The Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
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The best sitcoms ever to air on television include some of the greatest comedies in television history. What are the best sitcoms of all time? A sitcom (or situational comedy) is loosely defined as "a humorous television program based on situations that could arise in everyday life," though not all sitcoms are slice-of-life - even if Parks & Recreation or The Addams Family would be a nice daily life to have.
This list includes the best and most funny all-time sitcoms and funny TV shows as ranked by TV fans. Anyone can vote on this list of funny sitcoms, making it a definitive representation of the Ranker community's sitcom tastes. Many people think that Friends is the best sitcom ever, while others would nominate Seinfeld, family sitcoms like Family Matters as the best TV comedies, or point to I Love Lucy as the best sitcom. Many sitcoms have top-notch acting talent, from regular casts to guest stars.
What are the greatest sitcoms ever? You can decide for yourself what fits that term and rank as you see fit, adding what you see missing! Vote them up on this popular sitcoms list to determine the best sitcoms that have ever aired on television.
- 1Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski
- Premiered: March 24, 2005
- Network: NBC
A mockumentary-style gem, this sitcom is a fly on the wall peek into the daily grind of a mundane office, led by an eccentric and often cringe-worthy boss. The ensemble cast, which includes Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, and Jenna Fischer, has viewers laughing at their relatable antics and rooting for their quirky relationships. Garnering numerous accolades such as Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe wins, this show has left a lasting legacy in television history.
- 2Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow
- Premiered: September 22, 1994
- Network: NBC
A group of six pals who are inseparable through thick and thin give us a glimpse into their lives filled with laughter, love, and heartbreak. This iconic sitcom boasts an all-star cast including Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer. Its immense popularity spawned catchphrases that still live on today - could it BE any more successful?
- 3Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders
- Premiered: September 19, 2005
- Network: CBS
It's legen-wait-for-it-dary how this sitcom weaves together the tale of one man's intricate quest to find his soulmate. With a captivating narrative framed by flashbacks galore and plenty of running gags throughout its nine-season run – Neil Patrick Harris' breakout role as Barney Stinson stole the show. As memorable as the blue French horn or the yellow umbrella might be in fans' hearts – this show remains unforgettable itself.
- 4Ed O'Neill, Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell
- Premiered: September 23, 2009
- Network: ABC
An unconventional family tree featuring diverse branches makes for endless entertainment in this hilarious domestic comedy. The Emmy Award-winning show offers gut-busting laughs while navigating complex modern familial dynamics with warmth and wit. Audiences can't help but adore Sofia Vergara's fiery Gloria or Ty Burrell's lovably bumbling Phil Dunphy.
- 5Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander
- Premiered: July 5, 1989
- Network: NBC
Yada yada yada, you're talking about the show that defined a generation of sitcom enthusiasts. This "show about nothing" created an unforgettable ensemble of quirky characters – none more famous than Jerry Seinfeld himself. The cast, including Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the iconic Elaine Benes, brought to life relatable situations with hilarious twists that are still quoted today.
- 6Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Terry Crews
- Premiered: September 17, 2013
- Network: FOX, NBC
Laugh it up with New York City's finest – well, funniest! A motley crew of detectives led by an unorthodox captain keeps crime fighting light-hearted within their precinct walls. Andy Samberg's quirky humor shines as Jake Peralta, and Terry Crews flexes his comedic muscles. With a loyal fan following and two Golden Globe Awards under its belt, this cop comedy is no laughing matter when it comes to success.
