite for many. Who can resist the allure and hilarious antics of Lucy? "I Love Lucy" was so successful it was nominated for multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
The Twilight Zone (1959 – 1964)
Just like "I Love Lucy," you won't find many people who don't know about "The Twilight Zone." This incredible sci-fi show ran from 1959 to 1964 and consisted of 156 episodes. It's been revived multiple times, including the more recent 2019 TV series.
"Sesame Street" (1969 – Current)
"Sesame Street" doesn't look like it's going away anytime soon. This incredible children's television show has been around since 1969. New episodes continue to be released. It's a timeless classic that both kids and adults tune into and watch.
"I Dream of Jeannie" (1965 – 1970)
"I Love Lucy" fans tend to also love the hit show, "I Dream of Jeannie." Released over five decades ago, this fun show remains a cultural icon. Her iconic outfit is hard to forget.
"Scooby Doo, Where Are You!" (1969 – 1978)
"Scooby Doo, Where Are You!" stole the hearts of many. This fun animated series holds a special place in many adults' and children's hearts decades later. The series was so special it received multiple spin-offs and sequels, including live-action films.
"The Muppet Show" (1976 – 1981)
"The Muppet Show" is another popular show that people still love to watch. Like "Sesame Street," this show uses puppets to tell vivid stories, although "The Muppet Show" wasn't strictly made for education. Iconic characters from this series include Miss Piggy, Kermit the Frog, Gonzo the Great, and Scooter.
"M*A*S*H" (1972 – 1983)
Also on our list is "M*A*S*H," another TV show frequently mentioned in media. This comedy-drama ran for a decade, really showing just how popular it was. The show's final episode was watched by so many people it became the highest-rated single television episode in US television history at the time.
"Doctor Who" (1963 – 1989)
Technically, "Doctor Who" is still running, but the original show aired from 1963 to 1989. The original series is still loved and watched, paving the way for the new "Doctor Who" seasons.
"Star Trek: The Original Series" (1966 – 1969)
Next on our list is "Star Trek: The Original Series," a remarkable series that started a massive media franchise. "Star Trek" is now a household name. You don't have to like sci-fi to know about this series.
"Roseanne" (1988 – 1997)
The 80s and 90s babies likely remember the hit series "Roseanne." This sitcom had a super successful run with 231 episodes and high ratings. The last season's final episode welcomed 16.57 million viewers.
"The Golden Girls" (1985 -1992)
"The Golden Girls" are too hilarious not to know. This super funny TV series tells the story of four older woman and their misadventures. The show starred Beatrice Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty.
"The Cosby Show" (1984 – 1992)
Also on our list is "The Cosby Show." It's another popular sitcom that most 80s and 90s babies adore. The show won multiple awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series (1985).
"Full House" (1987 – 1995)
"Full House" was a super popular TV series in the 80s and 90s. It's still talked about heavily today and even received a sequel by the name of "Fuller House."
"Dynasty" (1981 – 1989)
Who doesn't love a little drama? "Dynasty" was full of drama and crazy antics that pulled your attention to it immediately. This series was incredibly loved and even nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Drama about five times. It won this award in 1984.
"Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (1997 – 2003)
"Buffy the Vampire Slayer" might not be as old as some of our other mentions, but it's just as popular. This series captivated millions of audience viewers for years. The show ran for seven seasons.
"The X-Files" (1993 – 2002)
For nine years, audience viewers watched as Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully handled supernatural/paranormal cases and artifacts. The show is still rated high even decades later. On IMDb, "X-Files" holds an 8.6.
"The Nanny" (1993 – 1999)
How can you not love Fran's laugh and personality in "The Nanny?" This fashion icon is still loved and adored today. The TV series is a comfort for many watchers.
"That '70s Show" (1998 – 2006)
Technically, it hasn't been two decades since "That '70s Show" final episode. We are just one short year away, but it deserves a mention. This sitcom influenced a lot of media and is still mentioned/referenced today. It even received a spin-off show nearly two decades later called "That '90s Show."
"The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" (1990 – 1996)
"The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" is another TV show that people still watch and reference. This beloved series was funny, emotional, dramatic, and an overall joy to watch. The theme song is super catchy and even sung by people who've never seen the show.
"Friends" (1994 – 2004)
Unsurprisingly, last but not least is the international hit series, "Friends." This globally loved show is hard to get away from. Like "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," it has a catchy theme song and a loyal fanbase.