The 2010s were a wild ride for TV, filled with exciting moments and the birth of side-splitting comedies. Gone were the days of limited options and a handful of channels. Instead, we were treated to a non-stop barrage of hilarious shows vying for our attention, pushing the boundaries of humor.
Although some of the top comedy TV shows of the 2010s could be a little dark (like BoJack Horseman), or downright strange (like Russian Doll), or maybe even a bit longer (like Shameless), they still managed to deliver some of the most uproarious moments in recent TV history. From wacky cartoons to toe-tapping musicals, clever skits to mind-bending sci-fi, comedy took on many forms and reinvented itself like never before.
So buckle up and prepare for a whirlwind of emotions – from uncontrollable laughter to heartfelt tears, nervous excitement, and back to laughter once more. This list will take you on a nostalgia-filled journey, revisiting the crème de la crème of comedy TV shows from the 2010s. Get ready to have a blast!
1. The Office
The Office is a hilarious sitcom that takes place in a Scranton-based paper company. It’s filmed in a mockumentary style, which adds to the humor of the everyday work grind. The show’s cast is fantastic, with Steve Carell playing the bumbling but lovable regional manager, Michael Scott, and John Krasinski as the quirky sales representative, Jim Halpert. Over its nine-season run, The Office received numerous awards, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. What sets this show apart is its ability to balance cringe-worthy moments with heartfelt character development, making it a beloved classic in television history. As you watch the show, you’ll find yourself getting invested in the lives of the employees and appreciating the humor and warmth that can be found in even the most ordinary situations.
Premiered: March 24, 2005
Actors: Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski
2. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Set in a run-down bar in Philadelphia, this dark comedy series presents flawed characters who are trying to navigate their messed-up lives. The show gives an honest portrayal of these characters, and it’s quite refreshing. The cast of talented actors, including Charlie Kelly (played by Charlie Day), Dennis Reynolds (played by Glenn Howerton), and Dee Reynolds (played by Kaitlin Olson), work together brilliantly to strike a balance between humor and heartfelt moments.
Despite not receiving many major awards, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has gained critical acclaim and has a dedicated fan base. The show has managed to push boundaries with its bold storytelling, making it a cult classic in the world of television comedy.
Premiered: August 4, 2005
Actors: Danny DeVito, Charlie Day, Kaitlin Olson
3. Community
Community, the quirky yet endearing comedy, centers around a diverse group of misfits navigating their way through the unpredictable world of Greendale Community College. The show boasts an ensemble cast that includes the likes of Jeff Winger (Joel McHale) and Britta Perry (Gillian Jacobs), who brilliantly bring to life the intricacies of human connection and personal growth. All of this is wrapped in a cleverly written comedic package that is sure to captivate viewers.
Thanks to its unique blend of humor and heart, Community has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. The show has even received numerous award nominations, including Primetime Emmy Awards. It’s not hard to see why. From epic paintball battles to mind-bending alternate realities, Community offers an offbeat charm that strikes a chord with audiences who appreciate its wit and warmth.
Premiered: September 17, 2009
Actors: Joel McHale, Gillian Jacobs, Danny Pudi
4. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a hilarious show set in the lively heart of New York City. It’s been praised left and right, even winning two Golden Globe Awards, for its clever and engaging storytelling. The main character, Detective Jake Peralta, played by the talented Andy Samberg, leads a group of quirky detectives in the 99th precinct as they solve crimes and build deep connections. The show’s diverse cast includes the serious and composed Captain Raymond Holt, portrayed by Andre Braugher, and the tough-as-nails Sergeant Rosa Diaz, played by Stephanie Beatriz. This police procedural sitcom effortlessly blends humor with heartfelt moments, captivating audiences throughout its seven seasons. With its witty writing and unforgettable catchphrases, Brooklyn Nine-Nine truly stands out in the world of television comedy.
Premiered: September 17, 2013
Actors: Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Terry Crews
5. Parks and Recreation
Set in a charming small town, Parks and Recreation introduces us to a quirky bunch of characters who make up the Parks Department of the local government. Headed by the relentlessly optimistic Leslie Knope, portrayed by the talented Amy Poehler, this comedy series takes on a mockumentary-style approach as it peeks into the everyday happenings of Pawnee, Indiana—a fictional town. Over the course of its seven seasons, the show received numerous accolades and nominations, with Amy Poehler even winning a Golden Globe. Notably, Nick Offerman’s portrayal of Ron Swanson and Aubrey Plaza’s portrayal of April Ludgate also left a lasting impression. Parks and Recreation manages to find humor in the ordinary while also delving into deeper themes of friendship, community, and personal growth.
