Best Comedy Shows of All Time: Laughter Through the Decades

Television comedies have provided an escape for audiences for decades, offering moments of joy and laughter amidst life’s challenges. I Love Lucy stands out as a groundbreaking show, but it’s just one amongst many that have earned their place in comedy history. This article explores some of the Best Comedy Shows of All Time, highlighting their unique contributions to the genre.

Table of Contents

Trailblazers of Television Comedy

1. I Love Lucy (CBS, 1951-1957): A Revolution in Laughter

I Love Lucy shattered conventions and redefined the landscape of comedy. This groundbreaking show, a staple on our list of Best Comedy Shows of All Time, introduced audiences to a new kind of female character in the hilarious and relatable housewife, Lucy Ricardo.

I Love Lucy‘s innovative elements, iconic characters, and lasting legacy are explored in detail further down in this article.

2. “The Dick Van Dyke Show” (CBS, 1961-1966): Witty Workplace Humor

The rollicking opening of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” sets the tone for an utterly delightful experience. Despite initial challenges, this domestic-workplace sitcom is now revered as one of the Best Comedy Shows of All Time.

The wildly talented Dick Van Dyke and Mary Tyler Moore command attention as the ideal couple, Rob and Laura Petrie. Inventive stories and the mastery of physical and dialogue humor make this show a timeless classic.

Sitcom Royalty: Enduring Popularity

3. “Seinfeld” (NBC, 1989-1998): “A Show About Nothing”

This so-called “show about nothing” proved to be anything but. Seinfeld is a comedy giant, earning its place among the Best Comedy Shows of All Time. Jerry Seinfeld examines life’s minutiae through his observational lens, with his friends forming a core group that redefined social satire.

Full of pop culture references and quotable moments, Seinfeld‘s influence can be seen in countless sitcoms that followed.

4. “Cheers” (NBC, 1982-1993): A Place Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Cheers is more than just a bar; it’s a second home for its patrons and a beloved entry on our list of Best Comedy Shows of All Time. Marshaled by Ted Danson and featuring an iconic cast including Shelley Long and Rhea Perlman, Cheers thrived on goodhearted humor with a balanced mix of characters and cleverly woven drama.

Cheers could be whatever you needed it to be, any given night, solidifying its place as a television institution.

5. “Friends” (NBC, 1994-2004): The Enduring Power of Friendship

The theme song of “Friends” sets the stage for a delightful exploration of friendship. This long-running sitcom, a strong contender for the Best Comedy Shows of All Time title, captured the essence of navigating life’s challenges with a close group of friends.

Sure, the premise might seem unrealistic, but the characters’ struggles with love, careers, and personal growth resonated with audiences, making “Friends” a timeless classic.

Modern Masters of Comedy

6. “The Office” (NBC, 2005–2013): The Mockumentary Workplace Comedy

The American adaptation of “The Office” is a hilarious and often cringe-inducing mockumentary that has earned its place among the Best Comedy Shows of All Time. Steve Carell’s portrayal of Michael Scott, the awkward and endearing boss, is a comedic goldmine.

The Office captures the relatable awkwardness of office life, making audiences laugh while simultaneously questioning their own workplace experiences.

7. “Parks and Recreation” (NBC, 2009-2015): Small Town, Big Laughs

Parks and Recreation takes the seemingly mundane world of local government and injects it with humor and heart. This charming sitcom, a contender for the Best Comedy Shows of All Time title, showcases the power of optimism and community spirit.

Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, is a force of nature, leading a quirky cast of characters through hilarious situations and heartwarming moments.

8. “30 Rock” (NBC, 2006-2013): Satire Behind the Scenes

30 Rock takes viewers behind the curtain of a fictional live sketch comedy show. This hilarious and sharply written sitcom, a deserving addition to our Best Comedy Shows of All Time list, was created by Tina Fey, who also stars as Liz Lemon, the show’s stressed-out head writer.

