Comedy

Premise

“Square Pegs” is a comedy series that follows the lives of two teenage girls, Patty and Lauren, as they navigate the social hierarchy of Weemawee High School. The show explores the ups and downs of adolescence, friendship, and the quest for acceptance in a world where fitting in is paramount. Patty and Lauren, along with their misfit group of friends, embark on hilarious misadventures and try to find their place in the often confusing and cliquish landscape of high school.

Main Characters

• Patty Greene (played by Sarah Jessica Parker): A quirky and idealistic teenager who dreams of being popular and breaking free from her “square” image.
• Lauren Hutchinson (played by Amy Linker): Patty’s intelligent and witty best friend who shares her outsider status but maintains a more cynical outlook on high school life.
• Jennifer DiNuccio (played by Tracy Nelson): A fashion-forward and outspoken girl who is part of Patty and Lauren’s social circle.
• Vinnie Pasetta (played by Jon Caliri): A lovable but slightly dim-witted friend of Patty and Lauren who often finds himself in amusing predicaments.
• Johnny “Slash” Ulasewicz (played by Merritt Butrick): A rebellious and eccentric student who expresses himself through his punk rock music and fashion choices.
• Muffy Tepperman (played by Jami Gertz): The quintessential popular girl who epitomizes the high school elite and is often at odds with Patty and Lauren.

Themes

“Square Pegs” explores themes of identity, friendship, and the pressures of adolescence. The series delves into the challenges of teenage life, including the desire to fit in, the fear of being labeled as different, and the importance of staying true to oneself despite societal expectations. Through its humorous and relatable storylines, “Square Pegs” celebrates individuality and embraces the idea that being different is something to be embraced rather than shunned.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics praised “Square Pegs” for its sharp wit, endearing characters, and insightful commentary on the teenage experience. While the show only aired for one season and struggled to find a wide audience during its initial run, it has since gained a cult following and is remembered fondly for its unique humor and memorable characters.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-PG “Square Pegs” received a TV-PG rating for mild language and comedic situations, making it suitable for viewers of all ages.

Original Network and Years: “Square Pegs” originally aired on CBS from 1982 to 1983.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Freaks and Geeks
2. My So-Called Life
3. The Goldbergs
4. Stranger Things
5. Saved by the Bell

Premise

“California Dreams” is a teen sitcom that follows the lives of a group of high school friends who form a band called the California Dreams. Set in the fictional Pacific Beach, California, the show revolves around the band members as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, friendship, romance, and pursuing their dreams of music stardom.

Main Characters

• Matt Garrison (played by Brentley Gore): The lead vocalist and guitarist of the California Dreams, known for his charming personality and leadership within the band.
• Tiffani Smith (played by Kelly Packard): The keyboardist of the California Dreams, known for her bubbly personality and enthusiasm for music.
• Sly Winkle (played by Michael Cade): The drummer of the California Dreams, known for his laid-back attitude and sense of humor.
• Jenny Garrison (played by Heidi Noelle Lenhart): Matt’s younger sister and the bass guitarist of the California Dreams, known for her strong-willed and independent nature.
• Jake Summers (played by Jay Anthony Franke): The guitarist of the California Dreams, known for his good looks and romantic pursuits.

Themes

“California Dreams” explores themes of friendship, perseverance, following one’s passions, and the challenges of growing up. Through the experiences of the band members, the show addresses issues such as peer pressure, family dynamics, relationships, and the pursuit of dreams. The series also highlights the importance of teamwork, communication, and staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics generally praised “California Dreams” for its catchy music, likable characters, and relatable storylines that resonated with its target teenage audience. While some critics found the show formulaic at times, its upbeat vibe and positive messages earned it a favorable reception overall.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-G “California Dreams” received a TV-G rating for general audience viewing, making it suitable for viewers of all ages.

Original Network and Years: “California Dreams” originally aired on NBC’s Saturday morning lineup from 1992 to 1996.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Saved by the Bell
2. Hang Time
3. Hey Dude
4. Salute Your Shorts
5. Even Stevens

Premise

“Hang Time” is a teen sitcom centered around the Deering High School basketball team, the Deering Tornados, and their misadventures both on and off the court. The show follows the lives of the basketball players as they navigate the challenges of high school, friendship, romance, and the pursuit of athletic success under the guidance of their coach.

