Nickelodeon's 10 Best Sitcoms Of All Time, From Drake & Josh To Kenan & Kel (2024)

Nickelodeon’s sitcoms were notorious across the decades, but only a few hold the title of being among the greatest. Over the years, Nickelodeon became known for its top-quality children’s programming, and it quickly produced some of the best kid’s cartoons of the 2000s and beyond. Since Nickelodeon’s beginnings in the late 1970s, the network broadcasted stories that its audiences could easily engage in and laugh along to.

While controversies surrounding Nickelodeon’s production standards in the past were later revealed, these sitcoms were still appreciated. Each of these titles contained spectacular talent from both their respective cast and crew, who have been celebrated for their hard work. Sitcoms have always been prominent in the best TV shows of all time, and those that were made for kids encouraged a new generation to find humor in the everyday.

10 Kenan & Kel

1996-2000

TV-G

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Kenan & Kel is a Nickelodeon sitcom that aired from 1996 to 2000, starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. The show follows the comedic misadventures of high school friends Kenan Rockmore and Kel Kimble as they navigate through various schemes and mishaps in their hometown of Chicago. Known for its slapstick humor and catchphrases, the series became a staple of 1990s children's television.

Cast

Kenan Thompson , Kel Mitchell , Ken Foree , Teal Marchande , Dan Frischman , Vanessa Baden , Biagio Messina , Alexis Fields

Release Date

August 17, 1996

Seasons

4

Creator(s)

Kim Bass

Kenan & Kel was a hugely popular Nickelodeon show from 1996 to 2000. The show was led by Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, who established their hilarious and natural back-and-forth in another Nickelodeon show, All That. The exaggerated and comedic versions of themselves were full of clever dialogue and brilliant physical humor, which made Kenan & Kel easy to enjoy, no matter where in the episode audiences began watching.

The two boys’ ridiculous schemes and distinctive catchphrases made them endearing and relatable characters, especially for young people. Kenan & Kel also used a unique format for its time. While many of the most meta TV shows of all time were known for breaking the fourth wall, Kenan & Kel’s use of the trope was relatively new.

The show’s best quality, however, was how ‘90s it was. For example, was very reflective of the era’s music scene, and it was brilliantly catchy. While Kenan Thompson became a big success on Saturday Night Live, many ‘90s kids remembered him from Kenan & Kel.

9 ICarly

2007-2012

iCarly

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The Nickelodeon sitcom iCarly follows teenage internet streamer, Carly Shay (Miranda Cosgrove), her older brother Spencer Shay (Jerry Trainor), and her two best friends Sam Puckett (Jennette McCurdy) and Freddie Benson (Nathan Kress), who help her host her successful web show. After its 2007-2012 run, Paramount+ revived the series with most of its original cast all grown up and dealing with the challenges of adulthood.

Cast

Laci Mosley , Jerry Trainor , Miranda Cosgrove , Jaidyn Triplett , Nathan Kress

Seasons

3

Directors

Phill Lewis

Network

Paramount

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iCarly contributed to the success of the careers of several of Hollywood’s best actors, including Jennette McCurdy as Sam, the titular character’s best friend. A significant factor in iCarly’s popularity, however, was also the return of some of Nickelodeon’s famous faces. For example, Miranda Cosgrove famously played Megan in Drake & Josh, and Jerry Trainor starred in several of the kids network’s past shows.

iCarly was groundbreaking when it initially aired, especially as the power of the internet, podcasts, and web shows weren’t as common in 2007 compared to recent years. Ultimately, iCarly’s humor and comic timing were why it was so great. While some episodes tackled more difficult themes, like problems within familial relationships, the show knew when to be lighthearted and when to take things seriously.

Carly, Sam, and Freddie’s wacky adventures and wild activities they participated in on their show relied heavily on slapstick comedy and the quirky personalities of the show’s supporting characters, like Spencer and Gibby. While not every element of the show has held up, such as the iCarly Nora Dershlit episodes, it was still generally relatable to audiences years after it finished.

8 Drake & Josh

2004-2007

TV-Y7

Comedy

Family

Drake & Josh is a television sitcom that aired on Nickelodeon, featuring Drake Bell and Josh Peck as two stepbrothers navigating high school life and their blended family dynamics. The show blends elements of comedy and family themes, creating engaging scenarios where the characters' contrasting personalities often lead to humorous situations and valuable life lessons.