30 Rock is a hilarious blend of physical comedy, pop culture parodies, and witty satire of the television industry. The show’s eccentric characters, like Alec Baldwin’s arrogant network executive Jack Donaghy, and Tracy Morgan’s unpredictable star Tracy Jordan, add to the show’s unique charm.

Animated Laughs: Cartoon Classics

9. “The Simpsons” (Fox, 1989-present): America’s Dysfunctional Family

“The Simpsons” is a pop culture phenomenon, holding its place as one of the Best Comedy Shows of All Time. This subversive animated sitcom follows the dysfunctional Simpson family, satirizing American culture, current events, and television itself.

The Simpsons boasts a sharp wit, iconic characters like Homer Simpson and Bart Simpson, and a seemingly endless well of hilarious storylines.

10. “South Park” (Comedy Central, 1997-present): Pushing the Boundaries of Humor

South Park’s crude animation style and outrageous humor might not be for everyone, but it has undeniably earned its place among the Best Comedy Shows of All Time. This audacious animated sitcom doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, delivering social commentary with a healthy dose of dark humor.

South Park continues to spark conversations and push boundaries, making it a landmark series in the world of adult animation.

11. “Schitt’s Creek” (CBC, 2015-2020): Heartwarming Humor from a Fish-Out-of-Water Family

Schitt’s Creek takes the premise of a wealthy family forced to rebuild their lives in a small town and transforms it into heartwarming humor. This critically-acclaimed sitcom, a worthy addition to our Best Comedy Shows of All Time list, showcases the power of resilience and found family.

The Rose family, led by Catherine O’Hara’s delightfully self-absorbed Moira, gradually adapt to their new normal, providing plenty of laughs along the way.

12. “Atlanta” (FX, 2016-present): A Surreal Look at Hip-Hop

Atlanta offers a unique blend of surreal humor and social commentary, solidifying its place as one of the Best Comedy Shows of All Time. Created by and starring Donald Glover, the show follows Earn Marks, a Princeton dropout managing his rapper cousin Paper Boi’s career.

Atlanta isn’t afraid to tackle complex themes within the world of hip-hop, making it a thought-provoking and often hilarious series.

13. “Fleabag” (BBC Three, 2016-2019): Darkly Comic Coming-of-Age Story

Fleabag is a darkly comedic one-woman show that found new life as a critically-acclaimed television series. This unique addition to our Best Comedy Shows of All Time list follows the titular Fleabag, a young woman navigating grief, relationships, and self-discovery in London.

Fleabag’s witty inner monologue and fourth-wall breaking moments create a show that is both hilarious and deeply personal.

14. “What We Do in the Shadows” (FX, 2019-present): Mockumentary Comedy with Bite

What We Do in the Shadows takes the mockumentary format and injects it with vampires. This hilarious and absurd series, a deserving addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list, follows a group of centuries-old vampires trying to navigate the modern world in Staten Island.

What We Do in the Shadows is filled with quotable moments and unexpected humor, making it a must-watch for fans of the mockumentary genre.

15. “Ted Lasso” (Apple TV+, 2020-present): Optimism and Heartwarming Comedy

Ted Lasso is a breath of fresh air in the world of television comedies. This heartwarming series, a contender for the Best Comedy Shows of All Time title, follows an American football coach hired to manage a struggling English Premier League soccer team.

Despite his lack of soccer knowledge, Ted Lasso’s unwavering optimism and genuine kindness win over the hearts of his players and the audience.

16. “Freaks and Geeks” (NBC, 1999-2000)

Though a one-season wonder, Freaks and Geeks remains a beloved classic. This hybrid of drama and comedy captures the awkward realities of adolescence with humor and empathy. Featuring a cast of future stars like James Franco and Seth Rogen, Freaks and Geeks stands as a Best Comedy Shows of All Time contender.

