Best Sitcoms from the Last 50 Years (One from Each Year)
I’ve watched the Best Sitcoms from the last 50 Years (One from Each Year), and let me tell you, they’re incredible. From Happy Days in 1974 to Jury Duty in 2023, these shows have made me laugh.
Each sitcom is special and shows us what made people laugh during its time. Stick around—I’ll share my favorites and why they’re worth watching!
Let’s journey through TV’s funniest hits.
Best Sitcoms from the Last 50 Years (One from Each Year)
Here are the best sitcoms from the last 50 Years (One from Each Year):
| Series | Year |
| Happy Days | 1974 |
| The Jeffersons | 1975 |
| Laverne & Shirley | 1976 |
| Three’s Company | 1977 |
| Mork & Mindy | 1978 |
| Taxi | 1979 |
| Cheers | 1980 |
| Diff’rent Strokes | 1981 |
| Family Ties | 1982 |
| Fraggle Rock | 1983 |
| The Cosby Show | 1984 |
| The Golden Girls | 1985 |
| Perfect Strangers | 1986 |
| Married… with Children | 1987 |
| Roseanne | 1988 |
| Seinfeld | 1989 |
| The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air | 1990 |
| Home Improvement | 1991 |
| Martin | 1992 |
| Frasier | 1993 |
| Friends | 1994 |
| NewsRadio | 1995 |
| Everybody Loves Raymond | 1996 |
| King of the Hill | 1997 |
| That ’70s Show | 1998 |
| Freaks and Geeks | 1999 |
| Malcolm in the Middle | 2000 |
| Scrubs | 2001 |
| The Office (UK) | 2002 |
| Arrested Development | 2003 |
| How I Met Your Mother | 2004 |
| The Office (US) | 2005 |
| 30 Rock | 2006 |
| The Big Bang Theory | 2007 |
| Parks and Recreation | 2008 |
| Modern Family | 2009 |
| Community | 2010 |
| New Girl | 2011 |
| Veep | 2012 |
| Brooklyn Nine-Nine | 2013 |
| BoJack Horseman | 2014 |
| Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt | 2015 |
| Atlanta | 2016 |
| The Good Place | 2017 |
| Barry | 2018 |
| Fleabag | 2019 |
| Ted Lasso | 2020 |
| Only Murders in the Building | 2021 |
| Abbott Elementary | 2022 |
| Jury Duty | 2023 |
Happy Days (1974)
Happy Days is a show about a family living in the 1950s. The main character is Richie Cunningham, a teenager who goes through everyday life with his family and friends.
Richie is kind and always tries to do the right thing. His parents, Howard and Marion, are loving and supportive. Richie also has a younger sister named Joanie, who is playful and funny.
The most famous character from the show is Fonzie. Everyone calls him “The Fonz.” He is Richie’s cool friend who always wears a leather jacket and has a slick hairstyle.
Fonzie acts tough, but deep down, he cares about his friends and helps them when they are in trouble. He’s known for his funny catchphrase, “Hey!”
Richie’s best friends, Potsie and Ralph, are also part of the fun. The three friends often hang out at Arnold’s Drive-In, a diner where they talk, eat, and get into funny situations. Whether it’s trying to impress girls or solving small problems, they always end up laughing.
The show is lighthearted and easy to watch. It’s about friendship, family, and enjoying the little things in life. Every episode brings simple, funny moments that make you smile.
The Jeffersons (1975)
The Jeffersons is about George and Louise Jefferson, a couple who live in New York City. They move into a fancy apartment after George’s dry-cleaning business becomes successful. George is proud of his success, but he can also be loud and stubborn. This often leads to funny arguments.
Louise, or “Weezy,” is George’s wife. She is kind and patient. She often helps George calm down when he gets too excited. Their son, Lionel, is smart and adds a fresh, young perspective to the family’s life.
The Jeffersons also have neighbors who add to the comedy. Tom and Helen Willis live next door and are good friends of the Jeffersons. Florence, the Jeffersons’ housekeeper, is sharp and quick with funny comments. She loves teasing George and always makes people laugh.
The show is full of family moments, neighborly laughs, and George’s over-the-top personality. It’s simple, funny, and easy to enjoy.
Laverne & Shirley (1976)
Laverne & Shirley is about two best friends who work in a factory that bottles soft drinks. Laverne DeFazio is bold and outgoing. She’s always ready to take on an adventure.