Cast

Drake Bell , Josh Peck , Miranda Cosgrove , Nancy Sullivan , Jonathan Goldstein , Vince Deadrick Jr. , Scott Halberstadt , Yvette Nicole Brown

Release Date

January 11, 2004

Seasons

4

Main Genre

Comedy

Drake & Josh was a staple title in Nickelodeon’s shows. The titular characters, portrayed by Drake Bell and Josh Peck, followed the two teenage step-brothers in all manner of tumultuous and funny situations. Their drastically different personalities created plenty of conflict, but this was also what made the show so hilarious.

Drake’s laid-back attitude compared to Josh’s uptightness resulted in some ridiculous moments, but it also helped the other learn how to be a better person. Naturally, like other Nickelodeon shows, Drake & Josh’s supporting characters were just as strong as the main cast. Miranda Cosgrove’s Megan, Jerry Trainor’s Crazy Steve, and Yvette Nicole Brown’s Helen Dubois were all brilliant additions to the show, which made every single moment of worth watching.

Drake & Josh was a TV show that was essential to understanding the 2000s, and it continued to be relevant long after its release. For example, Josh famously hitting Oprah Winfrey with his car was one key storyline that was not only a legendary piece of comedy, but also a fantastic celebrity cameo that wasn’t forgotten about quickly.

7 The Amanda Show

1999-2002

The Amanda Show

TV-Y7

Comedy

Family

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The Amanda Show is a sketch comedy and variety show starring Amanda Bynes. Originally airing on Nickelodeon, the series features an array of comedic sketches, parodies, and recurring characters, including Judge Trudy and the Girls' Room. Marking a significant part of early 2000s children's television, it also helped launch the careers of several young actors who appeared alongside Bynes.

Cast

Amanda Bynes , Drake Bell , Nancy Sullivan , John Kassir , Raquel Lee , Josh Peck , Dan Schneider , Jamie Snow

Release Date

October 16, 1999

Seasons

3

Main Genre

Comedy

The Amanda Show kicked off the careers of many of Nickelodeon’s biggest names and launched several other shows. In addition to Amanda Bynes, The Amanda Show introduced audiences to Drake Bell, Josh Peck, and multiple other stars who later became huge successes. While The Amanda Show was a sketch show instead, it was still considered a sitcom to a degree.

This was primarily because many of the skits were situations its target audience related to. For example, the Moody’s Point sketches were satirical of other teen drama TV shows at that time. While some parts of The Amanda Show didn’t age well, others did. Some segments weren’t relatable whatsoever, but they were still massively popular.

Absurd but hysterical elements, such as the dancing lobsters or Amanda superfan Penelope, quickly became memorable. Information about events behind the scenes of The Amanda Show was later revealed in a 2024 documentary, and while audiences were shocked at the revelations, Amanda Bynes was still celebrated for her incredible talents, and they considered her a brilliant comedian in their formative years.

6 Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide

2004-2007

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide (2004)

TV-G

Comedy

Family

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide is a 2004 comedy series that centers on Ned Bigby and his friends as they create a survival guide to deal with the everyday challenges of life in middle school. From tackling bullies to handling crushes and acing tests, each episode offers humorous, practical tips and tricks for "helping" viewers survive their own middle school experiences.

Cast

Devon Werkheiser , Lindsey Shaw , Daniel Curtis Lee

Release Date

September 12, 2004

Seasons

3

Directors

Joe Menendez , Savage Steve Holland , David Kendall

Writers

Scott Fellows

Main Genre

Comedy

Creator(s)

Scott Fellows

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide was one of Nickelodeon’s most relevant shows upon its release in 2004, with many of its audience members being the same age as its main cast. The show followed the titular character, Ned, and his two best friends, Cookie and Moze, during their middle school years.

Alongside them were some amazingly funny supporting characters, such as Rob Pinkston as Coconut Head, whose facial expressions were nothing short of perfection. Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide taught essential life lessons in several areas and not only was the survival of middle school prominent, but it also focused on first loves, popularity, and bullying, to name a few.

