13 Longest TV Shows Ever Aired

Television shows have a unique way of capturing our attention and staying with us over the years, and some manage to do so for decades. The longest-running TV shows not only stand the test of time but also shape pop culture, influence new generations, and create lasting legacies. From animated series to medical dramas, these shows have maintained their popularity by adapting to changing trends while staying true to their roots. In this list, we’ll take a look at 13 of the longest TV shows ever aired, exploring what made them successful and how they’ve managed to stay relevant in the ever-evolving world of television.

The Simpsons (1989–Present)

As of now, The Simpsons holds the record for the longest-running American animated series. The show debuted in 1989, and its satirical portrayal of the Simpson family in the fictional town of Springfield has captured the public’s imagination for decades. With over 700 episodes, The Simpsons has become a cultural phenomenon, influencing comedy, animation, and pop culture. The show’s humor, which blends slapstick, witty one-liners, and social commentary, has kept audiences engaged for more than 30 years. Over time, it has won numerous awards, including Emmys and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The longevity of The Simpsons can be attributed to its adaptability, constantly evolving to reflect contemporary issues and trends. Despite debates about its decline in quality, the show’s enduring legacy is undeniable, making it a cornerstone of American television.

Gunsmoke (1955–1975)

Gunsmoke is a classic American Western drama that aired for 20 seasons on CBS. Its initial run began in 1955, making it one of the longest-running TV shows of the 20th century. Set in the frontier town of Dodge City, Kansas, the show follows Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by James Arness, as he defends the community from outlaws and criminals. The series combined elements of adventure, drama, and character-driven storytelling, and its popularity only grew over the years. In fact, its final season (season 20) boasted an impressive 635 episodes, a record for its time. Gunsmoke resonated with audiences due to its complex characters, gripping plots, and gritty portrayal of frontier life. It set the stage for future Western TV shows, influencing the genre for years to come.

Law & Order (1990–2010)

With its signature blend of police procedural and legal drama, Law & Order became a cultural staple for over 20 years. Premiering in 1990, the show followed a straightforward formula: the first half of each episode focused on a criminal investigation, while the second half dealt with courtroom trials. The format allowed for sharp, timely storytelling, tackling real-world issues like politics, justice, and morality. The series introduced iconic characters such as Detective Lennie Briscoe and District Attorney Jack McCoy, who became TV legends. Law & Order was groundbreaking for its mix of real-world social commentary and intense, character-driven plots. Spawning multiple spin-offs like SVU and Criminal Intent, the show cemented its legacy in TV history. Despite its end in 2010, its influence continues to shape legal dramas to this day.

NCIS (2003–Present)

NCIS debuted in 2003 and quickly became one of the most popular procedural dramas in the world. The series follows the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they investigate crimes connected to the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. With its strong ensemble cast, led by the charismatic Mark Harmon, the show has been praised for its balance of humor, drama, and action. Over 20 seasons, NCIS has maintained its appeal by evolving its characters and storylines, often diving deep into their personal lives while still delivering engaging, case-of-the-week episodes. The show’s longevity is also fueled by its ability to appeal to a wide audience, thanks to its mix of intrigue, teamwork, and relatable characters. As of now, it has spawned multiple successful spin-offs, including NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans. NCIS continues to dominate ratings and remains a favorite on television.

The Young and the Restless (1973–Present)

As one of the longest-running soap operas in television history, The Young and the Restless has been a fixture of daytime TV since its debut in 1973. The show revolves around the lives, loves, and betrayals of the wealthy and powerful Abbott and Newman families in the fictional town of Genoa City. With a dynamic cast and ever-evolving storylines, the show has explored a wide range of themes, from family drama to corporate intrigue. Over the years, it has garnered a loyal following, with characters becoming beloved icons of soap operas. The Young and the Restless is known for its consistent ratings success, and it holds the title of the most-watched daytime soap opera in the U.S. The show has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and is praised for its strong character development and gripping plotlines. Its enduring popularity speaks to its ability to adapt and stay relevant, even in a rapidly changing television landscape.

Sesame Street (1969–Present)

Since its premiere in 1969, Sesame Street has been a groundbreaking children’s educational show that has entertained and taught generations of viewers. With its unique blend of live-action, puppetry, and animation, the show focuses on teaching children important life skills, including numbers, letters, and social-emotional development. The iconic characters, such as Big Bird, Elmo, and Cookie Monster, became beloved figures in children’s programming. What sets Sesame Street apart is its willingness to tackle difficult topics, like death, divorce, and disabilities, in an age-appropriate way. Its innovative approach to early childhood education has made it an invaluable tool for parents and educators alike. Throughout its long run, Sesame Street has continually evolved to keep up with changing educational practices and technological advancements. With over 50 seasons, it remains a cultural touchstone, inspiring children’s shows worldwide.

