25 Forgotten Sitcoms That Are Secretly TV’s Best Kept Secrets
Wings
Set in a small airport on Nantucket Island, the show explored the comedic escapades of airport staff and clientele.
Running throughout the 90s, it combined personal stories with workplace comedy. The show’s rich ensemble cast provided humor and heartfelt interactions.
Ned and Stacey
A marriage of convenience leads to unexpected comedy in this sitcom about two mismatched individuals navigating a faux relationship.
Debuting in the mid-90s, it explored unconventional relationships with humor and heart. The show is remembered for its witty script and dynamic between the two leads.
Murphy Brown
A satirical sitcom focused on the personal and professional life of an acclaimed investigative journalist, known for its sharp wit and social commentary.
Running from 1988-1998, the show often tackled contemporary issues through humor. Candice Bergen’s portrayal was both comedic and poignant, making the show a beloved classic.
Caroline in the City
Revolving around a successful cartoonist and her life in New York City, this sitcom depicted the trials of balancing work and romance.
The show aired in the mid-90s and was noted for its vibrant portrayal of urban life. Its humor and relatability endeared it to an audience seeking romantic comedy.
The Single Guy
Focusing on the life of a New York-based writer navigating single life, romance, and friendships.
Premiering in the mid-90s, it captured the essence of urban singlehood with humor and heart. Despite its brief run, it offered a comedic exploration of dating and social dynamics.
Becker
The sitcom features a grumpy yet witty doctor with a no-nonsense approach to life and patients.
Running from the late 90s to the early 2000s, it mixed medical situations with dry humor. Ted Danson’s portrayal offers a unique take on everyday struggles and friendships.
Step by Step
This 90s sitcom followed a blended family navigating life’s challenges and comedic situations together. Often described as a modern “Brady Bunch,” it is remembered for its wholesome family humor.
From sibling rivalries to heartfelt lessons, the show depicted family life with a humorous touch.
Dear John
Featuring a recently divorced man joining a support group, this sitcom dives into the comedic lives of its colorful group members.
Premiering in the late 80s, it successfully combines personal anguish with light-hearted comedy. The ensemble cast brought both comedy and touching scenes to post-marriage life.
Ellen
Centered around a quirky bookstore owner, this sitcom captures the humorous side of everyday life and friendships.
Originally airing as “These Friends of Mine,” it gained fame for its relatable humor and memorable lead. Ellen DeGeneres’ comedic timing and groundbreaking moments made it a defining show of the 90s.
Suddenly Susan
Following the life of a newly independent woman in a high-pressure editorial job, this sitcom explored personal growth with comical twists.
Premiering in the late 90s, the series highlighted themes of self-discovery through its charming protagonist. It balanced workplace comedy with personal reinvention and lively character interactions.
Night Court
Set in a Manhattan municipal court, this ensemble comedy portrayed the quirky cases and eccentric staff who bring humor to late-night justice.
Airing throughout the 80s and early 90s, it became known for its slapstick and character-driven humor. The show masterfully balanced legal comedy with whimsical, offbeat situations.
Major Dad
Following the life of a disciplined Marine officer who becomes a stepfather, this show humorously explores the clash between military precision and family chaos.
Premiering in 1989, it offered a heartwarming blend of work-life balance in a military setting. The sitcom deftly combines humor and heartfelt moments, capturing the challenges of parenthood.
The Drew Carey Show
Chronicling the everyday absurdities of working in an office, this sitcom captured the humor found in mundane lives.
With its unique blend of blue-collar humor and surreal musical numbers, it stood out during its run from 1995 to 2004. The relatable portrayal of workaday life and friendships remains its charm.
Dharma and Greg
A spirited, free-spirited woman and her uptight lawyer husband navigate their unlikely marriage with comedic flair.
Premiering in the late 90s, it examined unconventional love with quirky charm. The show was renowned for its exploration of relationships crossing social boundaries.
Living Single
Focuses on six friends sharing the ups and downs of single life in Brooklyn, offering a rich blend of humor and camaraderie.
Airing in the 90s, it was one of the first sitcoms to depict young black professionals. Its memorable ensemble and vibrant storytelling remain influential in sitcom history.
Out of Practice
A comedy revolving around a family of doctors who aren’t as adept at personal relationships as they are in their careers.
Airing briefly in the mid-2000s, it highlighted family humor with a touch of medical insights. The star-studded cast provided laughs and chemistry in this short-lived series.
Blossom
Centered around a teenage girl and her imaginative world, this early 90s sitcom dealt with adolescent life with humor and sincerity.
It became known for its quirky main character and her introspective musings on growing up. The show’s candid portrayal of teen issues and family dynamics resonated with many viewers.
Veronica’s Closet
This comedic series follows the life of a lingerie company executive struggling to balance her personal and professional life.
Airing in the late 90s, it highlighted the challenges faced by career-driven women with a humorous twist. Known for its campy humor and star-studded cast, it garnered attention during its run.
Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper
This sitcom followed a former NBA player turned teacher, juggling humor and heartfelt lessons in his classroom.
Airing in the 90s, it creatively balanced light-hearted comedy with educational themes. The series showcased entertaining teacher-student dynamics and community life.
Perfect Strangers
Highlighting the cultural misadventures of a spirited immigrant and his American cousin, this 80s sitcom made viewers laugh with its culture clash humor.
The show focused on friendship, understanding, and the entertaining clash of lifestyles. Hilarity ensues as the cousins navigate life’s challenges with endearing naivety.
Mad About You
This sitcom delves into the intricacies of a married couple navigating life in New York, with humor centered on their everyday interactions.
Premiering in the early 90s, it showcased the daily challenges and joys of marriage. Its blend of romance and comedy offered a relatable glimpse into modern relationships.
Just Shoot Me!
Set within the high-pressure world of a fashion magazine, this workplace sitcom delivered laughs through office dynamics and the eccentricities of its characters.
The late 90s show balanced workplace satire with the personal lives of its employees. Known for its sharp wit, it offered a comedic peek into the fashion industry.
Spin City
This political comedy set in the chaotic office of a New York mayor combines the hilarity of city politics with the personal lives of its staff.
Premiering in the mid-90s, it was known for its quick wit and sharp ensemble cast. Michael J. Fox’s performance and the show’s satirical style made it a standout series.
