The Best Shows that Won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series

Updated October 19, 2023 8.3K votes 756 voters 27.0K views

Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Emmy-Winning Comedies, Ranked

Voting Rules

Only shows that have won an Emmy for Best Comedy Series

Latest additions: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Veep, Ally McBeal

Most divisive: 30 Rock

Every "Outstanding Comedy Series" Emmy winner ever, ranked in order of preference by the Ranker community. Vote for your favorite all-time comedy series on the list below and vote down the ones you don't like. The Outstanding Comedy Series Emmy award was first handed out in 1953, only 4 years after the creation of the Emmy Awards.

The show that has won the award the most times is "Frasier," with 5 wins. Both "Cheers" and "M*A*S*H" were nominated for the award a record 11 times. More recently, "30 Rock" swept the award for 3 straight years from 2007 to 2009. There have also been many notable, popular comedy shows that have been snubbed by the Emmys, including "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Two and a Half Men" and "Roseanne."

Ranked by

1
Frasier
430 votes
WON: 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
A sophisticated comedy that resonated with audiences for over a decade, this multi-award-winning sitcom revolves around the life of a cultured radio psychiatrist, Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer). Set against the backdrop of Seattle's vibrant cityscape, the show delves into the complexities of familial relationships, as Frasier navigates his bond with his retired police officer father, Martin (John Mahoney), and competitive brother, Niles (David Hyde Pierce). Accented by an ensemble cast of quirky characters, including Roz (Peri Gilpin) and Daphne (Jane Leeves), Frasier artfully balances intellectual humor with heartfelt moments, making it a timeless classic in television history.
2
The Office
417 votes
WON: 2006
Set within the mundane confines of a Scranton-based paper company, this mockumentary-style sitcom delivers a humorous take on the daily grind. The Office boasts an ensemble cast, including the bumbling yet endearing regional manager Michael Scott (Steve Carell), and the quirky sales representative Jim Halpert (John Krasinski). Throughout its nine-season run, the show garnered numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. The series masterfully balances cringe-worthy moments with heartfelt character development, making it a beloved staple in television history. As viewers become invested in the employees' lives, the show's charm lies in finding humor and warmth in the most ordinary situations.
3
Cheers
418 votes
WON: 1983, 1984, 1989, 1991
In the bustling heart of Boston lies a cozy, dimly lit haven where strangers become friends and laughter abounds. Cheers, a critically acclaimed sitcom, invites viewers into the warm embrace of its iconic bar. With an ensemble cast, including the affable bartender Sam Malone (Ted Danson) and witty waitress Diane Chambers (Shelley Long), the show explores the endearing camaraderie and humorous antics of its diverse patrons. Over its impressive 11-year run, Cheers garnered numerous accolades, including 28 Emmy Awards, solidifying its place in television history. This timeless classic serves up a generous pour of heartfelt humor and genuine connection, leaving audiences with a lingering warmth and an insatiable thirst for more.
4
I Love Lucy
333 votes
WON: 1953, 1954
A timeless classic, I Love Lucy chronicles the comedic escapades of Lucy Ricardo (Lucille Ball), a spirited and ambitious housewife, as she navigates through her daily life, often creating chaos for her husband, Ricky Ricardo (Desi Arnaz). The sitcom, which initially aired in the 1950s, has garnered numerous accolades, including five Emmy Awards. With its hilarious scenarios and memorable catchphrases, I Love Lucy has remained a beloved part of television history. The show's enduring charm is further bolstered by the dynamic chemistry between the Ricardos and their quirky neighbors, Fred (William Frawley) and Ethel Mertz (Vivian Vance).
5
M*A*S*H
395 votes
WON: 1974
Set against the backdrop of the Korean War, MASH is a groundbreaking dramedy that masterfully blends humor and heartache to explore the complexities of wartime camaraderie. The show boasts an ensemble cast led by the wisecracking surgeon Hawkeye Pierce (Alan Alda) and his colleagues, who navigate the harsh realities of war while finding solace in their shared experiences. Over its 11-season run, MASH garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous Emmy Awards and Golden Globe nominations. Its compelling storylines, memorable characters, and powerful commentary on the human condition continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in television history.
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6
All in the Family
304 votes
WON: 1978
All in the Family is a groundbreaking sitcom that explores the complexities of generational and societal conflicts through humor and wit. Garnering numerous accolades, including 22 Emmy Awards, this 1970s classic television series centers around the lives of the opinionated and often prejudiced Archie Bunker (Carroll O'Connor), his patient wife Edith (Jean Stapleton), and their progressive daughter Gloria (Sally Struthers) and son-in-law Mike (Rob Reiner). As the show navigates various topics such as race, politics, and gender roles, viewers are treated to a thought-provoking and entertaining experience that has cemented its place in television history.
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Frasier

The Office

Cheers

I Love Lucy

M*A*S*H

All in the Family

MAS*H