Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows from 1999: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a wild ride back to the last year of the 20th century – 1999! A time when Y2K fears were rampant, boy bands ruled the airwaves, and cargo pants were considered high fashion. But let’s not forget the real stars of the era – the TV shows! From the supernatural to the suburban, the hilarious to the heart-wrenching, 1999 was a golden year for the small screen. So, grab your favorite snack, settle into your comfiest chair, and prepare to journey back to a time when your biggest worry was whether Ross and Rachel were on a break. Get ready to relive the magic, the mystery, and the sheer madness of the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows from 1999. Let the nostalgic countdown begin!
O Auto da Compadecida

O Auto da Compadecida

Release Date: 1999-01-05

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“O Auto da Compadecida” is a captivating four-chapter miniseries set in Brazil’s Northeastern region. It follows the (mis)adventures of João Grilo and Chicó, played by talented actors Matheus Nachtergaele and Selton Mello, as they navigate through humorous and unpredictable situations. With a stellar cast and its release in 1999, this TV show promises to be a delightful and entertaining watch for anyone seeking a taste of Brazilian culture.

Cast: Matheus Nachtergaele (João Grilo) , Selton Mello (Chicó) , Rogério Cardoso (Father João) , Denise Fraga (Dora) , Diogo Vilela (Eurico) , Luís Melo (Devil) , Virginia Cavendish (Rosinha) , Bruno Garcia (Vicentão) , Enrique Díaz (Joaquim Brejeiro) , Maurício Gonçalves (Jesus Christ) , Aramis Trindade (Cabo 70) , Marco Nanini (Severino de Aracaju) , Paulo Goulart (Major Antônio Moraes) , Lima Duarte (Bishop) , Fernanda Montenegro (Compadecida)

Directors: Guel Arraes

Writers: Guel Arraes, Adriana Falcão, João Falcão, Ariano Suassuna

Tags: village, based on play or musical, romance, judgment, purgatory, religion, church, catholicism, folklore

The Sopranos

The Sopranos

Release Date: 1999-01-10

Genres: Drama

“The Sopranos” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1999 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the life of Tony Soprano, an Italian-American mobster from New Jersey, as he struggles to balance his family life with his role as the head of a criminal organization. With an incredible cast including James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, and Jamie-Lynn Sigler, this show delves into the complexities of Tony’s personal and professional relationships, making it a must-watch for any TV enthusiast.

Cast: James Gandolfini (Tony Soprano) , Edie Falco (Carmela Soprano) , Jamie-Lynn Sigler (Meadow Soprano) , Robert Iler (A.J. Soprano) , Lorraine Bracco (Jennifer Melfi) , Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti) , Steven Van Zandt (Silvio Dante) , Tony Sirico (Paulie Gualtieri) , Dominic Chianese (Junior Soprano) , Aida Turturro (Janice Soprano) , Steve Schirripa (Bobby ‘Bacala’ Baccalieri)

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Tags: drug dealer, new jersey, italian american, mafia boss, dysfunctional family, strip club, family relationships, dysfunctional marriage, mobster, organized crime, mafia, psychiatrist, family, criminal organization

Inspector Montalbano

Inspector Montalbano

“Inspector Montalbano” is a captivating Italian TV series that has been winning hearts since its release in 1999. Set in the charming town of Vigata, Sicily, the show follows the adventures of Commissario Salvo Montalbano, brilliantly portrayed by Luca Zingaretti. Based on the popular detective novels by Andrea Camilleri, this gripping series has even spawned a prequel, “Il giovane Montalbano,” keeping fans hooked for years.

Cast: Luca Zingaretti (Salvo Montalbano) , Peppino Mazzotta (Giuseppe Fazio) , Angelo Russo (Catarella) , Cesare Bocci (Domenico “Mimì” Augello) , Marcello Perracchio (Dottor Pasquano) , Davide Lo Verde (Agente Galluzzo) , Roberto Nobile (Nicolò Zito)

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Tags: based on novel or book, sicily, italy, police inspector, dialect, town, small italian town, detective fiction

The West Wing

The West Wing

Release Date: 1999-09-22

Genres: Drama

“The West Wing” is a captivating TV show that takes us behind the scenes of a fictional presidential administration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of politics. With a talented cast including Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, and Richard Schiff, the show combines heartwarming humor and unwavering dedication to create a truly engaging experience. Premiering in 1999, it’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year!

