10 Longest-Running Drama Shows, Ranked

With the first episode of a television broadcast in the 1920s, TV has been around for a while now. Its history is filled with shows that have captured the attention and hearts of viewers. However, only a select few have stood the test of time, managing to appeal to a diverse range of audiences and spanning generations. Among the thousands of shows that have aired over time, these have achieved remarkable longevity.

We look back at some of the longest-running drama series in TV history, exploring how they have set records and still appeal to audiences. Whether they’re soaps or medical dramas, these stories have earned loyal fanbases and become cultural phenomena, shaping the television landscape. From The Young and the Restless to Grey’s Anatomy, these longest-running drama shows are a testament to the power of storytelling.

10

‘The Young and the Restless’ (1973–)

Created by William J. Bell and Lee Phillip Bell

Set in Genoa City, The Young and the Restless is a long-running soap that tells the story of the struggle behind the business, focusing on the sex-savvy Abbott and Newman clans. Released in 1973, the show is still running today, boasting an impressive total of over thirteen thousand episodes.

Audiences who enjoy slow-burn and character-driven dramas that incorporate romance, intrigue, and family dynamics into the mix may want to check out this soap opera. Although it is not exactly a TV masterpiece, it is still an entertaining watch, especially compared to other shows in the genre. The Young and the Restless went on to win several Emmy Awards over the years — a nod to its impact and quality despite its long run.

9

‘Guiding Light’ (1952–2009)

Created by Irna Phillips

Holding a special place in television history, Guiding Light unfolds in the fictional Midwestern town of Springfield and centers on the middle-class Bauer family. Over its incredible run of 72 years, the 1952 soap opera bridged generations with its resonating timeless themes of love and family.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Guiding Light is how it adapted to viewers’ changing tastes, not shying away from exploring progressive topics for its time, including interracial couples, social justice, and LGBTQ+ representation. While this may have added to its long-lasting appeal, Guiding Light was ultimately met with some disappointment, reflected in its declining ratings. Nevertheless, it’s safe to say that it still appeals to soap opera fans, whether because of its strong cast or memorable moments.

Guiding Light is currently unavailable to stream, rent, or purchase in the U.S.

8

‘Days of Our Lives’ (1965–)

Created by Ted Corday and Betty Corday

Still standing today, the legacy of Days of Our Lives has held up since it was first released nearly 60 years ago. Perfect for those who enjoy over-the-top dramatic storylines, the show chronicles the lives, loves, trials, and tribulations of the citizens in the fictional city of Salem.

Known for its wild twists and memorable characters, Days of Our Lives is the perfect pick for soap opera fans enthusiastic about juicy and escapist television. The series’ beloved characters and central families resonate with viewers on top of its cultural impact (the show has been referenced and parodied in numerous other shows and films) and has garnered it a devoted fanbase spanning generations. Despite its repetitiveness, Days of Our Lives has earned the attention of many, with some still finding the show worth exploring to this day.

7

‘All My Children’ (1970–2011)

Created by Agnes Nixon

Bringing drama, mystery, romance, and suspense into the mix, All My Children illustrates the fictional East Coast suburb Pine Valley, particularly focusing on Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) and her long line of husbands. It was one of the most beloved and influential soap operas in American television, running for over 9k episodes.

Like other shows mentioned here, part of All My Children‘s charm lies in the characters at its center and the families it encompasses—it’s not for no reason that Erica is considered one of the greatest soap TV characters of all time. Furthermore, the 1970 soap tackles socially relevant and progressive topics, resonating with global audiences despite its declining ratings and changing tastes. Fans of diverse storylines in soap operas will probably enjoy this staple.

6

‘Lassie’ (1954–1974)

Created by Robert Maxwell

One of the most heartwarming shows in television history, Lassie is the ongoing saga of the Martin family and their beloved collie, the titular character. Airing from 1954 to 1974 with an impressive number of 591 episodes, it endures as a quintessential example of a family-friendly show that appeals to a wide range of individuals of different ages.