17. “Party Down” (Starz, 2009-2010)

Party Down follows a group of caterers navigating the Los Angeles party scene. This dark comedy finds humor in the characters’ dead-end jobs and personal struggles. Despite its short run, Party Down is a sharp and memorable addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

18. “Review” (Comedy Central, 2014-2017)

Review follows Forrest MacNeil, a man who reviews everything in his life. This darkly comedic series explores the boundaries of taste and human experience. While some episodes are laugh-out-loud funny, others are closer to tragicomedy. Review is a unique and thought-provoking entry on the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

19. “Taxi” (ABC, 1978-1982; NBC 1982-1983)

Taxi showcases the camaraderie of a group of taxi drivers in New York City. This classic workplace comedy features a stellar cast, including Judd Hirsch and Danny DeVito. The series’ relatable characters and witty dialogue make it a deserving addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

20. “Nathan for You” (Comedy Central, 2013-2017)

Nathan for You follows comedian Nathan Fielder as he devises outrageous marketing schemes for small businesses. This show’s humor lies in the absurdity of the situations and Nathan’s deadpan delivery. Beneath the surface, Nathan for You explores themes of human connection and loneliness. It’s a unique and innovative addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

21. “Moonlighting” (ABC, 1985-1989)

Moonlighting is a romantic comedy-drama featuring Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd as private investigators. The show’s fast-paced dialogue and electric chemistry between the leads made it a pop culture phenomenon. Pioneering the “will-they-won’t-they” trope, Moonlighting is a milestone in television history and a worthy contender for the Best Comedy Shows of All Time title.

22. “The Comeback” (HBO, 2005; 2014)

The Comeback stars Lisa Kudrow as a washed-up sitcom actress desperate for a comeback. This cringe-worthy comedy explores the dark side of Hollywood and the lengths people will go to for fame. Kudrow’s fearless performance makes The Comeback a fascinating and unforgettable entry on the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

23. “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (NBC, 1990-1996)

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air launched Will Smith’s career and redefined the black sitcom. This show tackles social issues while offering hilarious fish-out-of-water humor. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air remains a beloved classic and a Best Comedy Shows of All Time contender.

24. “Frasier” (NBC, 1993-2004)

Frasier is a spin-off of Cheers. This sophisticated sitcom follows psychiatrist Frasier Crane as he navigates life in Seattle with his family and colleagues. Known for its witty dialogue and impeccable comedic timing, Frasier is a worthy successor to its predecessor and a strong contender for the Best Comedy Shows of All Time title.

25. “You’re the Worst” (FX, 2014; FXX, 2015-2019)

You’re the Worst is a dark comedy about two self-destructive people who fall in love. This unconventional relationship comedy offers a cynical.

26. “Police Squad!” (ABC, 1982)

Police Squad! is a masterclass in comedic execution. This show features slapstick humor, rapid-fire jokes, and witty wordplay. It paved the way for future comedies with its fast-paced style and innovative use of visual gags. Police Squad! is a hilarious and influential addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

27. “Malcolm in the Middle” (Fox, 2000-2006)

Malcolm in the Middle is a family comedy known for its anarchic humor. The show follows Malcolm, a middle-class boy with exceptional intelligence, and his dysfunctional family. Malcolm in the Middle offers sharp wit and relatable characters, making it a deserving addition to our Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

28. “The Bob Newhart Show” (CBS, 1972–1978)

The Bob Newhart Show is a classic sitcom featuring Bob Newhart as a straight man surrounded by eccentric characters. This show’s influence can be seen in numerous later sitcoms. The series finale’s twist ending cemented its place in television history. The Bob Newhart Show is a timeless comedy and a Best Comedy Shows of All Time contender.

29. “The Larry Sanders Show” (HBO, 1992-1998)

The Larry Sanders Show is a groundbreaking showbiz satire. Garry Shandling stars as a late-night talk show host navigating the Hollywood machine. The show features celebrity cameos and sharp social commentary. The Larry Sanders Show is a critical darling and a Best Comedy Shows of All Time favorite.