Cast: Martin Sheen (President Josiah Bartlet) , Allison Janney (C.J. Cregg) , Richard Schiff (Toby Ziegler) , John Spencer (Leo McGarry) , Bradley Whitford (Josh Lyman) , Dulé Hill (Charlie Young) , Joshua Malina (Will Bailey) , Janel Moloney (Donna Moss) , Alan Alda (Arnold Vinick) , Jimmy Smits (Matthew Santos) , Stockard Channing (Abbey Bartlet) , Kristin Chenoweth (Annabeth Schott) , Mary McCormack (Kate Harper)

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Tags: usa president, washington dc, usa, government, the white house, politics, usa politics, political conflict

Freaks and Geeks

Freaks and Geeks

Release Date: 1999-09-25

Genres: Drama, Comedy

“Freaks and Geeks” is a hilarious and relatable TV show that takes us back to the high school days of 1999. It follows the story of Lindsay Weir, a mathlete who rebels against her nerdy image and starts hanging out with a group of burnouts called the “freaks.” Meanwhile, her younger brother Sam navigates the social universe with his geeky friends. With a talented cast including John Francis Daley, Linda Cardellini, James Franco, and more, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Cast: John Francis Daley (Sam Weir) , Linda Cardellini (Lindsay Weir) , James Franco (Daniel Desario) , Samm Levine (Neal Schweiber) , Martin Starr (Bill Haverchuck) , Jason Segel (Nick Andopolis) , Seth Rogen (Ken Miller) , Joe Flaherty (Harold Weir) , Becky Ann Baker (Jean Weir)

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Tags: high school, coming of age, retro, teen drama, 1980s

Queer as Folk

Queer as Folk

Release Date: 1999-02-23

Genres: Drama

“Hey, I just found this awesome TV show from 1999 called ‘Queer as Folk’! It’s about this guy named Stuart Jones who seems to have it all – he’s rich, incredibly good-looking, and always the center of attention. His best friend Vince Tyler is super funny and adorable, but he lacks confidence. They’re both in their late twenties, hitting Canal Street every night, and wondering where their lives are headed. Then this young and wild guy named Nathan Maloney comes into their world and everything changes. It’s a captivating show with amazing performances by Aidan Gillen, Charlie Hunnam, and Craig Kelly. You should definitely check it out!”

Cast: Aidan Gillen (Stuart Alan Jones) , Charlie Hunnam (Nathan Maloney) , Craig Kelly (Vince Tyler)

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Tags: northern england, age difference, male friendship, gay interest, miniseries, lgbt, lgbt teen, manchester, gay theme

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Release Date: 1999-09-20

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” is a gripping crime drama that premiered in 1999. Set in New York City, the show follows a team of dedicated detectives from the elite Special Victims Unit as they investigate heinous sexually-based offenses. With a talented cast including Mariska Hargitay, Peter Scanavino, Ice-T, and Octavio Pisano, this series delves into the dark and complex world of solving vicious felonies, making it a must-watch for crime enthusiasts.

Cast: Mariska Hargitay (Olivia Benson) , Peter Scanavino (Dominick ‘Sonny’ Carisi Jr.) , Ice-T (Odafin ‘Fin’ Tutuola) , Octavio Pisano (Joe Velasco)

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Tags: sexual abuse, detective, sex scandal, sexual violence, domestic abuse, domestic violence, criminal, sex trafficking, interrogation, district attorney, courtroom, assistant district attorney, sex crime, sexual assault, sex trade, sex slavery, sex offender

Angel

Angel

Release Date: 1999-10-05

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Angel” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 1999. It follows the story of a vampire named Angel, who has been cursed with a soul. Set in Los Angeles, Angel helps people with supernatural problems while searching for his own redemption. This thrilling spin-off from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” features an incredible cast including David Boreanaz, Amy Acker, Alexis Denisof, J. August Richards, James Marsters, and Andy Hallett.

