20 Best Comedy TV Shows on Max 2026
Find the funniest series on Max, from Abbott Elementary and Veep to Rick and Morty, Hacks, and more smart picks for every kind of mood.
If you're searching for the best comedy TV shows on Max, this lineup gives you a wide mix of styles, from sharp workplace jokes and political satire to animated chaos and awkward documentary comedy. Start with crowd favorites like Abbott Elementary, Veep, Friends, and Schitt's Creek if you want easy laughs with strong characters. For something more offbeat, Nathan for You, The Rehearsal, and How to with John Wilson lean into unusual, observational humor, while Rick and Morty and Adventure Time bring animated comedy with sci-fi and fantasy energy. There’s also room for smart ensemble picks like Hacks, The White Lotus, and The Big Bang Theory, so you can match your mood instead of settling for one kind of laugh.
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01
Nathan for You
documentary · comedy
Self-proclaimed business expert, writer, director and comedian Nathan Fielder helps real small businesses turn a profit with marketing tactics that no ordinary consultant would dare to attempt. From driving foot traffic to an off-the-strip souvenir shop by using Hollywood flair and a Johnny Depp impersonator, to creating a rebate that can only be redeemed by climbing a mountain, to founding a coffee shop called "Dumb Starbucks,” Nathan has always gone to the limit to make his ideas come to life. With his unorthodox approach to problem solving, Nathan’s genuine efforts to do good often draw the real people he encounters into an experience far beyond what they signed up for.
Why watch: If you like comedy that comes from awkward real-world situations and bold ideas, this is a strong pick. Its documentary-comedy setup makes it a good fit for viewers who enjoy humor that keeps surprising them.
Directed by Nathan Fielder, Jason WolinerCast Nathan Fielder, Anthony Armentano, Kevin Carmony, Vicki Jo Costanzo, Amy GoddardParamount PlusMaxMore details on IMDb → -
02
Abbott Elementary
Won 4 Emmys Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (2022) · 37 nominations
comedy
In this workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers — and a slightly tone-deaf principal — are brought together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these incredible public servants may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do — even if they don’t love the school district’s less-than-stellar attitude toward educating children.
Why watch: If workplace comedies are your thing, this one should land well. The school setting and ensemble of teachers give it a warm, everyday kind of humor.
Directed by Randall Einhorn, Jennifer Celotta, Jaime Eliezer Karas, Matt Sohn, Claire ScanlonCast Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris PerfettiHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
03
The Rehearsal
4 Emmy nominations Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (2025)
documentary · comedy
With a construction crew, a legion of actors, and seemingly unlimited resources, Nathan Fielder allows ordinary people to prepare for life’s biggest moments by “rehearsing” them in carefully crafted simulations of his own design. When a single misstep could shatter your entire world, why leave life to chance?
Why watch: If you enjoy comedy built around unusual setups and careful, weirdly specific planning, this is worth a look. Its documentary-comedy style makes it especially appealing for fans of offbeat humor.
Directed by Nathan FielderCast Nathan Fielder, Journey Baker, Anna Lamadrid, Thomas McNamara, Alexander LeissMaxMore details on IMDb → -
04
Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage
1 Emmy nomination
comedy
Georgie and Mandy raise their young family in Texas while navigating the challenges of adulthood, parenting, and marriage.
Why watch: If you like family-centered sitcoms, this may be a good match. The premise focuses on marriage, parenting, and adult life, so it suits viewers who enjoy relationship-driven comedy.
Directed by Mark Cendrowski, Nikki LorreCast Montana Jordan, Emily Osment, Rachel Bay Jones, Will Sasso, Dougie BaldwinParamount PlusMaxMore details on IMDb → -
05
Youth
comedy · drama
A 50-year-old divorcee juggles dating life while taking care of her parents and adult son.
Why watch: If you prefer comedy mixed with drama, this could be a fit. The story centers on dating and family responsibilities, which may appeal to anyone who likes more grounded humor.
Directed by Jim O'Hanlon, Dawn ShadforthCast Sharon Horgan, Libby Mai, Scarlett Rayner, Rupert Friend, Sharlene WhyteMaxMore details on IMDb →
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06
The Big Bang Theory
Won 10 Emmys 4x Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series · 55 nominations
comedy · romance
Physicists Leonard and Sheldon find their nerd-centric social circle with pals Howard and Raj expanding when aspiring actress Penny moves in next door.
Why watch: If you want a classic sitcom with romance and a tight group dynamic, this is an easy choice. It suits viewers who enjoy character-driven comedy with long-running familiarity.