Main Characters

• Julie Connor (played by Daniella Deutscher): The only female player on the Deering High School basketball team, known for her determination and basketball skills.
• Michael Maxwell (played by Reggie Theus): The charismatic and wise coach of the Deering Tornados, who strives to mentor and inspire his players both on and off the court.
• Anthony “Sly” Winkle (played by Jay Hernandez): A smooth-talking and streetwise player with a penchant for mischief and schemes.
• Deering Tornados Players:
  • Chris Atwater (played by Christian Belnavis)
  • Michael Manning (played by Teddy Lane Jr.)
  • Danny Mellon (played by Adam Frost)
  • Vince D’Amata (played by Mark Famiglietti)

Themes

“Hang Time” explores themes of teamwork, friendship, perseverance, and the importance of mentorship. Through the ups and downs of the basketball season, the show highlights the bonds forged between teammates and the valuable life lessons learned through sportsmanship and competition. Additionally, it addresses issues relevant to teenagers such as peer pressure, academic challenges, and personal growth.

Overall Rating: 3/5 Critics appreciated “Hang Time” for its lighthearted humor, relatable characters, and positive messages about friendship and teamwork. However, some critics found the show’s formulaic plotlines and predictable storytelling to be lacking in depth and originality.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-G “Hang Time” received a TV-G rating for general audience viewing, making it suitable for all ages.

Original Network and Years: “Hang Time” originally aired on NBC’s Saturday morning lineup from 1995 to 2000.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Saved by the Bell
2. California Dreams
3. City Guys
4. The Jersey
5. Even Stevens

Premise

“Saved By The Bell: The New Class” follows a group of high school students at Bayside High School as they navigate the ups and downs of teenage life. Set in the same universe as the original “Saved By The Bell” series, this spin-off features a new generation of students dealing with friendships, relationships, academic challenges, and various teenage dilemmas. The show blends comedy, drama, and slice-of-life storytelling to explore the experiences of contemporary teenagers in a high school setting.

Main Characters

• Tommy D. DeLuca (played by Jonathan Angel): The cool and charismatic leader of the group, known for his laid-back attitude and natural charm.
• Lindsay Warner (played by Natalia Cigliuti): A smart and ambitious student who excels academically and often finds herself torn between her studies and social life.
• Rachel Meyers (played by Sarah Lancaster): The athletic and outgoing member of the group, known for her competitive spirit and dedication to sports.
• Ryan Parker (played by Richard Lee Jackson): A charming and flirtatious student who enjoys cracking jokes and pursuing romantic interests.
• Maria Lopez (played by Samantha Esteban): A compassionate and caring student who values friendship and often serves as the voice of reason within the group.

Themes

“Saved By The Bell: The New Class” explores themes commonly associated with adolescence, including friendship, identity, peer pressure, academic pressure, and self-discovery. The series delves into the challenges and triumphs of high school life, portraying the characters as they navigate relationships, school assignments, extracurricular activities, and personal growth. Through its relatable characters and storylines, the show aims to entertain viewers while also addressing relevant issues faced by teenagers.

Overall Rating: 3/5 Critics’ opinions on “Saved By The Bell: The New Class” were mixed. While some praised the show for its nostalgic appeal and likable characters, others criticized it for lacking the charm and wit of the original series. The spin-off struggled to capture the magic of its predecessor, with some critics feeling that the new characters failed to resonate as strongly with audiences.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-G “Saved By The Bell: The New Class” received a TV-G rating for its wholesome content and suitability for general audiences, making it appropriate for viewers of all ages.

Original Network and Years: “Saved By The Bell: The New Class” originally aired in syndication from 1993 to 2000.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Saved By The Bell
2. Boy Meets World
3. California Dreams
4. Hang Time
5. Sabrina the Teenage Witch

Premise

“Blossom” revolves around the life of Blossom Russo, a teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence while living with her single father and two brothers. The show explores various issues faced by teenagers, including relationships, school, and family dynamics. Blossom’s journey is marked by her quirky personality, love for music, and distinct fashion sense as she strives to find her place in the world.

Main Characters

• Blossom Russo (played by Mayim Bialik): The titular character, a smart and creative teenager who often provides the voice of reason within her family.
• Tony Russo (played by Ted Wass): Blossom’s caring and supportive father, who works as a musician and strives to raise his children with love and guidance.
• Anthony Russo Jr. (played by Michael Stoyanov): Blossom’s older brother, known for his love of sports and occasional struggles with finding direction in life.
• Joey Russo (played by Joey Lawrence): Blossom’s charming but dim-witted older brother, known for his catchphrase “Whoa!” and his pursuit of a career in acting.
• Six Lemeure (played by Jenna von Oÿ): Blossom’s best friend, known for her free-spirited nature and close bond with Blossom.

