Television has elevated since the first shows aired in 1928. In 2024, it’s normal to see intense action scenes that look like they’re straight out of a high-budget Hollywood film. That doesn’t mean millennials prefer these shows more than the classics they grew up with, though. Millennials are defined as the age group born between 1981 and 1996. While it’s only a 15-year window, a lot changed in television during that time. However, there are plenty of shows millennials agree upon as being great.
“The Jetsons” provided viewers with a glimpse into what the future might look like. Millennials loved watching George Jetson and his family have fun with advances in technology. Even though a lot of people would think problems would go away with more technology, “The Jetsons” proved that people will always find something to complain about. George worked less than 10 hours per week, yet still found a way to be annoyed at his job.
Another show millennials collectively adore is “Breaking Bad.” Walter White was a former high school chemistry teacher who was diagnosed with lung cancer. To make sure his family would be financially secure after he died, he started selling high-quality meth. He beat the disease, but couldn’t turn his back on the power trip he became accustomed to. Millennials agree that “Breaking Bad” is one of the greatest shows ever written. For more millennial content, click here to read more about the 15 beers millennials like the most.
To compile this list of the most popular all-time TV shows among millennials, 24/7 Tempo consulted entertainment-related sources. These include YouGov, IMDb, and Rotten Tomatoes.
1. “The Jetsons”
Many people around the world have been fascinated by the idea of what the future will look like. During their lifetime, millennials have seen large leaps in technology and what it can do for society. Before these leaps, they had an inside look into what the future could possibly look like. “The Jetsons” followed a family from the future who was trying to navigate their way through a technologically advanced world.
Viewers thought that their lives would be easier because of the advances in technology. That wasn’t the case for the Jetson family, though. Instead, the family still found things to complain about. Instead of working the standard 40-hour work week that society in the United States has become accustomed to, George Jetson only worked a couple of hours per week. He still found a way to be upset at his job situation.
2. “Rugrats”
Most children are eager to grow up and become adults as quickly as they can. Watching the kids of “Rugrats” go on adventures that seemingly only made sense for adults got millennials excited about what they could do in the future. The show gave millennials many notable moments to reflect on. One of the saddest was when Chuckie tried to step on a crack to bring his mom back to life after her death. Rather than berate him, Angelica, who was known as the show’s bully, supported him and tried to encourage him.
Over the years, the Rugrats franchise continued to expand. When it felt appropriate, a new show called “All Grown Up” was released. It followed the same kids into their teenage years. The new show maintained a proper timeline and was released at the same time most original viewers were starting middle school and high school. “All Grown Up” didn’t have the same success as “Rugrats,” but millennials loved watching their favorite characters in a new light.
3. “Tom and Jerry”
Saturday morning cartoons were something millennials looked forward to each week. One of the shows that perfectly encapsulated the idea of Saturday morning cartoons was “Tom and Jerry.” Millennials loved watching the desperate cat and smug mouse chase each other around. They had adventures that felt unbelievable. The cat’s owner was seemingly always oblivious to her cat’s dangerous intentions towards the mouse.
Jerry, the mouse, was never afraid of Tom when he was being chased. Instead, he came up with elaborate schemes to hurt Tom and punish him for trying to come after him. Even as time has progressed, most millennials still enjoy watching old clips from “Tom and Jerry” as a beloved childhood shows. Adults who watched this show with their children were also entertained by the crazy antics the duo got into.
4. “The Flintstones”
Tons of millennial kids loved playing with toy-sized dinosaurs when they were growing up. Even though “The Flintstones” was released nearly 20 years before millennials were born, the show was popular for the age group. It followed Fred Flintstone and his family living life during the caveman days, way before technology. Fred worked hard to provide a good life for his family and even had a “car” he drove around.
Instead of having a pet dog, the Flintstone family had a pet dinosaur. The family loved going out and having a fun time, and they specifically enjoyed bowling. Over the years, Fred proved he was one of the best bowlers around. While the show wasn’t totally accurate to what life was like during the stone age, millennials still enjoyed the glimpse back in time.
