The 1990’s was a wonderful era when it came to television and overall entertainment. TV shows that premiered in the 90s now serve as blueprints for some of the most popular modern TV shows people love watching today. Without amazing shows that were released back then, would audiences have access to popular current entertainment like “Euphoria,” “Breaking Bad,” “Game of Thrones”? (For another nostalgia list, click here for TV lines every kid from the 90s will still remember today.)
To compile this list of the most iconic TV characters of the 90s, 24/7 Tempo consulted several entertainment websites. These include MovieWeb, IMDb, and ScreenRant.
Al Bundy from “Married… With Children”
Al Bundy is a character from “Married… With Children” played by Ed O’Neill. As the main protagonist of the show, Al led the way as a working class father of two kids doing his best to make ends meet. His misanthropic attitude made him a relatable character to viewers who considered themselves to be a little more antisocial.
Homer Simpson from “The Simpsons”
Homer Simpson is an iconic 90s character from the animated series “The Simpsons.” Since Homer always had the low IQ of 55, he struggled to handle basic responsibilities. His love for donuts and alcohol was a recurring topic throughout the course of the show a well. His big bubble-shaped eyes and yellow skin are unforgettable to this day. Dan Castellaneta is the voice actor behind the role.
Topanga Lawrence from “Boy Meets World”
When watching a show like “Boy Meets World” from the 90s, the most iconic character on screen is Topanga Lawrence. She was played by Danielle Fishel from 1993 until 2000. The show spent time focused on the themes of young love and what it meant to fully come of age. Topanga always acted like the voice of reason with her love interest, Cory Matthews.
Elaine Benes from “Seinfeld”
“Seinfeld” is one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 90s. The show was a hit lasting for nine seasons after originally premiering in 1989. Elaine Benes is a beloved character from the show for her ability to hold her own among a male dominated cast. She was the type of character who owned her feminism and sexuality with pride. The actress behind the role? Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Chandler Bing from “Friends”
Although every character from “Friends” is beloved in their own way, Chandler Bing is certainly one of the most iconic characters from the entire lineup. Chandler, played by the late Matthew Perry, was relatable to audiences because of his affable personality. He was always slightly insecure, but he did his best to hide it through his sense of humor and sarcasm.
Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City”
“Sex and the City” is another highly respected show from the 90s. Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, is an iconic character for a slew of reasons. The pink tutu dress she wore for the introductory theme song will never be forgotten. Her struggles and triumphs from dating in New York City will also live on forever. There’s a reason this show got a reboot in 2021 called “And Just Like That.”
Buffy Summers from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”
Far before vampire lovers were obsessing over Bella Swan and Edward Cullen from “Twilight” they were watching “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” in the 90s. Buffy Summers, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, is the iconic character from the show who spent time slaying vampires while she was supposed to be studying for high school quizzes and attending high school prom.
Zack Morris from “Saved By The Bell”
“Saved by the Bell” is is a wonderful show from the 90s with loads of beloved characters. Zach Morris is arguably the most iconic character from the show for the simple fact that he was always so quick to bounce back from failures. He never let losses get him down since he preferred to come out on top as a winner in every circumstance. Mark-Paul Harry Gosselaar played the role.
Dr. Frasier Crane from “Frasier”
“Frasier” premiered in 1993 and went on for 11 successful seasons. Kelsey Grammer is the actor behind the role of Dr. Frasier Crane. The fictional therapist is an easy character to root for based on his willingness to offer sound advice to others in need with the use of his radio talk show.
Michelle Tanner from “Full House”
“Full House” ran for eight seasons, starting in 1987. This is another popular 90s show full of characters that were each lovable in their own way. Michelle Tanner is the character who stole audiences’ hearts the most, though. She was played by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen who took turns taking on the role throughout their childhoods.
Will Smith from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”
“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” premiered in 1990 and ran for six successful seasons with Will Smith in the leading role. Smith kept his real name in the show and became a true icon while he was at it. He played a troubled teenager who relocated from his low income neighborhood into a mansion with some of his wealthier family members. The culture shock of his new environment was supposed to put him on the right track.
Kitty Forman from “That ’70s Show”
Kitty Foreman is an iconic character from the 90s TV show “That ’70s Show.” She was played by Debra Jo Rupp. Despite the fact that all the teenagers of the show were constantly getting high and acting rebelliously, she never veered away from being a thoughtful and loving mother. She also remained patient with her grouchy husband on a daily basis.
Tim Taylor from “Home Improvement”
Another iconic 90s character to think about is Tim Taylor, played by Tim Allen. The character comes from the sitcom “Home Improvement,” which ran from 1991 until 1999. Tim’s job as a tool man is what helped him pay the bills to keep his family together – but it’s also what would occasionally get him into trouble when he would comically overestimate his abilities.
Fran Fine from “The Nanny”
Anyone has ever seen an episode of “The Nanny” likely remembers the loud, screechy tone of voice from Fran Fine. The character was played by Fran Drescher. She’s remembered for being outgoing, bubbly, and silly in every single episode. Even though her voice was always pretty annoying, she was a character who was meant to have some sex appeal.
Kelly Taylor from “Beverly Hills, 90210”
“Beverly Hills, 90210″ was such a popular show in the 90s that it inspired a spinoff called “90210″ years later. Kelly Taylor is an iconic character from the show played by Jennie Garth. The reason she’s so iconic is that she started off as nothing more than a spoiled teen brat, but her character development led her down a better and more mature path.
Dawson Leery from “Dawson’s Creek”
“Dawsons Creek” is a wonderful TV show from the 90s about a group of young teenagers trying to get through high school. It premiered in 1988 and went on for six seasons, starring James Van Der Beek as Dawson Leery. The character of Dawson is iconic for many reasons including his loyalty to his friends and his ability to dream bigger than anyone around him from his small town.
Phoebe Halliwell from “Charmed”
Phoebe Halliwell is the most iconic character from “Charmed,” which was a popular show in the 90s. “Charmed” aired for eight season, starting in 1998. Phoebe was known for being clever, brave, and willing to do what other people were too scared to try. Alyssa Milano is the actress who took on the role.
Annie Camden from “7th Heaven”
“7th Heaven” is a family-centered TV show from the 90s that always pushed messages of quality family values. Annie Camden is the most iconic character from the show since she was always willing to go out on a limb to keep her seven children happy and healthy.
There were times when she would get visibly overwhelmed, but she never stopped showing up for her family. Catherine Hicks played the role of Annie for all 11 seasons. Annie and the rest of these characters are iconic, but there were also plenty of annoying characters scattered through these TV shows too. Find out about the 20 most annoying characters in modern TV history.