Animal lovers — particularly anyone who loves dogs — are guaranteed to enjoy this entertaining series. What made it so special is, of course, its unforgettable central hero — the epitome of loyalty and courage, always saving the day and rescuing those in need. Lassie has understandably become a cultural icon, as well as one the most memorable canines in film and TV. However, the show’s timeless appeal also lies in the way it highlights the beauty of nature and its longevity.

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5

‘General Hospital’ (1963–)

Created by Frank and Doris Hursley

A cornerstone of American television, General Hospital is a medical drama that follows the life-changing events in the large upstate city of Port Charles, New York, which includes a busy hospital, a cozy diner, and a dangerous waterfront frequented by the criminal underworld.

Combining romance, mystery, drama, and medical crisis, the show’s storyline spans generations. Since its debut in 1963, General Hospital went on to become the longest-running American soap opera in production and is widely regarded as a groundbreaking show because of how it addresses real-world issues and inclusivity. Its socially relevant themes, in addition to its unforgettable characters and diverse storylines, cement it as one of the most memorable longest-running drama shows. To some, it continues to earn its place among the best daytime television series.

4

‘NCIS’ (2003–)

Created by Donald P. Bellisario and Don McGill

This renowned procedural drama show has captured the attention of audiences since it was first released in 2003. The plot centers around the Major Case Response Team from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they get to the bottom of criminal cases connected to Navy and Marine Corps personnel.

Despite its formulaic structure, NCIS is widely regarded as a great procedural drama fit for fans of crime-solving and character-driven storytelling. With nearly 480 episodes, the beloved show counts on well-written characters and an intriguing team dynamic, as well as a wide range of engaging and varied mysteries. With this being said, its longevity stands the test of time, and proof of that is how new episodes are still being released after all this time.

3

‘Gunsmoke’ (1955–1975)

Created by Norman MacDonnell and John Meston

Featuring 635 episodes, Gunsmoke is a must-watch for fans of Western dramas and unforgettable personalities. The story follows Marshal Matt Dillon (James Arness) as he keeps the peace in rough-and-tumble Dodge City in the late 1800s, focusing on his deputies and all the other characters who populate the town.

Gunsmoke‘s enduring legacy in the Western genre has helped create a template for future TV Westerns by mixing action, drama, and moral dilemmas. Not only does it excel in delivering hard-hitting crime stories with captivating characters, but it also tackles social issues, making for more than a traditional Western show. The cast and characters are undeniably memorable, too, and the grounded portrayal of life on the frontier helps elevate it to higher levels.

2

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–)

Created by Shonda Rhimes

Grey’s Anatomy is a show that immediately comes to mind when one thinks about “long-running TV dramas,” particularly because it has risen in popularity over the years. The medical show centers on the personal and professional lives of five surgical interns and their supervisors.

TV enthusiasts who enjoy deeply character-driven shows that feature both medical suspense and romance are probably going to enjoy sitting through Grey’s Anatomy, as it manages to appeal to a broad audience thanks to its blend of drama and entertainment. Although some plotlines may feel repetitive and predictable, with its over-the-top drama being slightly overwhelming at times, Grey’s Anatomy is a fan favorite to this day, gathering 21 seasons under its belt and resonating with viewers for the universal themes it tackles.

1

‘Law and Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999–)

Created by Dick Wolf

This iconic police procedural and legal drama starring Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni follows the New York City Police Dept.’s Special Victims Unit, particularly a specially trained squad of detectives who investigate sex crimes including assault, child abuse, and domestic violence.

Although a spin-off, the engaging but undeniably touching character-driven Special Victims Unit has surpassed the original 1990 show’s episode count, boasting approximately 52 more episodes. Special Victims Unit is currently the longest-running show in the Law & Order franchise, and it’s not difficult to grasp why — featuring amazing acting, it shines in its admirable commitment to tackle important social issues and to make bold statements about society’s treatment of victims.

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