The 75+ Best CBS Shows

Ranker TV

Updated April 18, 2024 50.3K views

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36.9K votes

2.9K voters

7 reranks

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Vote up the best original TV shows that have ever debuted on CBS.

Latest additions: Elsbeth, SWAT, Tracker

Most divisive: Everybody Loves Raymond

Over 2.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 75+ Best CBS Shows

"America's Most Watched Network" is the home of long-running favorites The Big Bang Theory, CSI, and Criminal Minds, but the network has had long-running favorites since it began. This list of the top current and canceled CBS shows of all time includes the date when each show first aired, as well as which actors starred in the show. The best CBS TV shows of all time includes old CBS shows, as this list covers the entire history of the Columbia Broadcasting System. This list is sorted by popularity, so the shows with the most votes are at the top of the list,

In the beginning, there were only three channels - ABC, NBC, and CBS and CBS is still home to some of the best shows on television today. Answering the question, “What is the best CBS show of all time?” this list includes old favorites like M*A*S*H and I Love Lucy, as well as more recent shows like How I Met Your Mother and Survivor.

What are the best CBS TV series ever? Vote up the best CBS shows, or use this list to build a whole new one just like it, then re-rank it to fit your opinion.

1
M*A*S*H
Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
1,016 votes
M*A*S*H, a groundbreaking comedy-drama series, made a lasting impression on viewers as it chronicled the trials and tribulations of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. The ensemble cast, including Alan Alda as Hawkeye Pierce, created compelling characters that struck a delicate balance between humor and tragedy.
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2
The Twilight Zone
Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
587 votes
The Twilight Zone, masterfully crafted by the legendary Rod Serling, captivated audiences with its thought-provoking and eerie episodes. The pioneering anthology series tapped into the fears and curiosities of its viewers, forever changing the landscape of television and leaving an undeniable mark on popular culture.
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3
I Love Lucy
Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance
969 votes
I Love Lucy, a timeless classic, was a trailblazer in the world of comedy. The lovable antics of Lucy, played by the brilliant Lucille Ball, kept viewers in stitches. Desi Arnaz, as Ricky Ricardo, added a splash of charm, making this show a cultural touchstone for generations to come.
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4
The Carol Burnett Show
Carol Burnett, Harvey Korman, Lyle Waggoner
822 votes
The Carol Burnett Show, led by the incomparable Carol Burnett, stole the hearts of millions with its side-splitting sketches and top-notch talent. A variety show that spotlighted both music and comedy, it solidified its status as a television gem, even inspiring multiple spin-offs and revivals.
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5
MacGyver
Lucas Till, Tristin Mays, Justin Hires
731 votes
MacGyver, jam-packed with thrilling adventures, showcased the ingenious quick thinking of Angus MacGyver. Portrayed by Richard Dean Anderson, the character skillfully thwarted disasters with his unconventional solutions. Over the years, the show garnered a significant fan-base, sparking multiple reboots and parodies.
6
The Andy Griffith Show
Andy Griffith, Ron Howard, Don Knotts
813 votes
The Andy Griffith Show, steeped in nostalgia, transported viewers to the charming, small-town life of Mayberry. Andy Griffith's portrayal of the wise and level-headed Sheriff Andy Taylor, alongside his well-intentioned, bumbling deputy Barney Fife, played by Don Knotts, enriched the series with a warmth that continues to resonate with fans today.
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7
The Big Bang Theory
Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco
965 votes
The Big Bang Theory, an infectious sitcom, captivated viewers with its nerdy charm and endearing ensemble of characters who tackled the trials and tribulations of life, friendship, and love. Amassing an impressive collection of awards, the series made household names of its cast led by Jim Parsons' Sheldon Cooper.
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8
All in the Family
Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, Rob Reiner
826 votes
All in the Family, blazing a fearless trail in television, broke several boundaries with its balance of humor and social commentary. Archie and Edith Bunker, portrayed by Carroll O'Connor and Jean Stapleton, explored social issues while making us laugh, earning praise and numerous awards throughout its run.
