The television industry is fiercely competitive, making it a stroke of luck for any TV series to secure a renewal beyond its initial season. Surviving casting changes, cultural fluctuations, and shifts in the media landscape is a rarity. Spanning from daytime soap operas to late-night comedy programs, here are the 40 longest-running TV shows in history.
#40 Gunsmoke (1955-1975)


This pioneering Western drama revolutionized the genre on television, setting a new standard for storytelling with its rich character development and moral complexities. Over its 20-year run, it captivated audiences with tales of law and order in the frontier town of Dodge City, making cultural icons of characters like Marshal Matt Dillon.
#39 NCIS (2003-present)
A compelling procedural drama that delves into the high-stakes world of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. For over two decades, it has combined intricate plots, cutting-edge forensic technology, and dynamic character relationships, securing its place as a cornerstone of American television.


#38 Law & Order (1990-2010; 2022-present)
This iconic legal drama innovatively splits its focus between the detectives investigating crimes and the district attorneys prosecuting the offenders. Its “ripped from the headlines” approach and revolving cast have kept it relevant and fresh over its 22-year tenure, reflecting the evolving landscape of American justice.


#37 Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-present)
Larry David’s semi-autobiographical series is a masterclass in cringe comedy, drawing on his own life experiences to fuel the awkward and often hilarious predicaments of his on-screen persona. The show’s improvisational style has allowed it to remain unpredictably funny and deeply human after 22 years.


#36 The Ed Sullivan Show (1948-1971)
A cornerstone of American television history, this variety show was a launchpad for countless iconic acts, from The Beatles to Elvis Presley. Its wide range of talent made Sunday nights a cultural event for 23 years, showcasing the best of music, comedy, and performance arts.


#35 Reading Rainbow (1983-2006)
Hosted by the charismatic LeVar Burton, this educational program inspired a love of reading in generations of children. Through its innovative use of storytelling and book recommendations, it made reading accessible and exciting during its 23-year run.


#34 The Merv Griffin Show (1962-1986)
Merv Griffin’s eponymous talk show set a high bar for the genre, offering in-depth conversations with celebrities, politicians, and public figures. Its 24-year tenure was marked by memorable interviews and Griffin’s knack for engaging his guests in meaningful dialogue.


#33 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999-present)
This groundbreaking series broke new ground in television drama by focusing on sensitive issues of sexual assault and domestic violence. With empathetic storytelling and a dedicated cast, it has offered a voice to the voiceless for 24 years, making it a vital part of the cultural conversation.


#32 SpongeBob SquarePants (1999-present)
This animated phenomenon has delighted both children and adults with its quirky humor, imaginative storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Set in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom, it has remained a staple of animated entertainment for 24 years.


#31 Family Guy (1999-present)
Seth MacFarlane’s irreverent animated sitcom has carved out its niche with razor-sharp satire, pop culture parodies, and unique storytelling methods. Its blend of humor and social commentary has kept audiences engaged for 24 years.


#30 Arthur (1996-2022)
This beloved children’s series used the everyday adventures of Arthur Read and his friends to explore complex themes of friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up. Its educational content and positive messages resonated for 25 years.


#29 South Park (1997-present)
Known for its no-holds-barred approach to comedy and satire, Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s creation has tackled social, political, and cultural issues with unmatched boldness. Its ability to adapt and evolve has kept it relevant for 26 years.


#28 The Daily Show (1996-present)
This satirical news program has become an essential part of American political discourse, offering a comedic take on current events and media coverage. Through various hosts, it has maintained its edge and influence over 27 years.


#27 Hee Haw (1969-1997)
Blending country music with comedy sketches, this variety show celebrated rural and Southern culture, creating a beloved entertainment tradition that lasted for 28 years. Its unique format and charm made it a television staple.


#26 The Late Late Show (1995-present)
With its rotating lineup of hosts, this late-night talk show has continually reinvented itself, offering a mix of interviews, musical performances, and comedic segments. Its adaptability has kept it fresh and entertaining for 28 years.


#25 Captain Kangaroo (1955-1984)
This innovative children’s program combined education with entertainment, using a mix of live-action, puppets, and animation to engage young viewers. Its gentle, nurturing approach to learning made it a morning ritual for 29 years.


#24 The Late Show (1993-present)
Spanning several iconic hosts, this late-night talk show has become a cornerstone of American television, known for its engaging interviews, comedic monologues, and musical performances. Its impact and longevity over 30 years are a testament to its adaptability and relevance.


