The most hilarious TV shows in recent memory and throughout history have brought endless laughter to viewers. These side-splitting series have a magical ability to make us snort soda through our noses, spill our TV dinners, and even fall off our chairs from laughing too hard. Some of these shows are so incredibly funny that just the memory of a joke can still have us chuckling years later.
From the timeless antics of I Love Lucy’s Ethel and Lucy to the mischievous adventures of the kids from South Park, and the dysfunctional Bluth family on Arrested Development, these uproarious television series have transformed our living rooms (or any other place we watch TV in this digital age) into a place of uncontrollable laughter. Some of these shows continue to dominate the airwaves, like The Simpsons and Big Bang Theory, while others have bid farewell, like Cheers and 30 Rock. And let’s not forget about the ones that were resurrected from the digital grave, like Family Guy and Futurama.
So, which series have brought us to tears of laughter? Which ones have tickled our funny bone the most in the past decade? And ultimately, which is the funniest TV show ever? This list aims to crown one show as the ultimate champion of hilarity. It doesn’t matter if the show is old or new, as long as it leaves us in stitches. Remember, not all of these shows are categorized as traditional comedies, but let’s be real, most of the funniest TV shows are also the best comedies of all time. So, immerse yourself in the laughter, and discover where your favorite funny shows rank.
1. The Office
Take a wild ride through the quirky and funny realm of office life in this mockumentary-style series that had TV audiences hooked. Packed with relatable characters, clever writing, and amazing comedic timing, it quickly became a sensation. Led by the talented Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, and John Krasinski, the star-studded cast had viewers instantly smitten with the offbeat employees of Dunder Mifflin. Before you knew it, the show’s catchy catchphrases and unforgettable moments had become part of our everyday pop culture.
Premiered: March 24, 2005
Actors: Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski
2. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Imagine a gang of self-absorbed oddballs struggling to keep a bar afloat. It’s like the ultimate recipe for gut-busting laughter and nonstop shenanigans. And let me tell you, the cast is pure gold: we’ve got Charlie Day, Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, and the legendary Danny DeVito. This hilarious series has been a fan favorite for more than ten years, and it’s easy to see why. They tackle taboo subjects with irreverence and keep us guessing with their slapstick comedy. It’s a perfect blend of outrageousness and cleverness that never fails to entertain.
Premiered: August 4, 2005
Actors: Danny DeVito, Charlie Day, Kaitlin Olson
3. Looney Tunes
Timeless animated antics never fail to tickle our funny bones. We can’t help but laugh as we follow the uproarious escapades of these classic cartoon characters. From Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck to Porky Pig, and let’s not forget everyone’s favorite speech-impaired canary Tweety, these lovable personalities have been cracking up fans for generations. They have been making us laugh since they first came into existence.
This enduring franchise is known for its clever wit and unforgettable catchphrases. Who can forget the iconic line, “What’s up, doc?” It’s no surprise that this beloved franchise continues to be adored by both young and old.
Premiered: 1930
Actors: Mel Blanc, June Foray
4. Brooklyn Nine-nine
In the heart of New York City, a group of cops comes together to create a hilarious and entertaining police precinct comedy. With the incredible talents of Andy Samberg, Terry Crews, Andre Braugher, and more, each episode is filled with non-stop jokes and heartwarming moments. This unique combination of classic cop show elements and clever humor keeps the audience engaged and laughing from start to finish.
Premiered: September 17, 2013
Actors: Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Terry Crews
5. Tom and Jerry
For decades, there has been this cat-and-mouse show that has made people laugh all around the world. It’s amazing how it doesn’t matter what language you speak, you can still enjoy the hilarious antics that unfold without needing any words. This dynamic duo has entertained us with their slapstick comedy, always chasing each other in episode after episode. They come up with these elaborate traps and plans that never quite work out, but that’s what makes it so funny. What’s even more impressive is that they manage to make us laugh without even saying a single word. Their humor is purely physical, and that’s what makes them timeless.
Premiered: February 10, 1940
Actors: Tom Kenny, Rick Zieff, Gary Cole
6. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Living in a Bel-Air mansion with your eccentric extended family, there’s truly no place like home. This show that made Will Smith a star had us rolling on the floor with laughter as we witnessed his character’s hilarious shenanigans alongside his posh and proper relatives. From unforgettable catchphrases to outrageous fashion choices, this sitcom with a lovable cast, including the unforgettable Carlton Banks, struck comedic gold with its family-oriented humor.
Premiered: September 10, 1990
Actors: Will Smith, James Avery, Daphne Maxwell-Reid
7. South Park
This animated powerhouse has truly pushed the boundaries of satire while keeping its wit razor-sharp. Ever since it first graced our screens, it has been a force to be reckoned with. With its biting social commentary and a constantly changing cast of absurd characters (those pesky Canadians can’t be ignored), there’s no topic that this relentless comedy juggernaut considers too taboo. And let’s not forget about the unforgettable tunes it has given us, like “Blame Canada.” It’s no wonder that this animated sensation has managed to maintain its popularity for decades.
Premiered: August 13, 1997
Actors: Trey Parker, Matt Stone
8. The Simpsons
The longest-running animated sitcom in history has made a lasting impact on popular culture with its clever writing and iconic yellow-skinned characters. It follows the lives of Homer Simpson and his lovable family – wife Marge and children Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. This satirical series brilliantly mocks American society with its sharp wit. And let’s not forget the unforgettable catchphrase ‘D’oh!’ that keeps audiences of all ages hooked on this captivating show.
Premiered: December 17, 1989
Actors: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright
9. Married… with Children
The Bundy family has always been a bit, well, dysfunctional. But they were way ahead of the trend. Al Bundy’s life is basically a never-ending punchline. He’s just trying to sell shoes, but he’s constantly caught up in arguments with his wife Peggy and dealing with their two rebellious teenagers. And let’s not forget the amazing cast that brings this chaos to life: Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate, and David Faustino. Together, they make every episode a non-stop laughter fest.
Premiered: April 5, 1987
Actors: Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate
10. Family Guy
There’s this animated show that totally pushes the limits of satire and has everyone hooked from the moment it premiered. Created by Seth MacFarlane, it’s all about this messed-up family from Rhode Island. You’ve got Peter Griffin, the clueless dad voiced by MacFarlane himself, his cool-headed wife Lois voiced by Alex Borstein, their awkward daughter Meg voiced by Mila Kunis, and their talking dog Brian, also voiced by MacFarlane. Seriously, there’s no topic off-limits for this comedy. It’ll make you laugh and shock you at the same time.
Premiered: January 31, 1999
Actors: Seth MacFarlane, Alex Borstein, Seth Green
11. Parks and Recreation
Pawnee, Indiana is often hailed as one of the funniest towns in America. It owes this reputation to its endearing parks department employees, who effortlessly navigate the quirky world of local politics. Led by the brilliant Amy Poehler, an impressive ensemble cast including Rashida Jones, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, and Chris Pratt brings the eccentric townsfolk to life in a truly unforgettable way.
The show’s humor is on full display during uproarious town hall meetings, where the absurdity of the situations will have you doubled over in laughter. But it’s the characters that truly steal the show. Ron Swanson, the embodiment of deadpan humor, and Andy Dwyer, the lovable goofball, are just two examples of the unforgettable personalities that grace our screens.
From the very beginning to the very end, this workplace comedy keeps viewers in stitches. Its combination of witty writing and impeccable comedic timing ensures that there is never a dull moment. So, if you’re looking for a show that will have you laughing out loud, look no further than Pawnee, Indiana and its hilarious parks department employees.
Premiered: April 9, 2009
Actors: Amy Poehler, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman
