7 Great Sitcoms That Don't Have a Laughing Track
Some of these are classic and some are lesser-known, but they’re all great.
We love comedies for how great they make us feel. In fact, it has been medically proven that a hearty laugh benefits both physical and mental health. In this regard, sitcoms serve as a much-needed relief in everyone's life.
However, not all comedy shows are the same, with the most noticeable difference being the presence of a laugh track. Classic sitcoms typically feature one, but some viewers find it silly and distracting. If you're among this latter category, here are seven excellent sitcoms that don't have a laugh track.
7. 30 Rock (2006, 7 seasons)
An old-time NBC flagship, this sitcom chronicles the lives of the cast and crew of the network's fictional sketch show. It features numerous celebrities such as Tina Fey, Jane Krakowski, Tracy Morgan, and Alec Baldwin. Furthermore, it is insightful and naturally funny, so there is no need for a laugh track.
6. Cougar Town (2009, 6 seasons)
Fronted by Courteney Cox of Friends fame, this show is a classic sitcom in its structure. Set in Florida, it revolves around a 'cul-de-sac crew' of neighbours and friends who spend their days gossiping and sipping wine. Although slightly silly, this ABC show remains warm and humorous.
5. The Good Place (2016, 4 seasons)
This NBC fantasy sitcom offers much more than just laughs. Set in the fictional afterlife, The Good Place delves into numerous profound subjects, including the purpose of life and human morality. It's philosophically deep and entertaining.
4. Rutherford Falls (2021, 2 seasons)
The sitcom revolves around the removal of a fictional town founder's statue and deals with such issues as cancel culture, colonialism, and friendship. The two main characters must redefine their long-standing relationship as they find themselves on opposing sides of the show's central issue. It's both serious and comical in a surprising way.
3. The Middle (2009, 9 seasons)
A classic sitcom from ABC, this show often gets eclipsed by the network's other big offerings like Modern Family. The series follows the Hecks as they grapple with the challenges of being an average American family, raising three children and struggling to make ends meet. It's heartwarming and amusing, with no need for a laugh track.
2. Grace and Frankie (2015, 7 seasons)
Arguably one of Netflix's finest shows, this sitcom follows Grace and Frankie, two long-time rivals who detest each other but grow closer when a shared tragedy strikes – their husbands decide to leave them to get married. It's a wonderful exploration of life after seventy that doesn't shy away from discussing career and sex. Most importantly, the sitcom stars the legendary Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda!
1. Schitt's Creek (2015, 6 seasons)
There's a slim chance you haven't heard about this sitcom yet, but it's worth mentioning. Following the billionaire-turned-pauper Rose family, this Canadian comedy is a genre masterpiece, offering ample hilarity and character development that will make you fall in love with the characters while laughing heartily at their misfortunes.