30. “Broad City” (Comedy Central, 2014-2019)

Broad City follows two best friends navigating life in New York City. This show celebrates female friendship and features outrageous humor and boundless creativity. Broad City is a hilarious and empowering addition to the Best Comedy Shows of All Time list.

31. “Sanford & Son” (NBC, 1972-1977)

This groundbreaking sitcom featured the cantankerous Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) and his exasperated son Lamont (Demond Wilson) running a junkyard business in Watts, Los Angeles. “Sanford and Son” tackled social issues with humor and heart, paving the way for other comedies centered around Black families.

**32. “MAS*H” (CBS, 1972-1983)**

This long-running series about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War balanced humor and drama. It featured a talented ensemble cast, including Alan Alda, Loretta Swit, and Wayne Rogers, and used humor to subtly critique the Vietnam War.

33. “All in the Family” (CBS, 1971-1979)

Norman Lear’s groundbreaking sitcom tackled controversial topics like racism, sexism, and war through the lens of the working-class Bunker family. Carroll O’Connor’s Archie Bunker, a bigoted but ultimately lovable character, sparked conversations about social issues in America.

34. “The Good Place” (NBC, 2016-2020)

This innovative and heartwarming comedy explored concepts of morality and philosophy. Kristen Bell stars as Eleanor Shellstrop, a woman who mistakenly ends up in the afterlife’s “Good Place” and tries to become a better person.

35. “The Bernie Mac Show” (Fox, 2001-2006)

Bernie Mac shines as a fictionalized version of himself in this sitcom. He unexpectedly becomes the foster parent of his sister’s three kids, leading to hilarious and heartwarming situations as he navigates the challenges of parenthood.

36. “What We Do in the Shadows” (FX, 2019-present)

This mockumentary follows a group of vampires living together in Staten Island. It’s a hilarious and offbeat take on the vampire genre, with a fantastic ensemble cast that brings the quirky characters to life.

37. “Hacks” (HBO Max, 2021-present)

A veteran comedian (Jean Smart) and a young writer (Hannah Einbinder) form an unlikely partnership in this sharp and witty comedy. It explores the complexities of mentorship, the changing landscape of comedy, and the clash between generations.

38. “Sex and the City” (HBO, 1998-2004)

This groundbreaking series followed the lives of four women navigating love, sex, and friendship in New York City. It was praised for its frank portrayal of women’s lives and its stylish visuals.

39. “Living Single” (Fox, 1993-1998)

One of the first sitcoms to portray the lives of a group of young African American friends, “Living Single” featured a charming cast and relatable storylines. Queen Latifah’s performance as Khadijah James helped launch her acting career.

40. “Julia” (NBC, 1968-1971)

This landmark series starred Diahann Carroll as Julia Baker, a widowed Black nurse raising her son. “Julia” broke ground by showing a positive portrayal of a Black family and tackling social issues on a mainstream network.

41. “Derry Girls” (Channel 4, 2018-2023)

This heartwarming comedy follows a group of teenage girls growing up in Derry, Northern Ireland during the Troubles in the 1990s. It’s full of laugh-out-loud moments as they navigate friendship, family, and the backdrop of a complex political landscape.

42. “Murphy Brown” (CBS, 1988-1998; 2018)

Candice Bergen stars as Murphy Brown, a fearless journalist who tackles important social and political issues on her fictional news program “FYI.” The show’s sharp writing and witty dialogue earned it critical acclaim and a loyal following.

43. “Martin” (Fox, 1992-1997)

This classic sitcom features Martin Lawrence as a brash radio personality and his chaotic relationships with his wife Gina (Tisha Campbell), his friends, and his overprotective mother (also played by Lawrence). It’s a hilarious look at love, friendship, and family life.

44. “Maude” (CBS, 1972-1978)

Bea Arthur portrays the iconic Maude Findlay, a strong-willed and outspoken feminist. The show tackled social issues of the 1970s like abortion, domestic violence, and suicide, all with a sharp wit and humor.

