Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1997: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to rewind to 1997, a golden year for television that brought us some of the most iconic shows in history. From the eerie mysteries of Twin Peaks to the hilarious antics of Friends, this was a year that truly had it all. So, grab your favorite snack, settle into your comfiest chair, and prepare to relive the glory days of ’90s TV. Whether you’re a die-hard fan looking to reminisce or a curious newbie eager to discover what made these shows so special, this nostalgic countdown is sure to entertain. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1997. Trust us, you’re in for a treat!
Stargate SG-1

Stargate SG-1

“Stargate SG-1” is an exciting sci-fi TV show that premiered in 1997. It follows the adventures of SG-1, an elite Air Force special operations team, as they explore different planets using an ancient alien device called the Stargate. With a stellar cast including Ben Browder, Amanda Tapping, Christopher Judge, Michael Shanks, Claudia Black, and Beau Bridges, the show takes us on thrilling missions where they defend Earth against various alien threats.

Cast: Ben Browder (Cameron Mitchell) , Amanda Tapping (Samantha Carter) , Christopher Judge (Teal’c) , Michael Shanks (Daniel Jackson) , Claudia Black (Vala Mal Doran) , Beau Bridges (Hank Landry)

Directors:

Writers: Dean Devlin

Tags: space travel, alien, space, travel, alien planet, military, distant planet, secret military program

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” is a thrilling TV show that premiered in 1997 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the story of a chosen girl, the Slayer, who possesses incredible strength and skills to battle vampires, demons, and other dark forces. With a talented cast including Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, and Alyson Hannigan, this show is a must-watch for anyone who loves action-packed supernatural adventures.

Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy Summers) , Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris) , Alyson Hannigan (Willow Rosenberg) , Emma Caulfield Ford (Anya) , Michelle Trachtenberg (Dawn Summers) , James Marsters (Spike) , Anthony Stewart Head (Rupert Giles)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: high school, monster, magic, vampire, anti hero, supernatural, chosen one, vampire hunter (slayer), female protagonist, apocalypse, fighting supernatural

Oz

Oz

Release Date: 1997-07-12

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Oz” is a gripping TV show that takes you inside the intense and complex world of prisoners in the Oswald Maximum Security Prison. Set in the experimental unit called Emerald City, the series explores the daily lives of different inmate groups, including Muslims, Latinos, Italians, Aryans, and their alliances and conflicts. With a talented cast led by Lee Tergesen, Harold Perrineau, and J.K. Simmons, this 1997 release offers a thrilling and thought-provoking look into the dynamics of prison life.

Cast: Lee Tergesen (Tobias Beecher) , Harold Perrineau (Augustus Hill) , Dean Winters (Ryan O’Reily) , Eamonn Walker (Kareem Saïd) , Ernie Hudson (Leo Glynn) , Terry Kinney (Tim McManus) , Rita Moreno (Sister Peter Marie Reimondo) , J.K. Simmons (Vernon Schillinger) , Kirk Acevedo (Miguel Alvarez) , Craig muMs Grant (Poet) , BD Wong (Father Ray Mukada) , Tom Mardirosian (Agamemnon Busmalis) , Christopher Meloni (Chris Keller) , Scott William Winters (Cyril O’Reily)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: prison, experiment, dystopia, revenge, betrayal, racism, drugs, inmate, catholicism, aryan, prison life, abuse of power

The Practice

The Practice

Release Date: 1997-03-04

Genres: Drama

“The Practice” is a gripping legal drama that premiered on March 4, 1997. Set in a no-frills law firm in Boston, the show follows a group of young associates and their determined boss, Bobby Donnell. With a focus on morally complex storylines, this provocative series delves into the lives of those who navigate the fine line between right and wrong. Starring Steve Harris, Camryn Manheim, Michael Badalucco, Jessica Capshaw, James Spader, and Rhona Mitra, “The Practice” is a must-watch for fans of intense and thought-provoking television.

