Comedy is a wonderfully varied genre. You've got classic sitcoms, dramedies, and even shows that blend laughs with horror, like Apple TV+'s Widow's Bay. With so many flavors—from dark humor to lighthearted giggles—picking the perfect show for your mood can be tough.
Over the past ten years, streaming services have unleashed a treasure trove of brilliant comedies. Whether you're after sharp wit, heartfelt moments, or pure absurdity, these ten series represent the cream of the crop. Here's our ranking of the most perfect comedy shows of the last decade.
10. 'Fleabag' (2016–2019)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge transformed her one-woman stage show into one of TV's most cleverly written and beautifully acted comedy-dramas. In Fleabag, she plays the unnamed lead, a free-spirited Londoner grappling with identity and grief. She frequently breaks the fourth wall, pulling viewers into her chaotic world.
This masterpiece ran for just two tight seasons, earning widespread acclaim for its unflinching take on difficult topics like loss and family dysfunction, all wrapped in dark comedy. It's witty, tragic, and makes you feel like you're in on the joke.
9. 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' (2017–2023)
Rachel Brosnahan and Alex Borstein shine in this period comedy set in the late 1950s and early '60s. It follows Midge Maisel, a jilted Jewish housewife who discovers a knack for stand-up comedy. With the help of bar manager Susie Myerson, she navigates a male-dominated industry.
The show is sharp, hilarious, and explores themes of friendship, sexism, and family. It's a celebration of a woman finding her voice—and it's as therapeutic as it is funny.
8. 'The Righteous Gemstones' (2019–2025)
This HBO crime comedy follows a megachurch family that preaches God but seems to worship money. Led by patriarch Eli (John Goodman) and his immature kids Jesse (Danny McBride), Judy (Edi Patterson), and Kelvin (Adam DeVine), the show is a profane satire of greed masked as religion.
Walton Goggins steals scenes as Baby Billy Freeman. The series is bizarre yet rooted in reality, getting better with each season.
7. 'What We Do in the Shadows' (2019–2024)
This mockumentary about vampires living in modern-day Staten Island is one of the most underrated comedies of the decade. It subverts the vampire genre, offering a workplace comedy vibe as the undead roommates navigate human society.
The show contrasts their ancient darkness with childlike naivety, creating hilarious situations that mirror our own quirks.
6. 'Cobra Kai' (2021–2025)
A sequel to The Karate Kid, this series reunites Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) 30 years after their iconic fight. It's emotionally charged but also a feel-good comedy, thanks to Johnny's hilarious midlife crisis and his deadpan one-liners.
When Johnny tells a kid to post something with "one of those hashbrown things," you'll be in stitches.
5. 'Shrinking' (2023–Present)
This Apple TV+ dramedy stars Jason Segel as a therapist grieving his wife's death. He starts breaking the rules by telling patients exactly what he thinks, leading to chaotic and heartfelt results. Harrison Ford co-stars as his gruff mentor.
The show balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional depth, making it a near-perfect blend of comedy and drama.
4. 'Hacks' (2021–Present)
Jean Smart plays legendary Las Vegas comedian Deborah Vance, who teams up with a young, entitled writer (Hannah Einbinder) to refresh her act. The series is a sharp exploration of ageism, creativity, and the price of success.
Smart's performance is a masterclass, and the writing is razor-sharp. It's a comedy that earns every laugh.
3. 'Ted Lasso' (2020–2023)
Jason Sudeikis stars as an American football coach hired to manage a British soccer team—despite knowing nothing about the sport. The show became a cultural phenomenon for its relentless optimism and heart.
It's a comedy that makes you believe in kindness, with a cast that includes Hannah Waddingham and Brett Goldstein. It's feel-good television at its finest.
2. 'Barry' (2018–2023)
Bill Hader plays a hitman who discovers a passion for acting in this dark comedy. The show masterfully balances violence and humor, exploring themes of redemption and identity.
Hader's direction and performance are extraordinary, and the series never shies away from the consequences of its protagonist's choices. It's a perfect example of how comedy can be both hilarious and devastating.
1. 'The Bear' (2022–Present)
While often classified as a drama, The Bear is undeniably a comedy—albeit a stressful one. Jeremy Allen White plays a chef returning to run his family's Chicago sandwich shop after his brother's suicide. The show is a pressure cooker of emotions, but its humor is sharp and cathartic.
With its rapid-fire dialogue and authentic portrayal of kitchen life, The Bear has earned critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. It's the most perfect comedy of the last decade because it makes you laugh, cry, and hold your breath all at once.
For more great comedy recommendations, check out our ranking of forgotten thriller shows that came close to perfection or explore the best dark fantasy books of all time.
