The 1990s brought new networks, technology, and series. Although the top three networks (NBC, ABC, and CBS) still fought for top ratings, independent networks sprang up. As the number of networks increased, television became less of a family affair and more of a personal activity.

 

Sitcoms went from nostalgic to reflective of society. Shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Saved by the Bell appealed to the younger generation, offering representation of topics such as mental health and drug use. Sitcoms following lower-middle-class families, such as Roseanne and Married…with Children, showed a different side of the American family. Dramas veered away from the family and toward workplaces such as hospitals, law firms, and police stations. Chicago Hope, NYPD Blue, and Law and Order brought viewers drama-filled awe while showing the heart in the workplace.

 

Adult cartoons became a vessel for controversial topics and humor. Based on the success of The Simpsons, shows such as Beavis and Butthead exhibited the experimentation taking place away from major networks and became evening staples of independent networks.

 

Talk shows, reality shows, and game shows also grew audiences with the focus on displaying “real people” in a variety of scenarios.

 

Over the 1980s and 1990s, Saturday Night Live (SNL) experienced highs and lows. From the production end, changes in producers saw mass firings and rehirings of cast members, writers, and other production members. With the constant staffing changes, the show appeared inconsistent, going from massively funny to seemingly “empty” from season to season.

 

By the end of the 1990s, Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) allowed viewers to program computers to record shows. The viewer could also rewind and fast-forward during live programming.