Let’s be honest, it’s rough out there right now. The news is pretty much all bad at the moment. You need to be informed, but you also need to protect your mental health. To help you find balance in these uncertain times, we’ve put together a helpful list of comfort TV shows that will keep you entertained and centered while we work through heartbreaking world affairs.
Suggested Reading
Brooklyn Nine-Nine – Peacock
The detectives of Brooklyn’s 99th precinct frequently find themselves caught up in over the top nonsense. When the world is falling apart, getting lost in Nine-Nine shenanigans will be like a fresh bowl of chicken soup.
Psych – Peacock
Shawn and Gus are friendship goals. Through all the ridiculous absurdity of their cases, these lifelong friends never doubt one another. Even when one of them is completely going off the rails, the other has their back. They’re hilarious and inspiring.
The Mandalorian – Disney+
Nothing on TV is more comforting than watching Baby Yoda discover his force abilities for the first time and bond with Din Djarin.
Sister Sister – Paramount+
Tia and Tamera Mowry’s coming of age comedy takes us back to our own teenage years. We are instantly thankful they are over.
The Good Place – Netflix
Never has death been as funny as it was in this superb comedy. Through four seasons we followed six friends across the most absurd version of the afterlife we’ve ever seen. It never failed to make us feel better after we watched.
Sanford and Son – Prime Video
When you need a pick me up, nothing will work better than Fred calling his son a “dummy,” then telling Elizabeth “it’s the big one.” Redd Foxx is a comedic genius who makes it look effortless.
The Golden Girls – Hulu
No matter how bad your day has been, the instant that theme song kicks in, it makes all your problems go away. Plus, it’s hard to stay down once Dorothy, Blanche, Rose and Sophia start slinging those classic one-liners.
Living Single – Max, Prime Video
We will never get tired of Max’s digs at Regine, Synclaire and Overton’s sweet love story or Max and Kyle’s undeniable chemistry. This show is truly special and was ahead of its time.
Black-ish – Hulu
It’s always fun to revisit the comedic brilliance of Tracee Ellis Ross, Marsai Martin and Jenifer Lewis.
Abbott Elementary – Hulu
Abbott Elementary is just flat out hilarious. No matter what sort of mood you’re in, this new classic will make you fall off the couch laughing.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – Paramount+, Prime Video
What’s fun about The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is watching Will Smith grow as an actor, and enjoying how the chemistry of the cast evolves into something truly special.
227 – Hulu
Yes, everyone on 227 is amazing, but let’s be honest, it’s Jackée Harry’s genius portrayal of Sandra that keeps us coming back to this ‘80s classic.
Insecure – Netflix
There’s something really comforting about the idea that Issa and Molly’s lives are just as messy as ours. It’s also inspiring to find their way out of the chaos.
The Bernie Mac Show – Prime Video
Bernie Mac’s genius takes us back to a simpler time, reminding us of our own childhoods.
The New Edition Story – Paramount+
This unflinching miniseries following the R&B supergroup is unquestionably one of the best music biopics ever made. NE chose a warts and all version of their story and we’re all the beneficiaries of something special.
Good Times – Amazon Freevee
While Good Times is not what anyone would ever call “feel good” TV, checking in with the Evans feels like putting on your favorite pair of pajamas. It just feels right.
A Different World – Max, Prime Video
Don’t act like you’re not still deeply invested in Whitley and Dwayne’s love story.
Scandal – Hulu
Watching Olivia Pope eviscerate men who think they can hang with her never gets old. It provides the extra boost you need to deal with your incompetent co-worker.
Family Matters – Hulu
Yes, there’s way too much Urkel nonsense, but let’s never forget how groundbreaking the Winslow family was.
9-1-1 – Hulu
Obviously, Angela Bassett is fantastic. But what makes this show work is that even when the first responders can’t save the day, there’s still an emotional payoff. It’s like a warm hug.
Law & Order – NBC, Peacock
You always know what you’re going to get with the Law & Order. The well-worn formula feels like a familiar pair of slippers. Plus, once you get to a certain point in the episode, you’re hooked and must finish it.
Key & Peele – Paramount+
The absurdity and comedic genius of Key & Peele will instantly take your mind off of any outside chaos currently invading your life.
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