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9
The Dick Van Dyke Show
Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Rose Marie
729 votes
The Dick Van Dyke Show, a sitcom for the ages, delighted audiences with its excellent writing, direction, and standout performances. Dick Van Dyke, as Rob Petrie, brought warmth and humor to the screen alongside the lovely Mary Tyler Moore as Laura Petrie, earning multiple Emmys for their charismatic portrayals.
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10
NCIS
Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Brian Dietzen
801 votes
NCIS, a bona fide titan in the realm of crime dramas, struck the perfect blend of suspense, camaraderie, and wit. The series, headlined by Mark Harmon's Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, followed a skilled team of NCIS agents unraveling mysteries and securing justice, quickly garnering worldwide acclaim.
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11
Criminal Minds
Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
629 votes
Criminal Minds, a highly successful crime procedural, delved into the darkest corners of humanity, following a team of FBI profilers led by the stoic Aaron Hotchner, played by Thomas Gibson. Its compelling character dynamics and gut-wrenching storylines earned it critical acclaim and legions of loyal fans.
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12
Magnum, P.I.
Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley
695 votes
Magnum, P.I., a quintessential detective action-drama, brought stellar storytelling and a suave Tom Selleck to the screen. The stunning Hawaiian setting combined with the irresistible charisma of its leading man made the show an instant classic, leaving an indelible mark on the consciousness of fans.
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13
The Munsters
Fred Gwynne, Yvonne De Carlo, Al Lewis
649 votes
The Munsters, an eerie and endearing family sitcom, enchanted viewers with its monstrous family living amongst everyday suburbanites. It showcased the brilliant comedic performances of Fred Gwynne as Herman Munster and Yvonne De Carlo as his wife, Lily, creating a unique space for itself within the realm of popular culture.
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14
WKRP in Cincinnati
Gary Sandy, Gordon Jump, Loni Anderson
660 votes
WKRP in Cincinnati, an offbeat and lively sitcom, focused on the quirky staff of a struggling radio station. With its delightful cast of characters, the show presented an endearing and often hilarious look at the chaos and camaraderie behind the scenes of the broadcast world.
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15
The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Mary Tyler Moore, Ed Asner, Gavin MacLeod
473 votes
The Mary Tyler Moore Show, a sophisticated and progressive sitcom, showcased the iconic Mary Tyler Moore as a TV news producer paving her way through the male-dominated world of television. Lauded for its wit, empathy, and incredible cast, the show remained a critical darling throughout its seven-year run.
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16
Star Trek: The Next Generation
Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton
445 votes
Star Trek: The Next Generation, a daring and cerebral sci-fi series, expanded upon the original Star Trek's compelling vision of the future. Led by the distinguished Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard, the show tackled complex ethical issues and character-driven narratives, earning critical acclaim and a legion of devoted fans.
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17
Everybody Loves Raymond
Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Doris Roberts
805 votes
Everybody Loves Raymond, a relatable and hilariously heartwarming sitcom, resonated with viewers as it focused on the intricacies of family life. Ray Romano's lovable portrayal of sportswriter Ray Barone, navigated through the challenges of work, marriage, and parenthood, cementing the show as a staple of comedic television.
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18
Newhart
Bob Newhart, Mary Frann, Tom Poston
603 votes
Newhart, a delightful sitcom anchored by the inimitable charm of sitcom veteran Bob Newhart, presented the whimsical world of a rural Vermont innkeeper. With a quirky ensemble cast and outlandish situations, the series entertained viewers for eight seasons, leaving an indelible impression with its iconic final twist.
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19
Hogan's Heroes
Bob Crane, Werner Klemperer, John Banner
563 votes
Hogan's Heroes, an inventive comedy set during World War II, showcased the antics of American POWs in a German prison camp. With a distinct mix of humor and the realities of warfare, the series struck a chord with audiences and became a beloved classic.
