Shows With More Than 20 Seasons That Keep Getting Better

Over two decades later, they're still going strong.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:56pm

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Nowadays, a TV show running for more than five seasons is rarer than ever. Yet there are a few shows that have achieved the feat of lasting more than 20 seasons and continuing to get better. This article highlights some of the most iconic long-running shows, including South Park, Sesame Street, 60 Minutes, South Park, Sesame Street, 60 Minutes, Grey's Anatomy, General Hospital, and Saturday Night Live.

Why it matters

While it's rare for a TV show to last more than a few seasons, let alone 20 or more, the shows highlighted in this article have managed to not only endure but also improve over time. These long-running series have become cultural touchstones, reflecting and shaping the zeitgeist for decades. Their longevity and continued relevance speak to their ability to evolve and connect with audiences in meaningful ways, even as entertainment and viewing habits change.

The details

The article profiles several shows that have surpassed the 20-season mark, including the adult animated sitcom South Park, the educational children's series Sesame Street, the news magazine 60 Minutes, the medical drama Grey's Anatomy, the long-running soap opera General Hospital, and the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. Each show is highlighted for its ability to remain fresh, relevant, and better than ever, even decades into its run.

  • South Park premiered in 1997 and is currently in its 28th season, with the latest season premiering in October 2025.
  • Sesame Street first aired in 1969 and is still going strong.
  • 60 Minutes has been on the air for 58 seasons and counting.
  • Grey's Anatomy is currently in its 22nd season.
  • General Hospital, the longest-running American soap opera, has been on the air since 1963.
  • Saturday Night Live celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025 and is now in its 51st season.

The players

Trey Parker and Matt Stone

The creators of the adult animated sitcom South Park, which has pushed the envelope for 28 seasons and continues to be beloved by long-time fans.

Sesame Workshop

The production company behind the educational children's series Sesame Street, which has remained relevant and engaging for generations of viewers.

60 Minutes

The long-running news magazine show that has uniquely presented itself like a magazine delivered in television format for 58 seasons and counting.

Shonda Rhimes

The creator of the medical drama Grey's Anatomy, which is currently in its 22nd season and continues to be a cultural phenomenon.

General Hospital

The longest-running American soap opera, which has been on the air since 1963 and continues to deliver fresh, outlandish storylines.

Saturday Night Live

The iconic sketch comedy show that has been a part of the cultural landscape for 51 seasons, despite occasional criticism that it has lost its luster.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The longevity and continued success of these shows, some of which have been on the air for decades, is a testament to their ability to evolve, connect with audiences, and remain culturally relevant. These programs have become ingrained in the fabric of our entertainment landscape, proving that exceptional storytelling, memorable characters, and a willingness to adapt can help a series thrive long after its contemporaries have faded away.