Obviously we’re big fans of satire, and one of the best is about to make television history. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is about to embark on its 15th season, making it the longest running live-action American sitcom. While they have not begun filming yet (due to, well, you know…) FX has renewed the series, and writing has commenced.
If you’re not familiar, Always Sunny follows the hijinks of “the gang,” which is comprised of Mac (Rob McElhenney), Charlie (Charlie Day), Dee (Kaitlin Olson), Dennis (Glenn Howerton), and Frank (Danny DeVito). Over the course of the series, a distinct dynamic developed, and while the outcome for the gang is usually less than desirable, the satirical effect almost always hits.
The show is often criticized for being vulgar and insensitive, which is exactly what makes it great. While Always Sunny often steps over the line, it’s done intentionally, and with the best intentions.
To celebrate the accomplishment, let’s take a look at 10 great moments from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and if you haven’t seen the show, it’s currently available on Hulu or the FX streaming app.
1. Disproving Evolution
An ongoing theme is the gang solving ridiculous issues in a court setting. Here, Mac is somehow able to successfully persuade the gang that evolution is a lie.
2. Charlie’s Conspiracy
This is probably the most famous scene as it has been turned into a well known meme.
3. Reunion Dance
Sweet Dee’s sick moves in the full-body brace and Mac’s final move are classic.
4. Charlie Gets More Smarter
This spin on Flowers for Algernon is a classic example of the show parodying pop-culture. The gag is that Charlie is typically illiterate.
5. Mac’s Bike
Another theme is Mac’s unwillingness to divulge his sexuality, all the while providing plenty of evidence to the gang.
6. Dennis and Dee “Workout”
Dennis and Dee are constantly proving to be shallow and lazy. This is a prime example of how they behave.
7. McPoyle’s Fake Eye
The gang has an ongoing feud with the McPoyle’s, which resulted in Liam losing his eye. No problem though, can’t even tell…
8. Frank’s 2nd Amendment Rights
Good thing Frank picked up a spare; one just wouldn’t have done it.
9. Charlie’s Dating Profile
“H” is for hornets.
10. Fight Milk
I love this one because it shows just how much fun everyone has making the show. Day, McElhenney, and Howerton are all writers and producers on the show, and have often expressed how much fun it is to work on it.
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia may not be everyone’s cup of tea; it’s a heavy layer of stupid humor covering up a delicious cake of satire. Regardless, it is a successful show that is ready to give laughter to the masses at least one more time around, and I for one cannot wait.