#23 The Simpsons (1989-present)
As the longest-running American sitcom and animated series, it has become deeply ingrained in popular culture, offering a satirical look at the American family and society. Its sharp wit and clever storytelling have made it a television landmark for 34 years.


#22 Search for Tomorrow (1951-1986)
One of the pioneering television soap operas, this series captivated viewers with its intricate plots and emotional storytelling, setting the stage for decades of daytime drama.


#21 Another World (1964-1999)
This soap opera was notable for its complex characters and ambitious storytelling, exploring the lives and loves of Bay City’s residents with depth and sensitivity over 35 years.


#20 Columbo (1968-1978; 1989-2003)
Peter Falk’s portrayal of the seemingly bumbling but actually brilliant detective became iconic, with the show’s unique “howcatchem” format engaging viewers in the puzzle of how Columbo would catch the culprit.


#19 The Bold and the Beautiful (1987-present)
Set against the glamorous backdrop of the fashion industry, this soap opera has enthralled audiences with its dramatic tales of romance, rivalry, and family dynamics for over 36 years.


#18 Casualty (1986-present)
This British medical drama has offered a gritty, realistic look at the NHS through the eyes of the staff and patients at Holby City Hospital, combining personal drama with medical emergencies for 37 years.


#17 EastEnders (1985-present)
A cornerstone of British television, this soap opera has depicted the trials and triumphs of the residents of Albert Square, offering a slice of life in London’s East End for 38 years.


#16 All My Children (1970-2011)
Focused on the lives of Pine Valley’s residents, this soap opera was a daytime TV staple, known for its socially relevant storylines and complex characters over 41 years.


#15 Late Night (1982-present)
This late-night talk show franchise has featured a roster of hosts, each bringing their own style to the format, and has been a launching pad for comedy and conversations for 41 years.


#14 Doctor Who (1963-1989; 1996; 2005-present)
This beloved British sci-fi series has captured the imagination of generations with its tales of the Doctor, a time-traveling alien, exploring the universe to combat evil across time and space.


#13 One Life to Live (1968-2012; 2013)
Centering on the residents of Llanview, this soap opera delved into complex social issues and interpersonal drama, making it a beloved part of the daytime television landscape.


#12 Top Gear (1977-2001; 2002-present)
A mix of automobile reviews, challenges, and races, this British series has become the go-to show for car enthusiasts, known for its humor, adventure, and insight into car culture.


#11 Saturday Night Live (1975-present)
A staple of American comedy, this sketch show has launched the careers of countless comedians and actors, known for its live performances, political satire, and musical guests.


#10 The Young and the Restless (1973-present)
This soap opera has drawn viewers into the intricate lives and loves of its characters, becoming a fixture of daytime TV with its compelling narratives and complex relationships.


#9 Emmerdale (1972-present)
Set in a fictional village, this British soap opera has explored the intertwined lives of its residents, combining drama, romance, and tragedy to reflect the changing face of rural Britain.


#8 As the World Turns (1956-2010)
This soap opera offered a window into the lives of Oakdale’s residents, dealing with themes of family, love, and loss, and became a beloved part of the television landscape.


#7 Scooby-Doo (1969-present)
The adventures of Scooby-Doo and his friends have become a cultural icon, blending mystery-solving with humor to entertain audiences of all ages.


#6 Sesame Street (1969-present)
This groundbreaking educational series has taught generations of children about numbers, letters, and important life lessons through its beloved characters and innovative storytelling.


#5 Guiding Light (1952-2009)
Once the longest-running soap opera, it wove complex narratives of the residents of Springfield, blending personal drama with societal issues.


#4 Days of Our Lives (1965-2022; 2022-present)
A cornerstone of daytime television, this soap opera’s intricate plots and memorable characters have made it a perennial favorite, exploring the lives of Salem’s residents.


#3 General Hospital (1963-present)
Set in Port Charles, this soap opera has combined medical drama with intricate personal stories, becoming the longest-running American soap opera currently on air.


#2 Coronation Street (1960–present)
This British soap opera has been a television mainstay, offering a gritty, realistic look at the lives of the residents of Weatherfield, reflecting social changes and challenges.


#1 The Tonight Show (1954-present)
As the longest-running talk show in television history, it has hosted generations of celebrities and public figures, setting the standard for late-night entertainment and cultural commentary.


Please SHARE this with your friends and family.