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What is the longest running TV show still airing?

Published in Longest TV Shows 2 mins read

The longest-running TV show still airing is The Simpsons.

Since its premiere in 1989, The Simpsons has continued to entertain audiences, making it the animated sitcom with the most episodes and the longest-running primetime scripted series in television history. Its enduring popularity has allowed it to surpass many other notable shows in terms of longevity.

Longest Running Shows on Television

When considering the longest-running shows, it's important to distinguish between those that are still in production and those that have concluded their run. While some series like Gunsmoke and Lassie had very long runs, they are no longer airing. In contrast, shows like The Simpsons have maintained continuous production for decades.

Below is a comparison of some of the longest-running television shows, highlighting their start dates and current airing status:

Show Title Start Year End Year Status Episode Count (as of reference)
The Simpsons 1989 Still Airing 780
Law & Order 1990 Still Airing 510
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 1999 Still Airing 560
Family Guy 1999 Still Airing 429
NCIS 2003 Still Airing 477
Gunsmoke 1955 1975 Concluded 635
Lassie 1954 1974 Concluded 591
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 2000 2015 Concluded 336

As evident from the table, The Simpsons stands out with its 1989 launch, making it the earliest-premiering show among those currently broadcasting. Its consistent presence on air solidifies its position as the longest-running television series that is still being produced.

The Impact of Longevity

The longevity of shows like The Simpsons and the Law & Order franchise speaks to their cultural impact and ability to adapt over time. These series often build dedicated fan bases and become significant parts of popular culture, influencing other productions and setting benchmarks for successful television programming. Maintaining relevance and audience engagement for such an extended period requires consistent creative output and often, an evolution of themes and characters.