Shirley Feeney is quieter and more optimistic. She dreams of having the perfect life but often ends up in funny situations instead.
The two women share an apartment and deal with daily challenges together. Whether it’s problems at work, silly dating troubles, or getting into awkward situations, they always stick by each other. Their friendship is what makes the show so fun to watch.
Laverne is known for her love of milk and Pepsi, a drink combination that surprises everyone. Shirley, on the other hand, has a favorite stuffed cat named Boo Boo Kitty that she treats like a real pet. These little details make their characters feel real and relatable.
Each episode shows their goofy adventures and how they face life’s ups and downs with laughter and heart.
Three’s Company (1977)
Three’s Company is about three roommates—Jack, Janet, and Chrissy—who live in the same apartment. Jack is a fun-loving guy who dreams of becoming a chef. He’s always finding himself in funny situations. Janet is the smart and practical one, keeping everyone on track.
Chrissy is cheerful and a bit clueless, which leads to lots of laughs.
The roommates share a lot of funny moments, especially because Jack has to pretend he’s not interested in women. Their landlord, Mr. Roper, thinks it’s improper for a man to live with two women. To stay in the apartment, Jack keeps up the act, which creates a lot of misunderstandings.
Mr. Roper and his wife, Helen, are also part of the comedy. Helen loves to tease her husband, and Mr. Roper’s reactions are always hilarious.
The show is about friendship and the funny things that happen when very different people live together. It’s full of laughs and surprises.
Mork & Mindy (1978)
Mork & Mindy is about Mork, an alien who comes to Earth from a planet called Ork. Mork is played by Robin Williams, who makes him super funny and unique. Mork does not understand human behavior, so everything about Earth seems strange and new to him.
Mork meets Mindy, a kind and caring woman who decides to help him. She teaches him how humans live and what emotions are. Mork is curious about everything, but his questions and actions often lead to funny moments.
Mork tries to fit in with humans but usually gets it wrong. For example, he might shake hands in a weird way or misunderstand common sayings. Mindy helps him figure things out, and their friendship is sweet and heartwarming.
The show is full of silly adventures and laughs, all because Mork is so different from everyone else. Watching him try to act like a regular human is what makes it so fun.
Taxi (1979)
Taxi is about a group of people who work as taxi drivers in New York City. They all work at the Sunshine Cab Company and deal with funny situations in their jobs and personal lives.
The main character is Alex Reiger. He’s a good guy who often gives advice to his coworkers. Then there’s Louie De Palma, the dispatcher. Louie is grumpy and selfish, but his rude comments often make people laugh.
Tony Banta is a taxi driver who is also a boxer, and Bobby Wheeler dreams of becoming an actor but struggles to find work.
Other characters include Elaine, an art-loving driver who juggles her job and family life, and Latka, the mechanic, who has a funny way of speaking and always gets laughs with his odd behavior.
The show is about their daily lives and how they support each other. Whether they’re helping each other with problems or dealing with crazy customers, their stories are always funny and entertaining.
Cheers (1980)
Cheers takes place in a bar in Boston where people come to relax and chat. Sam Malone is the owner of the bar. He’s charming, flirty, and always joking around. Sam used to be a baseball player, but now he runs the bar and takes care of his customers.
The bar has regulars like Norm, a guy who loves beer and always has a joke, and Cliff, a mailman who thinks he knows everything. Diane is a waitress at the bar who often argues with Sam. Carla is another waitress who is sarcastic and loves teasing people.
The show is about the friendships and funny conversations that happen in the bar. Whether it’s a problem at work or a silly argument, the bar is a place where everyone comes together to laugh and share their lives.
Diff’rent Strokes (1981)
Diff’rent Strokes is about two brothers, Arnold and Willis, who move into a rich man’s home after their mother passes away. Mr. Drummond, a wealthy businessman, adopts them and brings them into his family. The story is about how these two boys adjust to living in a fancy, new world.
Arnold is the younger brother. He’s funny, curious, and has a way of saying things that make people laugh, especially his famous line, “What’chu talkin’ ‘bout, Willis?” Willis, the older brother, is more serious and protective. He often tries to guide Arnold but ends up in funny situations himself.
The family also includes Mr. Drummond’s daughter, Kimberly. She is a caring sister to Arnold and Willis. The housekeeper, Mrs. Garrett, is another fun part of the show. She always has something wise or funny to say.
The show is about family and the differences they learn to understand. But it’s also full of funny moments that make it easy to enjoy.
