10 Best Sitcoms That Are Perfect From Start To Finish (Number 1 Doesn’t Have A Bad Episode)

Among numerous fantastic television sitcoms that deserve your attention, only a select few can be hailed as flawless from beginning to end. The most esteemed sitcoms throughout history are often recognized for their extended runs, yet even the highest-rated ones have their occasional weak spots. The landscape of television has undergone significant transformation recently, and the very concept of a sitcom is now more adaptable.

A sitcom is short for Situational Comedy, meaning a television series that finds humor in everyday situations. Labeling a show as a sitcom implies it makes ordinary events amusing. Maintaining consistent quality over numerous seasons and many episodes can be challenging, if not outright impossible, for such a TV show.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the exceptional nature of the best sitcoms, given their challenge in maintaining humor and originality over multiple years. Notably, some timeless comedies didn’t last long but still managed to be flawless from beginning to end.

10. Superstore

6 Seasons, 2015-2021

Ever since “The Office” hit our screens, numerous attempts have been made to produce another iconic workplace sitcom. Among these efforts, “Superstore” stands out as one of the top shows that have emerged. This series focuses on the diverse group of employees and management at a Cloud 9 retail store. The show skillfully transforms ordinary circumstances into sidesplitting episodes.

Occasionally, there are weaker moments, such as when Amy and Jonah’s relationship in ‘Superstore’ momentarily ends in the final season, but these instances are few and far between. The side plots and character developments in the rest of the episodes more than compensate for them. Regardless, you can always rely on an episode of ‘Superstore’ to bring a laugh.

9. 30 Rock

7 Seasons, 2006-2013

30 Rock is an intelligent television series that delves into the world of TV production, focusing on Liz Lemon, the chief writer for the fictional program TGS, along with other NBC employees and the actors gracing the screen. This series is brimming with clever, self-referential humor, making it accessible to viewers who may not have seen every episode.

What sets Tina Fey’s 30 Rock apart from other shows is the exceptional character development. Unlike many sitcoms, 30 Rock avoids the tropes of forcing a romantic plotline between main characters or introducing a pregnancy storyline when the narrative becomes dull. Instead, it creatively maintains the intrigue of its characters, ensuring that their growth and personality transformations remain coherent and well-executed.

8. Derry Girls

3 Seasons, 2018-2022

As a fan, I must say that despite the heavy historical backdrop, Derry Girls manages to be an exceptionally humorous Irish sitcom. It’s set during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and there are indeed many real-life events woven into its plot, but it never fails to keep us laughing. There are moments of depth and profundity, but these elements don’t disrupt the overall light-hearted tone of the show.

The TV series titled “Derry Girls” is a funny tale about growing up, and it manages the transition to the final season’s time jump particularly well, unlike certain other shows. It doesn’t heavily rely on romantic storylines, although it does explore one between Erin and James in later episodes. Even those with limited knowledge of Irish culture can find aspects they can relate to in “Derry Girls”.

7. BoJack Horseman

6 Seasons, 2014-2020

BoJack Horseman, an animated series, undeniably falls under the category of a sitcom, providing an extraordinary viewing experience. The show centers around its main character, BoJack, a once-popular sitcom actor grappling with addiction issues and mental health struggles, while navigating through his relationships in everyday life.

Each season of BoJack Horseman offers scenes that are laugh-out-loud funny, tear-jerking sad, and mind-boggling confusing, yet manages to keep viewers coming back. For instance, “The View from Halfway Down” and “Free Churro” are among the most thoughtfully written TV episodes out there. BoJack Horseman is a deep show with a touch of humor, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a dose of emotional turmoil, all wrapped up in an animated comedy series.

6. Malcolm In The Middle

7 Seasons, 2000-2006

There’s a lot of anticipation for the return of “Malcolm in the Middle,” given how great the original series was. The sitcom primarily revolves around Malcolm, the brilliant middle child who frequently finds himself in various predicaments alongside his brothers. These situations often cause frustration for his parents, Lois and Hal.

