Top 10 FOX TV Shows of the 2000s You Must Watch Again

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In 1986, the News Corporation debuted FOX as a challenger to the established television giants – NBC, ABC, and CBS. While the network gained popularity initially, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it truly thrived. This surge in success was due largely to the strategic move of phasing out controversial reality shows like “Who Wants to Marry a Multi-Millionaire?” and “Temptation Island,” and instead emphasizing gripping scripted series. As time went on, FOX started overtaking the Big Three in ratings, and by 2005, it had taken the lead as the most-watched U.S. broadcast network among the coveted 18–49 age group.

Currently, the network seems a mere echo of its past vibrancy. It appears to have redirected its content towards sports and unscripted shows. However, we’ll never forget the golden era when the selection was rich and varied, catering to every taste. Shows like “24” and “Malcolm in the Middle” made viewers feel spoiled for choice during the 2000s.

Here are the 10 best shows the FOX network had to offer in the 2000s.

10
‘The O.C.’ (2003 – 2007)

The show, “The O.C.,” primarily focuses on Ryan Atwood (Ben McKenzie), a teenager with a troubled past who’s been adopted by the wealthy Cohen family in Orange County, California. He grapples with adapting to his new life while dealing with various challenges related to friendships, love, and family matters.

Fish in New Waters

This clever, thought-provoking teen series tastefully tackles weighty topics such as depression, homophobia, teen pregnancy, and generational strife while injecting it with a dose of metafictional wit. The audience may find themselves touched as Ryan’s initial skepticism softens to reveal an underlying warmth. The show is also known for putting Orange County on the map and has influenced other productions, like MTV’s reality show Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County and Bravo’s docuseries The Real Housewives of Orange County, which followed in its footsteps.

9
‘Fringe’ (2008 – 2013)

In the series called “Fringe”, FBI agent Olivia Dunham (played by Anna Torv), scientist Walter Bishop (portrayed by John Noble), and his son, Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson), are part of an innovative team within the Federal Bureau of Investigation known as the Fringe Division. This specialized unit employs unconventional scientific theories to explore unusual events linked to a parallel reality world.

Enter the Multiverse

Sit back, focus, because Fringe delves deep into intricate subjects such as singularities and the butterfly effect in an exceptionally captivating manner. scarcely have parallel realities been portrayed with such elegance. Notably, all cast members deliver outstanding performances, although your gaze will often be drawn to Anna Torv and Joshua Jackson. Remarkably, this series gained a devoted fanbase despite being assigned the “Friday night death slot.

8
‘The Bernie Mac Show’ (2001 – 2006)

In “The Bernie Mac Show,” the character portrayed by comedian Bernie Mac is a fictionalized version of himself. Due to circumstances, he finds himself taking on the role of guardian for his sister’s three children as she seeks help in rehab. This unconventional parenting style provides ample opportunities for laughter.

Parenting Doesn’t Have to be Stressful

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but rave about how The Bernie Mac Show delivers an engaging, vibrant experience that appeals to everyone in the family. The humor is reminiscent of Mac’s witty stand-up comedy, making it both hilarious and relatable. It takes a special talent like him to approach complex domestic issues with a comedic twist. But what truly sets this show apart are the surprising celebrity appearances. One moment, you’re laughing at Stone Cold Steve Austin, the next, you’re in awe of Halle Berry dropping by!

7
‘Prison Break’ (2005 – 2009)

In the series “Prison Break”, Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell) stands falsely accused of murdering the Vice President’s sibling. Michael Scofield, his younger brother and a structural engineer, firmly believes in his innocence. Consequently, he makes a promise to devise an intricate prison break plan that necessitates his own arrest and incarceration alongside Lincoln. Will Michael manage to free his brother before the execution date arrives? The suspense lies in “Prison Break”.

Cheers to Sibling Love

The television scene is filled with captivating series, yet few surpass the greatness of “Prison Break”. Each episode concludes with a suspenseful cliffhanger, causing viewers to delay their bathroom breaks just to find out if Michael manages to advance his escape plan one more step. It’s hard to believe that such a straightforward concept – breaking out of prison – would sustain so many seasons. While the show does lose some steam after the initial two seasons, it remains superior to a significant number of similar shows in terms of quality.

6
‘Bones’ (2005 – 2017)

In the show “Bones”, Dr. Temperance Brennan – a brilliant yet socially awkward forensic anthropologist – collaborates with an FBI agent and a former military marksman to decipher murder mysteries through analysis of skeletal remains. At the Jeffersonian Institute, this dynamic team employs innovative scientific techniques to unearth the hidden facts surrounding these tragic deaths.

