Top 10 Sitcoms to Watch Before You Die

Whether you want to unwind after a long day with some good laughs or melt while watching that long-awaited kiss between a couple who took seven seasons to finally get together, sitcoms have become the go-to comfort shows over the years.

The term “sitcom” comes from “sit” (situation) and “com” (comedy), or situation comedy. With sitcoms, you’re not tuning in expecting massive events, heavy drama, or shocking twists: humor comes from routine and everyday life.

From characters who often embody classic comedic archetypes to plots focused on specific settings and relationships, sitcoms entered our homes in the early 1950s and have never left.

Over the decades, sitcoms have evolved, modernized their formats, found new platforms, and reached entirely new audiences. With that history in mind, here’s a list of sitcoms you may have overlooked but definitely need to watch.

Let’s get started:

M.A.S.H. (1972–1983)

Created by Larry Gelbart and based on Richard Hooker’s book, M.A.S.H. is set during the Korean War. It follows the medical staff of the U.S. Army’s 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Although set in wartime, the show combines humor and drama with incredible intelligence, exposing the absurdities of military life through the cynicism and humanity of Captain Hawkeye Pierce.

With 11 seasons and over 250 episodes, M.A.S.H. became a cultural phenomenon. Its final episode remains the most-watched in U.S. TV history. Known for its sensitivity and political satire, this series redefined sitcoms, offering sharp social commentary alongside its humor.

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Cheers (1982–1993)

“Where everybody knows your name…” That’s how we’re welcomed into Cheers, a show created by James Burrows, Glen Charles, and Les Charles. Set entirely in a Boston bar owned by charming former baseball player Sam Malone, it follows the lives of the bar’s staff and regular patrons, weaving a network of relationships filled with humor and heart.

Running for 11 seasons, Cheers introduced some of TV’s most iconic characters, such as Frasier Crane, who even received his own spinoff. With witty dialogue and engaging relationships, this show is a cornerstone of sitcom history, and a great excuse to grab a drink.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–2021)

Detective Jake Peralta is brilliant but immature, and working at New York’s 99th precinct means constant chaos. Created by Michael Schur and Dan Goor, Brooklyn Nine-Nine takes the traditional setting of a police station and transforms it into comedy gold, mixing laugh-out-loud antics with heartfelt moments.

The show stood out for providing diverse representation, including LGBTQIA+ and Latino characters in main roles, while also addressing social issues alongside its humor. Cancelled after 5 seasons, it was revived by NBC following massive fan demand, ultimately running for 8 seasons. Perfect if you’re looking for modern comfort TV.

Arrested Development (2003–2019)

Created by Mitchell Hurwitz, Arrested Development showcases the wildly dysfunctional Bluth family. Following the straight-laced Michael Bluth’s attempts to hold his crumbling family together, the show delivers rapid-fire humor, running gags, and biting satire.

Although initially struggling in ratings, the show grew into a cult choice, resulting in a Netflix revival for its final seasons. With a stellar cast including Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Jessica Walter, the quirky humor might not suit everyone, but fans of its offbeat style adore it.

Modern Family (2009–2020)

This mockumentary-style sitcom features three interconnected families: a traditional nuclear family, a blended family, and a same-sex couple. Created by Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan, Modern Family uses humor to explore the ups and downs of relationships, parenting, and the complexity of modern life.

Over 11 seasons, it gained worldwide acclaim, broke new TV ground with characters like Cam and Mitchell, and won piles of awards. Punchy visual gags, emotional moments, and characters who truly evolve over time make it a standout comedic staple.

New Girl (2011–2018)

When quirky schoolteacher Jess finds her boyfriend cheating, she moves into a loft shared by three eccentric men. Created by Elizabeth Meriwether, New Girl explores friendship, relationships, and the hilariously awkward scenarios that arise in their unconventional living arrangement.

Running for 7 seasons, the show gained a cult-like following, offering hilarity through the antics of Zooey Deschanel’s Jess and equally lovable characters like Nick, Schmidt, Winston, and Cece. If you’ve ever felt like adulthood is just organized chaos, this show will feel like home.

Everybody Hates Chris (2005–2009)

Inspired by comedian Chris Rock’s teenage years and co-created with Ali LeRoi, Everybody Hates Chris chronicles the struggles of a Black teen growing up in 1980s Brooklyn. With Chris Rock narrating, it mixes sharp social commentary with laugh-out-loud situations.

The show ran for 4 seasons and was a huge success internationally, especially in Brazil, where it remains incredibly beloved. Tyler James Williams shines as young Chris, and Tichina Arnold, as his mother Rochelle, became a cultural phenomenon.

One Day at a Time (2017–2020)

A reboot of Norman Lear’s 1975 classic, One Day at a Time focuses on a Cuban-American family navigating life in Los Angeles. Created by Gloria Calderón Kellett and Mike Royce, it’s a well-rounded blend of humor and heart, tackling subjects like mental health, immigration, and generational conflicts.

Though it only ran for 4 seasons, the show left a strong impression with its relatable themes and endearing performances, becoming particularly celebrated for its representation of Latino culture.

That ’70s Show (1998–2006)

Welcome to the 1970s, where a group of teens in Point Place, Wisconsin, navigate life, love, and growing up. Created by Bonnie Turner, Terry Turner, and Mark Brazill, That ’70s Show mixes nostalgic charm with razor-sharp wit.

Over 8 seasons, it became a defining sitcom of the early 2000s, producing future stars like Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis. With a pitch-perfect soundtrack and hilarious character dynamics, it captured the spirit of a bygone era with humor that still resonates.

Abbott Elementary (2021–present)

Set in a struggling public school in Philadelphia, Abbott Elementary highlights a group of teachers determined to make a difference despite minimal resources. Created by Quinta Brunson, this mockumentary comedy not only delivers plenty of laughs but also hits on pressing social issues with care and intelligence.

The show quickly became a hit, won an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Writing, and earned critical praise for its clever character development and authentic depiction of public schools. If you appreciate modern workplace comedies, Abbott Elementary is a must-see.

At their core, sitcoms capture life’s everyday madness with charm, offering comfort during meals, tough times, or lazy Sundays. They create a familiarity, making characters feel like friends dropping by just to make you laugh.

While some may show their age, others never fail to bring joy. Each of the 10 shows here left a lasting impression, whether by breaking boundaries, embracing diversity, or simply reminding us of the healing power of laughter.

So, when life feels heavy or overwhelming, pick a show from this list, hit play, and let yourself laugh. After all, life might be complicated... but humor? That’ll keep you going.

What’s your favorite sitcom? Let us know in the comments!