In a TV landscape that's densely populated, many series never get to survive for long, which makes the longer-running shows stand out. Cancellations happen frequently, with the major reason being a lack of interest among viewers. Some series, usually lasting over 10 seasons, has gathered dedicated audiences whose passion brings them back to the series week after week.
Nonetheless, not every show that has stretched into the double-digit territory is superb. Some fall into the "guilty pleasure" category, with viewers tuning in to pass time without necessarily considering them amazing. Conversely, some are highly revered by fans, with the consensus being evident on IMDb.
Law & Order: SVU (23 Seasons) - 8.0
The long-running spinoff follows police captain Olivia Benson and her team as they solve cases revolving around assault and murder in New York. The episodes are partly based on real-life crimes.
Many factors qualify the Dick Wolf production as one of the best procedural crime shows of all time, including its strong female lead and cases that are bizarre as they are addictive. Despite having over 500 episodes, the show still manages to keep things fresh and engaging, thanks to its constantly bold subplots.
Family Guy (20 Seasons) - 8.1
Family Guy focuses on the Griffins and their anthropomorphic dog, Brian, through their day-to-day lives. Events also tend to spill out of their home and into the fictional city of Quahog, Rhode Island.
The animated show repeatedly embraces dark humor and explores what would ordinarily be considered offensive. Most of Family Guy's best cutaway gags are impossible to forget too, given their absurdity and blink-and-you'll-miss moments. Furthermore, Seth MacFarlane can pride himself in having one of the best comebacks of all time since the production had initially been canceled after 2 seasons and ended up being renewed for 18 more.
The Big Bang Theory (12 Seasons) - 8.1
Focussing on a group of socially awkward geniuses and their friends, the CBS sitcom is considered one of the best ever in its genre. Before its conclusion, it had been nominated for a total of 46 Emmys.
The Big Bang Theory distinguishes itself by throwing in scientific concepts on a regular basis and still managing to make them sound funny, even to the ordinary viewer. Relationship dynamics are explored in detail too, whether it be romantic or platonic. The constant hilarious clashes between the brainy characters and the non-brainy ones also make for interesting viewing.
Criminal Minds (15 Seasons) - 8.1
The CBS procedural show focuses on a group of criminal profilers working for the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). The team specifically refers to criminals as UnSubs (Unknown Subjects).
Though not always intentional, the frequent cast changes are what have prevented Criminal Minds from going stale. Each new addition and promotion to 'main character' status has proven to be a wise choice. The UnSubs are a big part of the awesomeness too as they tend to get proper character development despite the limited time within which they are allowed to exist.
Bob's Burgers (12 Seasons) - 8.1
Bob's Burgers follows the Belcher family that runs a burger restaurant. It's the only animated show to get an Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Animated Program" seven times in a row.
The jokes often veer off into vulgar territory and while the dialogue tends to be shocking at times, it is magnificently crafted. Bob's Burgers is also one of the most improved comedies to come out in recent times. The initial heavy criticism only served as fuel to push the producers and writers into making more palatable material.
Supernatural (15 Seasons) - 8.4
The CW dark fantasy series follows brothers Dean and Sam as they hunt supernatural beings around the world. Fictionalized versions of popular deities are also included.
For the most part, the brotherly chemistry between Sam and Dean is what carries the show, which only grew with the addition of the fan-favorite character, Castiel. And apart from the unknown supernatural beings, the creative takes on God and archangels from heaven are often applause-worthy. Such characters are humanized and explored in detail.
Modern Family (11 Seasons) - 8.4
The sitcom revolves around the patriarch Jay Pritchett and the 3 suburban families that are linked to him. An ensemble cast is also used to push the plot forward.
Modern Family's mockumentary style helps in goes a long way in eliminating any boredom. While events are hilarious, they are relatable as they touch on what most families go through in real life. There isn't a single weak character either, thus making it difficult for any would-be critic to single out an area to lambast.
The Simpsons (33 Seasons) - 8.6
Focussing on a dysfunctional family living in Springfield, The Simpsons touches on the challenges they face. Focus is also heavily placed on parodying American culture.
Rarely do TV shows get to last that long without any signs of cancellation but the FOX production has hardly had a decline in quality over the years. The floating timeline sure does help and so do the evergreen characters. Since some of the parodies have coincidentally ended up happening in real-life, the animated sitcom has been described as prophetic.
The X-Files (11 Seasons) - 8.6
FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully have a niche as they specifically focus on investigating paranormal activity around America. Conspiracy theories are deeply explored too.
The numerous number of times X-Files has been referenced by other TV shows proves just how brilliant it is. The two leads are extremely likable as they underscore the skeptic-versus-believer dynamic. While the events give strong hints that aliens do exist, the plot is clever enough to make it all appear doubtful from time to time.
South Park (23 Seasons) - 8.7
The critically-acclaimed animated sitcom follows four boys and their adventures around the town of South Park, Colorado. South Park also features a larger ensemble cast.
The sitcom has been lauded for its use of creative profanity, dark humor, and deeper topics targeted towards adult audiences. Some of its subject matter has been controversial but that has 0only served to bring more eyeballs. Like many other animated adult shows, a floating timeline is also employed to preserve the characters.