Not the Ordinary Kind of Procedural

Ever since the golden age of noir in the 1930s and 40s, smart crime-solving seemed to fade away. But luckily, the series Bones revived the pulse-pounding, edge-of-your-seat investigations. Inspired by the life and novels of forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs, this show tackles cases that truly matter. If you had any doubts about it before, let me assure you – this show certainly delivers.

5
‘Arrested Development’ (2003 – 2006)

As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you that I’m deeply immersed in the world of “Arrested Development.” I find myself playing Michael Bluth, the sane apple from a madcap family tree, thrust into managing our real estate empire when dear old dad lands in jail for fraud. Balancing chaos is my daily routine as I strive to keep our family from drowning in their own disarray, but with comedy at its core, it’s never a simple task—I’m constantly knee-deep in one mess after another!

Clever Comedy

Jason Bateman delivers a compelling performance that captivates both us and the rest of the cast, leaving one to wonder if he’s ever had an off day on set. Instead, his character’s growth transforms this series from merely a sitcom into an inspiring narrative about tenacity and bravery – a story of determination and courage. During its airing, the show garnered six Emmys and served as a catalyst for numerous other single-camera comedy series like “30 Rock” and “Community.

4
‘Firefly’ (2002)

In the year 2517, following human colonization of a star system named The Verse, the narrative unfolds around a group of rebels aboard a ship called Serenity, which is similar to a Firefly-type vessel. They traverse through space while avoiding the oppressive reach of a governing body referred to as The Alliance.

Roaming Through Space

Among Joss Whedon’s science fiction creations, Firefly stands out as his most creative and immersive. This series provided Whedon with an opportunity to experiment with visual styles, earning him an Emmy. However, the real triumph was in casting Gina Torres and Nathan Fillion for the main roles. It’s unfortunate that the show only had one season. Fortunately, its popularity led Universal Pictures to produce a sequel film named Serenity.

3
‘Malcolm in the Middle’ (2000 – 2006)

As a devoted fan, I’d say that “Malcolm in the Middle” is all about me, a young whiz kid (Malcolm, played by Frankie Muniz) with an impressive IQ of 165. Surrounded by a tough mom, a dad who’s often out of his depth, and a handful of mischievous siblings, I navigate the highs and lows of family life in every episode, finding myself right smack in the middle of all the chaos.

Family Madness

As one of the pioneering single-camera sitcoms without an audience or laugh track, “Malcolm in the Middle” made a significant impact and transformed the television industry. The acting is top-notch, with Bryan Cranston delivering a standout performance as Malcolm’s father. It’s no wonder he found even more success later with “Breaking Bad.” Despite being under the FOX network, the comedy series saw massive syndication success worldwide.

2
‘House M.D.’ (2004 – 2012)

The main focus of “House” revolves around the professional journey of Dr. Gregory House, a doctor known for his eccentricity and disdain for people. He often employs unconventional diagnostic methods and struggles with an addiction to painkillers. Due to his unique approach, he frequently finds himself at odds with others, including his fellow diagnosticians working at the fictitious Princeton–Plainsboro Teaching Hospital (PPTH) in New Jersey.

Doctor Strange?

House is renowned for delving into profound personal topics like ambition and rebellion, while simultaneously showcasing professional courage. Unlike typical medical settings, PPTH is portrayed with a stark, captivating beauty that contrasts with its busy, instrument-filled interiors against the sepia-toned outside world. The series was so impactful it achieved an unprecedented milestone in 2008, becoming the most-watched show globally.

1
’24’ (2001 – 2012)

24 seconds brings us to Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland), the shining star of the fictitious Counterterrorist Unit (CTU). He’s known for averting terror threats, but his profession exacts a hefty price on his personal life. However, it’s always thrilling to see him handle everything within a 24-hour timeframe.

Previously on ’24’…

Which one is faster between Kiefer Sutherland and Tom Cruise? Let’s see who wins that race!

The TV show “24” is nothing short of enchantment, with its unique structure adding to the thrill, and the unexpected twists only enhancing the experience. Real-life events often transpire within a day, and this series mirrors that reality, but with more action and intrigue. The villains are exceptionally crafted, as are the side characters. Thank goodness for Chloe, always guiding Jack away from trouble!

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2025-05-18 23:36