The standout episodes of Malcolm in the Middle are filled with turmoil, making it an engaging choice for viewers who appreciate family-centric content with a relatable twist. Far from picture-perfect, Malcolm’s family strives to improve their lives, only to have those efforts frequently thwarted. The series offers the unique pleasure of witnessing the characters’ growth over time, and it is replete with numerous hilarious episodes that will keep you entertained.

5. Peep Show

9 Seasons, 2003-2015

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but be captivated by the unique label of “anti-sitcom” that “Peep Show” proudly bears. This series takes us on a journey through the lives of two flatmates, Jez and Mark, who couldn’t live more differently. The tales spun around these characters are both gut-bustingly funny and powerfully compelling.

What makes “Peep Show” truly intriguing is the perspective we get, peeking into their worlds as if through a keyhole. There’s an endless parade of moments that make you want to hide your face in embarrassment, but the characters are so hilarious that I can’t help but keep watching.

Olivia Colman gained prominence in the UK through “Peep Show,” where she portrays Sophie, a character who is first Mark’s girlfriend and later his ex-wife. This British sitcom explores the challenges of everyday life, demonstrating that having an eccentric companion can lead to unexpected escapades. Peep Show is widely regarded as the pinnacle of David Mitchell and Robert Webb’s acting careers.

4. Schitt’s Creek

6 Seasons, 2015-2020

Schitt’s Creek revolves around the Rose family, who find themselves penniless and compelled to settle in the quaint town of Schitt’s Creek, which they once considered a joke. The series has garnered acclaim for its sharp, often memorable dialogue, outstanding comedic delivery, and side-splitting plotlines. Yet, it is also recognized for its thoughtful moments.

David’s journey unfolds as captivating, and the blossoming friendship between David and Stevie is not only intriguing but heartwarming, leading up to the beautifully emotional wedding scene with Patrick. The show Schitt’s Creek stands out among TV series for its embracing inclusivity, seamlessly interweaving these themes without compromising on humor.

3. The Golden Girls

7 Seasons, 1985-1992

The iconic TV series “The Golden Girls” revolves around four central characters, a quartet of women residing in Miami during their later years. In this show, we witness the best episodes that masterfully portray the distinctive and eccentric traits of these four leading ladies. From being infatuated with men to being pure and naive, their individual personas are vividly depicted.

Despite its light-hearted reputation, The Golden Girls isn’t shy about addressing heavy themes. Some of the series’ most impactful episodes delve into challenging subjects such as HIV, assault, and Alzheimer’s, all treated with exceptional sensitivity and respect. The Golden Girls consistently shines, which is unfortunate considering its spinoffs don’t receive the same level of admiration.

2. Fleabag

2 Seasons, 2016-2019

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s “Fleabag” is an exceptional and impactful TV series that often transcends the typical structure of a sitcom. The story revolves around the main character, who manages a guinea pig café, navigates conflicts with her sister, and grapples with the loss of her best friend, Boo. Each episode provokes contemplation among viewers while still eliciting laughter.

The lead character is clever and sarcastic, yet she evades confrontation and grapples with her past in an imperfect manner. This complex portrayal resonates with many viewers as both relatable and amusing. Given the outstanding highlights of the series, such as the main character’s daring heist of a statue or her playful banter with the Charismatic Priest, it remains disheartening that Fleabag concluded after merely two seasons.

1. Fawlty Towers

2 Seasons, 1975-1979

Among numerous sitcoms, it’s rare to find one that doesn’t have a single subpar episode, but Fawlty Towers, a renowned British sitcom, stands out as an exception. Fawlty Towers is set in the hotel of the same name, managed by the sharp-tongued Basil Fawlty and his commanding wife Sybil. This classic sitcom showcases the art of physical comedy at its finest.

Episodes like “Communication Problems” and “Gourmet Night” are often cited as standout sitcom episodes in television history, showcasing John Cleese’s exceptional comedic talent (beyond Monty Python, of course). Notably, there are only two seasons of the sitcom Fawlty Towers, which makes its impressive run even more noteworthy.

2025-07-05 13:49