45. “Night Court” (NBC, 1984-1992)

This courtroom comedy follows a group of misfits working the night shift at a Manhattan municipal court. Harry Anderson stars as the unconventional Judge Harry Stone, with John Larroquette stealing the show as the narcissistic prosecutor Dan Fielding.

46. “Master of None” (Netflix, 2015-present)

Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe co-created this comedic exploration of modern love, friendship, and identity. It follows Dev, a 30-year-old actor navigating life in New York City and Italy, with a diverse cast and beautifully shot visuals.

47. “Pushing Daisies” (ABC, 2007-2009)

This quirky and visually stunning comedy-drama stars Lee Pace as Ned, a pie maker with the extraordinary ability to bring the dead back to life with a touch. However, a second touch sends them back to their demise. The show’s imaginative premise and dark humor make it a cult classic.

48. “One Day at a Time” (Netflix, 2017-2019)

This critically acclaimed reboot of the Norman Lear classic follows the Cuban-American Alvarez family. It tackles social issues with warmth and humor, but was unfortunately canceled by Netflix.

49. “Community” (NBC, 2009-2014; Yahoo! Screen, 2015)

Dan Harmon’s quirky sitcom follows a group of misfits who form a study group at a community college. It’s known for its pop culture references, meta humor, and unconventional storylines, creating a devoted fan base.

50. “Roseanne” (ABC, 1988-1997; 2018)

This controversial sitcom centers around the working-class Conner family and their struggles in middle America. Roseanne Barr’s portrayal of Roseanne Conner resonated with audiences for its blunt honesty and humor. However, the show’s revival in 2018 was short-lived after a racist tweet by Barr.

51. Arrested Development (Fox, 2003-2006; Netflix, 2013-2019)

“Arrested Development” is a hilarious yet short-lived sitcom that tells the story of the wealthy Bluth family’s downfall. Packed with witty dialogue, running gags, and an in-depth exploration of dysfunctional family dynamics, it’s no wonder this show has such a devoted cult following.

52. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (The CW, 2015-2019)

This offbeat musical dramedy follows Rebecca Bunch, a high-powered lawyer who impulsively relocates to pursue a past flame. The show tackles mental health, relationships, and self-discovery with humor, heart, and catchy original songs.

53. The Facts of Life (NBC, 1979-1988)

A spin-off of “Diff’rent Strokes,” “The Facts of Life” centers on Edna Garrett, a housemother at an all-girls boarding school, and her four students. Each episode explores the challenges and triumphs of teenage life in a lighthearted and relatable way.

54. Russian Doll (Netflix, 2019-present)

This mind-bending dark comedy features Nadia, a woman reliving the same night over and over again. As she grapples with mortality and existential questions, she uncovers the secrets behind her time loop and seeks a way to break free.

55. The Addams Family (ABC, 1964-1966)

This kooky sitcom celebrates the unconventional. The Addams, a spooky and eccentric family, find humor in the everyday while their bizarre quirks often clash with the “normal” world around them.

56. The Nanny (CBS, 1993-1999)

Fran Drescher shines in this sitcom as a quick-witted nanny who brings her unique brand of chaos to a stuffy household. Filled with physical comedy, witty banter, and relatable family dynamics, “The Nanny” offers a delightful escape.

57. Daria (MTV, 1997-2002)

Daria Morgendorffer, a sarcastic and cynical teenager, navigates the awkwardness of high school life in this animated series. With its sharp social commentary and relatable characters, “Daria” resonated with a generation of teenage viewers.

58. Boy Meets World (ABC, 1993-2000)

This coming-of-age sitcom follows Cory Matthews as he journeys through childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood alongside his best friend Shawn and girlfriend Topanga. It offers a nostalgic look at teenage life while tackling timeless issues.

59. Enlightened (HBO, 2011-2013)

“Enlightened” explores the journey of Amy Jellicoe, a corporate executive who undergoes a breakdown and embarks on a path of self-discovery. This dark comedy offers a scathing look at corporate culture and the pursuit of happiness.

