Variety shows have been a staple of television programming for decades, entertaining audiences with a mix of comedy, music, dance, and other forms of entertainment. From classic favorites to modern hits, there have been countless variety shows that have left a lasting impact on viewers. In this article, we will count down the top 10 variety shows of all time.
1. The Ed Sullivan Show
The Ed Sullivan Show is often considered one of the greatest variety shows of all time. Hosted by Ed Sullivan, the show featured a diverse range of acts, from musical performances by The Beatles and Elvis Presley to comedy sketches by the likes of Jackie Gleason and Milton Berle. The show ran from 1948 to 1971 and helped launch the careers of many iconic performers.
2. Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live, or SNL, is a groundbreaking late-night comedy variety show that has been airing since 1975. The show has featured a rotating cast of comedians, musicians, and guest hosts who perform live sketches, musical performances, and the popular Weekend Update segment. SNL has been praised for its satirical take on current events and pop culture, and has won numerous awards over the years.
3. The Carol Burnett Show
The Carol Burnett Show, which aired from 1967 to 1978, is another classic variety show that has stood the test of time. Hosted by the legendary Carol Burnett, the show featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest appearances by famous actors and musicians. The show was known for its witty humor and creative set pieces, and won multiple Emmy Awards during its run.
4. The Muppet Show
The Muppet Show, created by the iconic puppeteer Jim Henson, was a beloved variety show that aired from 1976 to 1981. The show featured a cast of whimsical Muppet characters, including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie Bear, who performed in comedic sketches, musical numbers, and celebrity guest appearances. The Muppet Show was praised for its innovative puppetry and engaging storytelling, and has remained a favorite among audiences of all ages.
5. In Living Color
In Living Color was a groundbreaking variety show that aired from 1990 to 1994. Created by comedian Keenen Ivory Wayans, the show featured a diverse cast of performers, including the Wayans siblings, Jim Carrey, and Jamie Foxx, who performed in sketch comedy segments, musical parodies, and dance routines. In Living Color was praised for its edgy humor and satirical take on race, politics, and pop culture, and helped launch the careers of many successful comedians and actors.
6. The Gong Show
The Gong Show was a wacky and irreverent variety show that aired from 1976 to 1980. Hosted by Chuck Barris, the show featured amateur performers who showcased their often bizarre talents in front of a panel of celebrity judges. The judges had the power to “gong” a performer off the stage if they were not impressed, adding an element of unpredictability and humor to the show. The Gong Show was a cult favorite and has since been revived with a new iteration.
7. Laugh-In
Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In was a groundbreaking variety show that aired from 1968 to 1973. Hosted by comedians Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, the show featured a fast-paced format of quick sketches, one-liners, and musical performances. Laugh-In was known for its irreverent humor, political satire, and innovative editing techniques, and won multiple Emmy Awards during its run. The show was a cultural phenomenon and helped launch the careers of many famous comedians.
8. The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a late-night talk and variety show that aired from 1962 to 1992. Hosted by the iconic Johnny Carson, the show featured celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, musical performances, and the popular Carnac the Magnificent segment. Carson’s wit, charm, and rapport with guests made him a beloved figure in American television and helped The Tonight Show become a cultural institution.
9. America’s Got Talent
America’s Got Talent is a modern variety show that has been airing since 2006. The show features a mix of talented performers, including singers, dancers, magicians, and comedians, who compete for a chance to win a cash prize and a performance contract. America’s Got Talent has become a hit show for its diverse range of acts, emotional storytelling, and celebrity judges, and has launched the careers of many successful performers.
10. The Carol Burnett Show
The Carol Burnett Show was a ground-breaking TV hit, running for 11 years and receiving numerous industry awards. The series, a relaxed, spontaneous mix of classic TV show comedy, variety programs, and weekly performances with well-known guest stars, was the quintessential entertainment show of America’s golden age of TV. Private moments were played for full humorous effect in quick sketches. Especially unforgettable were the famous Family scenes with Mama, Eunice, and Ed.
In conclusion, variety shows have entertained audiences for generations and have provided a platform for talented performers to showcase their skills. The top 10 variety shows listed above have left a lasting impact on television and have become beloved classics in the world of entertainment. Whether it’s comedy, music, or dance, variety shows continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of entertainment.