Cast: Steve Harris (Eugene Young) , Camryn Manheim (Ellenor Frutt) , Michael Badalucco (Jimmy Berluti) , Jessica Capshaw (Jamie Stringer) , James Spader (Alan Shore) , Rhona Mitra (Tara Wilson)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: boston, massachusetts, lawyer, law firm

Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders

Release Date: 1997-03-23

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Midsomer Murders” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 1997 and quickly became a fan favorite. Set in the peaceful Midsomer community, the show follows a seasoned DCI and his young sergeant as they skillfully investigate violent crimes, sifting through suspects and tirelessly pursuing the guilty. With a talented cast including Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman, and Annette Badland, this thrilling series will keep you on the edge of your seat as they unravel the mysteries of Midsomer.

Cast: Neil Dudgeon (DCI John Barnaby) , Nick Hendrix (DS Jamie Winter) , Fiona Dolman (Sarah Barnaby) , Annette Badland (Dr. Fleur Perkins)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: england, murder, police detective, murder investigation, police inspector, midsomer, murders

Brass Eye

Brass Eye

Release Date: 1997-01-29

Genres: Comedy

“Brass Eye” is a hilarious UK TV series that aired in 1997. Created by Chris Morris, it’s a satirical news magazine show that pokes fun at the media’s portrayal of social issues and their tendency to create moral panics. Starring a talented cast including Chris Morris himself, Gina McKee, Mark Heap, and Kevin Eldon, this show is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys clever and witty humor.

Cast: Chris Morris (Christopher Morris) , Hugh Dennis (Dr. Balb Kubrox) , Alexander Armstrong (American Vox Pop) , Gina McKee (Libby Shuss) , Mark Heap (Simon Hottrin/Dr. Zeus Spofforth) , Kevin Eldon (Spike Durnaburny) , Doon Mackichan (Swanchita Haze/Rubeglia Palliativa) , Barbara Durkin (Marigold Blenny) , Amelia Bullmore (Honolee Dolholly) , Bill Moody (Ian Beezley) , Claire Skinner (Martha O’Dennell/Helly Melvick)

Directors:

Writers: Arthur Matthews, Graham Linehan, Chris Morris

Tags: dark comedy, surreal, satire, political humor, british society

La Femme Nikita

La Femme Nikita

Release Date: 1997-01-13

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“La Femme Nikita” is a Canadian action/drama TV show that aired from 1997 to 2001. Based on the French film “Nikita” by Luc Besson, it follows the story of a young woman named Nikita, played by Peta Wilson, who is trained to become a skilled assassin. With a talented cast including Roy Dupuis, Matthew Ferguson, Eugene Robert Glazer, and Don Francks, the show quickly gained popularity and became the highest-rated drama on American basic cable during its first two seasons. It also garnered a strong cult following and was distributed in various countries.

Cast: Peta Wilson (Nikita) , Roy Dupuis (Michael) , Matthew Ferguson (Seymour Birkoff) , Eugene Robert Glazer (Operations) , Don Francks (Walter)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: undercover agent, espionage, spy, secret organization, secret agent, double agent, secret life, based on movie, מוסד, מבצעים חשאיים, סיפור אהבה, אקשן, סוכנת

Jonathan Creek

Jonathan Creek

Release Date: 1997-05-09

Genres: Mystery, Comedy, Drama

“Jonathan Creek” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1997 and made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. Starring Alan Davies and Sarah Alexander, the series follows the life of Jonathan Creek, a magician who uses his natural puzzle-solving abilities to crack impossible crimes and solve mysterious murders. Set in a converted windmill, this intriguing show will keep you on the edge of your seat as Jonathan unravels mind-boggling mysteries.

Cast: Alan Davies (Jonathan Creek) , Sarah Alexander (Polly Creek)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: journalist, detective, investigative journalist, magician

I'm Alan Partridge

I’m Alan Partridge

Release Date: 1997-11-03

Genres: Comedy

“I’m Alan Partridge” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1997 and was voted as one of the best that year. It follows the story of Alan Partridge, a former chat show host who finds himself down on his luck, working on a radio station in Norwich. With a talented cast including Steve Coogan, Amelia Bullmore, and Felicity Montagu, the show takes us on a journey through Alan’s life as he desperately tries to make a comeback in the television industry while dealing with the challenges of being divorced and living in a travel tavern.”

