MADtv was a groundbreaking sketch comedy show that aired from 1995 to 2009, offering a mix of hilarious skits and unforgettable characters. If you’re a fan of MADtv and are looking for similar shows, you’re in for a treat. Below is a list of 15 TV shows that capture the essence of MADtv‘s unique brand of humor.
1. Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live (SNL) is perhaps the most iconic sketch comedy show of all time. Premiering in 1975, SNL has launched the careers of numerous comedians, including Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell. The show features a mix of live sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest hosts.
2. In Living Color
In Living Color was a groundbreaking sketch comedy series that aired from 1990 to 1994. Created by Keenen Ivory Wayans, the show featured a predominantly African-American cast, including Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez. It was known for its edgy humor and memorable characters.
3. The Kids in the Hall
The Kids in the Hall is a Canadian sketch comedy group that had a successful TV series from 1988 to 1995. The show featured a mix of surreal humor and social commentary, with a cast that included Dave Foley, Bruce McCulloch, and Kevin McDonald. The troupe’s unique comedic style has earned them a cult following.
4. Chappelle’s Show
Chappelle’s Show was a groundbreaking sketch comedy series created by and starring Dave Chappelle. Airing from 2003 to 2006, the show tackled social and racial issues with a mix of sharp wit and absurd humor. Notable sketches include “Rick James” and “The Racial Draft.”
5. Key & Peele
Key & Peele is a sketch comedy show that aired from 2012 to 2015, starring Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele. The series is known for its clever social commentary and memorable characters, such as “Substitute Teacher” and “Luther, Obama’s Anger Translator.”
6. The Ben Stiller Show
The Ben Stiller Show was a short-lived but influential sketch comedy series that aired in the early 1990s. Created by and starring Ben Stiller, the show featured a talented cast including Janeane Garofalo, Andy Dick, and Bob Odenkirk. Despite its brief run, it won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing.
7. Mr. Show with Bob and David
Mr. Show with Bob and David aired from 1995 to 1998 and starred Bob Odenkirk and David Cross. The show was known for its innovative sketch format and absurdist humor. It has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic in the genre.
8. Portlandia
Portlandia is a sketch comedy series that aired from 2011 to 2018, created by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. The show satirizes the hipster culture of Portland, Oregon, with recurring characters like “The Feminist Bookstore” owners. It combines quirky humor with sharp social commentary.
9. The State
The State was a sketch comedy show that aired on MTV from 1993 to 1995. It featured a cast of young comedians, including Michael Ian Black, David Wain, and Ken Marino. The show’s irreverent and often absurd humor made it a cult favorite.
10. SCTV
SCTV (Second City Television) was a Canadian sketch comedy show that aired from 1976 to 1984. The show featured a cast of talented comedians, including John Candy, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara. SCTV is known for its clever parodies and memorable characters.
11. Inside Amy Schumer
Inside Amy Schumer is a sketch comedy series that aired from 2013 to 2016, created by and starring Amy Schumer. The show features a mix of sketches, stand-up comedy, and interviews, often focusing on social issues and gender dynamics. It has won several awards, including a Peabody Award.
12. The Whitest Kids U’ Know
The Whitest Kids U’ Know is a sketch comedy show that aired from 2007 to 2011. Created by and starring Trevor Moore, the show features absurd and often dark humor. The cast includes Zach Cregger, Sam Brown, and Timmy Williams.
13. Little Britain
Little Britain is a British sketch comedy series that aired from 2003 to 2006. Created by and starring Matt Lucas and David Walliams, the show features a variety of eccentric characters and satirical humor. It became a cultural phenomenon in the UK.
14. A Bit of Fry & Laurie
A Bit of Fry & Laurie is a British sketch comedy series that aired from 1989 to 1995. Starring Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie, the show is known for its clever wordplay and sophisticated humor. The duo’s chemistry and wit make it a standout in the genre.
15. The Catherine Tate Show
The Catherine Tate Show is a British sketch comedy series that aired from 2004 to 2007. Created by and starring Catherine Tate, the show features a variety of memorable characters, including “Nan” and “Lauren Cooper.” Tate’s versatile performances and sharp writing make it a must-watch.
