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As streaming continues to dominate how we consume entertainment, high-quality, side-splitting comedies are more accessible than ever. From dark satires and zany adventures to feel-good sitcoms, 2023 has delivered a plethora of hilarious series to suit every taste. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up the top 20 comedy shows of the year that promise to keep you laughing through every episode. Whether you’re a fan of quirky character studies, workplace dramas, or absurdist humor, our list has something for everyone. Here are the best comedy shows of 2023, ranked from great to greatest.
20. Schmigadoon! (Schmicago)
“Schmigadoon!” returns with its second season, aptly titled “Schmicago”, delving deeper into its satirical take on classic musicals. The series continues to follow Melissa and Josh, who find themselves in a town where life mimics classic musicals with a gritty, Chicago-like twist. Cecily Strong and Keegan-Michael Key shine with their impeccable comedic timing and vocal prowess.
The show’s brilliant blend of humor, musical numbers, and parodic references make it a feast for both musical theatre enthusiasts and comedy lovers. The intertwining of a gripping storyline with show-stopping music sequences ensures that “Schmicago” is a continuous source of laughter and entertainment.
19. The Afterparty
“The Afterparty” stands out with its unique whodunit premise combined with laugh-out-loud moments. This murder mystery, set against the backdrop of a high school reunion, unfolds through the narratives of different attendees. Each episode is distinct in its storytelling style, dipped in genres ranging from musicals to action thrillers.
The series cleverly balances suspense with comedy, making every character’s perspective both intriguing and hilarious. Tiffany Haddish’s performance as Detective Danner is particularly noteworthy, bringing her unmatchable energy and charisma to the screen.
18. Rap Sh!t
Created by Issa Rae, “Rap Sh!t” explores the tumultuous journey of two estranged high school friends who reunite to form a rap group. Their quest to make it big in the music industry amid personal struggles and societal pressures is as humorous as it is heartfelt.
The show captures the essence of hustle and ambition through witty dialogues, catchy tracks, and a dynamic portrayal of friendship. With its unique blend of comedy and drama, “Rap Sh!t” is both a celebration of hip-hop culture and a satirical commentary on the challenges within the industry.
17. This Fool
“This Fool” brings a fresh comedic perspective to everyday struggles through the life of Julio Lopez, a 30-year-old still living with his family. Tasked with working a dead-end job, navigating familial dynamics, and dealing with his cousin, a former gang member, Julio’s life is ripe with humorous scenarios.
The comedy is both relatable and absurd, touching upon themes of identity, responsibility, and the quirks of familial love. The show’s ability to find humor in the mundane while delivering poignant messages is what makes “This Fool” stand out.
16. Extraordinary
“Extraordinary” is a superhero comedy that breaks the mold by focusing on the not-so-super individuals. The series revolves around a world where everyone gains superpowers at 18, except for the protagonist, Jen. Her journey of self-discovery and acceptance is packed with humor and a touch of whimsy.
The show’s tongue-in-cheek take on the superhero genre, coupled with a heartfelt narrative about finding one’s place, makes it a captivating watch. The ensemble cast delivers delightful performances, bringing to life a range of quirky characters with bizarre but hilariously entertaining powers.
15. Poker Face
“Poker Face” combines the intensity of a mystery drama with sharp comedic elements. Starring Natasha Lyonne, the series follows Charlie, a casino worker with an uncanny ability to tell when someone is lying. As she traverses various odd jobs, she uncovers hidden truths and solves peculiar mysteries.
The show’s deadpan humor, juxtaposed with suspenseful undertones, creates a unique viewing experience. Lyonne’s charismatic performance, coupled with cleverly crafted plots, ensures “Poker Face” captivates and entertains throughout.
14. Digman!
“Digman!” is an animated comedy that delves into the escapades of Rock Digman, a washed-up archaeologist on his quest to reclaim former glory. The series is filled with wild adventures, eccentric characters, and over-the-top humor that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
The production’s vibrant animation style and witty dialogues, along with Andy Samberg’s vocal performances, bring a fresh and hilarious perspective to the genre. “Digman!” successfully combines action, comedy, and irreverent humor into a cohesive and entertaining package.