5. “Friends”
Having a solid group of friends is a fabulous way to get through life as an adult. The show “Friends” gave millennials a glimpse into what life would look like when they got older. The show followed a friend group around New York City on their search for love as they individually chased their dreams. In some cases, their love stories intermingled between each other. This has proven to be a common dynamic between many friend groups.
The show was known for having great comedic moments and creating memories that will last as long as millennials keep watching it. “Friends” took home countless awards during its run, and the cast still films commercials together bringing back the magic they had when the show was on air.
6. “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”
American actor Will Smith at the 1991 Soul Train Music Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in California, 12th March 1991. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
Most millennials like to think of themselves as members of a progressive generation. “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” was a show that tackled many social issues, and showcased an all African-American main cast. Rather than showing characters trying to work their way up, “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” told the story of a successful African-American family that fit in inside one of the nicest neighborhoods in California.
They had to teach their nephew, Will, how to act properly. He came from a rough neighborhood in Philadelphia. For a long time, Will was hesitant to accept his new life. He was constantly getting into trouble and being punished by his tough Uncle Phil. The program gave millennials countless memorable moments to reflect on. One of the most relatable moments from the show was when Will’s father left him, causing Will to break down.
7. “Sesame Street”
Just about every millennial watched “Sesame Street” at some point during their life. Characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and the Cookie Monster have become some of the biggest stars in entertainment culture. Unlike most shows aimed for young kids, “Sesame Street” tried to help teach kids different things, like the alphabet. This helped countless kids get ahead by the time they reached pre-school.
In 2024, “Sesame Street” is still one of the most watched programs on television. The way the show teaches young kids different lessons sets it apart from most other shows. “Sesame Street” also makes kids laugh and encourages kids to continue watching and learning. Now that a lot of millennials have become parents, they’ve passed down this brilliant show to their children. You can find the characters from “Sesame Street” nearly everywhere you look in typical toy aisles.
8. “The Simpsons”
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 22: A video of Homer Simpson speaking is projected on a video screen during the 71st Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 22, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
One of the longest running shows in history is “The Simpsons.” The program follows the Simpson family as find their way in this world. Millennials love the crude humor the show has. The writers of the show haven’t aged any of the characters from their starting point when the show was released. Instead, they continue to come up with amazing content that follows the landscape of where the actual United States is.
One part of “The Simpsons” that millennials love tracking is how many different predictions the show gets right about the future. There are numerous videos on YouTube breaking down all of the different things “The Simpsons” had Easter Eggs about. Arguably the most famous prediction the show is known for was 9/11. In one episode, there’s a picture of airplanes crashing into the World Trade Center with the numbers 9/11 seemingly appearing on the screen.
9. “Breaking Bad”
At first, Walter White in “Breaking Bad” was an easy character to root for. He was a high school teacher trying to set his family up in case he died from lung cancer. He did whatever he needed to ensure they would be taken care of. However, as time progressed, White’s disease went away and he learned that he was going to live. There was no reason for him to continue selling drugs. He loved the power it gave him, though, which he didn’t want to give up.
He put himself, his family, and his friends in constant danger with the choices he made. Millennials loved watching White unravel. His character quickly turned from someone to root for into someone to easily root against. There were many people who were upset that the show only lasted for five seasons, but the writers admitted it was the best spot to end the story at. Because of the brilliant writing, “Breaking Bad” is now considered one of the greatest television shows to air.
10. “Law and Order”
Tons of millennials love watching crime shows. The idea of catching a villain after they commit a crime appeals to millennials. One show that does this better than most is “Law and Order.” The show takes its storylines from true crimes and adds different details to make it more suitable for television. It also takes viewers into the courtroom to viewers can see what happens to criminals after they’re caught.
There are dozens of different spin-offs to “Law and Order,” most notably “Law and Order: SVU.” This show follows a New York City unit that goes after the perpetrators of sexual crimes. With how popular documentaries on different assailants are, it’s no shock that a show that talks about criminals is so popular among millennials.
