19 Best Comedy TV Shows Of All Time, Ranked

In the early days of television programming, comedy was a staple before anything else graced our screens. From sitcoms and variety shows, laughter has been a constant for over 70 years, providing an essential element often scarce: happiness. When compiling this list, we first examined TV shows and their acclaimed popularity among critics and viewers. With numerous beloved shows existing, we had to establish specific criteria. Primarily, we focused on the enduring impact of the show. While newer shows may benefit from recency bias, we needed to account for this by acknowledging comedies that have shaped culture and humor throughout history.

In our analysis, we focused on continuity, identifying TV comedies that sustained their peak quality for an extended period. We made it clear that there’s a distinction between a comedy and a drama with humorous moments. Despite “The Bear” winning the Emmy for outstanding comedy series, it’s not strictly a comedy. The emotional depth and dramatic elements of the show are its main focus, while the humor serves as an added bonus for viewers who appreciate versatile actors and writers. On the other hand, a series like “Schitt’s Creek,” which won the same award in 2020, is truly a comedy. In a genuine comedy series, the goal is to consistently make the audience laugh rather than using humor as an extra layer within a dramatic narrative.

15. The Golden Girls

It’s intriguing to ponder if Betty White, Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty, and Rue McClanahan had any idea that their sitcom, “The Golden Girls,” would achieve such lasting fame. The series has a devoted fanbase, with over 45,000 members in its subreddit community, and fans continue to discuss unresolved plotlines from the show. “The Golden Girls” focuses on four older women – three widows and one divorcée – as they spend their golden years living together in a luxurious Miami home, navigating life’s challenges together.

The program demonstrated that post-menopausal women can enjoy a full life in spite of societal prejudices against their demographic. Additionally, it stands out as one of the most sincere portrayals of female camaraderie within popular culture, with the main themes revolving around the friendships between its four principal characters. Crucially, “The Golden Girls” served as a springboard for Betty White’s illustrious late-career in comedy.

As a dedicated fan, I’d like to share some insights about an iconic sitcom from the ’80s and ’90s that still resonates today. This groundbreaking show, titled “The Golden Girls,” was brought to life by the brilliant mind of Susan Harris. The stellar cast included Betty White, Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty, and Rue McClanahan, who breathed life into their unforgettable characters. The show aired from 1985 to 1992 and can now be enjoyed on Hulu. If you haven’t yet seen it, I highly recommend adding “The Golden Girls” to your watchlist for a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud experience!

14. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver

Initially, John Oliver found his footing in television as a correspondent on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” Upon departing, he created an exceptional program of his own – “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.” Each week, this show delves into a significant global issue it chooses to explore. Despite frequently delivering grim news, the writers skillfully incorporate humor when necessary to alleviate tension.

John Oliver and his crew delve deeply into their subjects and aren’t afraid to pursue intriguing side paths, such as contacting a widely recognized stock photo model or bidding on Russell Crowe’s jockstrap from the movie “Gladiator.” The show’s pandemonium is skillfully anchored by Oliver’s exceptional talent for spontaneous monologues (even though he reads from a prompter) and his readiness (eagerness) to poke fun at himself. In these tough times, comedy might just be the most bearable way to hear unfortunate news, so we’re grateful for “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.

Cast: John Oliver
Showrunner: John Oliver
Aired: 2014-present
Where to watch: Max

13. Futurama

Among numerous cartoons produced for children, there are some exceptional ones that surpass age barriers or are intended for adults from the beginning. One such example is “Futurama”, a show known for its adult-oriented content, which follows the story of a man named Fry (played by Billy West). In 1999, Fry is cryogenically frozen and awakens approximately a thousand years later. In this futuristic world, he encounters aliens, robots, and discovers that despite the passage of time, human nature remains remarkably consistent.

In the 8th episode of Season 1, and again in Season 5 Episode 1, “Futurama” humorously depicts a colossal space-bound garbage ball returning to Earth, originally intended as a solution for waste disposal problems faced by future mankind. Meanwhile, it’s revealed that humans combat global warming by occasionally dropping an enormous ice cube into the ocean. Beyond its witty dialogues, “Futurama” creatively employs satire and absurdity to explore serious topics related to humanity’s future.

Cast: Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio, Tress MacNeille
Creator/Producer: Matt Groening
Aired: 1999-2003, 2008-2013, from 2023 onwards
Streaming Platform: Hulu

(Note: The original text was a bit formal and technical. I’ve tried to make it more conversational and easier to read.)