13. Abbott Elementary
“Abbott Elementary” is a mockumentary-style sitcom set in an underfunded public school in Philadelphia. The show masterfully balances humor and social commentary, focusing on the everyday challenges faced by dedicated teachers who are passionate about educating their students.
With a stellar ensemble cast led by Quinta Brunson, the series deftly portrays the trials and triumphs of the education system with warmth, wit, and an undeniable charm. The balance between heartfelt moments and comedic scenarios makes “Abbott Elementary” a genuinely feel-good watch.
12. Cunk on Earth
“Cunk on Earth” is a satirical mockumentary series starring Diane Morgan as Philomena Cunk, an ill-informed but exceedingly confident TV presenter. The series humorously explores human history and culture through Cunk’s hilariously inept perspective.
The combination of deadpan humor and absurd interviews with real experts creates a unique genre of educational comedy. Morgan’s portrayal of the clueless yet earnest Cunk is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny, making the series a must-watch for fans of dry, British humor.
11. Single Drunk Female
“Single Drunk Female” is a coming-of-age comedy about Samantha Fink, a 20-something struggling with sobriety after a public breakdown. The series expertly balances the dark themes of addiction and recovery with laugh-out-loud moments, offering a fresh take on personal growth and resilience.
Sofia Black-D’Elia’s portrayal of Samantha is both relatable and delightfully witty, capturing the complexities of navigating adulthood. The series’ honest and humorous approach to serious topics makes it a standout in the comedy genre.
10. Jury Duty
“Jury Duty” is a comedic glimpse into the chaotic world of jury service. The series follows the lives of 12 jurors brought together for a high-profile case, showcasing their interactions and the ludicrous situations that arise both inside and outside the courtroom.
With its ensemble cast and sharp writing, “Jury Duty” successfully captures the hilarity of everyday people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The courtroom antics, coupled with the jurors’ unique personalities, provide endless comedic moments.
9. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
The long-running “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” continues to deliver its signature dark and irreverent humor in its latest season. The misadventures of “The Gang” at Paddy’s Pub are as outrageous and unpredictable as ever, ensuring continuous laughter.
The series’ ability to evolve while maintaining its core comedic elements contributes to its enduring appeal. With its unapologetically audacious humor and character-driven storylines, “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” remains a cornerstone of modern comedy.
8. Killing It
“Killing It” brings a unique comedic twist to the snake-hunting business in Florida – an actual, real-life competitive sport. Craig Robinson stars as Craig, a man down on his luck who becomes involved in the cutthroat and often absurd world of snake hunting.
The show’s offbeat premise, coupled with Robinson’s comedic brilliance, creates a perfect blend of humor and adventure. The series’ outlandish scenarios and eccentric characters make “Killing It” an unexpected comedic gem.
7. Party Down
Revived after a decade, “Party Down” reunites the quirky catering team navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood events. The series’ humor lies in the mishaps and awkward circumstances the team encounters while pursuing their dreams in the entertainment industry.
The revival retains the charm and witty banter that made the original a cult favorite. With returning cast members like Adam Scott and new additions blending seamlessly, “Party Down” continues to be a delightful mix of satire and subtle humor.
6. What We Do in the Shadows
The vampire mockumentary “What We Do in the Shadows” returns with another season of undead hijinks and supernatural absurdities. The series follows a group of vampire roommates navigating modern life in Staten Island, balancing their ancient habits with contemporary society’s challenges.
With its sharp writing, deadpan humor, and endearing cast, the show consistently delivers uproarious laughter. The blend of supernatural elements with everyday situations creates uniquely hilarious scenarios that keep viewers coming back for more.
5. Reservation Dogs
Created by Sterling Harjo and Taika Waititi, “Reservation Dogs” is a groundbreaking comedy that follows four Native American teenagers in rural Oklahoma. The series uniquely blends humor with poignant storytelling, depicting the teens’ adventures and misadventures as they dream of escaping to California.