11. “Futurama”
The creator of “The Simpsons,” Matt Groening, developed another show tons of millennials can’t get enough of – “Futurama.” The show follows a man named Phillip Fry who froze himself to be awoken in the future when he wouldn’t have to work hard anymore. Where he came from, Fry was known as a lazy person who didn’t want to aspire for anything in life. When he woke up, he found a job at Planet Express, which was a company that delivered goods between planets.
The show follows Fry and his employees as they go around the universe interacting with different species and people. Fry has to quickly get used to the idea of seeing aliens on a regular basis. Unlike most workplace sitcoms, “Futurama” is done as a cartoon. The show was originally cancelled by Fox, but was quickly picked up by Comedy Central. Millennials love looking into what life might be like in 2199, which is when the show takes place.
12. “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
Many millennials love watching reality television. Unlike most reality television shows, “America’s Funniest Home Videos” takes actual home footage of people doing daring stunts or regular daily activities – and messing up in some capacity. Viewers had to submit their video to ABC for a chance to be featured on the show. There couldn’t be any case of someone actually getting hurt and the goal was to avoid staged content.
Numerous people tried to stage different things happening, but the company didn’t allow it. Millennials loved the authenticity it brought to television. While the show isn’t airing live anymore, there are still countless clips circulating on social media. “America’s Funniest Home Videos” is available on different streaming platforms for millennials to watch whenever they need a laugh or pick-me-up. “America’s Funniest Home Videos” will always have a place in the heart of tons of millennials.
13. “The Twilight Zone”
Before shows like “Black Mirror” aired, “The Twilight Zone” landed on television in the 1950s. The premise of the show was about different characters dealing with strange or unusual events. The characters changed in every single episode. Most of the circumstances revolved around the future of technology of the presence of aliens. The show made the hairs stand up on the backs of most people’s necks.
Even though the show first aired 22 years before millennials were born, the millennial age group still loves the story telling incorporated. The use of different characters in each episode meant that audiences couldn’t get attached to anyone too quickly. This form of television was risky at the time, since most people were just starting to get comfortable with TV. They wanted to connect with characters and watch them develop over time. “The Twilight Zone” followed its plan correctly, though.
14. “Curious George”
Nearly every child is curious about the world around them when they’re growing up. Seemingly everywhere a child goes is somewhere they haven’t been yet. “Curious George” follows a monkey named George who wants to explore the world around him. He’s always making friends, but getting lost in the midst of distractions. After getting mixed up in different environments, he struggles to find his way back home.
The show first aired in 1982 and sprung both a movie and remake of the show in the 2000s. Millennials loved watching George go on his adventures. He came across as sweet and loving on screen. This show was enjoyed by countless millennials who were watching as they grew up.
15. “Family Feud”
Few show concepts are as attention-grabbing as “Family Feud.” The game show takes two families from various parts of the country and puts them together to see who can get the most popular answers. The way the show gets their answers is by polling strangers. At the end, the family who wins gets to play “fast money.” This is when two members of the winning family must earn 200 points to win the prize.
Over the years, “Family Feud” has provided viewers with countless hilarious answers that leave the host stumped. One of the most memorable for fans was watching a family naming animals with three letters. The first contestant answered “frog,” which left the host shocked. The second family member, who the host thought couldn’t do worse, answered with “alligator.” The audience laughed hard at that and it’s considered one of the greatest moments in game show history.
16. “The Price is Right”
The idea of guessing the price of everyday retail items has turned “The Price is Right” into the longest running game show in network television. Starting more than 50 years ago, the show first premiered with four contestants seeing who could guess the closest about how much different products cost on average. After that, the top two contestants move on to compete for the grand prizes of each episode.
Millennials love watching people guess how much different things cost. While this seems like an easy game for everyone to play, there are multiple examples of people guessing far too high or low. Audiences love when someone guesses exactly how much an item costs at the store as well. For more millennial content, click here to read about the most popular public figures among millennials.