There are some shows that truly leave their imprint on television, forever changing our perception of what's great. When Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David ('Curb Your Enthusiasm') came up with the idea for 'Seinfeld,' a sitcom for Jerry, their idea was no idea at all.

That their conceit would someday be named the greatest television program of all time by TV Guide is probably the biggest joke of all ... and we've all been in on the gag.

'Seinfeld' premiered on July 5, 1989. That's right; it was a summer TV show, which gives you clue about how little NBC thought of the project. When 'Seinfeld' ended its run on May 14, 1998, NBC was begging the principals for more.

In all, there were 180 episodes of 'Seinfeld.' The cast, in case you don't recall, was made up of four actors who played four friends who lived in New York City. Jerry Seinfeld played Jerry Seinfeld, a moderately successful, slightly neurotic stand-up comedian. Jason Alexander was George Costanza, Jerry's best friend who was a mass of neuroses. Julia Louis-Dreyfus was Elaine Benes, Jerry's ex-girlfriend and his second best friend. Michael Richards was Cosmo Kramer, Jerry's eccentric neighbor.