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.