Santa Barbara is not on the list: 10 longest-running TV series in history, most of which go on for decades

When people think of the world's longest-running TV series, the well-known Santa Barbara with its 2,137 episodes usually comes to mind. In fact, there are many other films that have immediately surpassed the popular soap opera and are still being filmed today, and some of them have even been broadcast on Ukrainian TV channels.

Santa Barbara itself was shown in 50 countries, and 9 seasons were released. The longest-running series was Guiding Light, which began as a radio program in the 1930s and a TV show in 1952 and finally ended with the 18,262nd episode in 2009. In total, it existed on the screens for 57 years and pleased fans with 72 seasons. OBOZ.UA, taking into account the information from BBC, Variety and Business Insider has collected series that have delighted fans for decades.

General Hospital (1963-present)

The series focuses on the events that take place in the city hospital in the port city of Port Charles. General Hospital is known for its multilayered storyline, covering medical themes, love stories, intrigue, and family dramas over the course of 15,407 episodes. It is still broadcast to this day and has won the largest number of Emmy Awards during its existence.

The Simpsons (1989-present)

The popular American animated television series first aired in 1989 and became one of the most famous and successful in the world. It tells the story of the adventures of the Simpson family: father Homer, mother Marge, and their children Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, who live in the town of Springfield. The series is known for its humor, satire and constant references to cultural and political events.

Another World (1964 - 1999)

Over the course of the series' existence, 8,891 episodes were broadcast. The peculiarity of the movie is that it does not focus on the problems of only one family but on the differences between families of different social classes. The TV series was the highest-rated among other popular soap operas for 15 years and was the first to have a series of more than 30 minutes.

Sesame Street (1969 - present)

For more than 4 thousand episodes, the children's cartoon has been catching the eye with its interesting stories and "hairy" characters, attracting the attention of adults as well. Its main goal is to tell kids about important social issues in simple language.

Law & Order (1990 - present)

This TV series has been delighting viewers with new episodes for 23 seasons, 496 of which have already been released. It shows the work of the police, prosecutors, and the court in investigating and solving crimes in New York City. Each episode describes a separate criminal case from the initial investigation to the trial.

Doctor Who (1963 - present)

The cult British science fiction television series was released with significant interruptions. It still appears on screens and is the longest-running series in the world in its genre. The main idea is the adventures of the Doctor, who travels through time and space with various companions, exploring a variety of worlds and fighting enemies.

South Park (1997-present)

This cartoon for adults is notable for its sarcastic humor, satirical approach to social issues and ridicule of cultural stereotypes. It is known for its sharp plots and a large number of characters.

The Bugs Bunny Show (1960-2000)

The 27-season show was broadcast not only on American television but also on Ukrainian TV channels. The show was centered on the rabbit's wit and cheerful character. Bugs Bunny is known for his bright appearance and ability to get out of any situation thanks to his sharp intellect and sarcastic humor.

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