Few things instantly identify a television series like a great intro. While characters, catchphrases, and costumes leave lasting impressions, a tonally perfect opening beat and a montage of meaningful moments can send fans reeling as their favorite show begins. These iconic TV intros have become not only representative of their series but emblematic of different genres and eras of television entertainment.
The strength of these 10 intros is so immense that sensational sitcom openings like The Office and Happy Days didn't make the cut, while memorable intros from dramas like Game of Thrones and Mad Men were overlooked. What remains is a collection of the most well-known intro sequences the medium has ever seen, from fun-loving sing-alongs to eerie plunges into the paranormal.
10. 'Law & Order' (1990–Present)
A common theme among the best TV intros is how instantly recognizable they are from their very first moments. No opening sequence epitomizes this quite like Law & Order and its many spin-offs. Voice actor Steven Zirnkilton kicks off with the famous “in the criminal justice system…” spiel, which is itself universally known, before the intro truly kicks into gear with the famous “DUN DUN.” A montage of cast credits, sweeping skyline shots, and candid police images proceeds as Mike Post’s slick, jazzy tune rings out. That “DUN DUN,” based on a jail cell door slamming shut, makes this the most iconic crime show intro television has seen.
9. 'The Jeffersons' (1975–1985)
A great song goes a long way in defining the brilliance of any TV intro, especially for sitcoms. Few shows surpass The Jeffersons, a spin-off of All in the Family following the titular African-American couple moving from Queens to Manhattan. The opening credits follow the couple in a taxi trailing a removalist’s van while Ja’Net DuBois’ intoxicating vocals in “Movin’ On Up” ring out. The song, written by DuBois and Jeff Barry and utilizing a gospel choir, is as enduring as television has seen, making this intro a glorious icon.
8. 'The A-Team' (1983–1987)
Action television has sometimes struggled to deliver outstanding intros, but The A-Team had no such issues. This must-watch '80s action extravaganza follows ex-military specialists working as soldiers of fortune while clearing their names. The opening monologue, delivered over a military drumbeat, highlights their ordeal before a machine-gun burst lights up the title, giving way to a glorious medley of high-propane action and cheesy yet triumphant instrumentals by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter. It is unashamedly fun in the way only '80s action knew how to be.
7. 'M*A*S*H' (1972–1983)
Many great TV intros are universally known from their first notes and shots. While a comedy at its core, M*A*S*H was prone to moments of sublime drama and devastating heartbreak. The intro accentuates these darker beats with an instrumental version of “Suicide is Painless,” accompanied by clips of helicopters delivering wounded troops. It is brazen and bold, making the opening sequence one of the most iconic snippets of 20th-century television.
6. 'Cheers' (1982–1993)
Has there ever been a warmer intro than Cheers? The song “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” written by Judy Hart Angelo and Gary Portnoy, perfectly encapsulates the series’ allure—a melodic soft rock bop defining the comfort of a local bar where everybody knows your name. Enhanced by enticing still imagery of old barroom antics, Cheers could easily be considered the best sitcom opening of all time. It certainly has one of the catchiest and most memorable tunes.
These intros, along with others like The X-Files and Friends, have become cultural landmarks. For more on the best in entertainment, check out our ranking of The Most Satisfying Movie Endings of All Time and our list of The 10 Most Flawless TV Dramas of the Past 30 Years. And if you're a fan of The X-Files, don't miss our coverage of The X-Files Digital Streaming Surge Ahead of May 2026 Hulu Reboot.
