(Photo by NBC)
The 60 Best TV Workplace Comedies
Sure, the current definition of “workplace” for many people is “wherever I sit down with my laptop.” But that doesn’t mean the workplace comedy is any less universal. It’s a classic for a reason — since most of us have to work to earn a living, whether through paid or unpaid labor (moms, we see you!), pretty much every viewer can relate. Whether it’s making small talk about last night’s big game or becoming exasperated when your boss sticks you with an impossible project, the struggle is very real.
We’ve rounded up some of TV’s best comedies (or dramedies) that revolve around the goings-on in a workplace. They might not be funny 100% of the time — see: Ally McBeal or even Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, both of which blend drama, comedy, and surreal elements for very unique viewing experiences — but they make comedic observations about even the most mundane aspects of the working world.
You’ll notice that the series listed span many decades, meaning Steve Carell appears twice, for both The Office and his new Netflix comedy Space Force. Other repeats include Ted Danson (for the new Tina Fey-created NBC sitcom Mr. Mayor and — naturally — Cheers), Adam Scott (for cult classic Party Down as well as Parks and Recreation), some It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia costars (Glenn Howerton for Sunny and Peacock comedy A.P. Bio, while Rob McElhenny co-created and co-stars in Sunny and Apple TV+ comedy Mythic Quest: Raven’s Banquet), Bill Lawrence (who co-created Spin City, Scrubs, and Undateable), and even Fey herself, who appears on-screen in 30 Rock, but also executive produced Mr. Mayor and Great News (in which she also appears from season 2).
If you’re craving some awkward water-cooler small-talk (plus more nuanced depictions of modern working life), read on for more of TV’s funniest workplace comedies.
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