Themes

“Blossom” addresses various themes relevant to teenagers, including family, friendship, identity, and growing up. The series delves into the complexities of adolescence, portraying both the joys and challenges of navigating relationships, school, and personal development. Blossom’s journey reflects the universal experiences of teenagers as they grapple with issues such as self-discovery, peer pressure, and the transition to adulthood.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics praised “Blossom” for its relatable characters, witty humor, and heartfelt storytelling. The series resonated with audiences for its realistic portrayal of teenage life and its ability to tackle serious topics with sensitivity and humor. While some critics felt that certain storylines could be formulaic or melodramatic at times, the show’s charm and strong performances earned it widespread acclaim.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-PG “Blossom” received a TV-PG rating for mild language and thematic elements, making it suitable for viewers of all ages with parental guidance.

Original Network and Years: “Blossom” originally aired on NBC from 1990 to 1995.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Clarissa Explains It All
2. Sabrina the Teenage Witch
3. Boy Meets World
4. Saved by the Bell
5. Full House

Premise

“Head of the Class” is a comedy series set at the fictional Fillmore High School in Manhattan. The show revolves around a diverse group of intellectually gifted students who are placed in a special honors program taught by an unconventional teacher. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence and academic competition, the students form unique bonds with each other and learn valuable life lessons along the way.

Main Characters

• Charles P. “Charlie” Moore (played by Howard Hesseman): The laid-back and unconventional teacher who leads the honors program.
• Dennis Blunden (played by Dan Schneider): A lovable but naive student known for his innocence and penchant for getting into comedic mishaps.
• Arvid Engen (played by Dan Frischman): The nerdy and socially awkward math genius with a passion for computers.
• Janice Lazarotto (played by Robin Givens): A confident and ambitious student with a strong personality and a competitive streak.
• Darlene Merriman (played by Robin Givens): A rebellious and outspoken student who challenges authority and stands up for her beliefs.
• Alan Pinkard (played by Tony O’Dell): A charming and popular student with a talent for leadership and a knack for getting into trouble.

Themes

“Head of the Class” explores themes of friendship, diversity, academic achievement, and the importance of individuality. The series celebrates the unique talents and perspectives of each student while emphasizing the value of teamwork, tolerance, and acceptance. Through its humorous and heartwarming storylines, “Head of the Class” highlights the transformative power of education and the positive impact that teachers can have on their students’ lives.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics and audiences praised “Head of the Class” for its witty humor, relatable characters, and positive messages about education and friendship. While some critics felt that the show relied too heavily on stereotypes and formulaic plots, its strong ensemble cast and uplifting themes earned it a solid rating.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-PG “Head of the Class” received a TV-PG rating for mild language and comedic situations, making it suitable for viewers of all ages.

Original Network and Years: “Head of the Class” originally aired on ABC from 1986 to 1991.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Saved by the Bell
2. The Wonder Years
3. A Different World
4. Boy Meets World
5. Freaks and Geeks

Premise

“Welcome Back, Kotter” is a sitcom set in a high school in Brooklyn, New York, focusing on the experiences of a group of remedial students known as the “Sweathogs” and their teacher, who is a former Sweathog himself. The series follows the antics and misadventures of the students, who come from diverse backgrounds and struggle academically, as they navigate the challenges of adolescence under the guidance of their unconventional but caring teacher.

Main Characters

• Gabe Kotter (played by Gabe Kaplan): A wise-cracking and relatable teacher who returns to his alma mater to teach a group of underachieving students.
• Arnold Horshack (played by Ron Palillo): A dim-witted but lovable student known for his distinctive laugh and catchphrase, “Ooh, ooh, Mr. Kotter!”
• Freddie “Boom Boom” Washington (played by Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs): A street-smart student with a tough exterior but a good heart.
• Juan Epstein (played by Robert Hegyes): A scheming and resourceful student of Puerto Rican and Jewish descent, known for his elaborate excuses for not doing homework.
• Vincent “Vinnie” Barbarino (played by John Travolta): The charismatic and self-assured leader of the Sweathogs, known for his good looks and trademark catchphrase, “Up your nose with a rubber hose!”

Themes

“Welcome Back, Kotter” explores themes of friendship, identity, and the challenges of adolescence. Through the interactions of the Sweathogs and their teacher, the series delves into issues such as social class, cultural diversity, and the importance of education in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. With its blend of humor and heart, the show offers viewers a nostalgic glimpse into the ups and downs of high school life.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics and audiences alike praised “Welcome Back, Kotter” for its memorable characters, witty dialogue, and relatable storylines. While some critics noted occasional lapses in storytelling and character development, the series’ enduring popularity and cultural impact earned it a solid rating.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-PG “Welcome Back, Kotter” received a TV-PG rating for mild language and adult themes, making it suitable for teenage and adult viewers.

