Best-Reviewed TV Comedies 2016

They may not feature laugh tracks as frequently as they used to, but the best TV comedies remain hilarious, even if they deliver some thought-provoking truths in the process. This year’s cream of the crop includes a couple of bold newcomers in addition to some recent hits.

The order of the list reflects the scores as of December 31, 2016, but the number displayed on the Adjusted Tomatometer may change as more reviews keep getting added after the end of the year.

Atlanta: Season 1

#1

Adjusted Score: 101797%

Critics Consensus: Ambitious and refreshing, Atlanta offers a unique vehicle for star and series creator Donald Glover's eccentric brand of humor -- as well as a number of timely, trenchant observations.

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Starring: Cassandra Freeman, Harold House Moore, De'Anthony Turner, Montrel Miller

Directed By: Dianne McGunigle, Donald Glover, Paul Simms, Hiro Murai

Insecure: Season 1

#2

Adjusted Score: 103352%

Critics Consensus: Insecure uses star Issa Rae's breakout web series Awkward Black Girl as the basis for an insightful, raunchy, and hilarious journey through the life of a twentysomething black woman that cuts through stereotypes with sharp wit and an effusive spirit.

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Starring: Issa Rae, Yvonne Orji, Jay Ellis, Lisa Joyce

Directed By: Issa Rae, Prentice Penny, Melina Matsoukas, Michael Rotenberg

Transparent: Season 3

#3

Adjusted Score: 101433%

Critics Consensus: Uniquely its own, and compelling and poignant as ever, Transparent continues to transcend the parameters of comedic and dramatic television with sustained excellence in its empathic portrayal of the Pfefferman family.

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Starring: Jeffrey Tambor, Gaby Hoffmann, Amy Landecker, Jay Duplass

Directed By: Joey Soloway, Joey Soloway, Silas Howard, Stacie Passon

Catastrophe: Season 2

#4

Adjusted Score: 100814%

Critics Consensus: Catastrophe delivers a strong second season that deepens the drama while remaining spit-take funny.

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Starring: Sharon Horgan, Rob Delaney

Directed By:

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Season 2

#5

Adjusted Score: 101047%

Critics Consensus: Not letting up in season two, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is still odd in the best of ways, wonderfully building on its unique comedy stylings and brilliantly funny cast.

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Starring: Ellie Kemper, Jane Krakowski, Tituss Burgess, Lauren Adams

Directed By: Tina Fey, Robert Carlock, Jeff Richmond, Jack Burditt