War may not be a laughing matter, but it’s only natural to find humor in tough situations. The most captivating military and war comedy series revolve around real battles and the people affected by them. These extraordinary TV shows bring the human and emotional aspects to the forefront. So, if you’re in search of the most entertaining military and war comedies, this list will help you decide what to add to your watchlist.
Sitcoms like M*A*S*H and Hogan’s Heroes are widely recognized as some of the greatest war and military comedies. They strike a perfect balance between humor and drama, providing a cathartic release through laughter. Not all military comedies focus on historical battles or current conflicts; some simply combine situational comedy with the lives of army personnel or special forces teams.
Which shows do the best job of infusing humor into conflict? Share your favorite military and war comedy series, and let’s keep the laughter going as we leave the seriousness behind.
1. M*A*S*H
Premiered: September 17, 1972
Actors: Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
2. Hogan’s Heroes
Premiered: September 17, 1965
Actors: Bob Crane, Werner Klemperer, John Banner
3. McHale’s Navy
Premiered: October 11, 1962
Actors: Ernest Borgnine, Joe Flynn, Tim Conway
4. Gomer Pyle: USMC
Premiered: September 25, 1964
Actors: Jim Nabors, Frank Sutton, Ronnie Schell
5. F Troop
Premiered: September 14, 1965
Actors: Ken Berry, Forrest Tucker, Larry Storch
6. Major Dad
Premiered: September 17, 1989
Actors: Gerald McRaney, Matt Mulhern, Marisa Ryan
7. Allo ‘Allo!
Premiered: December 30, 1982
Actors: Gorden Kaye, Carmen Silvera, Rose Hill
8. Dad’s Army
Premiered: July 31, 1968
Actors: Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn
9. Private Benjamin
Premiered: 1981
Actors: Craig T. Nelson, Eileen Brennan, Wendie Jo Sperber
10. The Wackiest Ship in the Army
Premiered: 1965
Actors: Jack Warden, Gary Collins, Mike Kellin
11. C.P.O. Sharkey
Premiered: 1976
Actors: Don Rickles, Harrison Page, David Landsberg