Directed by Mark Cendrowski, Anthony Rich, Peter Chakos, Nikki Lorre, Howard MurrayCast Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal NayyarMaxMore details on IMDb → -
07
Rick and Morty
Won 2 Emmys 5 nominations
animation · adventure · comedy · sci-fi
Rick is a mentally-unbalanced but scientifically gifted old man who has recently reconnected with his family. He spends most of his time involving his young grandson Morty in dangerous, outlandish adventures throughout space and alternate universes. Compounded with Morty's already unstable family life, these events cause Morty much distress at home and school.
Why watch: If animated sci-fi comedy sounds like your sweet spot, this is an obvious pick. It blends adventurous storytelling with sharp humor and a family setup that can go in wild directions.
Directed by Wes Archer, Jacob Hair, Pete Michels, Nathan Litz, Kyoung Hee LimCast Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer, Sarah Chalke, Justin Roiland, Kari WahlgrenHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
08
Schitt's Creek
Won 9 Emmys Outstanding Comedy Series (2020) · 19 nominations
comedy
Formerly filthy rich video store magnate Johnny Rose, his soap star wife Moira, and their two kids, über-hipster son David and socialite daughter Alexis, suddenly find themselves broke and forced to live in Schitt's Creek, a small depressing town they once bought as a joke.
Why watch: If you like fish-out-of-water stories and a family ensemble, this series should work well. Its small-town setting gives the comedy a playful contrast to the characters’ former wealth.
Directed by Paul Fox, Jerry Ciccoritti, Jordan Canning, Andrew Cividino, T.W. PeacockeCast Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Dan Levy, Annie Murphy, Chris ElliottHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
09
Friends
Won 6 Emmys Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (1996) · 62 nominations
comedy · romance
Six young people from New York City, on their own and struggling to survive in the real world, find the companionship, comfort and support they get from each other to be the perfect antidote to the pressures of life.
Why watch: If you want an iconic ensemble comedy with romance mixed in, this is a natural fit. It’s a good choice for viewers who enjoy friendships, urban life, and an easygoing group dynamic.
Directed by Gary Halvorson, Kevin Bright, Michael Lembeck, James Burrows, Gail MancusoCast Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew PerryMaxMore details on IMDb → -
10
The White Lotus
Won 16 Emmys Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie (2022) · 67 nominations
comedy · drama
Follow the exploits of various guests and employees at an exclusive tropical resort over the span of a week as with each passing day, a darker complexity emerges in these picture-perfect travelers, the hotel’s cheerful employees and the idyllic locale itself.
Why watch: If you enjoy comedy with a darker, more satirical edge, this is worth considering. The resort setting and blend of comedy and drama make it a strong pick for viewers who like social tension in their laughs.
Directed by Mike WhiteCast Jon Gries, Natasha Rothwell, Jennifer Coolidge, Leslie Bibb, Carrie CoonMaxMore details on IMDb → -
11
Hacks
Won 14 Emmys 2x Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series · 86 nominations
comedy · drama
Explore a dark mentorship that forms between Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas comedian, and an entitled, outcast 25-year-old.
Why watch: If you like comedy-drama about unlikely creative partnerships, this is a smart choice. It should appeal to viewers who enjoy sharp character conflict and mentor-protégé dynamics.
Directed by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, Desiree Akhavan, Jeff Rosenberg, Trent O'DonnellCast Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Mark Indelicato, Paul W. DownsMaxMore details on IMDb → -
12
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe
comedy · fantasy · sci-fi
Comic book store owner Stuart Bloom, from The Big Bang Theory (2007), returns in a new series where he attempts--and apparently fails--to save the universe, staying true to his unlucky nature.
Why watch: If you like sci-fi comedy with fantasy elements, this may be the one for you. The setup promises a quirky, high-concept premise centered on a very unlucky lead.
Directed by Kyle Newacheck, Jonathan FrakesCast Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, Brian Posehn, John Ross Bowie, Tommy WalkerMaxMore details on IMDb → -
13
Sex and the City
Won 7 Emmys Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (2002) · 55 nominations
comedy · drama · romance
Based on the bestselling book by Candace Bushnell, Sex and the City tells the story of four best friends, all single and in their late thirties, as they pursue their careers and talk about their sex lives, all while trying to survive the New York social scene.
Why watch: If you enjoy comedy with romance and adult relationships at the center, this is a solid pick. It fits viewers who want a friends-first story with plenty of social and personal juggling.
Directed by Michael Patrick King, Allen Coulter, Michael Engler, Michael Spiller, Alan TaylorCast Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon, David EigenbergMaxMore details on IMDb → -
14
Peacemaker
2 Emmy nominations
action · adventure · comedy · crime · drama · fantasy · sci-fi
The continuing story of Peacemaker, a vainglorious superhero/supervillain who believes in peace at any cost — no matter how many people he has to kill. After a miraculous recovery from his duel with Bloodsport, Peacemaker soon discovers that his freedom comes at a price.
Why watch: If you want superhero action mixed with comedy, this is a strong option. Its crime, fantasy, and sci-fi elements make it especially appealing for viewers who like genre-blending series.