Sadly, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide finished with season 3, although it was a TV show that was predicted to be rebooted at some point in the future. From the show’s over-the-top scenarios, clever script, and Ned’s breaking of the fourth wall, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide was a favorite in Nickelodeon’s list of hugely popular titles.

5 Zoey 101

2005-2008

Zoey 101

TV-Y7

Comedy

Drama

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Zoey 101 is a television series that follows Zoey Brooks, played by Jamie Lynn Spears, and her friends at the fictional Pacific Coast Academy. Set in a boarding school in Southern California, the series explores their academic and social experiences. Created by Dan Schneider, the show ran from 2005 to 2008 and features elements of comedy and drama, appealing to a younger audience with its relatable storylines and character dynamics.

Cast

Jamie Lynn Spears , Paul Butcher , Sean Flynn , Austin Butler , Kristin Herrera , Christopher Massey , Alexa Nikolas , Erin Sanders , Matthew Underwood , Victoria Justice

Release Date

January 9, 2005

Seasons

4

Main Genre

Comedy

Zoey 101 was one of Nickelodeon’s earliest attempts, and its most successful, at a teenage drama. While a lot of the storylines were designed with theatrics in mind, it was still heavily layered with comedy throughout. With Jamie Lynn Spears as the titular character, Zoey 101 was unique compared to other Nickelodeon shows at the time.

Unlike previous projects, Zoey 101 left behind the laugh tracks and sound stage to be shot on location in Malibu. Zoey’s glorious life as a Californian high schooler made Zoey 101 a TV show that many wanted as a reality for themselves. However, the show was more than Zoey living in the sun and having fun with her friends. There were lots of hilarious moments throughout the show, as well as some more somber occasions.

The show highlighted the realities and problems in teenage relationships, but often jumped from these plot beats to over-the-top and whimsical situations to keep things more relaxed. Zoey 101 ended in 2008 and was a big part of the Nickelodeon network, but it earned several accolade nominations during its run, including a Teen Choice Award and Primetime Emmy.

4 Victorious

2010-2013

Victorious (2010)

TV-G

Comedy

Music

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Victorious is a teen sitcom created by Dan Schneider, centering on aspiring singer Tori Vega, portrayed by Victoria Justice. Set in the performing arts high school Hollywood Arts, the series follows Tori as she navigates the challenges of adolescence alongside a diverse group of talented classmates. With its combination of musical performances and comedic elements, the show explores themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery.

Cast

Victoria Justice , Leon Thomas III , Matt Bennett , Elizabeth Gillies , Ariana Grande , Avan Jogia , Daniella Monet

Release Date

March 27, 2010

Seasons

4

Directors

Steve Hoefer , Adam Weissman , Russ Reinsel

Writers

Dan Schneider

Main Genre

Comedy

Victorious combined musical performances and laughter wonderfully. Victorious’ talented ensemble cast included several massive future stars, including Victoria Justice as the main character, Tori Vega, and Ariana Grande as Cat Valentine. The use of creative storylines and theatrical arrangements made Victorious stand out compared to other typical high school sitcoms, and it was frequently compared to a TV show interpretation of the hit teen musical movieCamp Rock.

While some characters were funnier than others, Victorious’ Matt Bennett as Robbie Shapiro was one of the best. Robbie’s dorky persona and ventriloquist act created multiple hysterical moments throughout the show, but his character's contrast to his more artistic peers made him relatable.

Victorious’ influence was very apparent during its original run and long after, too. The show’s catchy songs, memorable characters, and teen-focused storylines were evident within sitcoms marketed toward younger viewers, and it helped inspire several other TV shows in the same area.

3 Unfabulous

2004-2007

Unfabulous

TV-G

Comedy

Drama

Family

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Unfabulous is a teen sitcom centered on middle schooler Addie Singer, played by Emma Roberts, as she navigates the trials and tribulations of adolescence. The show explores her friendships, family, and her love for music, often highlighted through her songwriting.

Cast

Emma Roberts , Melise , Jordan Calloway , Brandon Kelly , Molly Hagan , Markus Flanagan , Emma Degerstedt , Chelsea Tavares

Release Date

September 12, 2004

Seasons

3

Creator(s)

Scott Fellows , Sue Rose , Janice Burgess

Main Genre

Comedy

Unfabulous helped the incredibly popular actress Emma Roberts gain recognition in the early 2000s. Roberts played middle schooler Addie Singer, an aspirational songwriter, and the show focused on her friends. While there were many shows like Unfabulous, which followed typical teenage drama storylines, it was a notable title because of its characterization.

