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Longest-Running Prime-Time Shows in History

Longest-Running Prime-Time Shows in History

Considering that more than three-quarters of new TV shows are cancelled after only one season, series that have beaten the odds and gone on for decades are a rarity. But a handful of prime-time shows have done just that.

Using IMDb, an online movie database owned by Amazon, and other sources, 24/7 Tempo has compiled a list of the 50 longest-running television series in history. We considered only shows that aired in prime time (generally considered to be 8 to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 7 to 11 p.m. on Sunday) at one point during their original broadcast run, and omitted anthology series, music television, and sports programs.

Many of these programs survived despite casting changes, the death of a host, drastic cultural shifts, and scandals. (In computing the length of a series run, we considered only the time it was actually on the air, not any time spent in cancellation or between networks, so the length of a series run might be different than the range of years given.)

The list includes multiple news programs, crime dramas, comedies, variety shows, documentary series, and reality shows, and covers programs from every decade since the ‘40s, when the TV first began to appear in American homes. (Here are the best classic TV shows available to stream.)

From popular early broadcasts like “The Ed Sullivan Show,” which first aired in 1948 under the title “Toast of the Town,” to modern paragons of televised humor like “The Simpsons,” these shows have affected and reflected the cultural landscape of America. The reason for their longevity is their broad appeal and cultural applicability. Factors like award nominations and critical acclaim can keep a series running year after year — though ultimately what gives some shows their durability is a dedicated viewership. Here are the highest rated shows you can watch today.

Source: Courtesy of American Broadcasting Company

50. Dancing with the Stars (2005-present)
> Series run: 16 years
> Network: ABC
> Genre: Reality competition
> IMDb user rating: 4.7

This elimination competition pairs celebrities with professional dancers who train them to perform pre-determined dance routines. Each pair’s performances are rated by a rotating cast of seasoned and guest celebrity judges.

Source: DC_Rebecca / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license / Wikipedia

49. Capital Gang (1988-2005)
> Series run: 17 years
> Network: CNN
> Genre: Talk
> IMDb user rating: No rating available

This political talk show featured a small panel of mostly conservative political columnists and commentators including Pat Buchanan, Mona Charen, and Robert Novak, as well as liberal pundit Al Hunt. Weekly guests included Newt Gingrich, Diane Feinstein, and Bob Dole.

Source: Courtesy of Cable News Network

48. Showbiz Today (1984-2001)
> Series run: 17 years
> Network: CNN
> Genre: Entertainment newscast
> IMDb user rating: 4.8

A news reporting segment focusing on the entertainment industry — including film, music, theater, and television — “Showbiz Today” featured simultaneous live broadcasts from hosts in New York City and Los Angeles.

Source: Courtesy of The Fremantle Corporation

47. What’s My Line? (1950-1967)
> Series run: 17 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Game
> IMDb user rating: 8.6

This game show featured celebrity panelists who would ask a contestant yes-or-no questions in order to guess the contestant’s occupation — or identity in the last round, involving a celebrity “mystery guest.”

Source: Courtesy of KVH Media Group

46. NCIS (2003-present)
> Series run: 18 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Crime drama
> IMDb user rating: 7.7

“NCIS” (an acronym for Naval Criminal Investigative Service) is a military crime procedural that follows the major case response team of special agents who investigate crimes, including murder and terrorism, in the D.C. metro area.

Source: Courtesy of Broadway Video

45. Lassie (1954-1973)
> Series run: 19 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Adventure drama
> IMDb user rating: 6.6

This long-running drama followed the eponymous quick-witted collie and her human companions. The first decade of seasons featured a repetitive plotline in which Lassie’s young owner (Jeff and then Timmy) would find himself in danger only to have the dog inevitably save the day.

Source: Courtesy of A+E Networks

44. Biography (1987-2006)
> Series run: 19 years
> Network: Biography Channel
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 7.7

Each episode in this documentary series details the life of a notable person in history. Over the years, “Biography” has profiled a variety of characters, from scientists to ,agicians to political revolutionaries.

Source: Courtesy of American Broadcasting Company

43. The Bachelor (2002-present)
> Series run: 19 years
> Network: ABC
> Genre: Romance reality
> IMDb user rating: 3.2

The success of this elimination-style reality dating show — in which a single man must date and eventually select a potential wife from a pool of eligible women — has led to multiple spin-offs and international editions.

