The Grand Aul Laughs

The Best Irish Sitcoms of All Time

Let's Irish sitcoms and chill.

Irish humour is one of a kind: sharp, warm, a little bit mischievous, and rooted in storytelling. Whether it’s priests on a remote island, teenagers navigating school life, or lads just trying to avoid trouble, Irish sitcoms have a way of capturing everyday life while making us cry laughing.

Here is a look at some of the best Irish sitcoms of all time — the ones that have shaped our sense of humour and stayed with us long after the final credits.

1. Father Ted (1995–1998)

The most iconic Irish sitcom, full stop. Set on the fictional Craggy Island, Father Ted gave us Father Ted Crilly, Father Dougal McGuire, Father Jack, and the legendary Mrs. Doyle. It managed to be surreal, ridiculous, and sharply observed all at once.

It is the kind of show that you can quote endlessly, and still laugh every time.

Best For: Anyone who appreciates absurd humour and lines that only make sense if you are Irish.

Moment to Remember: “That money was just resting in my account!”

2. Derry Girls (2018–2022)

The modern classic that took the world by storm. Set in 1990s Derry during the final years of the Troubles, Derry Girls showed the joy, chaos, and resilience of teenage life through the sharpest writing and the best ensemble cast on television. It balanced comedy and heart with real skill.

It’s funny because it's true. It’s moving because it's real.

Best For: Anyone who appreciates honest humour and big feelings, all at the same time.

Moment to Remember: The school talent show. Enough said.

3. The Young Offenders (2018–Present)

Cork chaos at its finest. Based on the hit film, this series follows best friends Conor and Jock as they cycle, stumble, and joke their way through Cork. Their friendship, their mothers, and the Gardaí chasing them create endless humour.

There’s silliness, heart, and Cork attitude — which is its own comedy genre.

Best For: Fans of Irish storytelling, lovable fools, and fast one-liners.

Moment to Remember: Any scene with Principal Walsh losing patience.

4. Mrs. Brown’s Boys (2011–Present)

The sitcom that divides opinion — but fills arenas. Whether you love it or not, Mrs. Brown’s Boys has staying power. Brendan O’Carroll’s Agnes Brown, breaking the fourth wall and giving out to the family, has become a modern Irish cultural icon.

It’s broad comedy, but it clearly strikes a chord — especially with audiences abroad.

Best For: Viewers who like big laughs, big characters, and jokes delivered straight to camera.

Moment to Remember: The Christmas episodes, every year.

5. Hardy Bucks (2010–2018)

The cult favourite. Starting as a YouTube mockumentary, Hardy Bucks captured small-town Irish life better than anything else before it or since. Eddie, Buzz, French Toast, Salmon, and The Viper gave us slang, awkwardness, and gold.

It’s not polished — but that is exactly the charm.

Best For: Fans of dry humour, small-town antics, and characters that feel like someone you definitely know.

Moment to Remember: Anything involving The Viper’s schemes.

Final Thoughts

These sitcoms remind us of what makes Irish humour special: the affection behind the teasing, the storytelling in every line, and the ability to laugh even when life is messy.

Whether you’re rewatching old favourites or discovering something new, you’ll find yourself laughing — and probably quoting — for days afterwards.

Because when it comes to comedy, we don’t just tell jokes. We tell stories.