Grey’s Anatomy (2005–Present)

Debuting in 2005, Grey’s Anatomy quickly became a staple of prime-time television with its unique combination of medical drama and character-driven storytelling. Set in Seattle’s fictional Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, the series follows a group of surgeons as they navigate both their professional and personal lives. The show is notable for its diverse and complex characters, many of whom have become household names. Grey’s Anatomy has tackled a wide range of topics, from groundbreaking medical procedures to personal struggles like addiction, relationships, and loss. Its longevity can be attributed to its ability to reinvent itself while maintaining core emotional elements that resonate with viewers. With over 20 seasons and counting, the series has amassed numerous awards, including Golden Globes and Emmys. Even after nearly two decades, the series continues to captivate audiences with its intense drama and unforgettable moments.

The Bold and the Beautiful (1987–Present)

As the world’s most-watched daytime soap opera, The Bold and the Beautiful has been on the air for over 30 years. Debuting in 1987, the show centers around the glamorous world of the Forrester family, who run a high-end fashion company in Los Angeles. The show’s appeal lies in its captivating storylines, often focused on family drama, romance, and business rivalry. Through the years, The Bold and the Beautiful has evolved, introducing new characters while maintaining core themes of love, betrayal, and ambition. The series is known for its beautiful set designs, high production value, and steamy romantic plot twists. It has won numerous awards, including Daytime Emmys, and continues to hold strong ratings. As of today, the show remains a powerhouse in daytime television, with a massive global following.

The Today Show (1952–Present)

Since its debut in 1952, The Today Show has been the go-to morning news program for millions of viewers. Airing weekdays on NBC, the show provides a mix of hard news, entertainment, weather, and human-interest stories. Its format has evolved over the years, but it has always maintained a focus on delivering timely, relevant content to start the day. Over the decades, The Today Show has had a series of well-known anchors, including Barbara Walters, Katie Couric, and Matt Lauer, shaping its identity as the gold standard of morning television. The show’s segments often feature celebrity interviews, cooking demonstrations, and live musical performances, giving it broad appeal. The Today Show has won multiple Emmy Awards for its journalism and has become synonymous with morning television. It has remained competitive in the ratings race, continually adapting to meet changing audience expectations.

The Price Is Right (1956–Present)

The Price Is Right first aired in 1956, but it’s the 1972 version hosted by Bob Barker that became a television institution. The game show revolves around contestants trying to guess the price of products, with the goal of winning cash and prizes. Its simple yet addictive format, coupled with the enthusiastic participation of the audience, has made it a beloved part of American culture. For decades, Bob Barker’s charm and wit were central to the show’s success, and his legacy continues through current host Drew Carey. The Price Is Right has set numerous records, including being the longest-running game show in American television history. The show’s influence on pop culture is vast, with countless parodies, references, and spin-offs. Even today, it remains one of the highest-rated daytime shows in the U.S., captivating both new and nostalgic viewers.

The Tonight Show (1954–Present)

The longest-running talk show in American television history, The Tonight Show first aired in 1954, starring Steve Allen. Over the decades, it has undergone several iterations, with hosts like Johnny Carson, Jay Leno, and Jimmy Fallon taking the reins. Each version of the show has been defined by its unique approach to celebrity interviews, musical performances, and comedy sketches. The Tonight Show is also known for launching the careers of many comedians, such as David Letterman and Joan Rivers. Its ability to stay current, featuring top-tier celebrity guests and covering trending topics, has kept it relevant across changing television eras. The show’s influence on late-night television cannot be overstated, as it set the blueprint for countless others that followed. Even as the landscape of late-night TV has shifted, The Tonight Show remains an institution, continually drawing large audiences.

General Hospital (1963–Present)

General Hospital holds the distinction of being the longest-running American soap opera still on the air today. Debuting in 1963, the show is set in the fictional Port Charles and follows the lives of its doctors, nurses, and patients at the local hospital. Over the years, the series has delved into various dramatic storylines, including romance, family dynamics, medical emergencies, and even mob wars. General Hospital has garnered numerous Daytime Emmy Awards, especially for its memorable characters and intricate plot twists. It’s also famous for its legacy of creating beloved characters, such as Luke Spencer and Laura Webber. The soap opera’s ability to evolve with changing times while staying true to its core has helped it maintain a dedicated fanbase for over six decades. Even with the rise of other forms of entertainment, General Hospital remains a dominant force in daytime television.

Doctor Who (1963–Present)

One of the longest-running science fiction series in television history, Doctor Who first aired in 1963 and has since become a cornerstone of British pop culture. The series follows the Doctor, a time-traveling alien Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey, as he explores the universe in the TARDIS, a time machine that looks like a 1960s British police box. The show is unique for its ability to regenerate, both in terms of its narrative direction and the casting of its lead character, allowing the Doctor to change physical appearance and personality. This concept has kept the show fresh and adaptable over decades, leading to numerous reinventions while maintaining the core of its quirky, adventurous spirit. With its exploration of time, space, and human nature, Doctor Who has attracted a passionate fanbase and inspired numerous spin-offs, books, and even audio dramas. As of 2024, the show is still running strong, with a new generation of viewers discovering its charm. Doctor Who‘s impact on sci-fi and television at large cannot be overstated, cementing its place in TV history.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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