Original Network and Years: “Welcome Back, Kotter” originally aired on ABC from 1975 to 1979.

TV Series Recommendations

1. The Brady Bunch
2. Happy Days
3. Family Ties
4. The Wonder Years
5. Saved by the Bell

Premise

“The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” is a classic American sitcom that revolves around the misadventures of a young man named Dobie Gillis as he navigates the ups and downs of adolescence and young adulthood in the fictional town of Central City. Dobie is an average high school student who is constantly scheming to improve his social status, win the affections of girls, and avoid the disapproval of his parents. Alongside his loyal best friend, beatnik Maynard G. Krebs, Dobie encounters a colorful cast of characters, gets into various predicaments, and learns valuable life lessons along the way.

Main Characters

• Dobie Gillis (played by Dwayne Hickman): The titular protagonist, a charming but naive teenager who is always on the lookout for love and adventure.
• Maynard G. Krebs (played by Bob Denver): Dobie’s eccentric and free-spirited best friend, who is known for his aversion to work and his passion for beatnik culture.
• Herbert T. Gillis (played by Frank Faylen): Dobie’s well-meaning but conservative father, who often clashes with his son over his unconventional aspirations.
• Winnie Gillis (played by Florida Friebus): Dobie’s supportive and doting mother, who tries her best to understand her son’s youthful antics.
• Thalia Menninger (played by Tuesday Weld): Dobie’s love interest and the object of his affection, a beautiful and popular girl who often keeps him on his toes.

Themes

“The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” explores themes of adolescence, identity, and the pursuit of love and acceptance. The series delves into the universal experiences of growing up, including the challenges of finding one’s place in the world, navigating relationships, and grappling with parental expectations. Through Dobie’s humorous and often exaggerated escapades, the show offers lighthearted commentary on the trials and tribulations of youth, while also providing insight into the complexities of human relationships and the importance of friendship and self-discovery.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Critics and audiences alike praised “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” for its witty humor, memorable characters, and relatable coming-of-age storylines. While some critics felt that the show occasionally relied too heavily on formulaic plots, its enduring popularity and cultural impact earned it a solid rating.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-G “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” received a TV-G rating for its wholesome and family-friendly content, making it suitable for viewers of all ages.

Original Network and Years: “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” originally aired on CBS from 1959 to 1963, spanning four seasons and a total of 147 episodes.

TV Series Recommendations

1. Leave It to Beaver
2. The Andy Griffith Show
3. Happy Days
4. I Love Lucy
5. The Dick Van Dyke Show

Premise

“Love, American Style” is an anthology comedy series that explores various aspects of love and relationships in America. Each episode features a collection of comedic and romantic vignettes, showcasing the diverse experiences of couples, families, and individuals as they navigate the ups and downs of love in different settings and circumstances. From dating mishaps to marital adventures, the show presents a lighthearted and humorous take on the complexities of romance and human connection.

Main Characters

As an anthology series, “Love, American Style” features a rotating cast of characters portrayed by various guest actors in each episode. The characters range from young lovers and newlyweds to long-married couples and singles seeking romance. Some recurring characters may appear across multiple episodes, but the focus is primarily on the different couples and individuals featured in each story.

Themes: The central theme of “Love, American Style” is, unsurprisingly, love in all its forms. The series explores romantic relationships, familial bonds, friendships, and the myriad emotions and experiences that accompany them. Through its comedic lens, the show addresses universal themes such as courtship, marriage, infatuation, jealousy, heartbreak, and reconciliation. Each episode offers a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships, celebrating the joys and absurdities of love in American society.

Overall Rating: 3/5 Critics appreciated “Love, American Style” for its light-hearted humor, charming vignettes, and talented guest stars. The anthology format allowed for a diverse range of stories and characters, keeping the series fresh and engaging. However, some critics felt that the episodic nature of the show prevented deeper character development and narrative continuity, resulting in a slightly lower overall rating.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-PG “Love, American Style” received a TV-PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) rating for mild sexual innuendo and comedic situations that may not be suitable for younger viewers. While generally family-friendly, parental guidance is advised for children due to the mature themes and humor.

Original Network and Years: “Love, American Style” originally aired on ABC from 1969 to 1974.

TV Series Recommendations

1. The Love Boat
2. The Mary Tyler Moore Show
3. Three’s Company
4. Happy Days
5. The Golden Girls