If you’re a fan of the classic sketch comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, you’re in for a treat! This genre of television has brought laughter and joy to countless viewers over the years. Here’s a list of 20 TV shows that capture the same comedic spirit.
1. Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live is an iconic sketch comedy show that has been entertaining audiences since 1975. Starring a rotating cast of comedians, including legends like Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell, the show offers a mix of satire, parody, and musical performances.
2. The Carol Burnett Show
The Carol Burnett Show is a beloved variety show that aired from 1967 to 1978. Carol Burnett, along with co-stars Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Tim Conway, delivered hilarious sketches and musical numbers that have stood the test of time.
3. MADtv
MADtv is a sketch comedy series that ran from 1995 to 2009. Known for its edgy humor and memorable characters, the show featured a talented ensemble cast including Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, and Alex Borstein.
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 starred a diverse cast including Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez, and was known for its bold and irreverent humor.
5. The Benny Hill Show
The Benny Hill Show is a British comedy series that aired from 1955 to 1991. Benny Hill’s slapstick humor and comedic timing made the show a hit, featuring a mix of sketches, musical numbers, and hilarious chase scenes.
6. Monty Python’s Flying Circus
Monty Python’s Flying Circus is a British sketch comedy show that aired from 1969 to 1974. The show, starring John Cleese, Eric Idle, and Michael Palin, is renowned for its absurd and surreal humor, influencing countless comedians and writers.
7. SCTV
SCTV (Second City Television) is a Canadian sketch comedy show that aired from 1976 to 1984. Featuring a cast of comedic talents like John Candy, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara, the show parodied television programming and pop culture.
8. The Kids in the Hall
The Kids in the Hall is a Canadian sketch comedy series that aired from 1988 to 1995. Known for its quirky and offbeat humor, the show starred Dave Foley, Bruce McCulloch, and Mark McKinney, among others.
9. Chappelle’s Show
Chappelle’s Show is a sketch comedy series created by and starring Dave Chappelle. Airing from 2003 to 2006, the show is celebrated for its sharp social commentary and memorable characters like Tyrone Biggums and Rick James.
10. Key & Peele
Key & Peele is a sketch comedy show that aired from 2012 to 2015. Starring Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, the show tackled a wide range of topics with wit and creativity, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
11. The Muppet Show
The Muppet Show is a variety show that aired from 1976 to 1981, featuring Jim Henson’s beloved Muppet characters. The show combined comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest stars like Steve Martin and Elton John.
12. Mr. Show with Bob and David
Mr. Show with Bob and David is a sketch comedy series that aired from 1995 to 1998. Created by and starring Bob Odenkirk and David Cross, the show is known for its inventive and often surreal humor.
13. The State
The State is a sketch comedy show that aired on MTV from 1993 to 1995. Featuring a cast of young comedians like Michael Ian Black, Thomas Lennon, and Ken Marino, the show became a cult favorite for its unique and eclectic sketches.
14. Portlandia
Portlandia is a sketch comedy series that aired from 2011 to 2018. Created by and starring Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein, the show humorously explores the eccentricities of Portland, Oregon, and its residents.
15. The Tracey Ullman Show
The Tracey Ullman Show is a variety show that aired from 1987 to 1990. Starring Tracey Ullman, the show featured a mix of sketches, musical numbers, and animated shorts, including the debut of The Simpsons.
16. Absolutely Fabulous
Absolutely Fabulous is a British sitcom with strong elements of sketch comedy that aired from 1992 to 2012. Starring Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley, the show follows the outrageous antics of Edina Monsoon and her best friend Patsy Stone.
17. 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 sketches.
18. The Fast Show
The Fast Show is a British sketch comedy series that aired from 1994 to 1997. Known for its quick-fire sketches and memorable catchphrases, the show starred Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson, and Caroline Aherne.
19. A Bit of Fry & Laurie
A Bit of Fry & Laurie is a British sketch comedy series that aired from 1987 to 1995. Starring Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie, the show is celebrated for its clever wordplay and sophisticated humor.
20. The Whitest Kids U’ Know
The Whitest Kids U’ Know is a sketch comedy series that aired from 2007 to 2011. Created by and starring Trevor Moore, Zach Cregger, and Sam Brown, the show is known for its irreverent and often absurd humor.
Dive into these shows and let the laughter begin!