Unveiling the Unexpected Twist in That '90s Show: How These Characters Defy a '70s Show Tradition, Leaving Fans Astounded!

Summary

That '90s Show breaks the trend of referring to characters by their last names, honoring Jackie's habit of using their first names, showcasing her maturity and motherly nature.

The spinoff retains similarities to the original series by featuring Eric, Donna, Jackie, and Kelso in cameo appearances, making it highly appealing to fans of That '70s Show. The change in name trend in That '90s Show serves as a means to differentiate between the two generations and emphasize the contrasting dynamics between Eric's group of friends and his daughter's group of friends.

That 90s Show breaks away from the trend of That 70s Show, earning Jackie Burkhart's approval. Premiering on Netflix on January 19th, 2023, the spinoff series maintains many similarities to its predecessor. It follows Leia Forman, the daughter of Eric Forman and Donna Pinciotti, as she spends her summer with her grandparents, Red and Kitty Forman.

Notably, several characters from That '70s Show have made appearances on the new series, including Eric, Donna, Jackie, and Michael Kelso. This has ensured that the show retains the essence of the original and appeals to loyal fans who are eager to delve into the nostalgia. Nevertheless, That '90s Show also introduces some unique elements that inject a sense of freshness and originality. Jackie would be particularly delighted with one of these distinct character differences.

Unlike The Gang, None Of That '90s Show's Teens Are Referred To By Their Last Names

In That '70s Show, the characters were primarily identified by their last names. However, the Netflix spinoff, That '90s Show, takes a different approach. While Eric is referred to by his first name more often than others, Steven Hyde consistently uses his last name when addressing him. Kelso, on the other hand, is the character who is most recognized for being called by his last name. The only exception to this is Jackie, who consistently refers to Kelso by his first name, Michael, and frequently raises her voice when doing so.

This dynamic is evident in their appearance on That '90s Show when Jackie barges into Red and Kitty Forman's house and berates Kelso for taking too long. The reason behind this shift in naming convention is not entirely clear, but it could possibly be a way to highlight the distinctions between the two generations. As time progresses, trends evolve, and the way friends communicate and address each other also changes. While addressing friends by their last names may not have been exclusive to the '70s, it does demonstrate the contrasts between Eric's circle of friends and his daughter's friend group.

Why Jackie Almost Exclusively Referred To That '70s Show's Gang By Their First Names

Jackie's choice to refer to the That 70s Show characters by their first names, rather than their last names like the rest, set her apart from the group, highlighting her maturity and strict demeanor. This formality in her speech was evident when she admonished Kelso, addressing him as Michael, displaying a parental instinct in her scolding. Though it may appear peculiar that she used first names, similar to the That '90s Show characters, this aspect is integral to her character.