Source: Courtesy of Fox Business Network

42. Lou Dobbs Tonight (1980-2000)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: CNN
> Genre: Editorial
> IMDb user rating: 3.2

Originally entitled “Moneyline,” “Lou Dobbs Tonight” was a financial news program that offered economic and political commentary. Host Dobbs often welcomed politicians and economists to discuss key issues on the economy.

Source: Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com / Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic License / Wikipedia

41. Evans, Novak, Hunt & Shields (1982-2002)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: CNN
> Genre: Political discussion
> IMDb user rating: No rating available

A rotating cast of political commentators hosted this political segment, interviewing top politicians including House and Senate leaders, defense secretaries, and U.S. ambassadors.

Source: Courtesy of National Broadcasting Company

40. Law & Order (1990-2010)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: Crime drama
> IMDb user rating: 7.7

This crime drama series followed a team of NYPD detectives and prosecutors during the investigations of murders and other violent crimes, culminating in the prosecution of the suspects.

Source: Courtesy of Paramount Television

39. Gunsmoke (1955-1975)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Drama
> IMDb user rating: 7.9

A Western drama series that started as a radio show, “Gunsmoke” focuses on U.S. Marshall Matt Dillon as he attempts to keep order in the wild west town of Dodge City, Kansas in the 1870s.

Source: Courtesy of Reel Media International

38. The Red Skelton Show (1951-1971)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: Variety
> IMDb user rating: 8.2

Red Skelton’s comedy variety show featured vaudeville-style song and dance performances, comedic sketches, and guest performers including the Beach Boys and the Supremes.

Source: Courtesy of Canadian Television

37. The Amazing Race (2001-present)
> Series run: 20 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Reality competition
> IMDb user rating: 7.6

An elimination reality game show, “The Amazing Race” entices teams of contestants to race around the world meeting a series of challenges until only one team remains. The first team to reach the end of the race wins $1 million.

Source: Courtesy of OnTV / CH

36. Big Brother (2000-present)
> Series run: 21 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Reality competition
> IMDb user rating: 4.2

Based on a Dutch reality show, “Big Brother” puts a group of strangers into isolated shared living quarters, continuously monitored by cameras and microphones. Contestants compete for status and are eliminated weekly as their housemates vote them out.

Source: Courtesy of PBS

35. The New Yankee Workshop (1988-2009)
> Series run: 21 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Woodworking
> IMDb user rating: 8.8

Hosted by carpenter Norm Abram, this instructional series featured step-by-step construction of a wide variety of wood projects including vanities, garden benches, cupboards, desks, and tables.

Source: Courtesy of CBS Video

34. Survivor (2000-present)
> Series run: 21 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Reality competition
> IMDb user rating: 7.2

This survival elimination competition features contestants who are isolated on an island and must undergo physical and mental challenges and avoid being voted off the island by their fellow contestants.

Source: Courtesy of Cartoon Network

33. Family Guy (1999-present)
> Series run: 22 years
> Network: Fox
> Genre: Animated sitcom
> IMDb user rating: 8.1

An animated sitcom for adults, “Family Guy” is based around a suburban family in Rhode Island that includes a conniving toddler with a British accent and adult sense of humor and an intelligent dog who can drive cars and outwit humans.

Source: Courtesy of Nickelodeon

32. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999-present)
> Series run: 22 years
> Network: Nickelodeon
> Genre: Children’s cartoon
> IMDb user rating: 8.2

Although “SpongeBob” is an animated comedy for kids, more adults than children watch the show. It features an underwater cast of anthropomorphic sea creatures including the title character, a sea sponge who works at a fast food restaurant called the Krusty Krab.

Source: Courtesy of National Broadcasting Company

31. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999-present)
> Series run: 22 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: Crime drama
> IMDb user rating: 8

The first spinoff of “Law and Order,” “SVU” follows a fictional Special Victims Unit in the NYPD whose focus is investigating sex-related crimes, child and elder abuse, and crimes against people with disabilities.

Source: Courtesy of DuMont Television Network

30. Ted Mack and The Original Amateur Hour (1948-1970)
> Series run: 22 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Reality
> IMDb user rating: 7.6

An offshoot of a radio show called “Major Bowes Amateur Hour,” this was a talent show that allowed audience members to vote on their favorite performers. Singers Frank Sinatra and Gladys Knight, among others, appeared on the show before their careers took off.

Source: Courtesy of Cable News Network

29. Crossfire (1982-2005)
> Series run: 23 years
> Network: CNN
> Genre: Talk
> IMDb user rating: 3.4

“Crossfire” was a political debate show that served to highlight the views of both a liberal and a conservative pundit related to current events in politics, and provide a platform for the two to discuss issues along with guests of opposing views.

