Buffy The Vampire Slayer

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

1997-2001, The WB; 2001-03, UPN

What It’s About: A teenage vampire hunter (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and her loyal Scooby Gang (Nicholas Brendon and Alyson Hannigan) fight — and sometimes fall in love with — supernatural baddies under the watchful eye of wise librarian Giles (Anthony Stewart Head).

Why It’s Cult: You could say it was Gellar’s fully committed portrayal of the slayer that caused TV fans to rally. Or Joss Whedon’s witty dialogue (’’Didn’t anyone ever warn you about playing with pointy sticks?’’). Or the lovable ensemble. Or the attractive, broody vampires with whom Buffy kept company. In truth, all of the above inspired the show’s fierce following, as did the fact that every one of Buffy’s adventures — though filled with monsters and Big Bads — was totally relatable. (For example: Buffy sleeps with Angel, then wakes up to discover he’s turned evil. Raise your hand if you haven’t been there.) Secret Handshake: ’’Grr! Argh!’’ —Sandra Gonzalez