The comeback of the sitcom: 6 theories

As dramas and reality TV struggle to find viewers, comedy series are more popular than ever. Here, critics ponder why 2011 is the Year of the Comedy

Show like "Modern Family" and other primetime sitcoms are encouraging a comedy renaissance because they are short, easy to watch, and innovative, say critics.
(Image credit: Facebook/Modern Family)

Not long ago, critics were declaring TV comedies dead, with most sitcoms lacking both ratings and laughs. But comedies have been undergoing a renaissance over the past several years. Fresh, smart series like The Office, Glee, and Modern Family are becoming hits with viewers and critics alike. This year, sitcoms are smashing ratings records. And so far the only new fall shows to get full-season pickups have been comedies. What's behind the sitcom surge? Here, six theories:

1. They're easier to watch

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