When I was little, my grandparents and I spent many days playing Mario Kart on my Wii, attempting to learn Sudoku and watching lots of television. My Pawpaw always watched "old shows," as my 4-year-old self would say. Now that I'm older, I have come to love the "old shows" that I so often scrutinized as a child, and I always watch them when I come to visit. Here are ten of my favorite "old shows" that satisfy my old soul:
1. "M.A.S.H."
"M.A.S.H." is a go-to show for me and my grandparents. The show follows a cast of doctors and nurses stationed in South Korea during the Korean War. While the subject matter seems quite serious, there are some amazing characters that bring a sense of humor and family that can't be found in many other shows. You can binge this one on Hulu!
2. "The Twilight Zone"
"The Twilight Zone" is a classic for anyone who loves sci-fi or horror. This show has some of the best plot twists I've ever seen, and it has helped me to develop a true love for many science fiction shows and movies today. If you're a fan of "Black Mirror," "The Twilight Zone" may be for you. It runs on the same anthology principle and focuses on having a moral value similar to that in "Black Mirror." You can find "The Twilight Zone" on nearly every streaming service!
3. "Married... with Children"
This show follows the dysfunctional Bundy family through just about everything you can think of. I have learned to appreciate the humor I often overlooked when I was younger. The show had a successful 11 season run, and it still streams on Hulu.
4. "Quantum Leap"
Scott Bakula plays scientist Dr. Sam Beckett who is stuck in a cycle of leaping from one person's life to the next (yes, even women) after a failed time-travel experiment. After each leap, he must help the person he has leaped into correct a mistake made in their lifetime. It is a true beauty in the science fiction realm, not to mention it is packed full of humor. Catch "Quantum Leap" on the NBC app!
5. "Tales from the Darkside"
I think of this show as an almost darker version of "The Twilight Zone." This is also an anthology series, but it strays away from science fiction and more towards horror. For true horror fans, this show is perfect for some unique subjects that you won't find in today's horror genre.
6. "Gilligan's Island"
I'm sure you've heard of "Gilligan's Island" or some reference to it. In case you haven't heard of it, it is a sitcom that focuses on an eccentric group of castaways, who are stranded on an island and working tirelessly to find a way to get off. Gilligan is a true embodiment of my clumsiness, and I relate to him because of that. Due to the wide range of character personalities, everyone is bound to find someone that they relate to. Along with this relatable feel, the show also brings about a cheesy sense of humor that most shows lack today. Check out your local listings to catch a re-run of this great group's struggle to escape the island.
7. "The Andy Griffith Show"
While it may not seem like a big accomplishment to others, I take pride in finally being able to whistle this theme song after practicing along with the TV for a big part of my childhood. Now that I'm older, I have held interest past the theme song to find that I wish we had more places like Mayberry in the world. The show has a sense of community that makes the viewer feel like they are a part of the family. You can experience this feeling for yourself by watching "The Andy Griffth Show" on Netflix!
8. "The Simpsons"
This is a cartoon classic that everyone besides younger me seems to love. When I was younger, I couldn't stand "The Simpsons," and it didn't grow on me until here recently. The characters are so unique with humor and personality that makes for a great conversation, and that's why it is the longest-running American sitcom. It doesn't hurt to stop by FOX and see what stupid antic they'll be up to this week.
9. "Star Trek: The Next Generation"
This one was the one I dreaded the most growing up. That is until I realized that it goes way beyond the whole floating in space stuff that I thought as a 4-year-old. These characters have a great relationship, and the special effects were surprisingly good for the late '80s. While I am also a fan of the original "Star Trek," this show will always hold a special place in my heart since I share it with my grandparents. If you wanna catch a ride through space and some saucy space drama, you can stream "Star Trek: The Next Generation" on almost any platform!
10. "Futurama"
If you're on any social media platform, I guarantee you've seen this meme. "Futurama" is basically just one big meme with tons of laughs and some meme-worthy characters. The concept of the show is outlandish, but that is the beauty of the show. It is based around Fly, a pizza-guy who wakes up 1000 years in the future, and his adjustment to the newfound world through his new job for an intergalactic shipping company. At his new job, he meets new friends and love interests, and they embark on senseless adventures for 140 episodes. Join along on their adventures by streaming on Hulu!
Though I am only in college, I find that I have an old soul. If you're a fellow old soul or just someone looking for a new show to binge, I'm sure this list has something for everyone!
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