Family Ties (1982)
Family Ties follows the Keaton family. The parents, Steven and Elyse, are former hippies. They believe in peace and kindness. But their kids think very differently, which leads to a lot of funny situations.
Alex, the oldest child, loves business and money. He’s always planning something that makes his parents shake their heads. Mallory, the middle child, is into clothes and dating, but she’s not very focused on school. Jennifer, the youngest, is sharp and often makes funny remarks about her siblings.
The family argues about politics, school, and life in general. But they always come back together to support one another. The humor comes from how different they all are and how they manage to stay close despite it.
Fraggle Rock (1983)
Fraggle Rock is about small, colorful creatures called Fraggles. They live in caves and spend their time exploring, singing, and having fun. The main Fraggles are Gobo, Red, Mokey, Wembley, and Boober. Each one is different, which makes their adventures fun to watch.
Gobo is the leader. He loves exploring new places. Red is energetic and competitive. Mokey is calm and loves art. Wembley is nervous but kind, and Boober is always worrying about something. They all live together but have their own unique ways of looking at the world.
There are also tiny builders called Doozers who make structures the Fraggles love to eat. Then there are the Gorgs, big creatures who think they rule Fraggle Rock. The mix of all these characters creates a lot of funny and exciting moments.
The show is bright, musical, and full of silly adventures that kids and adults can enjoy.
The Cosby Show (1984)
The Cosby Show is about the Huxtable family. Cliff, the dad, is a doctor, and Clair, the mom, is a lawyer. Together, they raise their five kids in New York City. The family is funny, loving, and always full of surprises.
Theo is the only boy in the family. He often gets into trouble at school or with his parents, but it’s always funny. Denise is the free-spirited daughter. She has her own style and often makes interesting choices.
Vanessa is smart but dramatic. Rudy, the youngest, is adorable and steals the show with her funny lines. Sondra, the oldest, is responsible and a little bossy.
The show is about family life—school, work, and the silly things that happen every day. Cliff loves joking with his kids, and the family’s love for each other shines through in every episode.
The Golden Girls (1985)
The Golden Girls is about four older women who live together in Miami. Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia are very different but become close friends. They spend their days talking, laughing, and eating cheesecake in their kitchen.
Blanche is confident and loves to date. Rose is sweet but often doesn’t understand things, which makes for funny moments. Dorothy is smart and sarcastic. She’s the one who usually fixes problems. Sophia, Dorothy’s mom, is the oldest but the quickest with a joke. She’s always making everyone laugh.
The show is about their friendship and the funny things they go through as they age. Whether it’s dating troubles or silly arguments, they always stick together. It’s a heartwarming show with lots of laughs.
Perfect Strangers (1986)
Perfect Strangers is about two cousins, Larry and Balki, who live together in Chicago. Larry is from the U.S. and wants a normal life. Balki is from a small island and doesn’t understand American ways. This leads to funny mix-ups.
Balki is cheerful and full of energy. He’s always trying new things, but he often gets them wrong in hilarious ways. Larry tries to explain how things work, but Balki’s mistakes usually pull him into funny trouble too.
The show is about their friendship and how they learn from each other. Balki’s happy attitude and Larry’s serious nature make every scene funny and entertaining.
Married… with Children (1987)
Married… with Children is about the Bundy family, who are nothing like a perfect family. Al Bundy, the dad, is a shoe salesman. He’s always tired and grumpy. He loves to complain about his job and his family.
Peggy, the mom, is lazy but funny. She loves shopping and watching TV instead of cooking or cleaning. Kelly, their daughter, is pretty but not very smart. Bud, their son, is sneaky and always trying to impress girls.
The family argues and gets into crazy situations, but it’s all very funny. The Bundys are different from other TV families, but that’s what makes the show so much fun to watch.
Roseanne (1988)
Roseanne is about the Conner family, a working-class family living in Illinois. Roseanne, the mom, is loud, funny, and full of energy. She handles her family’s problems with humor, even when things get tough. Dan, her husband, is a loving dad who works hard to support the family.
The Conners have three kids—Becky, Darlene, and D.J. Becky is the oldest and more responsible, but she can be bossy. Darlene is a tomboy and loves making sarcastic jokes, which often annoys her mom. D.J. is the youngest, and he’s curious and playful.
The show is about their everyday life—paying bills, raising kids, and getting through tough times. But it’s also full of funny arguments and silly moments that make the family feel real and relatable.
