90s TV shows hold a place in childhood memories
In the 90s, current Central Michigan University upperclassmen watched what we now consider — shows from "the good days."
Many students would wake up early to watch "Pokemon" or "Rugrats" before school, watched "Hey Arnold!" as they enjoyed an after school snack and fell asleep trying to stay up with their parents as the newest episode of "Seinfeld" aired.
In a time before user-friendly Internet, digital recording boxes, or Netflix, the 90s were a time for people to come together around a television. "Friends," "Seinfeld," "Home Improvement," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Family Matters," and "Boy Meets World" are just a few shows that shaped and reflected the society beginning two decades ago.
Television shows in the 90s have a special place in the hearts of students on campus.
“I remember as a kid, I always watched 'Home Improvement' with my parents,” Rockwood junior Alex Lancina said. “At the time, I really didn’t understand what the show was about, but spending time with my parents on the couch watching TV is something I'll never forget.”
As students grew up, so did the child actors and actresses on TV.
The Olsen twins on "Full House" sent a family message to viewers. People saw the start of Will Smith’s acting career on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and discovered Jim Carrey's comedy on "In Living Color."
“'Full House' was my favorite TV show when I was a kid, and I’ve seen each episode at least five times,” Illinois junior Kim Winzentsen said. “I think it’s funny but keeps a balanced family message throughout the show.”
Cartoons on Nickelodeon or Cartoon Network are also favorites through campus.
“When I was a kid, whatever was on Nickelodeon was what I was watching,” Rochester Hills sophomore Josh Dominique said. “The reason why I started skate boarding is because of how cool I thought 'Rocket Power' was as a kid.”
People can still watch some of the best 90s television shows on cable. "Friends," "Cheers," "The George Lopez Show," and others still air everyday on TBS and Nick at Night. Instead of using tapes and VHS players like in the past, many students now collect their favorite 90s shows on DVD.
Warren senior Connor Gallagher has every season of Seinfeld on DVD in his room.
“It's by far the best show ever to be on television," Gallagher said. “Today’s TV shows can’t compete with its witty sarcasm and real-life situations that make the show hilarious and real to viewers.”
