The Best TV Shows Starring Stand-Up Comics
Many people pursue stand-up comedy with the hopes of one day getting their own TV show. After years of paying their dues in various clubs, some comedians have achieved precisely that. Here are some of the best TV shows starring stand-up comics.Â
Arguably, the best example of this is Jerry Seinfeld, who had one of the best sitcoms of the 1990s with Seinfeld. A show famously about nothing, Jerry often incorporated his stand-up material into the show alongside the misadventures of Jerry and his neurotic friends. Ray Romano had one of the most famous sitcoms of the 90s with Everybody Loves Raymond. The show was a major success, and Romano only recently got back into stand-up with the release of his first special in 23 years called Right Here, Around the Corner. Louie Anderson may not be the lead on Baskets, but he shares the spotlight playing the role of Zach Galifianakis's mom, Christine. Plenty of other comedians have had this same trajectory, including Ellen DeGeneres, Tim Allen, Dave Chappelle, Roseanne Barr, Bernie Mac, and plenty of others.Â
What do you think are the best shows that feature stand-up comics? You can let the world know who the funniest comic is with the best show in the list below. Vote for your favorites while you ask yourself, "What's the deal with these Ranker lists?"
- 1Jerry Seinfeld
- Premiered: July 5, 1989
- Genres: Comedy
Seinfeld, often referred to as "the show about nothing," is a cultural icon that captured the essence of everyday quirks and modern life through the brilliantly crafted dialogue between Jerry Seinfeld, a stand-up comedian, and his group of eccentric friends.
- 2Robin Williams
- Premiered: September 14, 1978
- Genres: Comedy,Fantasy
Mork & Mindy unquestionably made a splash in the late 70s and early 80s, featuring the iconic comedic talent of the late Robin Williams as the quirky alien Mork. Paired with the charming co-star Pam Dawber, who portrayed Mindy McConnell, this odd couple sitcom left audiences in stitches during its four-season run.
- 3Redd Foxx
- Premiered: January 14, 1972
- Genres: Comedy
Sanford and Son, a 70s classic sitcom, had no shortage of laughs with the quick-witted banter between Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson. As a cantankerous father and his long-suffering son trying to run a junkyard, these two comedic powerhouses turned a seemingly simple premise into a timeless hit.
- 4Bob Newhart
- Premiered: September 16, 1972
- Genres: Comedy
The Bob Newhart Show, a gem from the 70s, featured the delightfully awkward comedy of psychologist Dr. Robert Hartley, played by the title character himself. The show was widely praised for its distinct brand of humor that kept viewers laughing out loud during its six-season run.
- 5Drew Carey
- Premiered: September 13, 1995
- Genres: Comedy
The Drew Carey Show brought its star and title character, Drew Carey, to the forefront of comedy television in the mid-90s. His everyman demeanor and well-crafted punchlines made this show a hit among audiences, who could relate to his unique brand of humor and everyday struggles.
- 6Dave Chappelle
- Premiered: January 22, 2003
- Genres: Comedy
Chappelle's Show was a groundbreaking skit-based comedy series that held nothing back, leaving its viewers in tears of laughter. Starring the wildly popular Dave Chappelle, this Comedy Central gem pushed the envelope and frequently tackled both race and social issues in a hilarious and thought-provoking manner.