Directed by James Gunn, Alethea Jones, Greg Mottola, Brad Anderson, Jody HillCast John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Jennifer Holland, Steve AgeeMaxMore details on IMDb → -
15
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
Won 32 Emmys 76 nominations
comedy · news · talk-show
A half-hour satirical look at the week in news, politics and current events.
Why watch: If you like satirical comedy tied to news and current events, this should be right up your alley. It works well for viewers who enjoy a more topical, commentary-driven format.
Directed by Paul Pennolino, Christopher Werner, Jim Hoskinson, Joe Perota, Bruce LeddyCast David Kaye, Ryan Barger, Noel MacNeal, H. Jon Benjamin, Alberto BonillaMaxMore details on IMDb → -
16
How to with John Wilson
3 Emmy nominations
documentary · comedy
In a uniquely hilarious odyssey of self-discovery and cultural observation, documentary filmmaker and self-described "anxious New Yorker" John Wilson covertly and obsessively films the lives of his fellow New Yorkers while attempting to give everyday advice on relatable topics. The awkward contradictions of modern life are eased by Wilson’s candid, unpolished commentary. Building upon Wilson’s previously released "how to" short films, each episode takes wildly unexpected turns but is grounded in John's refreshing honesty.
Why watch: If you prefer documentary-style comedy with a reflective voice, this is a great pick. Its focus on everyday advice and urban observation makes it feel unusual without losing relatability.
Directed by John WilsonCast Justin A. Martell, Niko NelsonMaxMore details on IMDb → -
17
Adventure Time
Won 8 Emmys 16 nominations
animation · action · adventure · comedy · family · fantasy · sci-fi
Unlikely heroes Finn and Jake are buddies who traverse the mystical Land of Ooo. The best of friends, our heroes always find themselves in the middle of escapades. Finn and Jake depend on each other through thick and thin.
Why watch: If you enjoy animated adventure with a playful comedy streak, this is a strong fit. It’s especially good for viewers who like friendship-focused stories in a fantasy world.
Directed by Bong Hee Han, Larry Leichliter, Elizabeth Ito, Andres Salaff, Adam MutoCast John DiMaggio, Jeremy Shada, Tom Kenny, Hynden Walch, Niki YangHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
18
Shining Vale
comedy · fantasy · horror
A family moves to a small town into a house in which terrible atrocities have taken place. But nobody seems to notice except for Pat, who's convinced she's either depressed or possessed--turns out, the symptoms are exactly the same.
Why watch: If you want comedy with fantasy and horror in the mix, this stands out. It may suit viewers who like a family story with a spooky twist.
Directed by Liz Friedlander, Catriona McKenzie, Alethea Jones, Daisy von Scherler Mayer, Dearbhla WalshCast Courteney Cox, Greg Kinnear, Gus Birney, Merrin Dungey, Dylan GageMaxMore details on IMDb → -
19
Veep
Won 17 Emmys 5x Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series · 68 nominations
comedy
A look into American politics, revolving around former Senator Selina Meyer who finds being Vice President of the United States is nothing like she expected and everything everyone ever warned her about.
Why watch: If political comedy is your preference, this is an easy recommendation. The focus on a vice president navigating government life gives it a sharp, fast-moving setup.
Directed by Becky Martin, Chris Addison, Armando Iannucci, David Mandel, Christopher MorrisCast Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Reid Scott, Timothy SimonsMaxMore details on IMDb → -
20
The O.C.
comedy · drama · romance
Ryan Atwood, a teen from the wrong side of the tracks, moves in with a wealthy family willing to give him a chance. But Ryan's arrival disturbs the status quo of the affluent, privileged community of Newport Beach, California.
Why watch: If you like teen drama with romance and comedy woven together, this is a good choice. Its mix of class contrast and suburban social drama should appeal to viewers who enjoy character-driven stories.
Directed by Ian Toynton, Michael Lange, Michael Fresco, Tony Wharmby, Patrick R. NorrisCast Peter Gallagher, Kelly Rowan, Ben McKenzie, Adam Brody, Rachel BilsonHuluMaxMore details on IMDb →
Wrapping Up
Whether you want quick satire, character-driven sitcoms, or comedy with a darker edge, this list makes it easier to find a show that fits your taste. You can revisit it when you want a familiar favorite or when you're ready to try something new from the same mix of genres. Bookmark this page and come back anytime you need a fresh pick, because it’s updated regularly to reflect the current lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is this list updated?
We refresh this list regularly as titles are added or removed from streaming catalogs, so rankings and availability stay current.
Do I need a Max subscription to watch these?
Yes. Every title on this list is currently available on Max. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.
How are these comedy shows ranked?
We rank by a combination of audience rating and current popularity, so you're seeing the comedy titles people are actually watching right now, not just an old fixed list.