Cast: Steve Coogan (Alan Partridge) , Amelia Bullmore (Sonja) , Felicity Montagu (Lynn Benfield) , Simon Greenall (Michael) , Phil Cornwell (Dave Clifton) , Barbara Durkin (Susan)

Directors:

Writers: Steve Coogan, The Cast

Tags: radio, satire, sitcom

Team Knight Rider

Team Knight Rider

Release Date: 1997-10-06

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Crime

“Team Knight Rider” is a thrilling TV show that aired in 1997 and ran for a single season. It follows a group of high-tech crime fighters who continue the legacy of Michael Knight and his supercar KITT. With five team members and their own talking vehicles, they take on dangerous criminals who operate outside the law. Although the show was canceled due to poor ratings, it’s worth watching for its action-packed episodes and even features a surprise appearance by Michael Knight himself in the final episode.

Cast: Brixton Karnes (Kyle Stewart) , Christine Steel (Jenny Andrews) , Duane Davis (Duke DePalma) , Kathy Trageser (Erica West) , Nick Wechsler (Kevin Sanders) , Andrea Hutchman (Kat) , Tom Kane (Dante) , John Kassir (Plato) , Kerrigan Mahan (Beast) , Nia Vardalos (Domino)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: artificial intelligence, crime fighter, vigilante, high tech, supercar

The Last Don

The Last Don

Release Date: 1997-05-11

Genres: Crime, Drama

“The Last Don” is a gripping TV show that aired in 1997 and quickly became one of the best voted shows of the year. Based on Mario ‘The Godfather’ Puzo’s bestselling novel, it tells the captivating story of America’s most powerful crime family, where power is everything. With an all-star cast including Danny Aiello, Kirstie Alley, and Joe Mantegna, this epic saga is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.”

Cast: Danny Aiello (Don Domenico Clericuzio) , Rory Cochrane (Dante Clericuzio) , Kirstie Alley (Rose Marie Clericuzio) , Rashida Jones (Johanna) , David Marciano (Giorgio Clericuzio) , Daryl Hannah (Athena Aquitane) , Jason Gedrick (Cross De Lena) , Joe Mantegna (Pippi De Lena) , Penelope Ann Miller (Nalene De Lena) , Robert Wuhl (Bobby Bantz) , k.d. lang (Dita Tommey) , Burt Young (Virginio Ballazzo) , Seymour Cassel (Alfred Gronevelt) , Michelle Burke (Claudia De Lena) , Christopher Meloni (Boz Skannet) , Cliff DeYoung (Senator Warren Wavven)

Directors:

Writers: Joyce Eliason, Mario Puzo

Tags: daughter, gangster, family relationships, rivalry, organized crime, mafia, miniseries, grandson

The Odyssey

The Odyssey

“The Odyssey” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1997 and is based on Homer’s classic epic. Starring Armand Assante as Odysseus, the warrior King of Ithaca, the series follows his incredible journey back home after the Trojan war. Filled with thrilling adventures, mythical creatures, and enchanting nymphs, Odysseus must rely on his wit and intelligence to overcome the challenges that stand in his way. With a talented cast including Greta Scacchi, Isabella Rossellini, and Christopher Lee, this show is a must-watch for fans of ancient mythology and epic tales.