60. Fleabag (2016-2019)

This critically acclaimed dramedy follows Fleabag, a complex and flawed young woman navigating grief, family drama, and self-destructive tendencies. The show’s dark humor and Fleabag’s direct address to the audience create a unique and captivating viewing experience.

61. Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO, 2000-present)

Larry David, co-creator of Seinfeld, brings his signature brand of observational humor to this mockumentary sitcom. He plays a fictionalized version of himself, a grumpy and short-tempered retiree who constantly finds himself in awkward social situations.

62. The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968)

This heartwarming sitcom offers a nostalgic look at small-town life in the American South. Sheriff Andy Taylor and his deputy Barney Fife provide homespun wisdom and gentle humor as they navigate the challenges of maintaining peace in their community.

63. The Other Two (2019-present)

This hidden gem follows two siblings whose lives are turned upside down when their teenage brother becomes a YouTube sensation. It satirizes the absurdity of internet fame and the complexities of family dynamics.

64. Barry (2018-present)

Bill Hader shines as a hitman who decides to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. This dark comedy explores themes of violence, redemption, and the pursuit of artistic passion.

65. Eastbound & Down (HBO, 2009-2013)

Danny McBride stars as Kenny Powers, a washed-up former baseball player who attempts to reinvent himself as a high school gym teacher. This outrageous and often offensive comedy is known for its dark humor and cringe-worthy situations.

66. Scrubs (ABC, 2001-2008; NBC, 2009-2010)

“Scrubs” offers a hilarious and heartwarming look at the lives of medical interns and their mentors at a teaching hospital. Told from the perspective of a young doctor, the show blends slapstick comedy with heartfelt moments about friendship, love, and loss.

67. Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Fox, 2013-2018; NBC, 2019-2021)

This workplace sitcom follows a quirky group of detectives in a Brooklyn police precinct. With its fast-paced dialogue, witty pop culture references, and diverse cast of characters, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” has become a fan favorite.

68. The Honeymooners (1955-1956)

Jackie Gleason stars as Ralph Kramden, a grumpy bus driver perpetually at odds with his wife Alice and his neighbor Ed Norton. This classic sitcom offers a timeless portrayal of working-class life in New York City.

69. Catastrophe (Prime Video, 2015-2019)

“Catastrophe” is a dramedy that explores the complexities of love and relationships. It follows Sharon and Rob, an Irish woman and an American man, who fall into a whirlwind romance and decide to get married despite barely knowing each other.

70. Detroiters (Comedy Central, 2017-2018)

This critically acclaimed comedy follows two best friends who run a struggling advertising agency in Detroit. With its focus on male friendship, small-town life, and the challenges of pursuing your dreams, “Detroi

71. “Everybody Loves Raymond” (CBS, 1996-2005)

On the surface, “Everybody Loves Raymond” seems like a stereotypical family sitcom. It follows Ray Barone (Ray Romano), a grumpy sports writer, his wife Debra (Patricia Heaton), and their constant meddling family, particularly Ray’s overbearing mother Marie (Doris Roberts).

However, “Everybody Loves Raymond” transcends stereotypes with its sharp writing and relatable characters. Ray’s dry wit and his family’s dysfunctional dynamic provide endless fodder for humor. Despite their bickering and passive-aggressive behavior, there’s a genuine sense of love and connection between the characters.

The show offers a humorous and often painfully accurate portrayal of family life, capturing the complexities of relationships between parents, children, and siblings. “Everybody Loves Raymond” may not be for everyone, but its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to find humor in the everyday chaos of family.

72. “PEN15” (Hulu, 2019-2021)

This cringe-comedy gem takes viewers back to the awkward and angst-ridden world of middle school. Creators Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle star as fictionalized versions of themselves navigating the treacherous social landscape of seventh grade in the early 2000s.

