Beverly Hills 90210 is the landmark series that established FOX as a cutting-edge programmer for an under-serviced niche  teens then a rebel concept. Aaron Spelling’s often-imitated, never-equaled show has made household names of its stars and developed an ardent, worldwide following.

In the first season of the show it's main characters, Dylan, Kelly, Donna, Steve, David, Andrea and twins Brandon and Brenda all attended West Beverly Hills High School. Brandon and Brenda Walsh and their parents, transplants from Minneapolis were the stable nuclear family with strong values; their home was a safe haven for the whole gang and the center of much of the drama. By its third season the show's popularity had soared, and in 1993 it became available in syndication both in the United States and internationally. In 1996 the show's ratings were still high, the teens had graduated from high school, and some were attending California University. A number of the original characters had literally graduated from the show by then, and new characters introduced. But despite those changes, Beverly Hills 90210 -continually attracted a loyal viewership.

Some of the issues dealt with on the program included learning disabilities, prejudice, divorce, date rape, sexuality, alcoholism and drug use. One of the main characters, Dylan, had recurring drug and alcohol problems; another, Kelly, had a drug and alcohol abusing mother in recovery. Donna learned to overcome a learning disability, and several others struggled through parental divorce and remarriage. Many of the show's main characters were sexually active, and issues concerning safe sex and contraception were openly discussed on the program. Because it dealt with these realistic issues, the show was attractive to youth.

For 10 years, viewers have watched the characters of Beverly Hills, 90210 grow from high school sophomores to college graduates on their own for the first time. While their lives have begun to take different paths and new people have entered their worlds. As they have faced the problems of drug addictions to bitter breakups, the priviledged clan have remained the best of friends.

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