How to watch

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia follows 'the Gang' — a group of narcissistic, scheming friends who run Paddy's Pub in Philadelphia. Known for its pitch-black comedy and iconic recurring bits, the show has run for well over a dozen seasons and become a cult favorite.

🕐 Release Order

Release order lets the show's endless callbacks and running jokes accumulate the way the writers intended.

1. Seasons 1–4 (2005–2008)
2. Seasons 5–8 (2009–2012)
3. Seasons 9–12 (2013–2017)
4. Seasons 13–16 (2018–2023)

Episodes are largely standalone, but the humor relies on long-running gags, so chronology follows broadcast order.

📖 Story Chronology

Story chronology matches broadcast order, with the Gang's schemes and callbacks building over time.

1. Seasons 1–4 (2005–2008)
2. Seasons 5–8 (2009–2012) — featuring classics like 'The Nightman Cometh'
3. Seasons 9–12 (2013–2017)
4. Seasons 13–16 (2018–2023)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Watch in broadcast order starting with Season 1. Though most episodes stand alone, the show is packed with callbacks and evolving character quirks that land best when viewed in sequence. Newcomers sometimes start with a 'best episodes' list, but for the full effect, begin at Season 1 and let the Gang's madness build.

🔗 Related Guides

• Community Watch OrderGuide
• Brooklyn Nine-Nine Watch OrderGuide
• The Office Watch OrderGuide

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!