Surrounded by actual middle schoolers, the show captures the awkwardness and insecurity of that time period with painful accuracy. Maya and Anna deal with everything from unrequited crushes and embarrassing friendships to body image issues and the ever-present desire to fit in.

“PEN15” is a nostalgic and often uncomfortable watch, but it’s also strangely endearing. The show celebrates the awkwardness of adolescence and the deep bonds of childhood friendship. While only lasting two seasons, “PEN15” left a lasting impression with its honest portrayal of middle school life.

73. “Superstore” (NBC, 2015-2021)

“Superstore” takes viewers behind the scenes of Cloud 9, a big-box store resembling Walmart. This long-running workplace comedy offers a hilarious and relatable look at the lives of the employees who keep the store running.

The show centers around the will-they-won’t-they romance between Amy Sosa (America Ferrera), a hardworking floor supervisor, and Jonah Simms (Ben Feldman), a corporate yes-man with a soft spot for social causes. Their contrasting personalities create sparks, both romantic and comedic.

But “Superstore” isn’t just about Amy and Jonah. The show boasts a fantastic ensemble cast, including the mischievous Mateo Liwanag (Nico Santos), the apathetic Garrett Miller (Colton Dunn), the tyrannical store manager Glenn Sturgis (Mark McKinney), and the ever-efficient Dina Fox (Lauren Ash).

Together, they navigate the daily grind of retail life, dealing with demanding customers, nonsensical corporate policies, and the occasional heist. “Superstore” is a heartwarming and laugh-out-loud comedy that finds humor in the everyday struggles of working-class America.

74. “GLOW” (Netflix, 2017-2019)

Set in the 1980s Los Angeles, “GLOW” tells the story of Ruth Wilder (Alison Brie), an out-of-work actress who stumbles upon the world of women’s professional wrestling. The show is more than just a wrestling comedy; it’s a character-driven dramedy that explores themes of female empowerment, self-discovery, and the struggles of women in the entertainment industry.

Ruth finds herself surrounded by a ragtag group of women from all walks of life, each with their own dreams and aspirations. They train under the reluctant guidance of washed-up director Sam Sylvia (Marc Maron) to become the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW).

“GLOW” is a visually stunning show with a killer soundtrack that perfectly captures the neon-soaked aesthetic of the 1980s. But its heart lies in its characters. We see these women overcome their insecurities, challenge gender stereotypes, and forge an unlikely bond of sisterhood in the ring.

75. “Will & Grace” (NBC, 1998-2006, 2017-2020)

A groundbreaking sitcom that broke barriers and redefined the landscape of network television, “Will & Grace” remains a pop culture staple. The show follows the lives of best friends Will Truman (Eric McCormack), a gay lawyer, and Grace Adler (Debra Messing), an interior designer, living in New York City.

Their hilarious friendship is complemented by the outrageous antics of their flamboyant neighbor Jack McFarland (Sean Hayes) and the martini-swilling socialite Karen Walker (Megan Mullally). “Will & Grace” tackled LGBTQ+ issues and social commentary with humor and heart, paving the way for greater representation on television.

Beyond its groundbreaking themes, the show’s success lies in its witty writing, memorable characters, and spot-on comedic timing. The central cast delivers exceptional performances, with each character boasting their own unique quirks and hilarious one-liners.

76. “American Vandal” (Netflix, 2017-2018)

In the age of true-crime documentaries, “American Vandal” takes a hilarious and satirical look at the genre. This mockumentary follows a pair of high school students, Peter Maldonado (Tyler Alvarez) and Sam Ecklund (Griffin Gluck), who investigate a series of seemingly pointless pranks at their vandalized school.

Their investigation into who drew the now-infamous “dicks” on the faculty cars is meticulous and absurd in equal measure. Using interviews, dramatic reenactments, and grainy footage, they delve into the school’s social hierarchy, student alibis, and the potential motives behind the vandalism.

