The Best Comedy-Drama TV Shows Ever
The best comedy-drama TV shows, also known as dramadies, provide not only laughs but also heartfelt storylines. They have been television staples for years, but that’s probably because people love the merging of those two genres. With so many comedy-drama shows already, and even more great comedy-dramas in the past few years, picking the best one of all time is a tough proposition. So determine which good comedy-drama shows are the best, fans like you have voted on their favorite funny dramas below.
What makes the combination of comedy and drama so successful? In large part, it’s because one minute you could be laughing out loud and the next on the verge of tears. Thankfully, most comedy drama TV shows prioritize laughs over sadness, so you’re never a puddle of tears for long. In the show Chuck for instance, the majority of the episodes maintain a level of brevity and only sometimes dip into emotional scenes.
Another great show that straddles the line between comedy and drama is Scrubs. In what may be the most emotional episode of the series, My Screw Up, we get a lighthearted episode until halfway through. From that point, the episode dips into downerville by revealing that one of the show’s most liked characters was actually dead the entire episode.
So what are the best comedy drama shows of all time? Vote for the ones you love the most below. In many ways, these top comedy-drama shows are also some of the best drama shows too.
- James Roday Rodriguez, Dulé Hill, Corbin Bernsen
- Premiered: July 7, 2006
Get ready to laugh your socks off with this witty series centered around a charmingly quirky con artist who convinces the police he's psychic. Joined by his best friend, they solve crimes together in the most unconventional and hilarious ways imaginable. Trust us, you won't want to miss this unique blend of detective work and side-splitting comedy.
- Zachary Levi, Adam Baldwin, Yvonne Strahovski
- Premiered: September 24, 2007
When an average computer geek unwittingly gets mixed up with deadly government secrets, he becomes the world's most unlikely secret agent. With a brilliant supporting cast, this show weaves together drama, action, and humor seamlessly. You'll find yourself cheering for the underdog and laughing all the way through this wild ride.
- Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Tiffani Thiessen
- Premiered: October 23, 2009
Talk about a dream team! An elusive white-collar criminal turns informant, partnering up with the very FBI agent who caught him. The pair develop a strong bond, using their combined expertise to take down even the most cunning criminals. This series is a testament to the fact that sometimes the best laughs come from the most unlikely sources.
- William H. Macy, Jeremy Allen White, Cameron Monaghan
- Premiered: December 12, 2010
Dysfunctional doesn't begin to cover this family of misfits, but their antics sure are entertaining! Showcasing an eclectic ensemble of colorful characters and the challenges they face, this dark comedy-drama exposes the hilarity and chaos that comes with living life on your own terms.
- Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, T.J. Thyne
- Premiered: September 13, 2005
Who knew death could be so funny? A socially awkward forensic anthropologist steers her way through criminal investigations with a perpetually amused FBI agent. Tackling the most gruesome of cases with a unique blend of macabre humor and heartwarming camaraderie, this duo will have you laughing and cringing in equal measure.
- Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Susan Sullivan
- Premiered: March 9, 2009
A bestselling mystery novelist teams up with a no-nonsense detective to solve real-life crimes. Their love-hate relationship only helps to fuel the humor and intrigue that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. With clever twists, endearing characters, and electrifying chemistry, this show hits all the right notes.