Most sitcoms have their flaws, especially as they age — but there’s one series that is a rare perfect addition to the genre:Schitt’s Creek.The show ran from 2015 to 2020, following the Rose family as they went from wealthy and sheltered to broke and living out of a motel in the eponymous town. The premise alone made the series stand out, but that’s not all it had going for it.
Thanks to its many strengths,Schitt’s Creekswept up numerous Emmysin 2020, and it received nominations the year prior to that as well. Like theall the best sitcoms,Schitt’s Creekdelivered a story full of humor and heart. However,it also set itself apart by leaving little to complain about, even upon later rewatches.
Perfect Sitcoms Are Rare, But Schitt’s Creek Is A 10/10 Series
A decade after its premiere,Schitt’s Creekremains a10/10 sitcom from start to finish— and that’s difficult to come by, even when looking at some of the most popular titles in the category. AlthoughSchitt’s Creektakes some time to find its footing, it still gets off to a strong start.
Some may feel the first outing weighs the show down, but I think it lays the groundwork perfectly for what’s to come. The reason season 1 feels so hard to get through is because the Rose family isn’tsupposedto be likable yet. This makes that initial investment a tough sell, but it’s more impressive (and easier to revisit) after seeing the full picture.
Andfrom season 1 onward,Schitt’s Creekjust gets betterand better, delivering some of the most impressive character growth on television. Allsix seasons ofSchitt’s Creekare masterfully crafted in that regard, demonstrating how the Roses become acclimated to their new home and become better people because of it.
That heartfelt and compelling throughline is balanced well with the series' clever humor, ensuring that viewers are consistently engaged. It will make you laugh and cry, and it isn’t likely to elicit many criticisms — something its impressive 93% critic and audience scores onRotten Tomatoessupports.
Of course, many sitcoms bring about tears and laughter, even if they aren’t as strong. What truly setsSchitt’s Creekapart — and contributes to its perfect legacy — is its approach to its characters and its timeless feel.
What Makes Schitt’s Creek Stand Out From Other Sitcoms
Many sitcoms show their age over time, and while it’s too soon to say howSchitt’s Creekwill be seen in hindsight, there’s no denying the series has a timeless quality. The show seems to be set in the present day, but it never fills viewers in on the specific timeline. And its jokes tend to lean on their characters and their interactions over references that could age it.
Schitt’s Creekis also set in an exceptionally inclusive world, with the series seeking to normalize its LGBTQ+ characters and refusing to showcase prejudice on-screen. All of this is refreshing, presenting an ideal world and suggestingSchitt’s Creek’s legacy will last longer than the average sitcom’s.
Combined with its deep characterization, which goes well beyond what most other shows accomplish, these elements elevateSchitt’s Creek. It was obvious the show was something special, even when it was on air, but it’s even more impressive that it remains such a masterpiece — and will likely keep that reputation for years to come.