Source: Courtesy of CBS

28. The Ed Sullivan Show (1948-1971)
> Series run: 23 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Variety
> IMDb user rating: 7.8

This vaudeville-style talent and variety show, originally called “Toast of the Town,” featured performers of all kinds, including comedians, actors, popular singers (including Elvis Presley and The Beatles early in their careers), and even circus performers.

Source: Courtesy of Nickelodeon Network

27. Nick News with Linda Ellerbee (1992-2015)
> Series run: 23 years
> Network: Nickelodeon
> Genre: Children’s news program
> IMDb user rating: 5.2

“Nick News with Linda Ellerbee” was a news program designed for children and teens that highlighted current events and socio-political issues while providing a platform for teens from around the U.S. to speak out about the issues.

Source: Courtesy of Music Television

26. The Challenge (1998-present)
> Series run: 23 years
> Network: MTV
> Genre: Reality game
> IMDb user rating: 7.6

Originally called “Road Rules: All Stars,” this reality competition show features contestants who compete in various extreme physical competitions while attempting to avoid being kicked off the show in the inevitable elimination rounds.

Source: Courtesy of CanWest Global Communications

25. South Park (1997-present)
> Series run: 24 years
> Network: Comedy Central
> Genre: Animated sitcom
> IMDb user rating: 8.7

Set in small-town Colorado, this animated sitcom for adults centers around a group of school boys and their families and friends while tying in dark humor and satirizing current social and political issues.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

24. Antiques Roadshow (1997-present)
> Series run: 24 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Bargain hunt
> IMDb user rating: 7.3

Based on a British show of the same name that first aired in 1979, Antiques Roadshow is a traveling program that brings together local antique owners and a panel of experts who appraise the items and discuss their potential significance.

Source: Courtesy of Fox Network

23. America’s Most Wanted (1988-2012)
> Series run: 24 years
> Network: Lifetime
> Genre: Reality
> IMDb user rating: No rating available

This true crime show dramatized the crimes of wanted fugitives, utilizing actors to replay events as well as real interviews with victims and their families. Audience members were asked to phone in tips that could lead to the arrest of the criminals involved.

Source: Courtesy of Fox Network

22. Cops (1989-2013)
> Series run: 24 years
> Network: Spike/Paramount Network
> Genre: Reality
> IMDb user rating: 7

This reality crime show followed real police officers and deputies as they apprehended criminals and made arrests for various crimes including prostitution, narcotics distribution, and domestic violence.

21. The Real World (1992-2019)
> Series run: 27 years
> Network: MTV
> Genre: Reality
> IMDb user rating: 5

Often given credit for pioneering the reality TV genre, “The Real World” placed a group of young adult strangers in a shared home and recorded their daily interactions, highlighting their navigation of sex, drugs, politics, religion, and other issues.

Source: Courtesy of National Broadcasting Company

20. Dateline NBC (1992-present)
> Series run: 29 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: News magazine
> IMDb user rating: 6.9

While originally a general news program that sensationalized dramatic news stories, “Dateline” now focuses almost entirely on true crime stories, offering in-depth investigations of criminals and mysteries.

Source: Courtesy of E! Entertainment Television

19. E! News (1991-present)
> Series run: 30 years
> Network: E!
> Genre: Entertainment newscast
> IMDb user rating: 4.4

“E! News” is concerned primarily with celebrity gossip and stories from the entertainment industry, including coverage of upcoming films and television shows as well as featured recording artists.

Source: Courtesy of American Broadcasting Company

18. America’s Funniest Home Videos (1989-present)
> Series run: 32 years
> Network: ABC
> Genre: Reality, comedy
> IMDb user rating: 6.2

“America’s Funniest Home Videos” broadcasts the home recordings of everyday Americans who have captured a hilarious event on video cameras or smartphones. Common submissions include stunt fails, pets and childrens being clumsy, and pranks on people who are unaware they’re being filmed.

Source: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox Television

17. The Simpsons (1989-present)
> Series run: 32 years
> Network: Fox
> Genre: Animated sitcom
> IMDb user rating: 8.6

An adult animated sitcom featuring a working-class suburban family, “The Simpsons” satirizes American life, family dynamics, and current events. It is commonly cited as one of the best TV shows in history.

