Ohio has served as the backdrop for a surprising number of influential TV shows, each capturing a different facet of American life and pop culture. Here are seven shows set in Ohio that left a lasting mark on viewers and defined their eras:
1. Glee
Set in the fictional town of Lima, “Glee” followed a high school glee club as they navigated the ups and downs of adolescence, friendship, and ambition. The show became a cultural phenomenon, winning numerous awards and inspiring a new generation of musical TV series.
2. The Drew Carey Show
This sitcom, set in Cleveland, chronicled the everyday life of Drew Carey and his quirky group of friends and coworkers. Its working-class humor and memorable characters, like Mimi Bobeck, made it a staple of 1990s television.
3. 3rd Rock from the Sun
Set in the fictional Rutherford, Ohio, this sitcom followed a group of aliens posing as a human family. Its offbeat humor and unique premise made it a standout show of the late ’90s.
4. WKRP in Cincinnati
A classic sitcom centered on the staff of a struggling radio station in Cincinnati, “WKRP in Cincinnati” offered a humorous look at the broadcasting industry and became known for its memorable characters and witty writing.
5. Hot in Cleveland
This TV Land hit followed three women from Los Angeles who start a new chapter in Cleveland, along with their sassy caretaker. The show celebrated Midwestern charm and was beloved for its ensemble cast and comedic take on starting over.
6. Homefront
Set in post-World War II River Run, Ohio, “Homefront” explored the lives of families adjusting to peace after years of conflict. The series was praised for its historical accuracy and emotional storytelling.
7. Hope & Faith
This sitcom, set in Glen Falls, Ohio, centered on the comedic chaos that ensues when a soap opera star moves in with her suburban sister. The show’s blend of family dynamics and slapstick humor resonated with audiences in the early 2000s.
These shows not only entertained millions but also brought Ohio’s cities and small towns to the forefront of American pop culture, shaping how generations viewed family, friendship, and the Midwest.
Sources
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Television_shows_set_in_Ohio
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2022-10-14-this-is-the-most-famous-show-set-in-ohio/
[3] https://tvshowpilot.com/fun-posts/shows-set-in-ohio/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/Ohio/comments/10di10q/what_movies_tv_shows_or_popular_songs_have/
[5] https://www.themoviedb.org/keyword/2494-ohio/tv
