Workplace comedies have been a staple of television since the 1960s, but it was 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' that truly set the standard for this genre. It introduced the relatable and often hilarious world of office life, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of a single woman in the workforce. This show not only paved the way for future workplace comedies but also challenged gender roles and showcased the potential of women in leadership roles. Since then, the genre has evolved, with a mix of long-running series and short-lived gems that have left a lasting impact on audiences. Here's a look at some of the best workplace comedies, ranked from 10th to 1st.
10. Party Down
Starring: Adam Scott, Ken Marino, Lizzy Caplan, Ryan Hansen, Martin Starr, Jane Lynch, Megan Mullally
Party Down is a cult classic that deserves more recognition. Set in a catering company, the show follows a group of employees who are mostly trying (and failing) to make it in Hollywood. Each episode takes place at a different event, from basic parties to bizarre gatherings, showcasing the tedium and humor of a work environment where no one really wants to be. The show's unique setting and witty writing made it a hit, despite its short life. The revival in 2023 was a triumph, with most of the original cast returning to critical acclaim.
9. The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Starring: Mary Tyler Moore, Ed Asner, Gavin MacLeod, Ted Knight, Cloris Leachman, Valerie Harper, Georgia Engel, Betty White
The Mary Tyler Moore Show was the first workplace comedy to become a major success. It follows Mary Richards, a single woman who moves to Minneapolis and becomes the associate producer of WJM-TV's 'Six O'Clock News'. The show not only challenged gender roles but also showcased the potential of women in leadership roles. It ran for seven seasons, earning 67 Emmy nominations and winning 29, including three consecutive awards for Outstanding Comedy Series.
8. Newsradio
Starring: Dave Foley, Stephen Root, Andy Dick, Maura Tierney, Vicki Lewis, Joe Rogan, Khandi Alexander, Phil Hartman, Jon Lovitz
Newsradio is a lesser-known gem that is a must-see for sitcom fans. Set in an AM broadcasting all-news radio station in New York City, the show follows the colorful cast of characters and their surprising or tragic turns. The show was praised by critics, but its ratings never soared, and it changed time slots 11 times during its five seasons. It received three Emmy nominations and won one for Outstanding Costuming in 1998.
7. Taxi
Starring: Danny DeVito, Judd Hirsch, Jeff Conaway, Marilu Henner, Tony Danza, Christopher Lloyd, Andy Kaufman, Carol Kane
Taxi is a massive hit that showcased the unique world of a New York City cab company. The show's eccentric staff and underlying sadness resonated with viewers, and it helped jumpstart many iconic careers. The show was nominated for 34 Emmys and won 15, including three for Outstanding Comedy Series.
6. The Larry Sanders Show
Starring: Garry Shandling, Rip Torn, Jeffrey Tambor, Judd Apatow
The Larry Sanders Show is a prime example of a show about making shows. It follows the behind-the-scenes chaos of a late-night talk show, with big personalities and egos. The show was nominated for 56 Emmys and won three, including Outstanding Comedy Series.
5. Veep
Starring: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Reid Scott, Timothy Simons, Matt Walsh, Sufe Bradshaw
Veep is a satirical comedy that pokes fun at the ineptitude and egotism of the American government. It was praised for its cynical political commentary and was revered by both critics and audiences. The show was nominated for 68 Emmys and won 17, including three for Outstanding Comedy Series.
4. Parks and Recreation
Starring: Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt
Parks and Recreation is a heartfelt workplace comedy that showcases the positivity, perseverance, and hope of a small-town government department. The show's charming cast and positive message made it a beloved series, despite initial mixed reviews. It received 14 Emmy nominations but never won.
3. 30 Rock
Starring: Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski
30 Rock is a satirical comedy that takes place on the set of a sketch comedy show. It pokes fun at the entertainment industry and features over-the-top, ridiculous situations. The show was nominated for 103 Emmys and won 16, including three for Outstanding Comedy Series.
2. The Office (U.K. and U.S.)
Starring: Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Greg Daniels
The Office is a pivotal workplace comedy, with both the U.K. and U.S. versions making a significant impact. The U.K. version, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, was short-lived but perfect in its cringe-style comedy. The U.S. version, developed by Greg Daniels, became a massive hit, with a new cast and a unique take on the original.
1. Cheers
Starring: Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Nicholas Colasanto, Rhea Perlman, George Wendt, John Ratzenberger, Kelsey Grammer, Woody Harrelson, Bebe Neuwirth, Kirstie Alley
Cheers is the gold standard of workplace comedies, set in a Boston bar that follows the employees and patrons. The show's unique setting and memorable characters made it a massive hit, earning 117 Emmy nominations and winning 28, including four for Outstanding Comedy Series. It is considered one of the greatest network television shows of all time.
