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Where do you find the best retro TV streaming options these days?
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Trying to put together a proper classic TV marathon weekend and I'm realizing how scattered all the retro TV series are across different platforms. Some vintage television shows are on Netflix, others on Hulu, some on Amazon Prime, and then there are those random ones that only seem to exist on DVD or obscure retro TV channels.
Where do you guys go for your retro TV streaming needs? Are there any hidden gem services specifically for classic TV reruns and nostalgic programming? I'm looking for everything from 80s cartoons to 70s dramas to 90s sitcoms. Bonus points if the service has good quality transfers and doesn't cut episodes for time.
Pluto TV is my go to for free retro TV streaming. They have dedicated channels for specific shows and genres, and the commercial breaks aren't too intrusive. The NickRewind channel is perfect for 90s Nickelodeon nostalgia.
Tubi is another good free option with a surprisingly deep catalog of vintage television. I've found some obscure 80s shows there that I hadn't seen in years.
For paid services, Hulu has a solid selection of classic TV reruns, especially from ABC and NBC. Their interface for browsing by decade is actually pretty useful when you're in the mood for specific eras of nostalgic programming.
Amazon Prime Video has a lot of hidden gem retro TV series if you're willing to dig through their interface. The problem is they mix free with paid content, so you have to check if something's included with Prime or needs an additional purchase.
For specific retro TV channels, MeTV and Antenna TV are available over the air in most areas and they show classic TV marathons on weekends. The picture quality is usually good since it's digital broadcast.
Also, don't forget about YouTube. There are official channels for some classic shows, and even when episodes get taken down for copyright, they often reappear later. The quality varies wildly though.
HBO Max (or whatever it's called now) has the best selection of vintage television from the Turner networks. All those classic Cartoon Network and Adult Swim shows, plus a good selection of older HBO originals.
For true retro TV streaming of really old stuff, the Internet Archive has a surprising amount of public domain television from the 50s and 60s. The quality isn't always great, but it's free and you can find some real curiosities there.
Also, check if your local library offers Kanopy or Hoopla. These services often have curated collections of classic films and TV shows, and they're free with a library card. The selection varies by library system though.
Peacock has a decent selection of NBC classics, especially if you spring for the paid tier. Their Throwback" collections are actually well organized for nostalgic viewing.
For anime and animation from the 80s and 90s, Crunchyroll and RetroCrush are worth checking out. RetroCrush specifically focuses on older anime and has a free ad supported tier.
One tip: create a separate watchlist just for retro TV series across all your streaming services. It makes it easier to remember what's available where when you're in the mood for specific eras or genres of old school television.
For cartoons specifically, Boomerang is still around as a streaming service. It's not as comprehensive as it used to be, but it has a solid collection of HannaBarbera classics and other vintage animation.
Also, check out the Roku Channel if you have a Roku device. They have free streaming with commercials and a surprisingly good selection of older TV shows and movies.
One thing to watch out for: streaming services sometimes have edited versions of classic TV episodes. They might cut scenes for time or remove music due to licensing issues. If you want the complete, original versions, physical media or digital purchases might be better for your favorite shows.
If you're into British television, BritBox is essential for classic UK shows. They have everything from old Doctor Who to classic comedies like Fawlty Towers and Are You Being Served?
For a more curated experience, Criterion Channel has select classic television series alongside their film collection. The quality is usually excellent, and they often include special features and context.
Also, don't overlook network specific apps. CBS All Access (now Paramount+) has a deep catalog of CBS classics, while the ABC app has older ABC shows. These are often free with cable authentication or have affordable standalone options.
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