Why are so many hit television shows set in New York City? Maybe it's because the daily drama -- and comedy -- of life in New York makes for good TV. From the groundbreaking comedy of The Jeffersons in the 1970s to the mega-hits of Seinfeld and Friends, New York City has been a co-star in some of TV's most popular series.
1. Seinfeld
Seinfeld introduced New York neurotics Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer to the rest of the world. Set primarily in Jerry's Upper West Side apartment and a nearby coffee shop, Seinfeld became a major hit with hilarious storylines about dating, parking, and surviving in New York City. Now on DVD, Seinfeld featured classic shows about marble rye, sponge-worthy men, and the quest to be master of one's domain.
2. The Jeffersons
George and Weezie moved on up to the East Side (to a deluxe apartment in the sky) in this classic spin-off of All In The Family (which was set across the river in Queens). The series rarely moves outside of the Jeffersons' apartment, but it offers a hilarious look at life in New York City.3. Sex and the City
This HBO original series introduced the world to the sexy, smart, and very single Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte. New York is a lovingly-filmed backdrop for their funny and outrageous adventures. These New Yorkers date, shop, and then meet up to dish over Cosmopolitans (luckily, none of them feel compelled to spend much time at work). And they do it all in Manolo Blahnik heels and fashion ensembles by Patricia Field.4. Friends
The mega-hit comedy Friends featured six friends living in unrealistically large New York City apartments. They rarely went out (who can blame them given the size of those apartments?), except to sip lattes at the coffee shop downstairs. But America couldn't get enough of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe.5. Law & Order
Law & Order is one of the most addictive shows on TV. The storylines are fun (especially when they're "inspired" by true events) and it's entertaining to try to spot local landmarks in the background as the detectives discover bodies and question suspects. The SVU and Criminal Intent spin-offs have their own charms, but there's nothing like the original (especially the classic Orbach years).