Addie used her songwriting to express her feelings, and while she was an awkward kid, she didn’t fall into the stereotype of an odd nerd or an overly popular girl. Addie was flawed, but the show’s comedy didn’t rely on abusing her to be funny, either. Unfabulous had a very diverse cast for its time, too. Addie’s closest companions included her best friends, Geena and Zack, but the two were very different.

Geena was obsessed with fashion, and Zack loved basketball, but these archetypes didn’t impact their friendship. Unfabulous was one of Emma Roberts’ best TV shows, and even though Addie was her breakthrough role, it put her on the map. During its 3-season run, Unfabulous led to several award nominations for Roberts, including three Teen Choice Awards.

2 Big Time Rush

2009-2013

Big Time Rush

TV-G

Comedy

Drama

Family

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Big Time Rush is a TV show about four hockey players from Minnesota who are selected to form a boy band. The series follows Kendall, James, Carlos, and Logan as they navigate the music industry while balancing their friendships, personal lives, and the various challenges that come with newfound fame. Produced by Nickelodeon, the show blends comedy, drama, and musical performances, appealing primarily to a younger audience.

Cast

Kendall Schmidt , James Maslow , Carlos PenaVega , Logan Henderson , Ciara Bravo , Stephen Kramer Glickman , Tanya Chisholm , Challen Cates

Release Date

November 28, 2009

Seasons

4

Creator(s)

Scott Fellows

Main Genre

Comedy

Big Time Rush was another popular musical TV show from Nickelodeon. The show was based on the fictional boyband of the same name, which was made up of four teenage hockey players. Kendall, James, Carlos, and Logan were significant factors in Big Time Rush’s success, and their differences were not just funny but also the driving force of the show.

However, the show never took itself too seriously. Some of Big Time Rush’s most ridiculous storylines were absolutely hilarious, such as the boys’ being robbed by a “superhero” or the episode “Big Time Pranks,” for example. Like some of Nickelodeon’s other shows that aired in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Big Time Rush was notable because it gave audiences an element of escapism.

The boyband members were all normal teenagers, but hilarity ensued once they were thrown into the world of stardom. Big Time Rush was so popular that it earned a TV movie, Big Time Movie, which was released in 2012, before ending for good in 2013.

1 The Adventures Of Pete & Pete

1992-1996

TV-Y

Comedy

Drama

Family

The Adventures of Pete & Pete is a 1992 television series that explores the whimsical and surreal experiences of two brothers, both named Pete, living in the fictional town of Wellsville. It features humorous and offbeat storylines that highlight their adventures, friendships, and family life, capturing a unique slice of suburban childhood.

Cast

Michael C. Maronna , Danny Tamberelli , Judy Grafe , Alison Fanelli , Hardy Rawls , Henry W. Laster , Toby Huss , Michelle Trachtenberg

Character(s)

Big Pete Wrigley , Little Pete Wrigley , Joyce Wrigley , Ellen Josephine Hickle , Don Wrigley , Henry , Artie , Nona Mecklenberg

Release Date

November 28, 1993

Creator(s)

Will McRobb , Chris Viscardi

Seasons

3

Main Genre

Comedy

The Adventures of Pete & Pete was one of Nickelodeon’s earliest sitcoms, but it remained a beloved title for years later. included Michael Maronna as Big Pete and Danny Tamberelli as Little Pete, two brothers who constantly found themselves wrapped up in surreal adventures in the suburban backdrop of the fictional town of Wellsville.

The Adventures of Pete & Pete merged the absurd and mundane together very well, and their wacky and exaggerated adventures were memorable. The Petes’ eccentric parents and quirky friends made the show even funnier and were welcome additions to any episode. The Adventures of Pete & Pete also magnificently layered '90s nostalgia into every installment.

From the show’s pilot to its ending and a series of specials, The Adventures of Pete & Pete had many celebrity, present and future, cameos. Over the years, the likes of The Sopranos’ Vincent Pastore, J. K. Simmons, and Alicia Keys appeared in one of Nickelodeon’s best sitcoms of all time.