Seinfeld (1989)
Seinfeld is about Jerry Seinfeld, a comedian, and his group of quirky friends living in New York City. The show doesn’t follow a big storyline; it’s more about the funny things that happen in everyday life.
Jerry’s best friend is George Costanza. George is always overthinking things and getting himself into funny trouble. Elaine Benes, Jerry’s ex-girlfriend, is independent and has her own sharp sense of humor. Kramer, Jerry’s neighbor, is the wackiest of them all. He’s always coming up with crazy ideas and doing weird things.
The show is full of short, funny stories about small problems—like waiting in line at a restaurant or dealing with a rude neighbor. The humor is clever and always surprising.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990)
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is about Will Smith, a teenager from Philadelphia, who moves to live with his wealthy relatives in California. Will is funny, confident, and always ready to joke around. But his new life in a fancy mansion is very different from what he’s used to.
His Uncle Phil and Aunt Vivian are strict but care about Will. They want him to succeed and often give him advice. Will’s cousins are very different from him.
Carlton is serious and loves rules, which often makes him the target of Will’s jokes. Hilary is fashionable and a little spoiled. Ashley, the youngest, looks up to Will and learns a lot from him.
The show is about family, friendship, and the funny moments that happen when two very different worlds come together. Will’s charm and humor make every episode fun to watch.
Home Improvement (1991)
Home Improvement is about Tim Taylor, a man who hosts a TV show about tools and home repairs. Tim is funny but often clueless, which leads to hilarious accidents and mistakes. His wife, Jill, is smart and keeps him grounded, even when he tries to act like he knows everything.
Tim and Jill have three sons—Brad, Randy, and Mark. Brad, the oldest, is into sports. Randy, the middle son, is witty and loves teasing his brothers. Mark, the youngest, is sweet but sometimes feels left out.
The show is about family life and Tim’s funny attempts to fix things, both at work and at home. His neighbor, Wilson, is always there to give wise advice, though Tim usually misunderstands it in a funny way.
Martin (1992)
Martin is about Martin Payne, a radio host, and his life with his friends and girlfriend in Detroit. Martin is loud, funny, and always cracking jokes. He often gets into silly arguments with people around him.
His girlfriend, Gina, is smart and keeps Martin in check when he gets too full of himself. Martin’s best friends, Tommy and Cole, are also part of the fun. Tommy is calm and laid-back, while Cole is goofy and always saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.
The show is about Martin’s relationships and the funny situations he gets into at work and with his friends. Martin’s personality and quick humor make every episode entertaining.
Frasier (1993)
Frasier is about Dr. Frasier Crane, a radio talk show host who gives advice to callers. Frasier moves back to Seattle after his divorce and lives with his dad, Martin, and Martin’s dog, Eddie. Martin is down-to-earth and practical, which often clashes with Frasier’s fancy and sophisticated lifestyle.
Frasier’s brother, Niles, is also part of the story. Niles is just like Frasier—fancy and a little snobby—but he’s also very funny, especially when he’s nervous. Their housekeeper, Daphne, is kind and has a unique sense of humor, while Roz, Frasier’s producer at the radio station, is bold and straightforward.
The show is about family and the funny moments that happen when different personalities live together. Frasier’s fancy ways and Martin’s simple life often lead to hilarious conflicts.
Friends (1994)
Friends is about six friends—Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe—living in New York City. They spend most of their time at a coffee shop called Central Perk or at Monica’s apartment. The show is all about their friendships, relationships, and the funny situations they get into.
Rachel starts out as a spoiled girl who learns to be independent. Ross, her on-again, off-again boyfriend, is smart but often awkward. Monica is Ross’s sister and loves cooking and being in charge. Chandler is the funny one, always cracking jokes. Joey is an actor who’s not very bright but has a big heart. Phoebe is quirky and loves singing strange songs.
The show is about their everyday lives—dating, working, and supporting each other through ups and downs. The humor and bond between the friends make it one of the most loved sitcoms ever.
NewsRadio (1995)
NewsRadio is about the wacky staff of a news radio station in New York City. The main character, Dave Nelson, is the new boss. He tries to keep the station running smoothly, but his coworkers make it very difficult.
There’s Bill McNeal, a funny but arrogant radio anchor who loves being the center of attention. Lisa Miller is smart and professional, and she often helps Dave keep things in order. Jimmy James, the station’s owner, is unpredictable and loves to stir up chaos.
