The sitcom has been a television staple for decades, but the last five years have proven that the format is far from stale. A new wave of comedies has emerged, blending classic tropes with fresh perspectives, sharp writing, and unforgettable characters. From the heartfelt halls of Abbott Elementary to the raunchy antics of Ted, these shows have not only made us laugh but have also redefined what a modern sitcom can be.
While some have become award-season darlings, others have quietly amassed cult followings, proving that quality isn't always measured by trophies. Here are the 10 most perfect sitcoms of the last five years, ranked for your binge-watching pleasure.
10. Girls5eva (2021–2024)
From the comedic minds of Tina Fey and Meredith Scardino comes a musical comedy that's a love letter to the '90s pop scene. Girls5eva follows a one-hit-wonder girl group who get a second shot at fame when a young rapper samples their song. The catch? They're now in their 40s, juggling careers, families, and the occasional pulled muscle.
The show is a hilarious and surprisingly poignant exploration of chasing dreams at any age. The cast's chemistry is electric, and the humor is delightfully absurd. Though it was canceled after three seasons, its 22 episodes are a perfect, bingeable tribute to the era of boy bands and girl power.
9. Jury Duty (2023–Present)
What starts as a simple documentary about jury duty becomes an elaborate, heartwarming prank in Jury Duty. The show places an unsuspecting everyman, Ronald Gladden, in a fake trial where everyone else is an actor. The result is a hilarious and surprisingly touching look at human nature.
James Marsden steals scenes as a self-absorbed version of himself, but it's Gladden's genuine kindness that makes the show so special. The second season, Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat, proves the formula works again, finding another endearing lead in Anthony Norman. It's a feel-good comedy that restores your faith in people, one ridiculous scenario at a time.
8. Ted (2024–2026)
Before Mark Wahlberg's John Bennett, there was a teenage John and his foul-mouthed teddy bear. Ted is a prequel series that takes the raunchy humor of the films and transplants it to the '90s. Max Burkholder plays a 16-year-old John, navigating high school with his best friend Ted, who is, as always, a terrible influence.
The show is unapologetically vulgar and wildly inappropriate, but it's also incredibly funny. Alanna Ubach and Scott Grimes shine as John's parents, adding a layer of heart to the chaos. If you're a fan of the movies or just love a good, dirty laugh, Ted is a must-watch, even if it ended after just two seasons.
7. St. Denis Medical (2024–Present)
In the tradition of The Office and Parks and Recreation, St. Denis Medical is a mockumentary-style sitcom set in an underfunded Oregon hospital. The show follows a group of overworked and underappreciated medical professionals as they try to do their jobs amidst the chaos.
Wendi McLendon-Covey leads the cast as the eccentric executive director, and the ensemble's dynamic is pure comedic gold. With a third season on the way, this is the perfect weekday comedy to add to your rotation.
6. Shrinking (2023–Present)
From the creators of Ted Lasso comes a comedy that's as heartfelt as it is hilarious. Shrinking stars Jason Segel as a grieving therapist who decides to break the rules and tell his patients exactly what he thinks. This unorthodox approach leads to both chaos and genuine breakthroughs.
The show balances its humor with real emotional weight, exploring themes of loss, friendship, and second chances. Harrison Ford is a delight as a grumpy senior therapist, and the entire cast shines. It's a show that makes you laugh and cry, often in the same scene.
5. What We Do in the Shadows (2019–2024)
While it technically started in 2019, this mockumentary about vampire roommates in Staten Island hit its stride in the last five years. What We Do in the Shadows is a hilarious, deadpan comedy that never misses a beat. The cast, led by Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, and Harvey Guillén, is perfect in every role.
The show's ability to blend supernatural silliness with relatable roommate dynamics is unmatched. It's a comedy that rewards loyal viewers with deep-cut jokes and callbacks, making it one of the most rewatchable shows of the decade.
4. Abbott Elementary (2021–Present)
Quinta Brunson's Abbott Elementary is a love letter to public school teachers. This mockumentary follows a group of dedicated educators at a Philadelphia elementary school as they navigate limited resources and endless challenges. The show is sharp, funny, and incredibly warm.
The cast, including Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, and Sheryl Lee Ralph, is a comedic dream team. It's a show that tackles real issues with a light touch, making it both entertaining and socially relevant. It's no wonder it's become a critical and audience favorite.
3. Hacks (2021–Present)
Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder deliver a masterclass in comedy in Hacks. The show follows a legendary Las Vegas comedian who forms an unlikely partnership with a young, entitled writer. Their clash of generations and sensibilities is pure comedic gold.
But Hacks is more than just a comedy; it's a sharp commentary on aging, ambition, and the entertainment industry. Smart is phenomenal, and Einbinder matches her every step of the way. It's a show that's as smart as it is funny.
2. The Bear (2022–Present)
While often categorized as a drama, The Bear is, at its core, a comedy about a family trying to keep their Chicago sandwich shop afloat. The show is a chaotic, anxiety-inducing, and ultimately beautiful look at passion, trauma, and the pursuit of excellence. Jeremy Allen White leads a phenomenal cast in a series that's as stressful as it is rewarding.
The show's humor is often dark and frantic, but it's always grounded in the characters' genuine love for each other. It's a unique blend of genres that has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning it a spot on this list.
1. Ted Lasso (2020–2023)
It's impossible to talk about the last five years of sitcoms without mentioning Ted Lasso. This fish-out-of-water comedy about an American football coach taking over a British soccer team became a cultural phenomenon. Jason Sudeikis's portrayal of the ever-optimistic Ted is iconic, and the show's message of kindness and empathy resonated with millions.
Ted Lasso is more than just a comedy; it's a feel-good phenomenon that made us all believe in the power of being a good person. It's a show that will be remembered as one of the greatest sitcoms of all time, and it's the perfect example of what the genre can achieve.
For more great comedy recommendations, check out our list of HBO's most fun shows or our Netflix binge guide. And if you're in the mood for a different genre, we've also ranked the best mystery movies since 2020.