Source: Courtesy of Jim Victory Television

16. Concentration (1958-1991)
> Series run: 33 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: Game
> IMDb user rating: 7.5

This game show was based on a children’s memory card game. Two contestants would attempt to eliminate matching pairs of cards on a board, to reveal a puzzle that each would then need to solve before the other contestant.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

15. POV (1988-present)
> Series run: 33 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 7.8

The critically acclaimed “POV” is a showcase for independent documentaries, mostly highlighting stories that utilize a first person focus on a particular social issue.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

14. American Experience (1988-present)
> Series run: 33 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 8.6

This documentary series airs stories that highlight significant events or people in American history. Topics have included civil rights, Native American history, technology, biographies, and the environment.

Source: Courtesy of National Educational Television

13. Firing Line (1966-1999)
> Series run: 33 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Public affairs
> IMDb user rating: 8.2

A public affairs show with a conservative slant, “Firing Line” consisted mostly of interviews with a featured guest conducted by conservative host William F. Buckley, followed by questions from a liberal cross-examiner.

Source: Courtesy of CBS

12. 48 Hours (1988-present)
> Series run: 33 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 7.4

“48 Hours” is a documentary news show that originally reported on dramatic events that happened to regular people within a 48-hour time span. In recent years, its focus has shifted primarily to true crime stories.

Source: Courtesy of PBS

11. Wall Street Week (1970-2005)
> Series run: 35 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: News
> IMDb user rating: 8.2

An investment news show, “Wall Street Week” featured panel discussions and interviews with expert guests who would elaborate on various aspects of the financial markets.

Source: Courtesy of National Geographic Society

10. National Geographic Explorer (1985-present)
> Series run: 36 years
> Network: National Geographic
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 8

This award-winning documentary series tells in-depth stories about world and historical events, scientific discoveries, and current social and political issues.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

9. Frontline (1983-present)
> Series run: 38 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Public affairs
> IMDb user rating: 8.6

An investigative documentary series, “Frontline” explores current affairs in the realms of international issues, environmental disasters, terrorism, domestic sociopolitical topics, criminal justice, and more.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

8. Nature (1982-present)
> Series run: 39 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Documentary
> IMDb user rating: 8.9

This multiple Emmy award-winning wildlife series focuses on various plants, animals, ecosystems, and scientific explorations of animal behavior, history, and evolution.

Source: Courtesy of PBS International

7. This Old House (1979-present)
> Series run: 42 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Home improvement
> IMDb user rating: 7.7

“This Old House” is an instructional home improvement show. Originally offering DIY tips for homeowners renovating older houses, but now featuring more luxury homes, with work performed by skilled craftspeople and contractors.

Source: Courtesy of American Broadcasting Company

6. 20/20 (1978-present)
> Series run: 43 years
> Network: ABC
> Genre: News magazine
> IMDb user rating: 6.6

Originally an investigative news report focusing on human interest stories, “20/20” — like many other long-running news shows — has shifted its aim to covering primarily true crime investigations as well as celebrity scandals.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

5. The Victory Garden (1975-present)
> Series run: 46 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Gardening
> IMDb user rating: 7.5

Initially called “Crockett’s Victory Garden,” this instructional home gardening show offers tips and guidance on all aspects of gardening including propagation, greenhouse construction, pruning, and pest control, as well as various other outdoor activities.

Source: Courtesy of National Broadcasting Company

4. Saturday Night Live (1975-present)
> Series run: 46 years
> Network: NBC
> Genre: Variety
> IMDb user rating: 8

A sketch comedy show that has given many now-famous actors and comedians their on-screen start, “Saturday Night Live” features a rotating cast and a celebrity guest host who perform sketches that parody current events, politics, and American life.

Source: Courtesy of Public Broadcasting Service

3. Nova (1974-present)
> Series run: 47 years
> Network: PBS
> Genre: Science
> IMDb user rating: 8.7

This science documentary series explores every aspect of science including historical discoveries, new research, global warming, current health issues, architecture, astronomy, and weather.

Source: Courtesy of Univision

2. Sabado Gigante (1962-2015)
> Series run: 53 years
> Network: Univision
> Genre: Spanish programming
> IMDb user rating: 5.8

A Spanish-language entertainment show, “Sabado Gigante” featured a variety of live performances as well as games, human-interest stories, beauty pageants, dance competitions, comedy sketches, and more.

Source: Courtesy of CBS

1. 60 Minutes (1968-present)
> Series run: 53 years
> Network: CBS
> Genre: News magazine
> IMDb user rating: 7.4

This reporter-centered news series features investigative journalism and focuses on in-depth interviews, celebrity profiles, current events, and human-interest stories. It is widely renowned as one of the best television news broadcasts ever.

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