Then there’s Matthew Brock, the goofy and awkward employee who always manages to get into silly trouble.
The show is about the funny situations that happen at the station. Whether it’s office pranks or strange announcements, every episode is filled with clever humor and lovable characters.
Everybody Loves Raymond (1996)
Everybody Loves Raymond is about Raymond Barone, a sports writer who lives with his wife and kids. But the real fun comes from his nosy family, who live right across the street. Ray’s parents and his brother are always dropping by, whether he likes it or not.
Ray is laid-back and tries to avoid conflict, but his wife, Debra, is often frustrated with his laziness. His mom, Marie, is overly involved in their lives, and his dad, Frank, is blunt and hilarious. Ray’s brother, Robert, is jealous of Ray’s success but loves him deep down.
The show is about family life, full of funny moments from misunderstandings, sibling rivalry, and Ray’s attempts to keep the peace between everyone. It’s both chaotic and heartwarming.
King of the Hill (1997)
King of the Hill is about Hank Hill and his family, who live in a small Texas town. Hank is a serious and hardworking man who sells propane. He tries to live a simple life, but his family and friends often create funny problems.
Hank’s wife, Peggy, is confident and always thinks she’s the smartest in the room. Bobby, their son, is quirky and loves comedy, which often confuses his serious dad. Their neighbor, Dale, is a conspiracy theorist who comes up with the wildest ideas, and Boomhauer, another friend, talks so fast that no one can understand him.
The show is about everyday life in a small town. It’s filled with hilarious situations and moments that make you laugh while still feeling real.
That ’70s Show (1998)
That ’70s Show is about a group of teenagers growing up in the 1970s. The story focuses on Eric Forman, who lives with his parents in Wisconsin. Eric and his friends hang out in his basement, where they talk, laugh, and get into trouble.
Eric is sarcastic and often the butt of the jokes. Donna, his girlfriend, is smart and independent. Hyde, Eric’s best friend, is cool and rebellious. Kelso is goofy and not very smart, which leads to a lot of funny moments.
Jackie is bossy and loves being the center of attention, while Fez is a foreign exchange student who’s sweet but clueless.
The show is about their friendships, first loves, and the funny things teenagers do. It’s nostalgic and full of laughs.
Freaks and Geeks (1999)
Freaks and Geeks is about two groups of high school students in the 1980s. Lindsay Weir, a smart girl who starts hanging out with the “freaks,” is the main character. These are the kids who don’t follow the rules and love to have fun. Lindsay’s younger brother, Sam, is part of the “geeks,” who are nerdy and socially awkward.
The freaks include Daniel, the cool kid with a bad attitude, and Kim, who is tough but has a softer side. There’s also Nick, who loves music, and Ken, who is sarcastic and funny. The geeks include Neal, who loves telling jokes, and Bill, who is shy and lovable.
The show is about high school life, friendships, and fitting in. It’s funny, honest, and shows the ups and downs of being a teenager.
Malcolm in the Middle (2000)
Malcolm in the Middle is about Malcolm, a boy who is super smart but has a very chaotic family. Malcolm’s parents, Lois and Hal, try their best, but their house is always full of noise and trouble.
Malcolm has three brothers. Reese is the troublemaker who loves fighting and pranks. Dewey, the youngest, is sweet but often gets dragged into Reese’s schemes. Francis, the oldest, is away at military school but still causes problems from afar.
The show is about Malcolm dealing with his crazy family and trying to survive school. The humor comes from their wild antics and Malcolm’s sarcastic way of looking at everything.
Scrubs (2001)
Scrubs is about a young doctor, J.D., and his experiences working at a hospital. J.D. is funny, imaginative, and often daydreams about silly scenarios. His best friend, Turk, is also a doctor, and the two share a close bond that brings a lot of laughs.
The show also features Carla, a kind and tough nurse who’s married to Turk, and Elliot, another doctor who is a bit awkward but hardworking. Dr. Cox, one of J.D.’s mentors, is sarcastic and tough on him but also cares deeply about teaching.
The humor comes from the mix of hospital life and the characters’ goofy personalities. It’s a comedy, but it also has heartfelt moments that make the story more meaningful.
The Office (UK) (2002)
The Office (UK) is about the workers in a boring office. The main character is David Brent, the boss. He thinks he’s funny and cool, but most of the time, he just makes everyone uncomfortable. His awkward jokes and silly behavior are what make the show so funny.
