The Cosby Show (Nickelodeon, Syndicated, TBS)

The Huxtables live in Brooklyn, New York, and face challenges typical of most American families. Cliff (Bill Cosby), an obstetrician/gynecologist, and Clair (Phylicia Rashad), a lawyer, are the parents everyone longs for -- patient, understanding, and never lacking the humor essential in raising five kids. They rarely argue with each other or their kids, relying instead on communication to work through issues. The Huxtable kids -- Denise (Lisa Bonet), Theo (Malcolm-Jamal Warner), Vanessa (Tempestt Bledsoe), Rudy (Keshia Knight Pulliam), and rarely seen eldest daughter Sondra (Sabrina Le Beauf) -- have unique personalities, but their relationships are rarely marred by typical sibling bickering. Each is a high achiever (although their areas of interest vary widely) whose thoughtful behavior and emphasis on education are reflections of their parents'.

When it premiered in 1984, THE COSBY SHOW broke down racial barriers in TV by portraying an African-American family comfortably assimilated in upper-middle-class white America. Now showing in syndication (and on DVD), it continues to educate and entertain its audience. The show steers clear of any topics that might raise eyebrows, focusing mainly on the daily childrearing issues of a large family. With so many teens and preteens in Huxtable house, many of the issues they face relate to boy/girl relations, and it's refreshing to see a household in which kids willingly bring their worries and frustrations to their parents' attention.

Much of the subject matter, including Theo's battles to overcome dyslexia, is based on Cosby's own experiences as a father, and lessons reiterate the themes of self-respect and appreciation of others and emphasize healthy romantic relationships. The Cosby Show also offers the audience subtly placed tidbits of African-American history, music appreciation, and environmental awareness. Cliff's parents reminisce about marching with Martin Luther King, Jr., and Cliff and Clair often share their love of jazz and the blues with their kids.