Top 10 Longest Running TV Shows

This American Western television series aired from September 10, 1955 to March 31, 1961, making it the longest-running dramatic series in U.S. broadcasting history. The show was set in Dodge City, Kansas, and starred James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon. During its six-season run, Gunsmoke averaged over 20 million viewers per episode. The show's success led to numerous spin-offs, including novels and films featuring the characters. Gunsmoke was also notable for its realistic portrayal of the American West during the late 19th century.

This classic American Western television series aired from September 12, 1959 to January 16, 1973, spanning an impressive 14 seasons. The show followed the Ponderosa Ranch and its residents as they navigated the challenges of life in the 1860s West. With a talented cast that included Lorne Greene and Dan Blocker, Bonanza became one of the most popular shows of its time. During its run, the series averaged over 12 million viewers per episode. The show's iconic theme music was composed by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans.

This long-running American crime drama television series premiered on September 15, 1990, making it one of the longest-running live-action shows in U.S. history. Created by Dick Wolf, Law & Order introduced a unique formula for its episodes, which often involved solving crimes through courtroom proceedings. Over its 20-season run, Law & Order averaged over 8 million viewers per episode. The show was notable for its "ripped from the headlines" approach to storytelling.

This American soap opera television series has been on the air since April 1, 1963, making it one of the longest-running scripted shows in U.S. history. Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, General Hospital follows the lives of the residents of the fictional town of Port Charles, New York. With over 14,000 episodes produced, General Hospital holds the record for most episodes aired by any soap opera.

This long-running American sketch comedy television series premiered on October 11, 1975, and has since become a staple of late-night entertainment. Created by Lorne Michaels, SNL features a rotating cast of comedians and actors who create and perform in sketches and parodies. With over 850 episodes produced, Saturday Night Live is one of the longest-running shows in U.S. television history.

This American animated sitcom premiered on December 17, 1989, making it the longest-running primetime scripted show in U.S. history. Created by Matt Groening, The Simpsons follows the misadventures of the lovable but dysfunctional Simpson family as they navigate life in the fictional town of Springfield. With over 750 episodes produced, The Simpsons is widely regarded as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

This British science fiction television series premiered on November 23, 1963, making it the longest-running sci-fi show in U.S. history. Created by Sydney Newman, Doctor Who follows the adventures of a time-traveling alien known as "the Doctor" and his human companions as they explore the universe and save civilizations from various threats.

This American educational children's television series premiered on November 10, 1969, making it one of the longest-running TV shows for preschool-age children. Created by Joan Ganz Cooney and Lloyd Morrisett, Sesame Street uses a mix of live-action and animation to teach young viewers about letters, numbers, and social skills.

This American late-night talk show has been on the air since September 28, 1954, making it one of the longest-running TV shows in U.S. history. Created by Dave Garroway, The Tonight Show originally aired from 10:15 PM to 11 PM and was known as "Tonight!" before being renamed in 1956.

This American news program has been on the air since November 6, 1947, making it one of the longest-running TV shows in U.S. history. Created by Marjorie Lord Hiller, Meet the Press is a weekly discussion program that features interviews with newsmakers and journalists. With over 2,000 episodes produced, Meet the Press is widely regarded as one of the most influential and respected news programs on television.