As kids, we spend a lot of time in front the TV before and after school, rushing to finish our homework before catching the latest episode of something. Growing up, we tend to forget a lot of the things we’ve watched… so, this list is definitely going to bring back a lot of memories! Have fun!
1. Phua Chu Kang Pte. Ltd.
Source: rojakdaily
If Malaysians and Singaporeans had a relationship status, it would be “It’s Complicated”. But if there’s one thing we love Singapore for, it’s Phua Chu Kang. PCK and his eccentric family was the reality for many of us from Southeast Asia – especially those from a Chinese family. The show premiered in the late 90’s, as every Malaysian and Singaporean fell in love with this Ah Beng, his yellow boots, disturbing large facial mole and Singlish accent that affect us all no matter where we came from. And let’s admit, we never really stopped saying “Don’t pray pray~”.
2. Friends
Now this is truly the mark of a 80’s – 90’s kid. And when Netflix added it to their list of amazing shows, we were pretty much crying tears of joy. Even though some may disagree with its social choices, I would say that it was a reflection of the times. It doesn’t reflect society today, but it is still enjoyable, and it makes you wonder what it’s like to have lifelong friends. And I mean… how many shows can turn a hairstyle into a global trend?
3. The Nanny
Her nasally voice and laughter was iconic, just like Friends’ character Janice. I mean, how can anyone dislike the idea of an American nanny working in an English home? Plus, we all loved the dry English humour mixed in with Fran’s American humour, making the show a break of fresh air amongst other US series. And even though Fran and Max was the original OTP… we will always be in love with the chemistry between C.C. and Niles.
4. The X-Files
Source: YouTube
Who could ever forget that theme song? And of course, every kid would finish their homework quickly, just to get themselves a little freaked out with this TV show… and then get nightmares after. The show features 2 FBI agents, Mulder and Scully, as they investigate dark, unsolved, seemingly supernatural cases, perfect for those who aren’t into ghosts, but still want a good scare. Also, does anyone remember a series called ‘Taken’ with Dakota Fanning in it? Or was that just a dream?
5. Kopitiam
Source: YouTube
Yes. Remember this amazing local sitcom? It was set in a kopitiam owned by Marie with variety of comical characters such as the uptight Singaporean lawyer Susan, hairstylist Steven, aspiring actor Joe, and of course the retirees Uncle Kong and Uncle Chan. It was a great reflection of the Malaysian culture; people from all walks of life, chilling at a kopitiam on a regular basis, talking about everything and anything under the sun with a cup of coffee and roti bakar.
6. ER
Before there was Greys Anatomy, there was ER, the father of all medical dramas, where doctors actually looked like doctors and had the life of ordinary medical staff. The series ran for 15 seasons, the height of its time being with Dr. Mark Green, head nurse Carol Hathaway, and of course the original “McDreamy”, Dr. Doug Ross. Who doesn’t swoon for George Clooney?!
7. Mr. Bean
If you go to any restaurant with a TV, there’s a very high chance that they were going to play Mr. Bean. Even though he barely has a line, Mr. Bean was thoroughly entertaining, getting himself into trouble and coming up with really creative ways to get out of a bad situation.
8. Spellbinder
Souce: YouTube
Not sure if anyone else remember this show, because I know I do. It’s an Australian show about a bunch of kids who get transported to a whole different dimension ruled by Spellbinders. The good looking male character then meets a girl from the other world, and they become friends. There’s of course a sequel which didn’t do that well, but the first series was definitely memorable.
9. María Mercedes
Source: YouTube
Many of us grew up with telenovelas, and when it comes to drama, only these guys did it right. And if anyone asks you to think about your fave telenovela, it would be the story of María Mercedes; a poor woman who has to look after her family after being abandoned by her mother, who then inherits a tonne of money from a guy who dies and of course his family wants HIS money, thus the drama. Speaking of well-loved telenovelas, there’s also Rosalinda which premiered in the late 1999. I mean, who can forget Fernando José? I’ll honestly watch anything with Thalia in it.
10. Xena: Warrior Princess
Yes. Lucy Lawless will always be my favourite princess, ahead of Ariel, Belle, and any other princesses. I take it back, my OTP is definitely Xena and her sidekick Gabrielle. And don’t even deny that the two had a relationship. It’s obvious.
And the Hercules spin-off was also amazing, especially when both the worlds collide.
Header image source: fas