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20
Hawaii Five-O
Jack Lord, James MacArthur, Kam Fong
633 votes
Hawaii Five-O, both the original and its reboot, captured the essence of a scenic crime drama set in paradise. The thrilling adventures of Detective Steve McGarrett and his skilled team of investigators quickly became a staple of the small screen, the iconic "Book 'em, Danno!" catchphrase forever embedded in our lexicon.
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21
The Ed Sullivan Show
Ed Sullivan, Bern Bennett, Ralph Paul
554 votes
The Ed Sullivan Show, an undisputed staple of television history, enthralled audiences with its diverse lineup of guest stars, ranging from musical legends to comedians and novelty acts. An iconic variety series, it holds a special place in the pantheon of television greats unveiling future stars, including The Beatles and Elvis Presley.
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22
60 Minutes
Andrew Rooney, Lesley Stahl, Steve Kroft
591 votes
60 Minutes, an investigative news program with an unmatched legacy, changed the landscape of television journalism with its in-depth reporting and hard-hitting interviews. Delivering the truth to viewers for over five decades, its influence and impact have remained unparalleled.
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23
The Honeymooners
Jackie Gleason, Audrey Meadows, Art Carney
568 votes
The Honeymooners, a groundbreaking television classic, broke new ground with its portrayal of working-class Brooklyn couple Ralph and Alice Kramden. Comedy legends Jackie Gleason and Audrey Meadows, as the lovable yet flawed duo, skillfully crafted a timeless comedy that resonated with viewers across generations.
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24
Murder, She Wrote
Angela Lansbury
536 votes
Murder, She Wrote, an engaging and stylish whodunit series, propelled the charismatic Angela Lansbury to a new level of fame as mystery writer-turned-amateur sleuth Jessica Fletcher. With myriad twists and turns, the show consistently kept fans on the edge of their seats during its 12-year run.
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25
How I Met Your Mother
Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders
894 votes
How I Met Your Mother, a cleverly-structured sitcom with a captivating central premise, took viewers on a time-hopping journey through Ted Mosby's quest for love. The ensemble cast, including memorable performances by Neil Patrick Harris and Jason Segel, struck comedic gold, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
26
Blue Bloods
Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan
334 votes
Blue Bloods, a captivating family crime drama, saw the lives of the Reagan family intertwine with the perils and complexities of law enforcement in New York City. Headlined by the ever-commanding Tom Selleck as Commissioner Frank Reagan, this series carved a unique niche for itself, earning critical praise and a fiercely devoted following.
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27
The Jeffersons
Sherman Hemsley, Isabel Sanford, Mike Evans
571 votes
The Jeffersons, a trailblazing sitcom spun off from All in the Family, broke barriers with its depiction of a successful African-American family. Led by the talented Sherman Hemsley as George Jefferson, the show tackled social issues alongside heartwarming humor, paving the way for future generations of television.
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28
Lassie
Lassie, Tommy Rettig, Jan Clayton
459 votes
Lassie, an enduring classic, chronicled the adventures of a collie who always saved the day, proving that a dog truly is man's best friend. Lassie's unwavering loyalty and keen instincts made the show a beloved television staple for generations of viewers.
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29
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Ted Danson, Elisabeth Shue, George Eads
577 votes
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, a sophisticated crime procedural, ushered in a new era of forensics-focused television. William Petersen's keen portrayal of investigator Gil Grissom led a brilliant ensemble cast, unraveling dastardly crimes with cutting-edge science and enthralling storytelling.
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30
Perry Mason
Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William Hopper
518 votes
Perry Mason, a timeless courtroom drama, showcased the legendary Raymond Burr as a cunning and unflappable defense attorney. With its combination of fascinating legal intrigue and captivating character development, the show continued to captivate audiences even decades after its original airing.
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MacGyver