Cast: David Boreanaz (Angel) , Amy Acker (Fred Burkle / Illyria) , Alexis Denisof (Wesley Wyndam-Pryce) , J. August Richards (Charles Gunn) , James Marsters (Spike) , Andy Hallett (Lorne)

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Tags: monster, vampire, anti hero, redemption, vampire hunter (slayer), evil corporation, spin off, dark fantasy, neo-noir, fighting supernatural, supernatural power

Spaced

Spaced

Release Date: 1999-09-24

Genres: Comedy

“Spaced” is a hilarious and relatable TV show that aired in 1999. It follows the lives of Daisy and Tim, two young adults trying to navigate the challenges of being in their 20s. They pretend to be a couple to secure a place to live, and end up in a house with a quirky landlady and an eccentric artist. Set in London, the series gives a realistic and down-to-earth portrayal of everyday life in the city. With a talented cast including Simon Pegg, Jessica Hynes, Nick Frost, Mark Heap, and Julia Deakin, “Spaced” is definitely one of the best TV shows of 1999.

Cast: Simon Pegg (Tim Bisley) , Jessica Hynes (Daisy Steiner) , Nick Frost (Mike Watt) , Mark Heap (Brian Topp) , Julia Deakin (Marsha Klein)

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Tags: london, england, england, roommate, rave, surreal, rave culture, raver, sitcom, flatmates

Farscape

Farscape

“Farscape” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that premiered in 1999. It follows the incredible journey of Astronaut John Crichton, who gets transported to a distant alien battlefield after a space mission gone wrong. With a talented cast including Ben Browder and Claudia Black, this show takes you on an adventure across a thousand galaxies, filled with excitement and mystery.

Cast: Ben Browder (John Crichton) , Claudia Black (Aeryn Sun) , Hugh Keays-Byrne (Grunchlk) , Jonathan Hardy (Dominar Rygel XVI (voice)) , Anthony Simcoe (Ka D’Argo) , John Bach (Einstein) , Gigi Edgley (Chiana) , Wayne Pygram (Scorpius) , Melissa Jaffer (Noranti) , Tammy Macintosh (Joolushko Tunai Fenta Hovalis) , Rebecca Riggs (Commandant Mele-On Grayza) , Paul Goddard (Stark) , David Franklin (Capt. Meeklo Braca) , Duncan Young (Emperor Staleek) , Raelee Hill (Sikozu) , Lani John Tupu (Pilot) , Francesca Buller (War Minister Akhna) , Sandy Gore (Muoma) , Ron Haddrick (Yondalao) , Linal Haft (Maryk) , Stephen James King (Pikal) , Tim McCunn (Caa’ta) , John Adam (Sgt. Learko / Lt. Jatog) , Nathaniel Dean (Jothee) , Kim De Lury (Peacekeeper Captain)

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Tags: spacecraft, space travel, wormhole, alien, farscape, space, alien race, distant planet, distant galaxy

Third Watch

Third Watch

Release Date: 1999-09-23

Genres: Drama

“Third Watch” is a gripping TV show that takes us into the lives of police officers, firemen, and paramedics working the intense 3pm to 11pm shift in New York City’s fictional 55th precinct. With a talented cast including Coby Bell, Nia Long, and Molly Price, this action-packed series offers a thrilling glimpse into the challenges and heroism of those who protect and serve the city. Premiering in 1999, it was one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Coby Bell (Ty Davis Jr.) , Nia Long (Sasha Monroe) , Molly Price (Faith Yokas) , Anthony Ruivivar (Carlos Nieto) , Skipp Sudduth (John Sullivan) , Tia Texada (Maritza Cruz) , Jason Wiles (Maurice Boscorelli) , Cara Buono (Grace Foster) , Josh Stewart (Brandan Finney) , Bonnie Dennison (Emily Yokas)

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Tags: rescue, new york city, police, police officer, paramedic, nypd, firefighter

Judging Amy

Judging Amy

Release Date: 1999-09-19

Genres: Drama

“Judging Amy” is a heartfelt American television drama that aired from September 1999 to May 2005. Starring Amy Brenneman and Tyne Daly, the show revolves around a judge who presides over family court cases while also delving into her own life as a divorced mother. Based on the real-life experiences of Brenneman’s mother, this series offers a compelling blend of legal drama and personal narratives, making it a must-watch for fans of emotional storytelling.

