What is the Longest Running Show in Television History?

The landscape of television is constantly changing. While shorter seasons have become the norm, some shows have defied the odds, captivating audiences for decades. These programs have witnessed historical events, cultural shifts, and generations grow up. But What Is The Longest Running Show In Television History? Let’s dive into the world of television longevity and explore the top contenders for this impressive title. This list focuses on scripted American television programs, excluding news, late-night talk shows, game shows, and sports broadcasts.

Decades of Dedication: Television’s Longest-Running Shows

The following list, ranked by the number of seasons, reveals the top 20 longest-running scripted American television shows. These enduring programs represent a variety of genres, from children’s programming to soap operas and anthology series. They highlight the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of television to connect with audiences across generations.

The Top 20 Longest-Running Scripted American TV Shows

1. General Hospital (60 Seasons)

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, “General Hospital” holds the record as the longest-running American soap opera. Set in the fictional Port Charles, New York, the show has navigated countless characters and storylines since its premiere in 1963. Its enduring popularity has earned it a record-breaking 14 Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series.

2. Guiding Light (57 Seasons)

Originating as a radio show in 1937, “Guiding Light” transitioned to television in 1952, captivating audiences for 57 seasons on CBS. Created by Irna Phillips and Emmons Carlson, the show drew inspiration from their personal lives, establishing a deep connection with viewers.

3. Days of Our Lives (57 Seasons)

This beloved soap opera, now in its 57th season, continues to explore classic themes of love, loss, family, and drama in the fictional town of Salem, Illinois. After airing on NBC for decades, “Days of Our Lives” made the move to the Peacock streaming platform in 2022.

4. As the World Turns (54 Seasons)

This CBS daytime serial captivated audiences for 54 seasons, from 1956 to 2010. The show featured notable stars such as Kathryn Hays, Maura West, and Lisa Brown, and remains a significant part of television history.

5. Sesame Street (53 Seasons)

For over half a century, “Sesame Street” has entertained and educated children on PBS. With 53 seasons, this iconic show featuring Jim Henson’s Muppets has taught generations valuable lessons about literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills.

6. The Young and the Restless (50 Seasons)

This classic American soap opera, airing on CBS for 50 seasons, has earned 77 Daytime Emmy Awards. Created in 1973, “The Young and the Restless” continues to engage viewers with its compelling storylines.

7. Saturday Night Live (48 Seasons)

“Saturday Night Live,” a late-night comedy institution, has been broadcasting live from New York for 48 seasons. With its blend of celebrity hosts, musical guests, and satirical sketches, “SNL” has launched the careers of countless comedians and remains a cultural touchstone.

8. One Life to Live (45 Seasons)

This ABC soap opera aired for 45 seasons, from 1968 to 2012, with a brief revival the following year. “One Life to Live” explored complex characters and relationships, leaving a lasting impact on daytime television.

9. Romper Room (41 Seasons)

This syndicated children’s program entertained and educated young viewers for 41 seasons with its engaging songs and educational activities. “Romper Room” played a significant role in the childhoods of many.

10. All My Children (41 Seasons)

Set in a fictional Pennsylvania suburb, “All My Children” ran for 41 seasons on ABC. The show featured iconic soap opera star Susan Lucci and tackled a wide range of social issues.

11. The Bugs Bunny Show (40 Seasons)

This Saturday morning cartoon classic entertained generations of children with the antics of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and the rest of the Looney Tunes gang. “The Bugs Bunny Show,” under various titles, aired for an impressive 40 seasons.

12. The Bold and the Beautiful (36 Seasons)

A spin-off of “The Young and the Restless,” this CBS soap opera has been on the air for 36 seasons. “The Bold and the Beautiful” continues to attract viewers with its glamorous setting and dramatic storylines.

13. The Simpsons (34 Seasons)

This animated sitcom, created by Matt Groening, has satirized American culture for 34 seasons. “The Simpsons,” with its iconic yellow characters and witty writing, remains a pop culture phenomenon.

14. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (31 Seasons)

This beloved PBS children’s series, hosted by the gentle and wise Fred Rogers, aired for 31 seasons. “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” provided a comforting and educational experience for young viewers.

15. Captain Kangaroo (29 Seasons)

This CBS children’s show, starring Bob Keeshan as the titular Captain, delighted audiences for 29 seasons. “Captain Kangaroo” created a whimsical world filled with memorable characters and gentle humor.

16. Love of Life (29 Seasons)

This soap opera, created by Roy Winsor, ran for 29 seasons, exploring the complexities of love and relationships. “Love of Life” was a pioneer in daytime television, transitioning from black and white to color broadcasting.

17. The Edge of Night (28 Seasons)

This mystery-crime soap opera, airing on both CBS and ABC, kept viewers on the edge of their seats for 28 seasons. “The Edge of Night” blended elements of drama and suspense, attracting a dedicated following.

18. South Park (26 Seasons)

This animated comedy, created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, has pushed boundaries and sparked controversy for 26 seasons on Comedy Central. “South Park’s” satirical humor and social commentary continue to resonate with audiences.

19. Arthur (25 Seasons)

Based on the books by Marc Brown, this PBS animated children’s show followed the adventures of Arthur Read and his friends in Elwood City for 25 seasons. “Arthur” taught valuable lessons about friendship, empathy, and problem-solving.

20. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (24 Seasons)

This crime drama, a spin-off of the iconic “Law & Order” series, has tackled sensitive and complex cases for 24 seasons. “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” remains a popular and critically acclaimed show.

A Legacy of Entertainment

These long-running shows demonstrate the enduring power of television to entertain, inform, and connect with audiences across generations. They represent a significant achievement in television history.