Premiered: April 9, 2009
Actors: Amy Poehler, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman
6. Modern Family
Modern Family, a sitcom that has won multiple Emmy Awards, is all about bringing laughter and emotion to our TV screens. It follows the lives of Jay Pritchett and his diverse extended family. The talented ensemble cast, including Sofia Vergara, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Julie Bowen, gives us a charming blend of personalities as they navigate the ups and downs of modern family life. What sets this show apart is its unique mockumentary style, which gives us a fresh take on important topics like love, parenting, and acceptance. Throughout its eleven seasons, Modern Family has expertly balanced comedy and drama, capturing the hearts of viewers all around the world.
Premiered: September 23, 2009
Actors: Ed O’Neill, Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell
7. The Good Place
The Good Place takes us to a celestial realm where moral dilemmas and existential humor collide. It follows a diverse group of individuals as they navigate the afterlife, showcasing humanity’s potential for change. The show’s writing has even earned it an Emmy nomination, and its stellar ensemble cast, including Kristen Bell as Eleanor Shellstrop and Ted Danson as Michael, adds to its charm. The clever exploration of philosophical concepts is balanced by a witty and heartfelt tone. Surprising twists and turns abound, keeping viewers hooked while still tackling important issues like ethics and the formation of unlikely friendships. This thought-provoking comedy offers a refreshing perspective on the meaning of life, love, and personal growth.
Premiered: September 19, 2016
Actors: Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper
8. South Park
South Park is a popular animated series that expertly combines humor with social commentary, all while pushing the limits of television. Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the show introduces us to the quirky residents of a small Colorado town. Memorable characters like the mischievous Eric Cartman, played by Trey Parker, and the ever-optimistic Stan Marsh, also voiced by Trey Parker, bring the town to life.
What sets South Park apart is its fearlessness in addressing controversial topics head-on. This bold approach has earned the show numerous awards, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. With over 20 seasons under its belt, South Park continues to captivate audiences with its sharp wit and unique animation style. It’s no wonder that viewers are always left wanting more of the show’s insightful hilarity.
Premiered: August 13, 1997
Actors: Trey Parker, Matt Stone
9. Arrested Development
Arrested Development is a super clever comedy series that takes us into the crazy world of the Bluth family. We get to see how they try to balance their personal and professional lives, and let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. The show’s storytelling style is really unique and the humor is top-notch, which is probably why it’s won so many awards, including Emmys for the amazing cast. You’ve got Michael Bluth, the responsible son who’s desperately trying to keep his family from falling apart, and then there’s Tobias Fünke, the eccentric brother-in-law who’s always dreaming of becoming an actor. The way Arrested Development mixes relatable family dynamics with hilarious moments is just genius. And don’t even get me started on the plotlines and running gags – they’ll keep you hooked and laughing without making you feel overwhelmed. Trust me, this show is a must-watch!
Premiered: November 2, 2003
Actors: Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett
10. Curb Your Enthusiasm
When it comes to comedy, few shows can match the wit and charm of this HBO series led by the one-of-a-kind Larry David. Curb Your Enthusiasm follows a fictionalized version of David’s life as he navigates through a wide range of awkward social encounters and misunderstandings. What sets this show apart is its unique combination of scripted storylines and improvisational humor, giving it an authentic and relatable feel. It’s no wonder that Curb Your Enthusiasm has received numerous accolades, including Emmy nominations. The talented ensemble cast, featuring Jeff Garlin as Jeff Greene and Susie Essman as Susie Greene, adds to the hilarity by expertly pushing the boundaries of comedic television.
Premiered: October 15, 2000
Actors: Cheryl Hines, Jeff Garlin, Susie Essman
11. Silicon Valley
Silicon Valley is a hilarious comedy series that takes a deep dive into the crazy world of tech start-ups. The show revolves around Richard Hendricks, a software developer with a groundbreaking compression algorithm, as he navigates the treacherous waters of tech entrepreneurship. Along the way, Richard faces intense competition, ruthless investors, and unexpected obstacles. But fear not, the ensemble cast of characters, including the lovably eccentric Erlich Bachman and the endearingly awkward Jared Dunn, adds a humorous twist to the complexities of friendship and ambition. With its clever jokes and insightful observations, Silicon Valley gives us a entertaining peek into the high-stakes game that drives our digital age.
Premiered: April 6, 2014
Actors: Thomas Middleditch, Zach Woods, Kumail Nanjiani