The other characters include Tim, who is smart but bored with his job. Tim has a crush on Dawn, the receptionist, but she’s already engaged. Gareth, one of Tim’s coworkers, is strange and overly serious, which makes him the target of Tim’s pranks.
The show is about the little things that happen in the office. It’s full of awkward moments, funny conversations, and characters that feel very real.
Arrested Development (2003)
Arrested Development is about the Bluth family, who are rich but very dysfunctional. Michael Bluth, the only sensible one in the family, tries to keep everyone together after their dad gets in trouble with the law. But his family makes this very hard.
There’s Gob, Michael’s brother, who is a terrible magician and always messing up. Lindsay, Michael’s sister, is spoiled and loves spending money. Her husband, Tobias, wants to be an actor but is hilariously bad at it.
Then there’s Buster, the youngest brother, who is overly attached to their mom, Lucille.
The show is full of silly misunderstandings and strange family drama. Every character is funny in their own weird way, making the show unpredictable and hilarious.
How I Met Your Mother (2004)
How I Met Your Mother is about Ted Mosby telling his kids the story of how he met their mother. The story flashes back to when Ted was a young man living in New York City with his friends.
Ted’s best friends are Marshall, a sweet and loyal guy, and Lily, Marshall’s wife, who is kind but sometimes mischievous. There’s also Barney, who loves coming up with wild schemes and has a lot of funny catch phrases like “Legendary!”
Robin is Ted’s other close friend, and he has a crush on her for much of the story.
The show is about friendships, relationships, and the funny adventures the group goes through while living in the city. Each episode is full of laughs and surprises.
The Office (US) (2005)
The Office (US) is about the employees of Dunder Mifflin, a paper company. The boss, Michael Scott, thinks he’s the world’s best boss, but he’s clueless and often says the wrong things. His silly mistakes and awkward moments are what make the show so funny.
Other workers include Jim, who is laid-back and loves pranking his coworker Dwight. Dwight is serious and thinks he’s the most important person in the office, which makes his reactions to Jim’s jokes hilarious. Pam, the receptionist, is kind and down-to-earth. She has a sweet friendship with Jim that grows into something more.
The show is about the funny and awkward moments of office life. Each character brings something unique, making it a fun show to watch.
30 Rock (2006)
30 Rock is about Liz Lemon, who works as the head writer for a comedy TV show. Liz tries to keep everything running smoothly, but her boss and coworkers are always causing chaos.
Her boss, Jack Donaghy, is confident and always giving her advice, even when she doesn’t want it. The show’s star, Tracy Jordan, is unpredictable and loves doing ridiculous things, which makes Liz’s job harder. Jenna, Liz’s best friend, is dramatic and loves being the center of attention.
The show is about Liz trying to balance her work and personal life while dealing with all the silly problems around her. It’s fast, funny, and full of clever jokes.
The Big Bang Theory (2007)
The Big Bang Theory is about a group of nerdy friends who love science, comics, and video games. The main characters are Sheldon and Leonard, two scientists who live together. Leonard is kind and shy, while Sheldon is super smart but doesn’t understand social situations, which leads to lots of funny moments.
Their friends include Howard, who thinks he’s a ladies’ man but isn’t, and Raj, who gets nervous when talking to women. Penny, their neighbor, is friendly and not into science, but she becomes close to the group and often teases them in a fun way.
The show is about their friendships and the funny situations they get into, especially when their nerdy world collides with everyday life.
Parks and Recreation (2008)
Parks and Recreation is about Leslie Knope, who works at the Parks Department in a small town. Leslie is enthusiastic and loves her job, but her coworkers are not as passionate, which leads to funny moments.
Her boss, Ron Swanson, hates government work and loves bacon, which makes his grumpy attitude hilarious. Tom is a coworker who always dreams of becoming rich and famous. Then there’s April, who is sarcastic and likes to joke around.
The show is about Leslie’s efforts to make her town better, even when things go wrong. The characters’ quirks and the funny problems they face make it a great show to watch.
Modern Family (2009)
Modern Family is about three families who are all related but very different. Jay is the grandfather, married to Gloria, who is much younger and full of energy. Gloria’s son, Manny, is smart and loves poetry.
Jay’s daughter, Claire, is married to Phil, who is goofy and loves being a fun dad. They have three kids: Haley, who is into fashion; Alex, who is a bookworm; and Luke, who is silly and playful.