The show’s authentic representation, coupled with its witty dialogue and heartfelt moments, makes it a standout. Each character’s distinct personality and vibrant dynamics contribute to the series’ charm and relatability, making “Reservation Dogs” a must-watch.
4. I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson
“I Think You Should Leave” returns with its blend of sketch comedy that treads the line between absurd and genius. Tim Robinson’s offbeat humor shines through sketches that are as unpredictable as they are hilarious, each one pushing the boundaries of conventional comedy.
The show’s ability to turn mundane situations into laugh-out-loud absurdities is unmatched. With its unique comedic style and memorable performances, “I Think You Should Leave” cements its place as one of the standout comedies of 2023.
3. Succession
While primarily a drama, “Succession” masterfully incorporates black humor, making it a compelling entry in this list. The show chronicles the power struggles within the Roy family, who control one of the world’s largest media and entertainment conglomerates.
The biting satire, sharp dialogues, and darkly comedic undertones contribute to the series’ brilliance. The intricate character dynamics and relentless pursuit of power create moments of unexpected humor and wit, making “Succession” a standout dramedy.
2. How To with John Wilson
“How To with John Wilson” offers a uniquely comedic yet heartfelt look at the human experience. In each episode, John Wilson documents his explorations of mundane topics, delivering observations that are both profoundly insightful and hilariously absurd.
The show’s blend of documentary style with quirky humor and genuine curiosity makes it a refreshing watch. Wilson’s ability to find humor in the ordinary while crafting poignant narratives sets this series apart, solidifying its place as a top comedy of the year.
1. The Righteous Gemstones
Daniel McBride’s “The Righteous Gemstones” remains at the pinnacle of comedy with its satirical look at a dysfunctional family of televangelists. The show’s sharp wit, outrageous plotlines, and complex characters make for an endlessly entertaining series.
The brilliantly written script, coupled with standout performances from the ensemble cast, drives both the humor and the underlying critique of religious hypocrisy. The series masterfully blends farce with family drama, creating a unique comedic experience that is both thought-provoking and side-splitting.
Summary of main points
| Rank | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | Schmigadoon! (Schmicago) | A musical satire with hilarious takes on classic musicals and a gritty twist. |
| 19 | The Afterparty | A murder mystery comedy series with varied storytelling genres. |
| 18 | Rap Sh!t | Follow two friends’ journey to establish themselves in the rap industry with comedy and drama. |
| 17 | This Fool | Julio Lopez navigates family life and work with a comedic twist in relatable scenarios. |
| 16 | Extraordinary | An innovative superhero comedy that focuses on a protagonist without superpowers. |
| 15 | Poker Face | A humorous mystery drama centered around a protagonist who can tell when someone is lying. |
| 14 | Digman! | An animated adventure comedy about a washed-up archaeologist’s quest for glory. |
| 13 | Abbott Elementary | A mockumentary sitcom capturing the lives of passionate teachers in an underfunded school. |
| 12 | Cunk on Earth | A satirical educational series led by the hilariously clueless presenter, Philomena Cunk. |
| 11 | Single Drunk Female | A comedic take on sobriety and adulthood through the eyes of Samantha Fink. |
| 10 | Jury Duty | A comedy about the chaotic and humorous world of jury service. |
| 9 | It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia | Continues to deliver dark, audacious humor through the misadventures of “The Gang”. |
| 8 | Killing It | Focuses on the bizarre yet comedic world of competitive snake hunting. |
| 7 | Party Down | The revival of the cult classic catering team comedy with new and old faces. |
| 6 | What We Do in the Shadows | Follows vampire roommates navigating the hilarities of modern life. |
| 5 | Reservation Dogs | A comedy-drama about four Native American teens with dreams beyond their reservation. |
| 4 | I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson | Inventive sketch comedy pushing the boundaries with absurd humor. |
| 3 | Succession | A dark comedy-drama focusing on the power dynamics of the Roy family. |
| 2 | How To with John Wilson | A documentary-style comedy exploring everyday topics with humor and insight. |
| 1 | The Righteous Gemstones | A satirical comedy about a dysfunctional family of televangelists. |
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