17 Things That Happen On Every Sitcom

The situations of situational comedies

Why do we love sitcoms? Perhaps it's because – even though we love a good surprise now and again – there are always things we can depend on happening every time. And even though we know they're coming, we just can't get enough!

Watch Mike & Molly on CBS.

1. There will be a nosy neighbor

Sophie is a shining example of the neighbor who's in everyone's business and who overshares her own. Is she there for the goodies or the gossip? Probably both. And we wouldn't have it any other way.

Watch 2 Broke Girls on CBS.

2. There's probably an annoying younger sibling

They're pesky as all get-out but they're also so darn cute!

Watch Mom on CBS.

3. There's a flashback episode

Remember when Leonard told Penny how the gang met Sheldon? Good times. Coincidentally, there's also always a flash-forward episode where the main characters get a glimpse of their future. Sometimes the present just isn't enough on a sitcom.

Watch The Big Bang Theory on CBS.

4. There will be a new addition

After all of the pregnancy jokes and the get-me-to-the-hospital bumbling, every sitcom manages to introduce a new character in the form of an infant. Aw!

Watch Life In Pieces on CBS.

5. Mom plays an important role

Whether she pops in for an episode here or there or she's a constant presence, Mom is a big deal. She means well, but sometimes she just means it too much. Or not enough. She's trying her hardest, OK?!

Watch Mom on CBS.

6. There's a not-so-typical match-up

The star-athlete guy goes for the quirky girl. The hot chick marries the nerd. Do these things happen in real life? Sometimes. But mostly they happen on sitcoms.

Watch The Big Bang Theory on CBS.

7. There's an oddball friend

There’s also one friend that’s not quite like the others. Maybe they're messy, perhaps they're fashion is too eccentric. Whatever it is, they're different from the pack. But that’s what makes them awesome!

Watch The Odd Couple on CBS.

8. A cute pet shows up when needed

Furry, scaly, small or oversized, every quality sitcom has a cuddly buddy.

Watch 2 Broke Girls on CBS.

9. There's one main hang-out spot

There is always one place where you know all of your buds are hanging out on a sitcom. Why try out a new bar or restaurant when you already know where everyone is going?

Watch The Odd Couple on CBS.

10. Physical comedy is inevitable

It could be one piece of furniture throwing off the feng shui so badly that people actually trip over it. Or maybe it's just one clumsy cast member. But physical comedy is a mainstay on sitcoms.

Watch Mike & Molly on CBS.

11. There's a rebel

He could be a “bad boy,” the kid who always gets in trouble at school. But one thing is certain: He’s always hot. ALWAYS.

Watch Mom on CBS.

12. Someone gets married

Their relationship has had some ups and downs. The trek to the aisle has been a treacherous one. Someone is probably going to get cold feet right before the wedding. But, in the end, a favorite show couple gets hitched!

Watch 2 Broke Girls on CBS.

13. There's a true friendship

All sitcoms have two characters, like Amy and Allison, that always support each other (though they may butt heads sometimes).

Watch Angel from Hell on CBS.

14. The characters deal with death

It's sad, but death is a fact of life. The silver lining? Watching beloved characters grieve can be reassuring and healing for all of us watching.

Watch The Big Bang Theory on CBS.

15. There will be a break-up

It’s heartbreaking, but it happens to all of us. Even your TV friends go through break-ups. Sheldon and Amy know that feeling.

Watch The Big Bang Theory on CBS.

16. Someone ends up in jail

Luckily, for Molly, Mike is a cop.

Watch Mike & Molly on CBS.

17. There are cameos

What would a great sitcom be without awesome cameos? It's especially fun to watch recurring visits from fan favorites, such as the late Leonard Nimoy on The Big Bang Theory.

Watch The Big Bang Theory on CBS.