Cast: Amy Brenneman (Amy Gray) , Richard T. Jones (Bruce Van Exel) , Dan Futterman (Vincent Gray) , Jessica Tuck (Gillian Gray) , Marcus Giamatti (Peter Gray) , Karle Warren (Lauren Cassidy) , Jillian Armenante (Donna Kozlowski) , Timothy Omundson (Sean Potter) , Tyne Daly (Maxine Gray)

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Tags: judge, single mother, simpler life

Roswell

Roswell

Release Date: 1999-10-06

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Roswell” is a captivating TV show that aired in 1999. Set in a small New Mexico town where UFOs were sighted in 1947, it follows the story of a high-school student who saves the life of a teenage waitress. As they navigate through the complexities of high school cliques, they discover a secret universe involving superhuman powers, a love for hot sauce, and an alien gene pool. With a talented cast including Shiri Appleby, Jason Behr, Katherine Heigl, and more, this show is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the supernatural and teenage drama.

Cast: Shiri Appleby (Liz Parker) , Jason Behr (Max Evans) , Katherine Heigl (Isabel Evans) , Majandra Delfino (Maria DeLuca) , Brendan Fehr (Michael Guerin) , Nick Wechsler (Kyle Valenti) , Adam Rodríguez (Jesse Ramirez) , William Sadler (Jim Valenti)

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Tags: high school, based on novel or book, new mexico, alien, interspecies romance, roswell, based on young adult novel, teenager

The League of Gentlemen

The League of Gentlemen

Release Date: 1999-01-11

Genres: Comedy

“The League of Gentlemen” is a hilarious British comedy TV show that first aired in 1999. Set in the fictional town of Royston Vasey, it follows the lives of a bunch of eccentric characters, most of whom are played by the show’s talented writers Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, and Reece Shearsmith. With its unique humor and bizarre townspeople, this series became a fan favorite and even had a three-part revival mini-series in 2017 to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Cast: Mark Gatiss () , Steve Pemberton () , Reece Shearsmith () , Paul Hays-Marshall () , Jeremy Dyson ()

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Tags: northern england, dark comedy, surreal, sketch comedy

WWE SmackDown

WWE SmackDown

Release Date: 1999-04-29

Genres: Reality

“WWE SmackDown” is a thrilling TV show that debuted in 1999 and continues to captivate audiences every Friday night. It features the superstars of World Wrestling Entertainment’s “SmackDown” brand, who clash in epic battles of strength and skill. If you’re a fan of intense wrestling action, this is definitely a show you won’t want to miss!

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Tags: wrestling, sports entertainment

The Lost World

The Lost World

Release Date: 1999-04-03

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“The Lost World” is an exciting TV show that aired in 1999. Set in the early 20th century, it follows a group of adventurers who find themselves stranded in the Amazon after their hot-air balloon crashes. They must now fight for survival in a prehistoric plateau, encountering thrilling adventures along the way. Starring Peter McCauley, Rachel Blakely, and William Snow, this show is a must-watch for fans of action and adventure.

Cast: Peter McCauley (Professor George Challenger) , Rachel Blakely (Marguerite Krux) , William Snow (Lord John Roxton)

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Writers: Arthur Conan Doyle

Tags: based on novel or book, expedition, exploration, stranded, dinosaur, lost world, uncharted

The Amanda Show

The Amanda Show

Release Date: 1999-10-16

Genres: Comedy, Kids

“The Amanda Show” is a hilarious live action sketch comedy and variety show that aired on Nickelodeon from 1999 to 2002. Starring Amanda Bynes, Drake Bell, and Nancy Sullivan, along with a talented cast of performers, the show was a spin-off from “All That” and quickly became a fan favorite. Sadly, it was unexpectedly cancelled in 2002, but two years later, the creator Dan Schneider brought us another hit series called “Drake & Josh” featuring some of the same beloved actors.

Cast: Amanda Bynes (Penelope Taynt) , Nancy Sullivan (Mrs. Klutz) , Drake Bell (Carter Klutz) , Raquel Lee (Sheila) , John Kassir (Carl Klutz) , Josh Peck (Paulie) , Camryn Walling (Regular Performer)

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Tags: sketch comedy, variety show

Gimme Gimme Gimme

Gimme Gimme Gimme

Release Date: 1999-01-08

Genres: Comedy

“Gimme Gimme Gimme” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 1999 and was voted as one of the best that year. It follows the lives of Linda La Hughes, an overweight and self-proclaimed irresistible woman obsessed with men, and Tom Farrell, an aspiring actor who shares a flat with Linda. Their contrasting personalities and Linda’s discomfort with Tom’s homosexuality make for a comical and entertaining series, brought to life by talented actors Kathy Burke and James Dreyfus, among others.

