There’s no better feeling than discovering a TV show that gets your exact sense of humor. Whether you enjoy sarcastic dialogue, silly situations, dark satire, or sharp social commentary, comedy television has exploded in variety over the past few decades. From groundbreaking sitcoms to cult-favorite animations, these are the top-rated comedy series of all time, according to IMDb, and why they remain beloved today.
Classic Comedies That Defined Generations
Few shows have had the global reach and staying power of Mr. Bean (1990–1995). Though it aired only 15 episodes, Rowan Atkinson’s near-silent performance as the eccentric Mr. Bean turned physical comedy into high art. Its universal appeal led to animated spinoffs, feature films, and a cultural footprint that still looms large.
Then there’s Fawlty Towers (1975–1979), a British gem featuring John Cleese’s unforgettable performance as the inept hotel manager Basil Fawlty. The series delivered just two seasons, yet its biting wit, chaotic energy, and slapstick brilliance have made it a blueprint for sitcoms around the world.
Over in the U.S., Arrested Development (2003–2019) redefined the sitcom format with its innovative storytelling, meta-humor, and ensemble cast. The show followed the dysfunctional Bluth family with razor-sharp dialogue and has since become a benchmark in serialized comedy.
Modern Comedy Icons and Cult Favorites
The 2000s and 2010s introduced a golden age of modern comedy, with series like The Big Bang Theory (2007–2019) and How I Met Your Mother (2005–2014) becoming household names. While both shows leaned into traditional sitcom setups, they found new life through nerd culture references and character-driven humor.
Another standout is Schitt’s Creek (2015–2020), which turned a story of financial ruin into an Emmy-winning masterclass in character development and heartwarming storytelling. Created by Eugene and Dan Levy, the show was slow to gain traction but is now considered essential viewing for comedy fans.
For something edgier, The Bear (2022–present) mixes high-intensity drama with dark comedy in a kitchen setting. Jeremy Allen White’s portrayal of a fine-dining chef returning home to run a family sandwich shop is both raw and unexpectedly funny, earning praise for its authenticity and tension-breaking humor.
Animated Laughs and Genre-Bending Brilliance
Animated comedy has long pushed boundaries, and no show has done this quite like BoJack Horseman (2014–2020). Blending dark humor with deep emotional introspection, the series explores themes like depression, addiction, and fame, all through anthropomorphic characters in Hollywood. It’s hilarious, heartbreaking, and unforgettable.
Likewise, Futurama (1999–) continues to be a fan favorite. Created by The Simpsons mastermind Matt Groening, it offers a perfect cocktail of sci-fi absurdity, slapstick, and satirical brilliance. With its latest reboot on Hulu, Futurama shows no signs of fading into nostalgia.
Archer (2009–2023) also earns its place among top animated comedies. Its spy parody format, clever writing, and shifting genres (from noir to space opera) make it a standout in the adult animation genre, appealing to fans of both action and comedy.
Why These Shows Endure
What unites all of these top-rated comedy shows—despite their differences in format, tone, or era—is their ability to tap into something universal. Whether it’s the painfully awkward situations of The IT Crowd (2006–2013), the ensemble chaos of Community (2009–2015), or the brutal honesty of Fleabag (2016–2019), each series offers a unique lens on the human experience.
They’re not just funny—they’re culturally resonant, emotionally intelligent, and endlessly rewatchable.
Conclusion
With streaming platforms offering unprecedented access to comedy from all eras and styles, now is the perfect time to dive into the best the genre has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for the slapstick charm of Mr. Bean, the meta mayhem of Community, or the bittersweet brilliance of BoJack Horseman, there’s a top-rated comedy series waiting to hit your funny bone just right.
