By April 1996, Law & Order was a well-established procedural drama in its sixth season, known for its distinctive two-part structure. The first half followed NYPD detectives investigating a crime, and the second half focused on the prosecution of the suspect by the District Attorney's office. This format, coupled with its 'ripped from the headlines' approach and gritty realism, made it a reliable and popular fixture on television. The show's rotating cast of compelling characters and its focus on the complexities of the justice system kept viewers engaged year after year.

In April 1996, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air was airing its sixth and final season, but still remained a popular choice for audiences. The show launched Will Smith into superstardom as he played a fictionalized version of himself, a street-smart teenager from West Philadelphia sent to live with his wealthy aunt and uncle in Bel-Air. Beyond the fish-out-of-water comedy, the show wasn't afraid to tackle serious issues, often delivering surprisingly emotional moments. Smith's charisma and the fantastic ensemble cast made it a feel-good staple of 90s television.

A critical darling and ratings success, Frasier was thriving in April 1996 during its third season. This spin-off from Cheers followed psychiatrist Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) as he returned to his hometown of Seattle and hosted a radio call-in show. The show excelled at witty dialogue, sophisticated humour, and the hilarious dynamics between Frasier, his equally snobbish brother Niles (David Hyde Pierce), their down-to-earth father Martin (John Mahoney), his physical therapist Daphne (Jane Leeves), and Eddie the dog. It proved that a spin-off could not only succeed but become a comedy classic in its own right.

Still in its absolute prime in April 1996, The Simpsons was delivering some of its most classic episodes during its seventh season. This animated satirical look at American life through the lens of the dysfunctional Simpson family - Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie - was sharp, witty, and surprisingly poignant. Its dense humour packed with cultural references, sight gags, and recurring jokes appealed to audiences of all ages. The Simpsons wasn't just a cartoon; it was a cultural institution that pushed the boundaries of television comedy and animation.

In April 1996, The X-Files was captivating audiences with its blend of science fiction, horror, and government conspiracy. The dynamic between skeptical FBI agent Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) and true believer Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) was the show's compelling core. It masterfully balanced standalone 'monster-of-the-week' episodes with a sprawling mythology arc involving aliens and shadowy organizations. The X-Files tapped into the era's paranoia and redefined genre television, paving the way for countless sci-fi and supernatural shows.

By April 1996, Friends was well into its second season and had become a cultural touchstone, especially for younger audiences. The adventures of six pals navigating love, careers, and life in New York City resonated deeply. Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer had incredible chemistry, making their bond feel genuinely heartwarming and hilarious. From the iconic Central Perk couch to the catchy theme song, Friends captured the spirit of the 90s and solidified its place as one of the most beloved sitcoms ever.

Still firmly in its prime in April 1996, Seinfeld was the reigning king of comedy. Labelled the 'show about nothing', it brilliantly dissected the minutiae of everyday life, turning mundane observations into comedic gold. Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards created some of television's most iconic characters – Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer – whose quirks and catchphrases permeated pop culture. The show's unique structure and sharp writing influenced countless sitcoms that followed. Its ability to find humour in dating woes, social awkwardness, and the bizarre logic of the world was unmatched.

In April 1996, ER was absolutely dominating television. This medical drama wasn't just a hit; it was a phenomenon, pulling in tens of millions of viewers each week with its fast-paced, realistic portrayal of life in a Chicago emergency room. Created by Michael Crichton, the show revolutionized the genre with its dynamic camera work and ensemble cast featuring future stars like George Clooney and Julianna Margulies. The storylines were intense, often ripped from the headlines, and the medical jargon felt authentic. It wasn't afraid to tackle tough issues alongside the adrenaline-fueled rescues. ER set a new standard for television dramas and its impact on the medium is undeniable.