Jay’s son, Mitchell, and his partner, Cameron, have an adopted daughter named Lily. Mitchell is serious, while Cameron is dramatic and funny.
The show is about their daily lives, filled with love, arguments, and lots of laughs. Each family brings their own humor to the story.
Community (2010)
Community is about a group of students at a community college who become friends while studying together. The main character, Jeff Winger, is a former lawyer who joins the school to get a real degree. He’s charming but a little selfish, and his group of friends helps him grow.
The group includes Britta, who is passionate about causes but often gets things wrong, and Abed, who loves TV and movies and sees life through that lens. Troy, Abed’s best friend, is goofy and loves making people laugh.
Shirley is a sweet mother who dreams of opening a business. Annie is a smart but high-strung student, and Pierce is the oldest in the group, often causing trouble with his outdated views.
The show is about their adventures at school and how they grow as friends. Each episode has funny and creative situations that make the group closer.
New Girl (2011)
New Girl is about Jess, a cheerful and quirky teacher, who moves into an apartment with three guys after a breakup. Jess is sweet and optimistic, but her awkwardness often leads to funny situations.
Her roommates include Nick, who is laid-back but struggles to figure out his life. Schmidt is obsessed with being perfect and loves showing off. Winston is funny and unpredictable, always finding strange hobbies. Jess’s best friend, Cece, is fashionable and confident, often balancing out Jess’s silliness.
The show is about their friendships, dating lives, and the funny things that happen when very different people live together. Jess’s bubbly personality makes every episode full of laughs.
Veep (2012)
Veep is about Selina Meyer, a politician who becomes the Vice President of the United States. Selina is ambitious but often finds herself in hilarious and awkward situations as she tries to navigate her job.
Her staff includes Amy, her tough and determined assistant, and Gary, who is overly devoted and always at her side with whatever she needs. Dan is ambitious and sly, often causing chaos, and Jonah, a goofy and annoying worker, always makes things worse.
The show is about the behind-the-scenes chaos of politics, full of funny conversations, silly mistakes, and awkward moments that make it a comedy favorite.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013)
Brooklyn Nine-Nine is about the detectives of the 99th precinct in Brooklyn, New York. The main character, Jake Peralta, is a funny and talented detective who doesn’t take things too seriously. He loves solving crimes while also pulling pranks on his coworkers.
Captain Holt is Jake’s boss. He’s serious and professional, but his deadpan humor makes him very funny. Amy, Jake’s partner, is organized and competitive. Rosa is tough and mysterious but secretly cares about her friends. Terry, their sergeant, loves yogurt and his family. Charles, Jake’s best friend, is goofy and always supportive.
The show is about the team solving cases while also having hilarious moments together. Their funny personalities and strong friendships make it a fun and heartwarming sitcom.
BoJack Horseman (2014)
BoJack Horseman is an animated sitcom about BoJack, a washed-up TV star who happens to be a horse. BoJack is struggling with his career and personal life, but his mistakes often lead to funny and unexpected situations.
His friends include Todd, a happy-go-lucky human who comes up with wild ideas, and Princess Carolyn, his hardworking agent who tries to keep him on track. Diane, a writer, helps BoJack understand his problems, and Mr. Peanutbutter, a cheerful dog and fellow TV star, often adds to the comedy with his over-the-top antics.
The show mixes funny moments with heartfelt stories about friendship and self-discovery. It’s both silly and meaningful.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015)
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is about Kimmy, a woman who starts a new life in New York City after being rescued from a bunker where she was trapped for years. Kimmy is cheerful and optimistic, even though the world around her is very different from what she’s used to.
Kimmy’s roommate, Titus, is a dramatic and funny aspiring actor. Her landlord, Lillian, is quirky and loves stirring up trouble. Jacqueline, Kimmy’s boss, is rich and self-centered, but her friendship with Kimmy helps her grow.
The show is about Kimmy adjusting to modern life and facing challenges with a positive attitude. Her bright personality and funny adventures make every episode fun to watch.
Atlanta (2016)
Atlanta is about Earn, a young man trying to make a better life for himself and his family. He starts managing his cousin Alfred, who is a rising rapper known as Paper Boi. The show follows their journey in the music world while dealing with everyday struggles.
Earn is smart but often overwhelmed. Alfred is laid-back but serious about his music career. Darius, Alfred’s friend, is odd and always has funny, out-of-the-box ideas. Van, Earn’s ex-girlfriend, is a strong character who cares about their daughter.
