Why Seinfeld Reigns as the Greatest Sitcom Despite Not Being as Funny as Friends or How I Met Your Mother

Is Seinfeld truly the greatest sitcom of all time, or is it just at the top of the list for intellectuals and comedy aficionados? While individual opinions on what constitutes the funniest show vary, Seinfeld’s unique style goes beyond mere humor. The show’s impact on the sitcom genre and its relatable characters challenge the traditional norms of the format.

Humor: Subjective and Ever-Changing

Humor is inherently subjective. What’s funny to one person might not be to another. What stands out about Seinfeld is its approach to comedy. Unlike traditional sitcoms, which build their plots around specific punchlines or moral lessons, Seinfeld delves into the everyday irritations and absurdities of life. This novel approach highlights the relatability and honesty of the characters, making them more tangible and entertaining.

Influence and Evolution of Sitcoms

The fundamental differences in sitcoms of the 1980s and 1990s underscore the significant impact of Seinfeld. Pre-Seinfeld, most network sitcoms followed a formulaic structure: bright, colorful sets with characters who were overly likeable and often delivered quick, slapstick jokes. They were designed to appeal to the masses, focusing on uplifting themes and predictable outcomes. In contrast, Seinfeld broke the mold.

Unconventional Characters and Structure

Seinfeld introduced writing that was intentionally anti-compassionate and devoid of conventional character development. The characters were designed to be unlikable and self-centered, with minimal growth. Examples like Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer highlight this unconventional approach. Jerry’s writing style was irreverent, often crossing into edgy territory that was previously unexplored on television. This approach allowed for more creative and out-of-the-box humor, free from the constraints of traditional sitcom writing.

The lack of a specific plot or moral lesson in Seinfeld contributed to its unique appeal. There was no need to catch up on previous episodes to understand the storyline, making it easier for viewers to engage. This structure also allowed for a more introspective look at ordinary life, rather than revolving around grand schemes or dramatic arcs.

Opening the Door for Other Shows to Follow

The success of Seinfeld paved the way for future sitcoms to explore similar themes and structures. Shows like “Frasier” and “Cheers” also deviated from the traditional format, but Seinfeld's influence was profound. Other comedians, writers, and industry insiders were inspired by its groundbreaking approach, leading to a generation of smarter and more nuanced sitcoms.

The shift in tone and delivery in the 1990s and 2000s is particularly noticeable. Shows like “Friends,” “How I Met Your Mother,” and “Modern Family” reflected a modern approach to humor and storytelling, drawing inspiration from the freedom and creativity of Seinfeld. These shows tackled more complex social issues and presented characters with more depth, further cementing the legacy of Seinfeld.

In conclusion, Seinfeld’s status as the greatest sitcom of all time is not solely based on its humor but on its innovative approach to storytelling and character development. Its influence on the sitcom genre, the relatability of its characters, and the freedom it provided to comedy have transformed the landscape of television. Whether one finds the humor in Seinfeld charming or cringe-worthy, its legacy is undeniable.