If you were a teenager before the global domination of social media, what more was there to do but binge watch TV shows? To put it simply – not much.

From high rise denim jeans to soulful R&B tracks, we’ve fallen back in love with the nineties and noughties. And even now as adults, we find comfort in our favourite teen TV shows of yesteryear. If you find yourself repeat-watching lots of timeless TV shows, rest assured that you’re not alone.

A new study from GAP has delved into the world of teen TV and uncovered the best young adult shows that you should rewatch, rebinge, and re-enjoy.

To find out the most-loved teen TV shows, GAP collated lists from EW.com, Cosmopolitan, and Time, comparing and detailing the shows which appeared on all three lists. These shows were then ranked by their score on IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes, creating an overall score to measure their re-watchability.

Here, we take a look at the top five best teen TV shows and remind you what made them so great in the first place.

5. SKINS (2007–2013)

This teen comedy-drama mixes the awkwardness of being a young adult and the challenges of growing up in a polarising world. Skins takes fifth with a score of 78 out of 100.

While touching on some difficult topics of conversation, its realistic depiction of teen life has amassed the TV show a large cult following. Sticky situations ultimately end with a comedic payoff, reminding us of those embarrassing teen days which we either remember fondly or try to leave in the past.

If you’re looking for some teen drama to remind you of your younger days, then an episode of Skins with Effy, Cook, and Freddie might be right up your street.

4. BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER (1997–2003)

Vampires, evil forces, and a kick-ass protagonist played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is unapologetically nineties – and we don’t blame it. It takes fourth place on the list with a loved score of 82.5 out of 100. 

When it comes to fighting the good fight, Buffy teaches us that it doesn’t take fighting the supernatural to show you strength, giving young women everywhere the inspiration to stand up for themselves.

For a nineties and early-noughties show, Buffy explores issues well ahead of its time, including sexuality, sexism, confidence, and more. Along with a great storyline, it’s no wonder that thousands still enjoy watching this classic teen TV show. The vampires just add to the high-stakes drama – no pun intended.

3. ON MY BLOCK (2018–2021)

This teen TV show is a recent addition to our screens but has already cemented itself as a classic. If you haven’t seen On My Block before, now is the time to watch it. If you’re already a fan, there’s no harm in revisiting some of the early episodes. On My Block sweeps past nostalgic classics into third place, securing a loved score of 86 out of 100.

The show explores the lives of four teens in a rough inner-city Los Angeles neighbourhood as their relationships are tested upon starting high school. This isn’t just any teen drama though. With elements of comedy, On My Block is both charming and realistic, focusing on underrepresented communities – something that’s been missing from past teen TV shows.

If you’re looking for an authentic teen TV show to chill out to, you won’t have to look much further than On My Block.

2. MY SO-CALLED LIFE (1994–1995)

With only one season to its name, My So-Called Life is great if you’re looking for a limited teen TV show for a quick binge. Exploring the life of Angela Chase and her school social circle, My So-Called Life portrays adolescence at its most genuine. It’s no wonder it climbs to second place with a score of 89 out of 100.

Challenging themes aren’t just story devices in this series, and instead, continue throughout the show as part of a larger storyline. Despite being cancelled after one season, the show is critically praised for its acting and story, so you can ensure you’ll be enjoying some quality TV. You may even recognise the talents of fresh-faced Jared Leto and Wilson Cruz.

1. FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (2006–2011)

If you want some late-noughties drama in your life, we’ve got the TV show for you.

Friday Night Lights follows the highs and lows of a high-school football team in Texas. Despite being a sports drama, this TV show is perfect for the whole family. Taking the top spot on the list as the best teen TV show with a grand score of 91.5 out of 100, this drama touches on some hard-hitting topics, including race, class, and drug abuse. So get ready for some challenging conversations.

Its universal topics stand the test of time, allowing it to be both relevant and entertaining even in today’s modern world. If you’re going to rewatch any old TV show, make sure that Friday Night Lights is high on your list.
The much-loved TV show went out with a bang. The show’s finale episode, ‘Always’, is the highest-rated episode on IMDb And with an ending full of emotional lows and high stakes, it makes for great night-in viewing. No spoilers here – you’ll have to watch it for yourself.

Are you ready for a cosy night in, watching and rewatching the best-loved teen TV shows? There’s no shortage of great TV shows to binge, and hopefully, you’ve got some much-needed inspiration to take you back to your younger days.