Relive the Nostalgia and Life Lessons of 90s Sitcom Boy Meets World

The Legacy of Boy Meets World

Boy Meets World was a classic 90s sitcom that aired on ABC from 1993 to 2000. The show centered around Cory Matthews, played by Ben Savage, as he navigated his adolescence and young adulthood alongside his family, friends, and teachers. Boy Meets World tackled important issues like first loves, friendship, and identity with humor and heart. Even though the show ended over 20 years ago, it remains a fan favorite due to its memorable characters, witty writing, and universal themes that still resonate today.

Introducing the Matthews Family and Friends

The Matthews family was at the heart of Boy Meets World. Cory's parents Alan and Amy, played by William Russ and Betsy Randle, provided guidance and comic relief as Cory came of age. His older brother Eric, played by Will Friedle, was the often goofy older sibling who had memorable comedic moments on the show. Cory's teacher Mr. Feeny, played brilliantly by William Daniels, lived next door to the Matthews and was a constant presence and mentor in Cory's life from elementary school through college.

Cory's closest friends who joined him on his journey through adolescence included Shawn Hunter, Cory's lifelong best friend played by Rider Strong, and Topanga Lawrence, Cory's main love interest played by Danielle Fishel. Other influential characters were culturally progressive teacher Mr. Turner, Shawn's trailer park family the Hunters, and crush-worthy heartthrob Jonathan Taylor Thomas as a recurring guest star.

Lasting Themes of Growing Up and Relationships

While Boy Meets World included zany plots involving espionage, wrestling, and even cults, at its heart was Cory's journey through adolescence into adulthood. The early seasons captured Cory's first kiss, learning to accept his detentions from Mr. Feeny, and strengthening his friendship with Shawn. As the show went on, Cory experienced his first serious relationship with Topanga, arguments with his parents, and leaving home for college. Along the way, he learned some of life's most profound lessons with the help of his family, friends, and teachers.

Relationships were central to Boy Meets World. Cory and Topanga's romantic arc over the course of the series showed how young love can grow into a mature, committed partnership. Shawn and Cory modeled an unbreakable, almost brotherly bond of male friendship. Mr. Feeny acted as a surrogate parent always ready with meaningful advice for Cory, Eric, and their peers. Even the marriages of Cory's parents and teachers role modeled healthy marital relationships for viewers.

Comedic Moments and Catchphrases

While Boy Meets World explored serious topics, it was also filled with lighthearted comedy that made the show so fun to watch. Eric Matthews provided outrageous moments of stupidity and slapstick along with his own unique vernacular. His greetings of "Hello!" and referring to himself as "The Eric" were beloved by fans. Mr. Feeny always had a deadpan quip ready for his students, dryly delivering lines like "I'm praying for rain" when a school trip goes awry.

The show created catchphrases that became pop culture touchstones. Cory muttering "yeah, no" when reluctantly agreeing to Mr. Feeny's advice and Topanga's hippie dad insisting "you're my butterfly" are still quoted today. The series also broke the fourth wall at times, with Eric directly addressing the audience or commenting that he knew he was a TV character. These meta-commentaries on the show itself were pioneering for a sitcom.

Enduring Popularity in Syndication and Streaming

After Boy Meets World ended in 2000, it became a staple in syndication on Disney Channel and ABC Family. Reruns of the show introduced it to a new generation of viewers who were just as charmed by the Matthews family as original fans. The show's availability on streaming platforms like Hulu and Disney+ has allowed fans to re-watch episodes and sparked new appreciation for the series.

In 2014, Girl Meets World premiered on the Disney Channel as a sequel series following Cory and Topanga's tween daughter Riley. Original cast members frequently appeared on Girl Meets World to reprise their Boy Meets World roles. While Girl Meets World appealed to a new demographic, it also drew in viewers nostalgic for the original 90s sitcom.

The Lasting Messages of Boy Meets World

Why does Boy Meets World remain a relevant and important show decades after it ended? While its 90s fashion and pop culture references may feel dated, its writing and messages still resonate. The show offered an honest portrayal of adolescence that feels timeless. Cory's struggles to find himself, his relationships with family and friends, and his life lessons about love, death, and growing up mirror what young people still experience today.

Boy Meets World was progressive in presenting characters like Shawn and Mr. Turner who came from more working class backgrounds. Shawn's trailer park upbringing and difficult family life were depicted compassionately. The show was also one of the first aimed at kids and teens to feature interracial relationships when Angela became Shawn's girlfriend and eventual fiancée. These inclusive messages and storylines make Boy Meets World feel very modern, even two decades later.

The Legacy and Impact Moving Forward

Boy Meets World ended its seven season run in 2000, but it remains firmly entrenched in pop culture today. Reruns continue to attract young viewers while giving older fans a nostalgia fix. The continued passion for the show can be seen in the enthusiastic turnouts and long lines when the cast reunites for conventions. Boy Meets World is also increasingly regarded as an important family sitcom that helped shape 90s television.

As more nineties kids who grew up watching the show become parents themselves, Boy Meets World will likely gain another generation of viewers as families watch together. The series has proven itself to be multigenerational in its appeal. Just as Mr. Feeny's lessons impacted Cory Matthews' life, so too will the poignant and funny stories of Boy Meets World continue to resonate for today's kids and parents.

FAQs

How many seasons was Boy Meets World on air?

Boy Meets World ran for 7 seasons on ABC from 1993 to 2000.

Who were the main characters on Boy Meets World?

The main characters included Cory Matthews, Topanga Lawrence, Shawn Hunter, Eric Matthews, and Mr. Feeny.

What was the spin-off series to Boy Meets World called?

In 2014, the spin-off series Girl Meets World premiered on the Disney Channel following Cory and Topanga's daughter Riley.

Where can I watch Boy Meets World today?

Boy Meets World is available to stream on Hulu, Disney+, and iTunes.

Did the cast of Boy Meets World reunite?

Yes, the cast has reunited several times over the years at conventions and panels to celebrate the show.