When life feels overwhelming, a great television series can provide a much-needed escape, lifting our moods and leaving us with a renewed sense of hope and optimism. Certain shows have a knack for directly speaking to our hearts, whether through their humor or poignant, thought-provoking narratives. From lighthearted comedies to wholesome dramas, TV shows that explore themes of friendship, community, and love do a wonderful job of showcasing different perspectives, encouraging audiences to celebrate life’s smallest moments and little joys, and offering a way to escape darker realities.
TV shows that uplift and inspire us often have common traits, such as a focus on human connection, friendship, and community, and a balance of humor and heart. Shows like Detectorists, Shrinking, and Abbott Elementary explore these themes, while others like The Good Place and Parks and Recreation go into abstract topics like morality and ethics. Modern Family and Schitt’s Creek showcase the importance of family and acceptance, respectively, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Ted Lasso offer a mix of humor and social commentary.
‘Abbott Elementary’ (Image via Getty)
Detectorists, for instance, celebrates human connection and the importance of finding joy in small moments, with lovable characters and witty dialogue that leave audiences feeling uplifted and grateful. Shrinking, on the other hand, focuses on a grieving therapist who starts to tell his clients exactly what he thinks, making huge changes in people’s lives. The show’s balance of humor and heart makes it a refreshing and uplifting meditation on healing and helping others heal.
Other shows, like Abbott Elementary and The Good Place, are more thought-provoking, exploring deeper themes like education and morality while still balancing humor and heart. Parks and Recreation and Modern Family, on the other hand, are more lighthearted, celebrating friendship and community in their own unique ways. Schitt’s Creek, which explores the importance of acceptance and non-materialistic things, and Anne With an E, which celebrates the power of kindness, self-acceptance, and individuality, are more poignant.
Finally, there are shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Ted Lasso, which deliver a mix of humor and social commentary, challenging stereotypes and offering insights into real-life issues. Ted Lasso, with its iconic quotes, one-liners, and unwavering message of optimism and kindness, is the most wholesome show on this list. These TV shows remind us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, always something to be grateful for, and always something to be celebrated.
