The 13 Best Sitcom Character Introductions
NBC, Fox
The genius of a sitcom’s creators and writers were subtly on display here, because we may not have known it at the time, but they managed to sum up some of the greatest characters of all time in their very first scenes. Yes, the characters grew and evolved over the years, but their foundation was built on day one, and it made us want to follow along for years to come. They say that first impressions are lasting impressions, so when you think about it, why not make a splash right off the hop? It’s a comedy after all.
Usually they say, “leave them wanting more” about the end of a show’s run, but the same can be said for that first scene. Cus, let’s face it, if a show is giving us some fluff in the pilot in the hopes of saving the gold for a later date, they’re in deep trouble. The goal is to fill season after season of compelling characters, storylines, and (most importantly) jokes, so give up the goods, baby! Luckily for us, these ones gave us some golden characters right away, and they somehow got better and better. Let’s look back to where it all began with 13 of the best sitcom character introductions.
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A line so good they used it twice (to close out the series finale).
NBC
A masterclass in role reversal.
NBCUniversal
Dildos and probes. From minute one.
Comedy Central
If only he called someone a dumbass. Then we’d have it all!
Fox
This job is eating me alive.” - Donnie Brasco / Jake Peralta.
Fox, NBC
A veil of confidence masking a horribly awkward moment. Classic Michael.
NBCUniversal
“I’m better than all of you and I will have what I desire” - Jeff Winger.
NBC
Ain’t no party like a Liz Lemon party. Cus a Liz Lemon party is mandatory!
NBC
‘Schitt’s Creek’ wastes no time getting to Schitt’s Creek.
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
You think it’s all jumbled chaos, but each line tells us a lot about each character.
20th Century Television
We get to know Gob right away, and it’s hilarious.
Fox
We get to know the friends right away.
Warner Bros. Television
Throw in the slingshot, and you’ve got Bart Simpson.
20th Television