The Simpsons (1989)

Now in its 19th season, The Simpsons is officially the longest-running sitcom in history. Why? Relatable characters in a familiar arena, and the perfect mix of the fantastical and the mundane. Yes, most of the characters are re-hashed from old sitcoms, and yes, after two decades a lot of the plotlines are growing tired. But the magic of The Simpsonsis that it’s able to reach multiple generations. Kids are watching it now that weren’t even born when it debuted. Though the characters never physically grow or age, they change with the times to reflect the viewers’ growth.