12. Veep

Although Julia Louis-Dreyfus doubts if a show like “Veep” would be produced nowadays, its humor is as razor-sharp as ever. The series, where Louis-Dreyfus plays the role of career politician Selina Meyer, isn’t for those with delicate sensibilities or political optimists. There are no characters that encourage viewers to cheer them on, except perhaps Richard Splett, who is portrayed by Sam Richardson and seems to be both bumbling and genius at the same time.

The series offers a rather critical perspective on American politics and doesn’t reveal Selina Meyers’ political party until several seasons in, symbolizing it with the color blue on an electoral map. It’s a comedy that outdoes all Comedy Central roasts with cutting remarks such as “you’re like an early draft of a man where they sketched out a giant, misshapen skeleton but didn’t find time to add details like color or self-worth.” Fortunately, many people working in politics likely aren’t this creative when it comes to hurling insults.

Starring: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Reid Scott

Showrunner: Armando Iannucci

Aired from: 2012-2019

Stream it on: Max (or check out where else it’s available)

11. I Think You Should Leave

The show “I Think You Should Leave” is both strange and delightful. Unlike “Saturday Night Live,” where creator Tim Robinson previously worked, all of its skits are pre-recorded. This works well for the series, as it allows Robinson to fully express his eccentric ideas without constraint. “I Think You Should Leave” debuted on Netflix in early 2019 and has proven to be a fitting example of post-pandemic comedy.

The humor found on the internet in the 2000s has become overly common, making it hard for new meta-commentary to feel original. This is why the show “I Think You Should Leave” stands out as culturally significant. It mirrors the chaotic and unpredictable nature of modern meme culture, a time when personal, local, national, and global issues all seem equally important and baffling. With all these concerns swirling around us, what else is there to do but watch a sketch about an overly-greedy pay-it-forward guy at a drive-thru? “I Think You Should Leave” offers viewers an escape from the norm by playfully rejecting it, and that’s where genuine laughter can be found.

Cast: Tim Robinson
Showrunner: Tim Robinson, Zach Canin
Aired: 2019-present
Where to watch: Netflix

10. Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” a sitcom produced by comedic giants Mike Schur (“The Office”) and Andy Samberg (“Saturday Night Live”), is truly a treasure. Samberg portrays Detective Jake Peralta, a young, messy cop who enjoys cracking cases and causing trouble. Peralta is one of the numerous memorable characters in the series, alongside Sgt. Terry Jeffords (played by Terry Crews), a man who adores yogurt, suspenders, and often speaks about himself in the third person. Capt. Raymond Holt (Andre Braugher) is another standout character; he’s a lawful-good figure in a comedy who frequently outshines his fellow cast members with his wit.

The TV series “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” boasts a remarkably well-rounded comedic cast, where each character interaction feels distinct and fully developed – there are no lackluster pairings in subplots. Moreover, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” boldly tackles significant social issues like the “Black Lives Matter” movement, a trait that few comedies (or dramas) can claim. However, it’s Captain Holt, played by Brauer, who truly elevates the show with his captivating performance.

Actors: Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Stephanie Beatriz, Melissa Fumero
Creators: Dan Goor, Michael Schur
Original Run: 2013-2021
Streaming Platform: Netflix (Currently available for viewing)

9. 30 Rock

30 Rock, a popular TV show, catapulted Tina Fey to stardom and rejuvenated Alec Baldwin’s career. However, the series is also notorious for certain controversial scenes, such as Jane Krakowski’s portrayal of a black character using makeup and wigs across several episodes. As one would expect from Tina Fey’s creative mind, the show took bold risks that sometimes fell short. But when they succeeded, 30 Rock delivered some of the most brilliant comedy seen on television.

In a hypothetical list ranking comedies based on joke density per episode, “30 Rock” would undoubtedly stand out as the clear winner. With its abundance of clever Michael McDonald references, humorous slogans adorning Frank’s hats, and intentionally awkward product placements, each 25-minute episode is brimming with comedic moments. Even after repeated viewings, there’s always something new to giggle about. Characters like Tracy Jordan (played by Tracy Morgan) often present jokes that don’t fully resonate until they’ve been heard several times. If humor were a precious resource, “30 Rock” would be the gold rush of 1848.

Cast Members: Tiny Fey, Alec Baldwin, Jane Krakowski, Tracy Morgan
Creator / Lead Producer: Tina Fey
Original Run: 2006-2013
Streaming Platform: Hulu (available for viewing)

8. Sanford and Son

1972 saw the debut of “Sanford and Son,” which quickly gained popularity among American audiences, even displacing “The Brady Bunch” from both Friday nights and overall television viewership. This iconic sitcom was one of the first major network shows to have Black leads and maintained a large audience throughout its 1972-1977 broadcast. The story revolves around Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx), a widowed junk dealer living in Los Angeles with his grown son, Lamont Sanford (Demond Wilson).

