The Longest Running TV Shows of All Time
The small screen has been home to some of the most iconic, beloved, and long-running TV shows of all time. These series may have transformed the industry, but the common thread that ties all of them together is longevity. From comedy to drama to reality and more, there is a wide range of shows that have lasted for many, many years — and even decades! Let’s look at some of the longest-running shows in television history.
Law & Order
Law & Order graced our airwaves for an incredible 20 seasons. It ran from 1990 to 2010 and spawned several spinoffs, ranging from Law & Order: Criminal Intent to Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The show focused on legal procedure and featured an ever-changing cast of characters. It received numerous awards and notoriety from the industry, becoming one of the most watched shows of all time. It was also highly acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of the court system.
The Simpsons
The Simpsons is already considered a classic sitcom, and it’s barely been off the air since it first premiered in 1989. With 633 episodes and counting, the beloved animated series is one of the longest-running shows in history; it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. The series follows the lives of the Simpson family in an idyllic American town, weaving stories that blend social commentary, heartwarming moments, and sharp wit.
Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a Saturday night fixture for a whopping 46 seasons. It debuted in 1975 and has continuously been updated with fresh comedic talent. Although the cast and format may have changed over the years, SNL still continues to bring some of the biggest stars of music and film to the small screen each week. The iconic show recently made history by being awarded the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series for its 45th season.
Honorable Mentions
The three shows we’ve already showcased are all legendary in their own right, but there are a few other long-running shows that deserve mentioning. This includes The Tonight Show, which began in 1954 and has had six different hosts over the years, and Gunsmoke, which aired for a whopping 20 seasons from 1955 to 1975. Lastly, Doctor Who has been on the air since it first premiered in 1963, making it the longest running sci-fi show in history.
There’s no denying that TV shows that last this long are special and have earned their place in the hearts of fans. These shows have not only made memories that will last a lifetime, but they’ve also created legacies that will continue to be celebrated long after they’ve ended.