10. The Colbert Report (Comedy Central)
Don't let its position at No. 10 mislead you. Report is funny, sometimes unexpectedly moving the interview with Stephen Sondheim was a magnificent example of deep knowledge and affection and more influential than ever (which will only become more apparent as the presidential race heats up). Stephen Colbert continues to make TV's most sustained piece of performance art as satire, activism (never underestimate the influence of the Colbert Super PAC), and pure silliness.