12 Best Running Gags in TV History

The phenomenon of running gags in television serves as a testament to how recurring humor can elevate a show’s appeal. For instance, shows like "Friends" and "The Office" have effectively utilized such comedic devices, demonstrating their longevity and relevance in programming. A notable example is the "We were on a break" line from "Friends," which became emblematic of Ross Geller’s character and ran from Season 3 in 1996 until the series' conclusion in 2004.

As a reflection of the importance of humor, according to a 2020 survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly 80% of viewers noted that humor enriched their viewing experience. Among the notable running gags featured across varied shows, the character of Michael Scott’s infamous quotes in "The Office" maintained its influence, specifically from 2005 to 2013, with phrases like "That’s what she said" resonating deeply within pop culture.

In contrast, the animated series "The Simpsons" has maintained numerous running gags since its inception in 1989. Most notably, the recurring joke of Homer reaching for a donut illustrates how even simple jokes can sustain audiences over decades. In fact, over 32 seasons, Homer has been depicted reaching for donuts in approximately 400 episodes.

The 2018 revival of "Roseanne" reignited interest in its classic running gags, exemplified by the 'Dan's large sandwiches' bit. This follows the 1989 portrayal of Dan Conner, played by John Goodman, emphasizing how running gags can reinvent themselves in modern contexts. Sources confirm the revival successfully incorporated nostalgic references while appealing to a new generation.

Similar to the enduring nature of running gags, the character ‘Sheldon Cooper’ from "The Big Bang Theory" maintained a consistent catchphrase, "Bazinga!" Running throughout 12 seasons from 2007 to 2019, this catchphrase evolved into a recognizable part of Sheldon’s personality, demonstrating that carefully crafted humor can be an integral part of character development.

Sources indicate that comedic timeliness is essential in keeping jokes fresh. This can be observed in the running gag of Leslie’s campaign in "Parks and Recreation" from 2009 to 2015. Each season brought in new comical elements related to her political journey, allowing sequences to remain engaging across different story arcs.

The connection between running gags and audience engagement is supported by statistical evidence. A 2021 study by the Nielsen Company revealed that shows with strong running gags see 25% higher viewer retention rates compared to those without. Similar trends have been observed in shows like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" and "Superstore" since their premieres in 2013 and 2016, respectively.

As for the future of running gags in television, numerous upcoming series projects will likely incorporate them effectively. Notably, the reboot of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," set to premiere in early 2024, is already teasing iconic characters returning with humor that pays homage to past patterns, ensuring that this type of humor continues to shape television's creative landscape.