Cast: Armand Assante (Odysseus) , Greta Scacchi (Penelope) , Isabella Rossellini (Athena) , Bernadette Peters (Circe) , Eric Roberts (Eurymachus) , Irene Papas (Anticleia) , Jeroen Krabbé (King Alcinous) , Geraldine Chaplin (Eurycleia) , Christopher Lee (Tiresias) , Vanessa Williams (Calypso) , Nicholas Clay (Menelaus) , Adoni Anastassopoulos (Perimedes) , Paloma Baeza (Melanthe) , Ron Cook (Eurybates) , Reid Asato (Cyclops) , Josh Maguire (Young Telemachus) , Roger Ashton-Griffiths (Polites) , Miles Anderson (Poseidon) , Pat Kelman (Elatus)

Directors: Andrei Konchalovsky

Writers: Andrei Konchalovsky, Homer, Chris Solimine

Tags: epic, seduction, mythology, greek mythology, homer’s odyssey, battlefield, miniseries, gods, ancient greece, voyage, mythical, mythical fantasy, historical fantasy, classical world, hack & slash

Lexx

Lexx

Release Date: 1997-04-18

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Lexx” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that premiered in 1997. Set in a league of 20,000 planets, the story revolves around a crew consisting of a cowardly security guard, an undead assassin, a seductive female, and a robot head smitten with her. Together, they navigate the universe aboard the powerful spaceship Lexx, destined to challenge the divine order. Starring Brian Downey, Jeffrey Hirschfield, Xenia Seeberg, Michael McManus, and Tom Gallant, this show promises an exciting blend of adventure, romance, and intergalactic chaos.

Cast: Brian Downey (Stanley H. Tweedle) , Jeffrey Hirschfield (790 (voice)) , Xenia Seeberg (Xev Bellringer) , Michael McManus (Kai) , Tom Gallant (The Lexx (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: android, spacecraft, alien, outlaw, space, fugitive, parallel universe

Bear in the Big Blue House

Bear in the Big Blue House

Release Date: 1997-10-20

Genres: Kids

“Bear in the Big Blue House” is a delightful TV show that aired in 1997 and was voted as one of the best that year. Led by the lovable Bear and his friends, this series offers children a fun and educational experience. Through music, movement, and exploration, kids can learn important skills like cooperation and teamwork while enjoying the show’s integrated programs. With a talented cast including Noel MacNeal, Lynne Thigpen, Carmen Osbahr, Geoffrey Holder, and Tyler Bunch, this show is a must-watch for young ones seeking valuable growth opportunities.

Cast: Noel MacNeal () , Lynne Thigpen () , Carmen Osbahr () , Geoffrey Holder () , Tyler Bunch ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: preschooler

Earth: Final Conflict

Earth: Final Conflict

“Earth: Final Conflict” is a thrilling sci-fi series that premiered in 1997. Set in a world where the Taelons have arrived on Earth, offering their friendship and advanced technology, the show delves into the suspicions held by some about the true intentions of these extraterrestrial beings. With a talented cast including Jayne Heitmeyer, Von Flores, Alan van Sprang, Melinda Deines, and Guylaine St-Onge, this captivating series will keep you on the edge of your seat as the mysteries unfold.

Cast: Jayne Heitmeyer (Renee Palmer) , Von Flores (Ronald Sandoval) , Alan van Sprang (Howlyn) , Melinda Deines (Juliet Street) , Guylaine St-Onge (Juda)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: rebellion, alien, conspiracy, alien invasion, alien contact, first contact

Just Shoot Me!

Just Shoot Me!

Release Date: 1997-03-04

Genres: Comedy

“Just Shoot Me!” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from March 4, 1997, to August 16, 2003. With a talented cast including Laura San Giacomo, David Spade, Wendie Malick, George Segal, and Enrico Colantoni, the show follows the lives of the staff at a fashion magazine. With 148 episodes produced over seven seasons, this comedy is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: Laura San Giacomo (Maya Gallo) , David Spade (Dennis Finch) , Wendie Malick (Nina Van Horn) , George Segal (Jack Gallo) , Enrico Colantoni (Elliot DiMauro)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: magazine, fashion, fashion magazine, sitcom, workplace comedy

True Women

True Women

“True Women” is a captivating TV show that takes us on an emotional journey through five decades of history, starting from the Texas Revolution all the way to the aftermath of the Civil War. With a star-studded cast including Angelina Jolie, Dana Delany, and Annabeth Gish, this series beautifully portrays the themes of love, friendship, survival, and triumph. Released in 1997, it’s definitely a must-watch for history enthusiasts and fans of powerful storytelling.

