What wouldModern Familybe without watching the kids grow up?

And how could procedural shows likeCriminal Mindsdepict big breaks in cases without some time passing in between findings?

Theres a reason whySupernaturalis the CWs longest-running series - with aprequel currently in production.

split image from Criminal Minds and Supernatural

After all, the cases from the FBI and its Behavioral Analyst Unit (B.A.U.)

are some of the most thrilling and intriguing to watch season after season.

They welcomed new members to the family and mourned the loss of old ones.

cast of Shamless in the series final

Image via The CW

You witness her mistakes and triumphs as a doctor until she eventually declares a specialty.

But 18 seasons later, Meredith and her colleagues continue to save lives.

ButGreys Anatomycontinues to churn out more drama and medical cases and is alreadygearing up for the 19th season.

Sam and Dean Winchester (Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles) sitting on the Impala in Supernatural

Image via The CW

NEXT:The 10 Longest Running Sci-Fi TV Series

cast of Criminal Minds

cast of Modern Family in the series finale

Image via ABC

cast of Grey’s Anatomy from season 1

The cast of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia inside Paddy’s Pub.

Image via FXX

family guy characters sitting on a couch

Modern Family

Criminal Minds