Opening sequences for shows have been getting shorter and much less elaborate over the years. While Netflix has been attempting to bring back memorable opening sequences, it's still pretty much a dying skill in the entertainment world. Many shows have great opening sequences that prove it can be a wonderful art form.
A big part of what can make a show popular is its opening credit sequence. Between the visuals and the song, the introduction to a show can have a big impact on viewers. It's a shame that the art form is changing so much, but there is still hope for the dying art form. These are shows that have a memorable introduction sequence.
Home Improvement (1991-1995)
Available for purchase on Apple TV
Throughout the 90s, Home Improvement aired. The show was the peak example of the American family during that time. Tim and Jill's love life, family time, and everything in between were covered in the show. It also was unique since it had a show-within-a-show.
Home Improvement was one of the shows that changed up its opening sequence every few seasons to keep it fresh. The same song always remained, which is a big reason why people always knew when the show was on. The song had a unique sound throughout it that people always associated with the show. Overall, the opening sequence was filled with blueprints, the Taylor family, and lots of tools, making it a classic.
The Golden Girls (1985-1992)
Stream on Hulu
One of the most iconic shows of the 80s was also gave empowering quotes to live by in many of their episodes.
The four ladies must learn to live together throughout the ups and downs of their friendships. The theme song appropriately shows the challenges and good times that they go through, all while "Thank You For Being A Friend" plays in the background. Watching older ladies play pranks, and console one another is not only relatable but also uplifting. It shows why this show has aged just as beautifully as the cast did.
Family Guy (1999-Present)
Stream on Hulu
There have been many Family Guy has been making inappropriate, and politically incorrect jokes. The show may not be for everyone, but the crass jokes and the dysfunctionality of the characters the show are still keeping the show alive.
There are many memorable parts of the show, but the theme song is also a part of the show that is incredibly well-known. The Griffin family coming together to sing about the show in their living room which then transforms into a whole stage with performers is unforgettable. The song itself is extremely catchy, and since it's not too long it makes it easy to whether you've seen the show or not.
The Muppet Show (1976-1981)
Stream on Disney+
Decades ago, Jim Henson helped create The Muppet Show, which ended up running for five years. The Muppets told jokes, taught lessons, sang songs, did daring stunts for that time, and had some of the most famous guest stars.
At the start of each episode, the Muppets all came out and sang "The Muppet Show Theme". It started with Kermit announcing the show and the guest, and then the Muppets came onto the stage singing under their archways. It wasn't the most flashy opening sequence, but seeing the whole cast of the Muppets come together to introduce the show is iconic. This scene is even still used and referenced today in more modern Muppets pieces.
Kim Possible (2002-2007)
Stream on Disney+
The Disney Channel had lots of shows that only got a few seasons, but was adored by fans. Kim Possible was one of those shows. Kim was a normal high school student, that also doubled as a crime-fighting spy, and had the help of her best friend Ron Stoppable, and his pet naked mole-rat, Rufus.
Not only was the show great, but it was a show that had a theme song with a noise that made it stand out from other shows. The beeping sound that her communicator made in the show was used throughout the opening sequence. The theme song also showed both sides of her life. The visuals, the beeping noise, and the iconic song gave the show one theme song fans have yet to forget even though the show has been off the air for years.
Game Of Thrones (2011-2019)
Stream on HBO Max
The HBO series Each Game of Thrones house must prove its worth and protect its name.
The show itself was unforgettable, but the opening credits were something amazing and new. The music itself is strong and helps add to the overall theme. A map of the area with each town rising from the map is zoomed in on throughout the opening credits. It helps gives fans context of where each town is in location to each other, as well as just how big they are compared to others.
M.A.S.H. (1972-1983)
Stream on Hulu
The war comedy-drama M.A.S.H. was a classic comedy about war, but there are many like that.
Many people recall the opening theme sequence more than they any part of the show. It by no means was an elaborate opening. The song "Suicide is Painless" plays in the background while scenes of soldiers performing various tasks play. Many adults now associate that song with that show and have vivid memories of the soldiers running around to help their fallen comrades as is shown in the opening theme.
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990-1996)
Stream on HBO Max
Will Smith has built quite the name for himself since he starred in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. With more movies, songs, and shows, the Fresh Prince has more than earned the title he was given from the show he starred in the 90s.
Even though the show is incredibly popular, even still today, there are plenty of people who have never seen it but are still familiar with the theme song. The song itself is an iconic song by itself that can be heard playing on the radio or in bars. Overall, the opening theme stands out due to the bright colors, classic 90s feel, and of course the song.
Cheers (1982-1993)
Stream on Hulu
Cheers was a very popular show in the 80s. Taking place in a bar for basically the entirety of the show gave it a unique flare since it was able to have minimal scene changes but still keep the audience hooked. What it was most well-known for though was the opening credit sequence.
Cheers had a simple theme song visually. There wasn't anything flashy or high-end about it. The simplicity of it is what fans love about it. The calmness that sways over viewers as "Where Everybody Knows Your Name" starts to play is one of the fan's favorite parts. The song and the shots tend to bring a large amount of nostalgia to most fans, which is what makes it such a hit.
Friends (1994-2004)
Stream on HBO Max
Sitcoms have become one of the most popular genres of television, and Friends falls under that category. As an incredibly popular, and well-loved show that aired for ten years, it left fans with much to , from the jokes and songs to the lies and the opening theme song.
Perhaps the most iconic opening credits sequence is that for the popular show Friends. Between the fountain, the couch, and the tiffany lamp, the red, yellow, and blue color sequence, and the infamous clapping sequence, there are lots of parts of the introduction that make it so memorable.
