Photo Credit: Graphic by Saylor Cuzzort
TOP 10: Disney TV Shows
Number 1: Proud Family
This amazing TV show ran originally on Disney Channel from September 2001 to August 2005 and is now available on Disney+. There is even a new season of this show coming to Disney+ sometime in 2021 with the original cast. This show puts the spotlight on the Black Community and played a special part in my childhood. All the characters and the storyline for every episode always lined up with real life situations. It taught me how to appreciate my family even when they push my buttons. I learned the importance of good relationships and making good choices as a family. I love how it highlights school and life experiences of African Americans. It specifically shines a light on Black women and how we thrive in life’s toughest situations. This show teaches Black women that they can achieve anything with the support and love of friends and family.
Number 2: Hannah Montana
This original Disney Channel show was aired in March of 2006 to January 2011. Hannah Montana was played by Miley Cyrus and was known for her classic theme song. Every time it came on, I would get up, dance and sing. It was fun, enjoyable and always made me laugh. Hannah Montana was one of my favorites because of it’s amusing plots and humorous punchlines. I would always stay up late in my room watching this show.
Number 3: That’s So Raven
This show aired in January of 2003 and was one of Disney Channel’s biggest hits with Raven Symone starring as the lead character. In this sitcom, Raven is a psychic, she is able to look into the future and see when a bad situation is on the horizon. Although this gives her time to attempt to prevent the situation, it always ends up humorously not working out. With a hilarious and mysterious plot each episode, I was filled with laughter every time. I always enjoyed seeing these characters. In July of 2017, Disney also made a reboot called Raven’s Home. In this sitcom, her son Booker has the same power as Raven, to see disastrous problems coming their way. This show has been a huge benefit in bringing those original characters back in front of the camera.
Number 4: Cory in the House
Aired from January 2007 to September 2008 on Disney Channel. This sitcom was a spin-off from Disney Channel’s That’s So Raven. In the show, Cory’s dad, Victor, was named head chef for President Martinez, so Cory lives in Washington D.C. and shares staff quarters with his dad in the White House and attends an exclusive private school. Sophie, the president’s daughter, is intelligent for her age and is mischievous–Cory’s nemesis. The ambassador’s daughter, Meena, and a political heir, Newt, become Cory’s new friends. This show was full of comedy and excitement with its twisted plots that spiral into dramatic resolutions.
Number 5: Kim Possible
Airing in June of 2002, this beloved Disney Channel cartoon revolves around a girl who is an undercover spy. It is full of intense scenes and suspenseful moments. Kim has to fight Dr. Draken and his evil schemes, as well as tackle highschool and all it’s drama. It may be a huge responsibility for one teenager, but she always comes around with victory. This comedy-adventure cartoon is full of action and challenges in every scene. And with her team, Wade, Ron Stoppable and his animal sidekick Rufus, by her side, it makes the job a little easier. Along with her family being there to support her with her civilian side of life.
Number 6: Suite Life of Zack & Cody/Suite Life on Deck
The Suite Life of Zack & Cody series aired on Disney Channel from March 2005 to September 2008. It was nominated for an Emmy Award three times and also a Nickelodeon Kids Choice Award three times. I loved this show because Zack and Cody were always getting into mischievous trouble every time their mom left home. And they were always having fun with friends and driving the hotel manager, Mr. Moseby, crazy. These two prankster twins were always perfect for each other when it comes to getting away with everything. The Suite Life on Deck series ran from September 2006 to May 2011. When this show first came out I was so happy and surprised because I knew I always enjoyed watching the first series that Disney made, so this show was especially special to me because I was so excited to see the show continue with the same beloved characters.
Number 7: Wizards of Waverly Place
This show ran on Disney from October 2007 to January 2012. This series was full of fantasy and adventure and always had a catchy theme song. Selena Gomez, as the main character, starring as Alex Russo and her best friend Harper Finkle starred by Jennifer Stone. Alex was always full of magic and was able to change any situation with just a wave of her wand. This show was unique because of how they used their magic powers to change their problems to solve them. Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place was not like the other shows and what made it special was how its uniqueness made me find the show interesting and fascinating to watch.
Number 8: The Even Stevens Show
This comedic series aired on Disney Channel from June 2000 to June 2003. It was always full of laughter and joy. With Shia LeBeouf as Louis Stevens, who is the main character, always had a new idea for a new gadget. Christy Carlson Romano who starred as Renee “Ren” Stevens was always ready to give orders to her brother Louis and make sure everything was kept in line. Her character really stood out in this show and I really admired her one-of-a-kind personality in the show. And we cannot forget Bernard, also known as “Beans”, who was starred by Steven Anthony Lawrence, always found it nice to stop by their house on a daily basis. With his unique humor and always cracking jokes, he was surely the perfect fit for this role and will always be one of Disney’s most beloved original characters. This is one of my most beloved Disney original shows because of the creative humor and excitement that no other show could have.
Number 9: Lizzie McGuire
This beloved comedy series ran on Disney Channel from January 2001 February 2004. Lizzie McGuire is a thirteen-year-old girl who is going through middle school with her best friends, Miranda and Gordo. They ride a dramatic rollercoaster all through middle school that is a popularity contest and a problem in every class. Along with school she has to balance out home with her irritating little brother, Matt and her mom who has good intentions but still is nosey. You could always read her mind, even if she would never say it, her animated self-esteem will.
Number 10: Phil of the Future
This science fiction American sitcom ran on Disney Channel from June 2004 to August 2006. The Diffy family went on a vacation in the year of 2121 but their time machine lost control and threw them back into the year 2004. So, unfortunately Lloyd and his wife Barbara, who is half-robot, and their two kids Phil and Pim have to adjust to be a normal family in suburban Pickford. Phil becomes friends with Keely Tislow to keep their secret and the siblings fight together to defeat school, homework, and bullies without getting caught.