The show is about their lives in Atlanta, mixing funny, unexpected moments with real-life challenges. It’s both hilarious and thoughtful.
The Good Place (2017)
The Good Place is about Eleanor, a woman who finds herself in the afterlife but realizes she doesn’t belong in “The Good Place,” a heaven-like paradise. She decides to become a better person so she won’t get caught and sent to “The Bad Place.”
Eleanor is helped by Chidi, a kind and nervous ethics professor. Tahani, another resident, is glamorous and competitive. Jason is goofy and not very bright, which adds to the humor. Michael, the architect of The Good Place, seems perfect but has his own secrets.
The show is about Eleanor trying to fix her mistakes while learning about life and morality. It’s funny, clever, and full of surprises.
Barry (2018)
Barry is about a hitman named Barry who wants to leave his dangerous life behind and become an actor. Barry moves to Los Angeles and joins an acting class to follow his new dream, but his old life keeps pulling him back.
Barry’s acting teacher, Gene Cousineau, is dramatic and loves to talk about himself. He tries to help Barry become a better actor, but he has no idea about Barry’s secret. Barry’s handler, Fuches, is the one who gives him his hitman jobs and doesn’t want him to quit.
Then there’s NoHo Hank, a funny and friendly mobster who causes a lot of trouble.
The show is about Barry trying to balance his two very different lives. It’s full of dark but funny moments as Barry tries to figure out who he really wants to be.
Fleabag (2019)
Fleabag is about a young woman living in London who tries to navigate her messy life while dealing with grief, relationships, and family. The main character, known only as Fleabag, is witty and often speaks directly to the audience, sharing her thoughts in funny and honest ways.
Fleabag’s sister, Claire, is serious and successful, but their sibling rivalry adds humor to their relationship. Their father is awkward and distant, and his new partner, referred to as “Godmother,” is controlling and strange, creating more awkward situations.
The show is about Fleabag’s attempts to fix her life while making plenty of mistakes along the way. It’s funny, emotional, and filled with clever humor.
Ted Lasso (2020)
Ted Lasso is about an American football coach, Ted, who moves to England to coach a soccer team—even though he knows nothing about soccer. Ted is optimistic, kind, and always trying to make everyone around him better, even when things don’t go as planned.
The team’s owner, Rebecca, hires Ted to sabotage the team to get back at her ex-husband. But Ted’s positivity starts to win her over. The team includes Roy Kent, a grumpy veteran player, and Jamie Tartt, a talented but arrogant star. Keeley, Jamie’s girlfriend, becomes a friend to Ted and helps the team bond.
The show is about teamwork, kindness, and overcoming challenges. Ted’s funny and heartfelt way of looking at life makes every episode inspiring and fun.
Only Murders in the Building (2021)
Only Murders in the Building is about three neighbors, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel, who love true crime stories. When someone is murdered in their apartment building, they decide to solve the mystery themselves while creating a podcast about it.
Charles is a retired actor who’s a bit lonely and awkward. Oliver is a theater director who loves drama and always has big ideas. Mabel, the youngest, is smart and mysterious, with her own connection to the case. Together, the three of them make a funny and unexpected team.
The show is about their adventures in solving the crime while dealing with their own personal lives. The mix of comedy and mystery keeps it exciting and fun to watch.
Abbott Elementary (2022)
Abbott Elementary is about a group of teachers working at an underfunded public school in Philadelphia. The main character, Janine, is a young teacher who is full of energy and always trying to help her students, even when things don’t go as planned.
Her coworkers include Barbara, a wise and experienced teacher, and Melissa, who is tough but caring. Jacob, another teacher, is awkward but always enthusiastic. Gregory, the new substitute teacher, is serious but kind and often helps Janine with her ideas.
The show is about the funny and heartfelt moments that happen at school. The teachers work hard to make a difference for their students, and their personalities bring lots of laughs.
Jury Duty (2023)
Jury Duty is about a group of jurors who are brought together for a trial. The twist is that everyone except one person is an actor, and the whole thing is a setup for a comedy experiment. The one real juror, Ronald, has no idea he’s part of the joke.
Each juror has a funny and unique personality. There’s the overly serious juror who thinks they know everything, the quirky one who keeps saying weird things, and the loud one who makes everyone laugh without meaning to.
The show is about Ronald trying to figure out the trial while dealing with all the silly and unexpected behavior around him. The mix of reality and comedy makes it unique and hilarious.
