The Most Popular NBC Shows of All Time
Since its founding in 1926, NBC has produced some of the most iconic and well-known television shows in history. From early classics like The Today Show and Playhouse 90, to more modern hits like The Office and Parks and Recreation, NBC has provided viewers with decades of comedy and drama, capturing the hearts of millions across the nation. Here’s a look at some of NBC’s most popular shows of all time and what made them so beloved.
The Today Show – An Iconic News Program
Perhaps the most popular show to ever air on NBC, The Today Show premiered in 1952 and has become an essential part of American television. Hosted by David Garroway, the iconic news program has continued to evolve over the years and remains one of the longest-running television programs in history. Considered the “most successful show in TV history,” The Today Show still retains many of its original viewers, even after all this time.
Seinfeld – The King of Sitcoms
Airing from 1989 to 1998, Seinfeld brought television into a new, modern era, becoming a cultural phenomenon in the process. Masterminded by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, the show follows a group of four New Yorkers as they navigate through life and its idiosyncrasies. This situational comedy held a unique style of humor and was revolutionary in its approach to comedy at the time. This, coupled with the show’s stunningly memorable iconic moments, ultimately propelled Seinfeld to become one of the greatest television sitcoms of all time.
Cheers – An Institution in the Very Best Sense
Airing from 1982 to 1993, Cheers was among the most iconic and beloved shows in history. Centered on the group of regulars who frequent a Boston bar owned by Sam Malone and tolerated by his former love interest, the program was a symbol of the time in which it was made. Through the story of its characters and characters’ individual relationships, the sitcom brought laughs and hearts to the small screen. Cheers also elevated itself by addressing issues such as divorce, alcoholism, and suicide, proving that comedy can be meaningful as well.
Friends – The Last of Great Must-See TV Comedies
One of the most iconic shows in history and NBC’s greatest sitcom hit, Friends ran from 1994 to 2004. Following the lives of six close friends, the program was a worldwide phenomenon, propelling the show’s six stars to similar success. As one of the last great “must-see” shows, Friends represented to a generation the ultimate modern sitcom, featuring incredibly lovable and relatable characters, and an outstanding mix of slapstick humor and clever dialogue.
The Office – The “Americanization” of a British Classic
The Office, created by Greg Daniels and based on a British series by the same name, aired from 2005 to 2013 on NBC. Drawing inspiration from the British version of the show, the American adaptation was almost immediately a hit, thanks to its original and awkward mix of humor and its biting production style. The unprecedented success of the show has led it to become part of popular culture, with even President Barack Obama referring to it in one of his speeches. The program’s enduring legacy has been propelled by its iconic quotes and catchphrases, as well as its long-lasting appeal.
The Naming of Must-See TV
Rounding out NBC’s top legendary shows comes the naming of “Must See TV”, an informal branding by NBC of its popular Thursday night lineup of beloved shows. Featuring programs such as Cheers, Seinfeld, Friends and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, amongst others, NBC’s Thursday night “Must See TV” enjoyed tremendous popularity and influence. The franchise was so popular that “Must See TV” was used by the network to recur until 2014 when the ratings of its era-defining classics slowly began to decline.
Parks and Recreation – A Modern Comedy Institution
Premiering in 2009, Parks and Recreation remains one of NBC’s most celebrated shows of this century. Created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, the show follows a group of small-town government workers who find themselves in the constant pursuit of bettering their town. Featuring wonderfully lovable characters, a unique blend of dry and whimsical humor, and an amazing cast, Parks and Recreation rapidly rose to the top of the nation’s must-see list.
Saturday Night Live – A Legendary Comedy Institution
In 1975, NBC launched a sketch-comedy show that would go on to become a true American classic: Saturday Night Live. As a live show, SNL has pushed the boundaries of comedic filming, presenting viewers with iconic sketches like the Festrunk Brothers, Spartan Cheerleaders and Monroe’s now-classic “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me” quote. Throughout its run, the show has seen some of the most beloved comedians in history grace its stage, including John Belushi, Chris Farley, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell and many more.
NBC has given us some truly timeless classics. From the early days of The Today Show, to the memories “Must See TV” provided, to the beloved sitcoms like Cheers and Friends, NBC has had their finger on the pulse in providing us with some of the most cherished programs in television history. From the program’s popularity today, it’s safe to say NBC’s contribution to TV history will remain through an innumerable amount of classic programs for generations to come.
