If you’re a fan of sketch comedy, then you’re probably familiar with the legendary SCTV (Second City Television). This Canadian show, which ran from 1976 to 1984, featured an ensemble cast performing a variety of sketches, parodies, and satirical news segments. For those who love the genre, here are 15 TV shows that capture the same spirit and humor as SCTV.
1. Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live is an iconic American sketch comedy show that has been airing since 1975. Created by Lorne Michaels, it features a rotating cast of comedians and celebrity hosts. Notable alumni include Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell.
2. MADtv
MADtv is another American sketch comedy show that aired from 1995 to 2009. Known for its edgy humor and celebrity impersonations, the show starred comedians like Michael McDonald, Debra Wilson, and Keegan-Michael Key.
3. The Kids in the Hall
This Canadian sketch comedy series aired between 1988 and 1995 and was known for its surreal humor. The show starred Dave Foley, Kevin McDonald, Bruce McCulloch, Mark McKinney, and Scott Thompson.
4. In Living Color
In Living Color was a groundbreaking sketch comedy show that aired from 1990 to 1994. Created by Keenen Ivory Wayans, it featured a predominantly African-American cast including Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez.
5. Chappelle’s Show
Created by and starring Dave Chappelle, this sketch comedy show aired from 2003 to 2006. Known for its sharp social commentary and memorable characters, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
6. Key & Peele
Key & Peele is a sketch comedy show that aired from 2012 to 2015 on Comedy Central. Starring Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, the show is known for its clever humor and unique characters.
7. The Carol Burnett Show
This classic American variety/sketch comedy show aired from 1967 to 1978. Hosted by Carol Burnett, it featured a talented ensemble cast including Harvey Korman, Tim Conway, and Vicki Lawrence.
8. Monty Python’s Flying Circus
This British sketch comedy series aired from 1969 to 1974 and is considered a pioneer in the genre. The show starred Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, and Terry Gilliam.
9. Mr. Show with Bob and David
Airing from 1995 to 1998, this American sketch comedy show was created by and starred Bob Odenkirk and David Cross. Known for its absurd and satirical sketches, it has a cult following.
10. The State
The State is an American sketch comedy show that aired on MTV from 1993 to 1995. It featured a young and energetic cast, including Ken Marino, Michael Ian Black, and Thomas Lennon.
11. A Bit of Fry & Laurie
This British sketch comedy show aired from 1987 to 1995 and starred Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie. Known for its witty and intellectual humor, it remains a favorite among fans of British comedy.
12. Portlandia
Portlandia is a sketch comedy show that aired from 2011 to 2018 on IFC. Created by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein, the show parodies life in Portland, Oregon, and features a variety of quirky characters.
13. The Benny Hill Show
This British sketch comedy and variety show aired from 1955 to 1991. Hosted by Benny Hill, it featured slapstick humor, musical numbers, and recurring characters.
14. Little Britain
Little Britain is a British sketch comedy show that aired from 2003 to 2006. Created by and starring David Walliams and Matt Lucas, the show features a variety of eccentric characters and satirical humor.
15. Inside Amy Schumer
This American sketch comedy show aired from 2013 to 2016 and was created by and starred Amy Schumer. Known for its edgy and feminist humor, the show tackles various social issues through sketches and stand-up segments.
Each of these shows brings its own unique flavor to the world of sketch comedy, much like SCTV did during its run. Whether you’re looking for biting satire, absurd humor, or clever social commentary, these shows are sure to entertain.
