1. The Dick Van Dyke Show – “That’s My Boy??” (1963)
Rob Petrie has always been a bit high-strung, but this episode pushes his nerves to new heights. After bringing baby Richie home, he becomes convinced that the hospital accidentally switched babies. He tries to keep his fears under control, but the way he blurts out his suspicions to Laura is pure sitcom magic. Mary Tyler Moore’s calm but bemused reaction only makes Rob look sillier.
Things really take off when he nervously invites the “other” couple over to compare notes. The awkward build-up keeps viewers on edge, waiting for the reveal. And when the door opens and Rob’s theory falls hilariously flat, the look on his face is priceless. It’s a moment of comedy so strong that it’s still cited as one of the show’s funniest.
2. Gilligan’s Island – “Three Million Dollars More or Less” (1965)
The Howells are always trying to maintain their wealth and dignity, even while stranded, and this episode shows just how absurd that can get. Thurston tries to use money to get special treatment, handing out cash like it’s still Wall Street. Gilligan and the others humor him, but soon realize coconuts and fish are worth far more than paper bills. The irony of it all makes the whole thing hilarious.
Watching Lovey play along while still expecting servants is equally funny. The Skipper’s exasperation as Howell waves money in his face is sitcom gold. It’s a gentle poke at society’s obsession with wealth, showing that money doesn’t mean much in the middle of nowhere. Even today, the gag still works perfectly.
3. Bewitched – “Divided He Falls” (1966)
Darrin is already overwhelmed trying to balance his career with life as the husband of a witch, but things get crazier when Samantha magically splits him in two. One version is serious and driven, the other is carefree and fun-loving. Naturally, each one thinks he’s the better fit for Samantha, leading to hilarious competition.
Dick York shines by juggling two completely different personas in the same episode. Samantha’s attempts to keep the peace while also wrangling both Darrins is comedy perfection. The magical twist adds just enough absurdity to keep things light. It’s a playful reminder that sometimes too much of a good thing really is too much.
4. The Andy Griffith Show – “Barney’s First Car” (1963)
Barney Fife finally gets his own set of wheels, and he’s never been prouder. He struts around Mayberry bragging about his independence, but of course the car is a total lemon. His pride turns into chaos as the car breaks down at every turn. Don Knotts delivers each mishap with his trademark mix of desperation and bluster.
Andy’s calm, supportive nature only makes Barney’s struggles look funnier. The townsfolk watching him wrestle with his broken-down ride adds to the comedy. It’s both slapstick and character-driven humor, which is why it’s still funny. Anyone who’s ever bought a used car can relate to the disaster.
5. I Dream of Jeannie – “The Moving Finger” (1967)
Jeannie’s jealousy knows no bounds, especially when it comes to Tony being on television. She decides to “help” by magically interfering with the broadcast, causing one hilarious problem after another. Cameras misfire, props fall apart, and Tony scrambles to keep his dignity intact. Barbara Eden’s mischievous smile says it all.
Larry Hagman plays Tony’s frustration so well that you can’t help but laugh at his attempts to stay calm. The situation gets funnier the more he tries to explain what’s happening to his superiors. The blend of magic and everyday career problems makes this episode timeless. It’s the kind of farce that never loses its charm.
6. Green Acres – “Lisa’s First Day on the Farm” (1965)
Lisa Douglas is completely out of her element when she first sets foot on the farm. She expects city luxuries and instead finds herself without hot water or a proper telephone. Her disbelief is played perfectly by Eva Gabor, who delivers every line with a mix of horror and elegance. Oliver, on the other hand, just wants her to embrace country life.
The comedy comes from watching her attempt chores she’s never dreamed of doing. Cooking, cleaning, and farm tasks become disasters under her watch. Her glamorous outfits paired with muddy chores make every scene visually funny. The clash of city and country values never gets old, and this episode sets the tone beautifully.
7. The Beverly Hillbillies – “The Clampetts and the Dodgers” (1963)
The Clampetts discover baseball, and it’s exactly as chaotic as you’d imagine. When they meet the Dodgers, they try to wrap their heads around America’s pastime. Granny doesn’t see the point, Jethro is overly enthusiastic, and Jed just shrugs at the whole thing. Their innocent confusion makes every moment funny.
The highlight is Jethro trying to mimic the pros with disastrous results. Granny’s no-nonsense skepticism about the game cuts through everyone’s excitement. It’s a perfect example of the show’s fish-out-of-water humor. Even viewers who don’t follow sports can laugh at their complete misunderstanding of the rules.
8. Get Smart – “Mr. Big” (1965)
Maxwell Smart’s very first TV mission is a whirlwind of slapstick and spy parody. He stumbles through disguises, botches secret plans, and somehow manages to stay alive. Don Adams’ straight-faced delivery makes even the most ridiculous situations funny. Every “Would you believe…?” line lands perfectly.