Cast: Kathy Burke () , James Dreyfus () , Beth Goddard () , Rosalind Knight () , Brian Bovell ()

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Tags: sexual obsession, surreal, sexual humor, double entendre, sitcom, camp humour, flatmates

David Copperfield

David Copperfield

Release Date: 1999-12-25

Genres: Drama

“David Copperfield” is a captivating TV show based on Charles Dickens’ semi-autobiographical tale. It follows the journey of a young boy who overcomes immense challenges after being sent away by his stepfather following his mother’s death. With an incredible cast including Daniel Radcliffe, Maggie Smith, and Ian McKellen, this heartwarming series premiered on December 25, 1999, and is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe (Young David Copperfield) , Imelda Staunton (Mrs. Micawber) , Maggie Smith (Betsey Trotwood) , Michael Elphick (Barkis) , Zoë Wanamaker (Miss Murdstone) , Ian McKellen (Creakle) , Bob Hoskins (Micawber) , Tom Wilkinson (Narrator) , Pauline Quirke (Peggotty) , Trevor Eve (Murdstone) , Alun Armstrong (Dan Peggotty) , Ian McNeice (Mr. Dick) , Nicholas Lyndhurst (Uriah Heep) , Oliver Ford Davies (Mr. Wickfield) , Oliver Milburn (Steerforth) , Dawn French (Mrs. Cupp) , Joanna Page (Dora Spenlow) , Clare Holman (Rosa Dartle) , Harry Lloyd (Young Steerforth) , Emilia Fox (Clara Copperfield) , Ciarán McMenamin (David Copperfield) , Paul Whitehouse (Pawnbroker)

Directors: Simon Curtis

Writers: Charles Dickens, Adrian Hodges

Tags: london, england, based on novel or book, loss of loved one, miniseries, period drama, 19th century, suffolk, england, dover, homeless child

Storm of the Century

Storm of the Century

Release Date: 1999-02-14

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Storm of the Century” is a thrilling TV show that takes place on an isolated island town during a devastating blizzard. When a mysterious stranger arrives, the peaceful community is thrown into chaos as he terrorizes the residents for a sinister purpose. With a talented cast including Colm Feore, Tim Daly, and Debrah Farentino, this suspenseful series, released in 1999, will keep you on the edge of your seat.”

Cast: Colm Feore (Andre Linoge (Human & Monster Form)) , Tim Daly (Constable Mike Anderson) , Debrah Farentino (Molly Anderson) , Jeffrey DeMunn (Town Manager Robbie Beals) , Becky Ann Baker (Ursula Godsoe) , Julianne Nicholson (Katrina Withers) , Spencer Breslin (Donny Beals) , Casey Siemaszko (Alton ‘Hatch’ Hatcher) , Ron Perkins (Peter Godsoe) , Soo Garay (Melinda Hatcher) , Stephen King (Lawyer in Ad) , Marcia Laskowski (Linda St. Pierre) , Dyllan Christopher (Ralph Emerick ‘Ralphie’ Anderson) , Kathleen Chalfant (Joanna Stanhope) , Adam Zolotin (Davey Hopewell) , Adam LeFevre (Ferd Andrews) , Peter MacNeill (Sonny Brautigan) , Beth Dixon (Tess Merchant) , Leif Anderson (Johnny Harriman) , John Innes (Reverend Riggins) , Nancy Beatty (Octavia Godsoe) , Richard Blackburn (Andy Robichaux) , Gaylyn Britton (Mary Hopewell) , Harley English-Dixon (Heidi St. Pierre) , Kristin Baxley (Annie Huston)

Directors: Craig R. Baxley

Writers: Stephen King

Tags: suicide, island, based on novel or book, sacrifice, parent child relationship, winter, village, snowstorm, cane, murder, jail, snow, miniseries, voting, storm, demon, blizzard, mysterious stranger

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