The Ultimate Dark Humor: 10 TV Comedies Born from Tragedies

Summary

Some TV comedies begin with devastatingly tragic premises, using personal tragedy as a backdrop for comedic characters in crucial transition periods.

Beginning with tragedy elicits audience sympathy, thereby driving the initial plot and setting, and providing a platform for humorous and heartfelt character dynamics. Renowned comedy series such as Fleabag, Full House, and Schitt's Creek thrive on the adversity faced by their characters, exemplifying the seamless fusion of tragedy and comedy.

Many TV comedies with hilarious storylines actually begin with tragic premises. The traditional approach of introducing a main character after a devastating event, like the loss of a spouse, has evolved into broader instances of personal tragedy in modern sitcoms. This choice of starting with personal tragedy not only allows for humor as a coping mechanism but also captivates a wide range of viewers through their empathy. It also creates a unique mindset for the protagonist, enabling significant life changes that drive the show's initial plot and setting. With a tragic backdrop, it becomes understandable if the character behaves humorously or exhibits heightened emotions. Below are ten beloved comedy series that thrive on such challenging circumstances.

10 Fleabag (2016 – 2019)

One of the most acclaimed comedy series of the 2020s was initiated by a devastating event: the death of the protagonist's closest friend. In the show Fleabag, the central character (Phoebe Waller-Bridge), known for her amoral and impulsive nature, experiences the profound loss of her only confidant, Boo (Jenny Rainsford). Boo tragically took her own life upon discovering that her boyfriend had been unfaithful—with none other than Fleabag herself. This disturbing revelation sets the stage for a series that delves into the depths of the protagonist's despair, providing the audience with a profound understanding of her miserable existence.

9 Full House (1986 – 1995)

In the midst of its light-hearted and comedic nature, Full House took an unexpectedly heart-wrenching turn in its first season. The show introduced us to Danny Tanner (Bob Saget), a devoted father left devastated by the tragic loss of his wife, Pamela. Adding to the anguish, Pamela's untimely demise was the result of a senseless car crash caused by a drunk driver, occurring just six months after giving birth to their youngest child, Michelle (Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen). With such a heart-rending premise, the phrase "Have Mercy!" takes on a whole new depth of meaning.

8 Schitt’s Creek (2015 – 2020)

Schitt's Creek experienced a surprising rise in popularity as a comedy series during the late 2010s, receiving the recognition it truly deserved in its sixth and final season. The initial concept of the show may not have been as tragic as the death of a family member, but it was equally devastating for the formerly affluent Rose family. They encountered a downfall when they lost all their wealth due to a tax scandal, which ultimately led them to find shelter in their only remaining possession: a small town named Schitt's Creek, a purchase they had made years ago as a mere joke.

7 The Bear (2022 – )

The Bear effortlessly balances drama and humor throughout its captivating initial two seasons. Despite the deeply moving and significant moments in The Bear, at its core it is undeniably a comedy, as seen in the interactions and dialogues between Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and his diverse mix of dysfunctional family members and treasured employees. Taking charge of his late brother Michael's sandwich shop in their hometown of Chicago after Michael's tragic suicide, Carmy, once a renowned chef at the world's most exclusive restaurant, embarks on a new chapter of his life.

6 Dead To Me (2019 – 2022)

5 Two And A Half Men (2003 – 2015)

The hit Netflix comedy series Dead To Me was originally based on the tragic death of Jen Harding's (played by Christina Applegate) husband in a hit-and-run accident. This heartbreaking foundation sets the stage for the gripping plot and captivating actions that unfold over the course of the show's three seasons. Determined to uncover the identity of her husband's killer, Jen embarks on a relentless quest that drives the series forward. Adding to the show's success is the remarkable comedic chemistry between Applegate and Linda Cardellini, who portrays Jen's closest friend, Judy Hale, earning the series an Emmy nomination.

One of the most successful network sitcoms ever made, Two and a Half Men, was built on the tragic premise of Alan's wife throwing him out of the house. If that unfortunate situation hadn't occurred, Alan (Jon Cryer) would have never moved into Charlie's (Charlie Sheen) house initially, and the historic comedic chemistry between them wouldn't have lasted for eight seasons. Ashton Kutcher stepped in to fill the void at the beginning of season 9 as Walden.

4 Diff’rent Strokes (1978 – 1986)

3 Who’s The Boss? (1984 – 1992)

- This iconic family sitcom of the late 70s and early 80s catapulted George Foreman to stardom and recognition in American households. While Arnold Jackson, portrayed by Foreman, brought laughter throughout 9 years and 8 seasons, the foundation of Diff'rent Strokes originated from a heartrending premise. Following the unfortunate demise of their mother, Arnold and his brother Willis (Todd Bridges) relocate from their Harlem home to reside with the affluent Phillip Drummond. On her deathbed, their mother implored Phillip to care for and protect Arnold and Willis.

Tony Danza stars as the charming father in the beloved 80s sitcom Who's The Boss? When his wife passes away, Tony makes the daring decision to leave New York City and take on the role of a housekeeper for a wealthy woman and her mother in the suburbs. As the story unfolds, their unique blend of personalities and experiences leads them to form one happy and unconventional family. Alyssa Milano shines as Samantha, Tony's quick-witted and endearing daughter.

2 Monk (2002 – 2009)

Monk, featuring Tony Shalhoub as a private consultant with OCD spectrum disorder, is undeniably one of the often overlooked, yet outstanding, television comedies. Shalhoub skillfully portrays Adrian Monk, a former police detective who, following the tragic loss of his wife Trudy, retired from his profession. The passing of Trudy intensifies Monk's OCD spectrum disorder, plunging him into a profound state of despondency and burdening him with various specific anxieties. This heartrending premise adds a remarkable layer of sadness to an otherwise uproariously funny TV series.

1 Eastbound & Down (2009 – 2013)

Danny McBride stars in Eastbound & Down as a Major League Baseball pitcher who loses everything due to his reckless behavior off the field. The character Kenny Powers (played by McBride) achieves legendary status by winning a World Series title for a fictional version of the Atlanta Braves, but his downfall is not easy for him to accept. Powers grapples with substance abuse, creating a tragic backdrop for this hilarious TV comedy series.