New Throwdown

What was the Best (US) Sitcom Ever?

Do we need to spell this out? There are ten programs - and an eleventh choice for you pains-in-the-asses out there who think that Diff'rent Strokes is the best show that was ever made. Cosby Show isn't on the list because the most culturally significant episode was when Theo lost his comb. And Everybody Loves Raymond isn't on there either. You like a show THAT much? Fine, then make an intelligent case for it in the comments bar, and we can add it to the poll. If you tell us that Family Ties was the Best Show Evar, then you better come up with an iron clad case, Perry Mason - because you've got to get past the Tina Yothers factor.

And this is situational-comedy. Humans with a script. Not variety or sketch show. Those are completely different.

We've also decided to exclude all the British sitcoms too by specifying US Sitcoms. I know you like the Office - but it's British. Yeah, there's the US one now, but it has only been on for 3 and a half seasons.... a smidge little premature to crown it "Best of all time" don't you think?

Simpsons is a cartoon, and a PARODY of a sitcom. Our rules. No Simpsons. (And besides, it would win!)

Let's go to the list:

The choices are based on the historical record of decade, and import based upon their cultural significance. Is Archie Bunker more important than Jackie Gleason's Ralph Kramden? Or is funny the basis of the Best ever?

Does funny trump social message?

Longevity might have something to do with your choice? Hawkeye served more time on TV than the actual length of the damn Korean War.

Spin offs? All in the Family had seven. Archie Bunker's Place, 704 Hauser, Checking In, The Jeffersons, Gloria, Good Times and Maude. Cheers had the most successful Spin-off. If you consider Cheers continued with Fraiser - then the show was technically on for 21 years.

You vote. Polls close at the end of April.