I'm on a bit of a sitcom kick, it seems. My last story centered on my love of sitcoms focused in and around high schools, particularly Weemawee High of Square Pegs fame. This time I'd like to discuss the more traditional family-based situation comedies. Specifically, I'd like recognize those unsung soldiers that gave their comedic all for no more than fifth or sixth billing in the credits and even fewer minutes of screen time per week. Those selfless souls who persevered for seasons on end in the hope that their character would one day get to date the older sister or, God willing, attain that holy grail of sitcom-dom -- the spin-off series.
Without further ado, put your hands together as we celebrate some of televisions finest bit characters. Ladies and gentlemen, you wanted the best, you got the best! I give to you, SweatpantsErection.com's top five sitcom sidekicks of all time!
Honorable Mentions
An unfortunate truth is that, with only five available slots, many wonderfully talented and commendable sidekicks go un-recognized. I'd like to take this time to call out those subordinates who almost made this list: Paul from The Wonder Years, Cockroach from The Cosby Show, Boner from Growing Pains, Vinne from Doogie Howser, M.D., Kramer from Seinfeld, Steve Urkel from Family Matters and the legendary duo of Ralph and Potsy from Happy Days.
Wonders, every one of them, each member of this list and their individual contributions to sitcom history have touched countless lives and reached countless hearts. For this, we salute you, sitcom sidekicks.
