Light-hearted TV shows are often perceived as frothy or frivolous, but they are more powerful than people realise. Imagine this: it’s been a tough week at work and you’re exhausted. It’s finally time to relax. You sit down on the sofa and start browsing for something to watch. Would you choose a three-hour war drama that has won many awards? A heartbreaking but informative documentary? A tense, gory horror movie? No, you want a feel-good show, because there’s nothing like watching good people in a comfortable setting to change the mood.
Life is tough – don’t complicate it by endlessly browsing streaming services. We’ve gone on to produce 21 light-hearted TV shows that will leave you feeling energised and hopeful about the world. Some are cosy classics you’ve seen before; others may be new to you. What they all have in common: everyone (for the most part) on these shows is well-meaning. Just a bunch of good people doing their best. Kind of like you, isn’t it?
Ted Lasso
There’s no healthier show than Ted Lasso, which follows a faltering football team as they rally around a “Believe” sign posted on Coach Ted’s office door. Sure, every character has flaws, but the show proves through painstaking detail that everyone is doing their best. As Ted Lasso himself says, “You say it’s impossible, but all I hear is ‘I’m possible’.
Parks & Recreation
While this much-loved sitcom is undoubtedly hilarious, it’s the love and respect between all the staff in the Pawnee Parks & Rec department that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. If you need a quick pick-me-up, just watch the episode where the crew tries to walk on a slick ice rink while Gloria Estefan’s “Stand Up” plays in the background. You’ll have no choice but to laugh.
The Mindy Project
A better romantic comedy than most big screen movies, spanning six seasons. While the chemistry between Mindy Kaling and Chris Messina is the main attraction here, the best laughs come from the supporting performances of Adam Pally, Ike Barinholtz, Zosha Roquemore and others.