What makes it even funnier is that Max always thinks he’s in control. In reality, KAOS is tripping over his incompetence. The mix of wordplay, slapstick, and satire is spot on. It’s no wonder this episode helped launch one of TV’s most beloved comedies.
9. The Addams Family – “Cousin Itt Visits the Addams Family” (1965)
Cousin Itt’s arrival is a sight to behold, a walking mass of hair with a squeaky voice nobody can understand. The Addamses treat him like any other relative, which only makes things stranger. Gomez and Morticia’s polite encouragement of his career aspirations is absurd and hilarious. Watching them brainstorm jobs for Itt is a highlight.
The real comedy comes from the family’s complete lack of awareness that Itt is bizarre. To them, he’s perfectly normal, while the audience is left laughing at the contrast. It’s that deadpan approach that makes the show so funny. Even decades later, Cousin Itt is still a scene-stealer.
10. Hogan’s Heroes – “Kommandant of the Year” (1966)
Colonel Klink is convinced he’s about to win a major award, and his ego inflates instantly. He struts around camp, barking orders and preening for attention. Hogan and the men quickly realize they can use his vanity to their advantage. The result is one of the funniest schemes of the season.
Klink’s misplaced confidence is so over the top that it’s hard not to laugh. The guards’ confusion and Hogan’s sly manipulation keep the episode moving. It’s a smart balance of satire and slapstick. Even with the serious setting, the comedy is lighthearted and clever.
11. My Three Sons – “Robbie and the Little Stranger” (1964)
Robbie Douglas finds himself in a bind when a babysitting job overlaps with his plans to impress a girl. His attempt to balance romance and responsibility is both sweet and funny. The little one’s mischief constantly interrupts his big moments. Teenage awkwardness has rarely been so well portrayed.
The humor comes from Robbie’s frustration and determination to make things work. He’s charming and hapless all at once. His family’s gentle teasing afterward makes the situation even funnier. It’s a slice of everyday life that still resonates today.
12. Car 54, Where Are You? – “146th Street” (1962)
Officers Toody and Muldoon have their hands full with a street full of complaining neighbors. Everyone wants something different, and nobody is happy. Their bumbling attempts to mediate just make things worse. Each compromise somehow sparks another round of chaos.
The rapid-fire dialogue keeps the laughs coming. Watching the two officers try to play peacemaker while clearly overwhelmed is a riot. The neighborhood’s escalating demands spiral out of control in the funniest way. It’s a perfect showcase of classic ensemble comedy.
13. Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. – “Sergeant Carter’s Farewell to His Troops” (1964)
When Sergeant Carter thinks he’s being transferred, Gomer throws a huge farewell bash. The problem is, Carter doesn’t really want a party, and Gomer’s enthusiasm is more than he can handle. Decorations, speeches, and songs make the whole thing over the top. Carter’s growing discomfort is hilarious.
Jim Nabors’ sweet sincerity as Gomer makes the comedy work. He really believes he’s doing something wonderful, which makes the misunderstandings funnier. Carter’s gruff reactions only highlight Gomer’s innocence. The clash between earnestness and irritation is timeless.
14. The Monkees – “The Devil and Peter Tork” (1968)
Peter Tork innocently agrees to a Faustian bargain in order to play the harp like a master. When the devil shows up to collect, the rest of the Monkees leap into action. The absurdity of four goofy musicians outwitting evil makes it one of the funniest episodes. Music mixes with slapstick in perfect balance.
The satire of selling your soul is clever, but the band’s antics keep it lighthearted. Their chemistry shines through in every scene. It’s a surreal mix of rock ‘n’ roll, comedy, and folklore. Even new viewers find it charming today.
15. That Girl – “Don’t Just Do Something, Stand There” (1966)
Ann Marie is determined to break into acting, but nothing goes according to plan. Her auditions are a series of comic disasters, from mistaken identities to physical pratfalls. Each attempt only makes her seem more determined. Marlo Thomas’ mix of charm and exasperation makes Ann incredibly relatable.
The episode works because anyone chasing a dream knows how frustrating setbacks can be. Ann’s upbeat attitude in the face of failure is both funny and inspiring. Watching her improvise and stumble through opportunities is endearing. It’s a perfect example of why audiences loved her.
16. Mister Ed – “Ed the Beneficiary” (1962)
Wilbur does the unthinkable and names his horse, Ed, as his life insurance beneficiary. The very idea sets off a chain of ridiculous conversations. How would Ed even use the money? Could a horse inherit? The absurdity just builds from there.
Ed’s snarky responses to Wilbur’s plan are delivered with perfect timing. The contrast between Wilbur’s seriousness and the ridiculous situation is what makes it work. It’s both silly and clever at the same time. No wonder Mister Ed remains such a unique classic.
