8. Saturday Night Live (1975-present)
A late-night comedy show featuring several short skits, parodies of television commercials, a live guest band, and a pop-cultural guest host each week. Many of the SNL players have spun off successful independent comedy and/or movie careers from here. Oh, SNL. I got introduced to you as an adult, but I quickly caught up and have since watched
every episode from 1975 til today. I didn't really know what was happening in many of them, as my American entertainment and political history knowledge of the 70's and 80's is very limited, but it's magic regardless. SNL is magic, not only because it's live, which is a big part of the thrill, but because you care about the actors. Also, they place just as much importance on the physical humor and impersonations as on the "issues" that are going on at the time. It is one of my greatest fantasies to be on that show, in any capacity. And to think of all the great actors and comedians to become huge successes from that show! Will Ferrell, Chris Parnell, Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, Mike Meyers, Phil Hartman, Bill Hader, Will Forte, Robert Downey Jr.,etc.