Fred Sanford was undeniably grumpy and often compared to Archie Bunker from “All in the Family” when it comes to gruffness. However, despite his occasional outbursts, he always managed to keep viewers entertained on “Sanford and Sons”. Regrettably, Redd Foxx left the show due to contract issues with NBC and an opportunity at ABC, yet his influence as a cultural icon and the series’ place in entertainment history were secure by that point.

Cast: Redd Foxx, Demond Wilson
Showrunner: Bud Yorkin
Aired: 1972-1978
Where to watch: Tubi

7. The Office

Shows like “The Office” are brimming with quotable moments, humorously bizarre elements, and culturally impactful material, making them perfect for merchandise, internet memes, and casual conversations. Given its exceptional comedic value and simultaneous airing during the internet’s rise, it has become a timeless classic. A plethora of memorable phrases, such as “Beets, Bears, Battlestar Galactica,” “I say dance and they say how high,” and “Sorry I annoyed you with my friendship,” are just a few examples of the countless iconic lines that have made “The Office” a cultural phenomenon.

It’s often overlooked that Steve Carell’s exceptional portrayal of Michael Scott, the regional manager of Dunder Mifflin in “The Office,” was one of the show’s most groundbreaking aspects, as it ran for two more years after he left. Carell is undeniably among the greatest television actors ever, despite never winning an Emmy. His talent transformed a character known for being obnoxious, idiotic, and bigoted into a beloved figure, not just to viewers but also to his fictional coworkers.

Cast: Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson, Jenna Fischer
Series Creator / Showrunner: Greg Daniels
Broadcast Years: 2005-2013
Streaming Platform: Peacock (Currently available for streaming)

6. The Good Place

Many networks often choose to prolong TV shows even when they’ve reached their peak popularity, aiming to squeeze every last dollar and creative idea out of them until they eventually fade away. However, there are exceptions like “The Good Place,” a show that seems perfectly wrapped up after just four seasons. This series delves into the concept of the afterlife, particularly where individuals end up post-mortem, yet it manages to steer clear of existential despair. This is due to its comedic approach in storytelling.

A comedy series can indeed be both melancholic and profound, yet its core narrative and character progression revolve around eliciting laughter from viewers. The TV show “The Good Place” masterfully delivers a deep exploration of philosophy and serves a plentiful array of witty food puns, even creating a Middle Ground for ordinary individuals (offering your preferred brew, though it’s always tepid). Moreover, it gave promising actors like D’Arcy Carden (Janet) and Jameela Jamil (Tahani) their well-deserved moments in the limelight. What makes it truly exceptional is the captivating charm displayed by Ted Danson in every single episode.

Starring: Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper, Manny Jacinto
Show Creator: Michael Schur
Air Date: 2016 – 2020
Streaming Platform: Netflix (available for viewing)

5. Key and Peele

It’s almost impossible for anyone who used the internet between 2012 and 2015 not to recognize Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, especially since they may have watched their popular sketch titled “Substitute Teacher.” This video has an impressive 223 million views on YouTube. Through this sketch and all their work on the show “Key and Peele,” they effectively portrayed a variety of issues — such as subtle racial biases and centuries-old systems that continue to advantage white people in America — that are significant aspects of the Black experience in the United States.

The unique brilliance of “Key and Peele” lies in its comedic nature, which is undeniably the standout feature. When someone experiences the “Substitute Teacher” skit for the first time, they’ll find themselves chuckling at Key’s character and his exaggerated responses to students trying to correct him. However, upon repeated viewings or deeper reflection, viewers might start contemplating the experience of students whose names are frequently mispronounced by white teachers, which is a clever use of humor that demonstrates genius-level work. It’s no surprise that actor James Hong foresaw a bright future for both Key and Peele after appearing on their show.

Cast: Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele are the stars of this show.
Creators/Producers: Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele oversee the production of this series.
Original Airing: The series initially aired between 2012 and 2015.
Streaming Platform: You can catch this show on Hulu.

4. The Daily Show

Since its inception in 1996, “The Daily Show” didn’t truly shine until Jon Stewart became the host in 1999. During his tenure, the show garnered immense acclaim, winning the Emmy for outstanding variety, music, or comedy series an impressive 10 years straight from 2003 to 2012, and picking up two Peabody Awards as well. In Stewart’s later years, “The Daily Show” evolved beyond a mere spoof of cable news, becoming a beacon of rationality and logic instead.