Cast: Angelina Jolie (Georgia Virginia Lawshe Woods) , Dana Delany (Sarah McClure) , Annabeth Gish (Euphemia Ashby (adult)) , Tina Majorino (Young Euphemia Ashby) , Rachael Leigh Cook (Georgia Lawshe (young)) , Michael York (Lewis Lawshe) , Tony Todd (Ed Tom) , Michael Greyeyes (Tarantula) , Powers Boothe (Bartlett McClure) , Irene Bedard (Tobe) , Charles S. Dutton (Josiah) , Salli Richardson-Whitfield (Martha) , John Schneider (Sam Houston) , Julie Carmen (Cherokee Lawshe) , Jeffrey Nordling (Dr. Peter Woods) , Matthew Glave (William King) , Miles Fisher (Young Travis McClure) , Hilary Duff (Extra)

Directors: Karen Arthur

Writers: Janice Woods Windle

Tags: based on novel or book, texas, civil rights, biography, miniseries, female protagonist, american civil war, emancipation, woman director

Ally McBeal

Ally McBeal

Release Date: 1997-09-08

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“Ally McBeal” is a highly acclaimed TV show that aired in 1997. It follows the life of Ally, a young lawyer working at a law firm in Boston. With a mix of eccentric characters, humorous situations, and dramatic storylines, the show takes us on a journey through Ally’s love life and her incredibly vivid imagination. Starring Calista Flockhart and a talented ensemble cast, this series is a must-watch for anyone looking for a unique and entertaining legal drama.

Cast: Calista Flockhart (Ally McBeal) , Greg Germann (Richard Fish) , Jane Krakowski (Elaine Vassal) , Regina Hall (Corretta Lipp) , Vonda Shepard (Vonda Shepard) , Portia de Rossi (Nelle Porter) , Julianne Nicholson (Jenny Shaw) , James Marsden (Glenn Foy) , Josh Hopkins (Raymond Millbury)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: boston, massachusetts, roommate, surrealism, lawyer, law firm, workplace romance, legal drama

Dharma & Greg

Dharma & Greg

Release Date: 1997-09-24

Genres: Comedy

“Dharma & Greg” is a hilarious American sitcom that aired from September 1997 to April 2002. It revolves around the unconventional love story of Dharma and Greg Montgomery, who impulsively tie the knot on their first date despite being complete opposites. With a talented cast including Jenna Elfman and Thomas Gibson, the show cleverly explores the challenges and humor that arise from their culture-clash relationship. It received numerous award nominations and even earned Jenna Elfman a Golden Globe for her outstanding performance.

Cast: Jenna Elfman (Dharma Montgomery) , Thomas Gibson (Greg Montgomery) , Alan Rachins (Larry Finkelstein) , Mimi Kennedy (Abby O’Neill) , Mitchell Ryan (Edward Montgomery) , Susan Sullivan (Kitty Montgomery) , Joel Murray (Pete Cavanaugh) , Shae D’Lyn (Jane Deaux)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: san francisco, california, love at first sight, marriage, family relationships, relationship, unlikely lovers, sitcom

The Shining

The Shining

Release Date: 1997-04-27

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“The Shining” is a gripping three-part miniseries based on Stephen King’s famous novel. Directed by Mick Garris, it first aired in 1997 and features a stellar cast including Rebecca De Mornay, Steven Weber, Wil Horneff, and Courtland Mead. Get ready to be captivated by this thrilling adaptation of King’s chilling tale.

Cast: Rebecca De Mornay (Wendy Torrance) , Steven Weber (Jack Torrance) , Wil Horneff (Tony) , Courtland Mead (Danny Torrance)

Directors:

Writers: Stephen King

Tags: hotel, based on novel or book, isolation, winter, haunting, alcoholism, domestic abuse, miniseries, domestic violence, family, hotel bar, inanimate objects come to life, haunted

This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB.