Unconventional Humor: The Top 9 Drama Shows That Will Make You Laugh

1. The Eccentric World of Litchfield Penitentiary

In a surprising twist, Orange Is the New Black takes the top spot for its ability to infuse humor into the lives of inmates in a women's prison. The show's quirky characters and witty dialogues humanize the struggles of the incarcerated, making for a refreshing and comedic take on the drama genre.

Inmates wearing beige and lined up against a wall in Orange Is the New Black

2. A Deadly Duo: The Hunt in Killing Eve

Killing Eve delights viewers with its juxtaposition of intense drama and sharp comedy. The cat-and-mouse game between an assassin and a determined agent is laced with humor, highlighting the eccentricities of the characters and adding depth to the gripping storyline.

Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer as Eve and Villanelle in Killing Eve

3. Fargo's Dark Comedy and Quirky Characters

Fargo stands out for its darkly comedic moments interspersed with stylized violence. Each season introduces a new set of oddball characters, from mild-mannered salesmen to eccentric mob bosses, creating a tapestry of humor against a backdrop of crime and chaos.

Peggy and Ed in Fargo season 2

4. The Gritty Humor of Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders masterfully weaves humor into its gritty portrayal of gangland activities in early 20th century Britain. The exaggerated characters, led by the charismatic Tommy Shelby, deliver sharp one-liners and absurd interactions that add levity to the show's intense themes.

Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders

5. Upside Down Laughs in Stranger Things

Stranger Things combines supernatural horror with heartwarming humor, particularly through its young cast facing otherworldly threats. The camaraderie and playful banter among the kids bring a lightness to the dark narrative, making the show a captivating blend of chills and chuckles.

Nancy, Robin, Steve and Eddie in the Upside Down in Stranger Things season 4

6. House's Diagnosis: Comedy Relief

House injects comedy into the medical drama genre with Hugh Laurie's dry wit and sarcasm. Dr. House's unapologetic humor and sharp observations provide a refreshing break from the intense medical cases, showcasing the lighter side of a complex character.

Hugh Laurie and Lisa Edelstein as Gregory House and Lisa Cuddy in House MD

7. Black Comedy Brilliance in Better Call Saul

Better Call Saul pushes the boundaries of black comedy with Bob Odenkirk's portrayal of the morally ambiguous lawyer, Jimmy. The show's dark humor shines through in Jimmy's absurd situations and twisted moral dilemmas, creating a compelling and comedic spinoff of Breaking Bad.

Jimmy/Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk) on the phone next to his decrepit car in Better Call Saul.

8. Mafia Mischief in The Sopranos

The Sopranos blends drama with dark humor in its portrayal of a New Jersey mob boss seeking therapy. The show's witty dialogue and absurd situations highlight the quirks of organized crime, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on the mafia lifestyle.

James Gandolfini as Tony smoking a cigar in his pool in The Sopranos

9. Family Feuds and Awkward Humor in Succession

Succession navigates the tumultuous world of a media dynasty with sharp wit and cringe-worthy humor. The Roy family's dysfunctional dynamics and biting one-liners create a darkly comedic atmosphere, showcasing the absurdities of wealth and power.

The Roy siblings sitting at an empty rehearsal table with Connor (Alan Ruck) looking sad in Succession season 4 episode 2.

10. Mad Men's Office Comedy and Eccentric Characters

Mad Men infuses the world of 1960s advertising with dark humor and eccentric characters. From office antics to personal dramas, the show captures the absurdities of corporate culture with a touch of wit, anchored by Jon Hamm's understated comedic brilliance.

Roger, Don and Burt sitting in Burt's office in Mad Men