Trevor Noah, a comedian from South Africa who took over as host after just a short time as a correspondent, transformed “The Daily Show” by presenting unique insights and a cheerful demeanor in his segments. After announcing his departure in 2022, the future of the hosting position remains uncertain. Notably, the show has delivered outstanding commentary on the 2020 election and the Trump administration.

Cast: Jon Stewart, Trevor Noah, Craig Kilborn

Showrunners: Madeleine Smithberg, Lizz Winstead

First Aired: 1996 – presently airing

Stream on: Paramount+

3. What We Do in the Shadows

Despite not having as large an influence as shows like “I Love Lucy” or “The Simpsons” at this point, “What We Do in the Shadows” stands out as one of the most consistently hilarious TV comedies ever produced. Creators Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi brought new life to the mockumentary genre, delivered countless laughter-filled episodes that were often overlooked by audiences, and chose to conclude the series after six seasons on their own terms. The cast also poked fun at their surprising absence from Emmy nominations.

The series, titled “What We Do in the Shadows,” presents a humorous take on four vampire flatmates and their human companion. Characters like Nadja (played by Natasia Demetriou), Laszlo (Matt Berry), Nandor (Kayvan Novak), and Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch) are all distinct in their blood-drinking habits; while the traditional ones suck blood, Colin is an energy vampire. Guillermo, Nandor’s human familiar, spends much of his time dealing with drained bodies and keeping the vampires from exposing their true nature. The show masterfully blends lighthearted and dark humor, striking a delicate balance between the supernatural elements and everyday reality in its horror themes.

Cast: Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Nastasia Demetriou, Harvey Guillén
Showrunner: Jemaine Clement
Timeframe: 2019-ongoing (up until 2024)
Streaming Platform: Hulu (where you can watch the show)

2. The Simpsons

As a dedicated gamer, I can say that “The Simpsons” is almost on par with the iconic status of “I Love Lucy,” but it’s managed to achieve this level of cultural significance with an impressive 30 seasons more under its belt. This show has a peculiar knack for predicting the future and tackling current issues, like the importance of labor unions (S4 E17) and the impact of spoilers (S31, E14). It’s not a show that relies on breathtaking animation, but rather its clever writing that compensates for its more simplistic visuals.

Homer Simpson, voiced by Dan Castellaneta, is a rather dimwitted patriarch who occasionally struggles to understand things, but he has a deep affection for his family. Marge, portrayed by Julie Kavner, embodies the essence of a contemporary American mother – she’s determined and fiercely devoted to the people and principles that matter to her. Bart, one of the older kids in the family, voiced by Nancy Cartwright, and Lisa, voiced by Yeardley Smith, represent two sides of the same coin – they are both intelligent (Bart with his street smarts and Lisa with her academic prowess), but Bart causes mischief while Lisa often finds herself dealing with the fallout. Taken together, they present a humorous portrayal of the idealized nuclear family in America.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share my favorite animated series, created by the brilliant Matt Groening and featuring an exceptional cast: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, and Yeardley Smith. This groundbreaking show, known as “The Simpsons,” has graced our screens since 1989 and is now available for streaming on Disney+. It’s a must-watch!

1. I Love Lucy

> According to Hunter Cates, it would be an understatement to refer to “I Love Lucy” as just a sitcom; rather, it is synonymous with the term itself, being universally recognized as the epitome of sitcoms, symbolizing American culture in a way that transcended television screens and gained international recognition. No other show could claim the top spot quite like “I Love Lucy”. The series aired for six seasons on CBS and concluded in 1957.

I Love Lucy” is based on a straightforward concept: it tells the story of Lucy (Lucille Ball) and her husband Ricky (Desi Arnaz), who share a passion for acting – Ricky earns his living from it, while Lucy yearns to be a star. They live alongside their landlords/neighbors Fred (William Frawley) and Ethel (Vivian Vance). The quartet frequently finds themselves in all sorts of hilarious situations, often due to Lucy’s relentless pursuit of fame. Intriguingly, the real-life events that unfolded off-camera, such as the tumultuous relationship between Ball and Arnaz, are just as captivating. Collectively, these elements have left an indelible mark on our culture, making “I Love Lucy” one of the most significant cultural milestones ever.

Starring: Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, William Frawley, Vivian Vance
Produced by: Jess Oppenheimer
Original Run: 1951-1957
Streaming Platform: Paramount+

2025-04-06 23:33