“American Vandal” is more than just a silly high school prank comedy. It’s a clever send-up of the true-crime genre, complete with its own twists, turns, and red herrings. The show also boasts a surprising amount of heart, as the investigation uncovers the hidden lives and struggles of the students involved.

77. “Casual” (Hulu, 2015-2018)

This dramedy explores the complexities of modern relationships through the lens of the dysfunctional Theroux family. Valerie (Michaela Watkins) and Alex (Tommy Dewey) are siblings in their late 30s who are both struggling with their love lives.

Valerie is a recently divorced single mom, while Alex is a commitment-phobe who bounces from one casual relationship to another. Despite their differences, they find solace and support in each other, navigating the ups and downs of dating in the digital age.

“Casual” is a refreshingly honest portrayal of modern relationships. It doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness, heartbreak, and messy realities of dating, but it also finds moments of humor and tenderness. The show’s real strength lies in its characters; Valerie, Alex, and their teenage daughter Laura (Tara Lynne Barr) are all deeply relatable individuals trying to find their way in a complicated world.

78. “Corporate” (Comedy Central, 2018-2020)

Don’t be fooled by the office setting; “Corporate” is a darkly comedic satire that takes aim at the soul-crushing absurdity of corporate culture. Matt (Matt Ingebretson) and Jake (Jake Weisman) are cubicle mates stuck in the suffocating confines of JumboCorp, a soulless mega-corporation.

Their days are filled with pointless meetings, nonsensical jargon, and the constant pressure to climb the corporate ladder, even if it means sacrificing all humanity. The show takes a surreal turn as Matt and Jake’s petty office rivalries escalate into increasingly bizarre situations, often involving their tyrannical boss, the ever-watchful Mr. Dunn (Lance Reddick).

“Corporate” is a show that’s both hilarious and thought-provoking. It holds a mirror to the absurdity of the corporate world, forcing us to question the very nature of work and success.

79. “New Girl” (Fox, 2011 – 2018)

Quirky and heartwarming, “New Girl” is more than just a show about an adorable girl moving in with three guys. Zooey Deschanel shines as Jess, the bubbly and optimistic teacher who finds herself sharing an apartment with Nick (Jake Johnson), Schmidt (Max Greenfield), and Winston (Lamorne Morris).

The show’s strength lies in its well-developed characters. Each roommate has their own distinct personality and quirks, but they all share a genuine bond of friendship. From their hilarious antics and relatable struggles to their heartwarming moments of support, the characters in “New Girl” feel like real people you can’t help but root for.

Beyond the core cast, “New Girl” boasts a memorable ensemble of supporting characters, from Coach (Damon Wayans Jr.) with his offbeat humor to Cece (Hannah Simone), Jess’s best friend, who undergoes her own journey of self-discovery.

80. “The Bear” (FX, 2022 – present)

This intense dramedy dives headfirst into the high-pressure world of a Chicago fine-dining kitchen. Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White), a talented young chef, returns home to run his family’s Italian beef sandwich shop after his brother’s suicide.

But Carmy’s vision of transforming the greasy spoon into a respected restaurant clashes with the chaotic reality of the existing staff. A motley crew including his fiery sous chef Sydney (Ayo Edibiri), his boisterous cousin Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and his weary sister Natalie (Abby Elliott) create a combustible mix of stress, dark humor, and unexpected camaraderie.

“The Bear” isn’t your typical sitcom. While there are laugh-out-loud moments, the show’s real strength lies in its raw portrayal of the kitchen’s relentless pace, the physical demands on the staff, and the emotional toll it takes. It’s a fascinating and unforgettable look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry.

This extensive list of the Best Comedy Shows of All Time is based on rating online from various sources and MarkMeets readers. From classic sitcoms to modern mockumentaries and groundbreaking animation, television comedies offer a vast and ever-evolving landscape of humor.

So next time you need a good laugh, revisit an old favorite or explore a new show. There’s a perfect comedy out there waiting to be discovered!

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