Funniest Sitcoms Ever

Everybody Loves Raymond (1996-2005): Everybody loves put-upon Ray, who tries to please wife Debra, nosy ‘rents Marie and Frank and jealous bro Robert. The Barones didn’t always have happy days, but their dysfunctional family was one of the most realistic.

The Jeffersons (1975-1985): Though Archie Bunker never moved on up to a dee-luxe apartment in the sky, George Jefferson was, in every other way, the black Bunker — from his bigoted philosophies and sweet, sympathetic wife Weezie to his rebellious child and his ownership of the liquor-laden hangout Charlie’s Bar, with his frienemy Willis.

Laverne & Shirley (1976-1983): Not since Lucy and Ethel wreaked havoc on the chocolate factory had two female buddies sparked so many chuckles. Lenny and Squiggy provided their share of wackiness, but the heart of the show was the bottle-cappin’ roomies’ friendship and pursuit of love, happiness and milk ‘n’ Pepsi.

Green Acres (1965-1971): CBS had its own genre of rural sitcoms with ‘The Beverly Hillbillies,’ ‘Petticoat Junction’ and ‘Acres,’ a standout for surreal antics involving TV-watching pig Arnold, the Monroe brothers (one of whom was female) and leads Oliver and Lisa, who still wore their fancy city duds after moving to their Hooterville farm.

Taxi (1978-1983): As one of the greatest comedy ensembles of all time, the Sunshine Cab Company crew — pragmatic Alex, boxer Tony, actor Bobby, single mom Elaine, burnout Jim, loony Latka and crabby Louie — mixed poignant storylines with their hilarious, yet often fruitless, attempts to leave their jobs behind.

The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961-1966): One of the first shows about show biz revolved around a variety series writer. That meant tons of comic storylines, which, combined with Van Dyke’s physical gags and Mary Tyler Moore’s sassy humor, inspired many a future sitcom.

Welcome Back, Kotter (1975-1979): One of the best theme songs ever was followed by the Sweathogs’ cornball quips and memorable catchphrases. The show also made a star of John Travolta, and if you don’t think that’s a good thing, well, up your nose with a rubber hose.

Maude (1972-1978): Edith Bunker’s cousin (and Archie’s nemesis) was a “compromisin’, enterprisin’, anything but tranquilizing” feminist who proved to be both hilarious and groundbreaking, as she and hubby Walter tackled alcoholism, nervous breakdowns, and, in the most controversial episode, abortion.

Hank Evans thanks you for taking the time to read this article. And, if you found it interesting, you can read more from Hank Evans at Watch NCIS Episodes Online and Watch Royal Pains Episodes Online.