Television sitcoms have always served as a reflection of their times, offering humor that ranges from the slapstick to the sophisticated. Over the years, we’ve seen numerous shows come and go, but some have risen above the fray to redefine what it means to be a modern sitcom. Here are 12 of the best modern sitcoms that not only brought us endless laughter but also had a significant impact on the genre.

1. “The Office” (U.S.) – An adaptation of the U.K. original, this mockumentary-style show about employees at the Dunder Mifflin paper company brought deadpan humor and awkward silences into the American mainstream.

2. “Parks and Recreation” – Often seen as a kindred spirit to “The Office,” this show took governmental office comedy to new heights with its quirky characters and optimistic take on public service.

3. “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” – A fresh take on the police procedural with a comedic twist that balances hilarity with heartwarming moments, championing diversity both in casting and storytelling.

4. “Arrested Development” – With its intricate writing, meta-commentary, and ensemble cast, this sitcom pushed the boundaries of narrative structure in television comedy.

5. “Modern Family” – By presenting a multi-generational family ensemble, this show offered relatable humor through various perspectives and formats, including mockumentary-style filming.

6. “Veep” – Sharp political satire combined with foul-mouthed dialogue delivered by an outstanding cast made this a standout addition to the political comedy subgenre.

7. “30 Rock” – A comedic exploration of a fictional sketch comedy show’s behind-the-scenes, blending surreal humor with biting industry commentary.

8. “Community” – This unique series paid homage to film and TV tropes while experimenting with storytelling formats; it’s celebrated for its meta-humor and pop culture parodies.

9. “The Good Place” – A philosophical foray into ethics intertwined with humor, this sitcom delves into questions about morality while maintaining lightheartedness through inventive plot twists.

10. “Schitt’s Creek” – A riches-to-rags family story filled with warmth and wit; it illustrates personal growth and love through its character-driven narrative and became an international sensation for its positive representation of LGBTQ+ relationships.

11. “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” – With bright colors and non-stop jokes that deftly handle darker themes beneath the surface, this show navigated trauma through comedy without disrespecting its serious undertones.

12. “Fleabag” – This British import led by Phoebe Waller-Bridge introduced audiences to confessional fourth-wall breaking; it’s sharp-witted, emotionally complex, and has been praised for its raw portrayal of female experiences.

These 12 sitcoms have left indelible marks on television history through their innovative approaches to humor, storytelling, and character development; they’ve carved out new spaces for what comedies can be and how they speak to audiences around the world.