As someone who finds it extremely difficult to finish new shows if I don’t enjoy them, I feel particularly qualified to speak on which shows I’ve found that are worth watching and rewatching. When I do find a show I enjoy, I’ll rewatch it until I’ve drained every possible ounce of enjoyment from it. Some may call this being “close minded”, but I prefer to think of it as knowing what I like. Everyone should have shows like this-- where they are able to go to again and again, whether it’s because you need some background noise while mindlessly watching Tik Tok, you’ve had a bad day, or purely for the rewatch value. For these shows, people will most often turn to sitcoms. So, for each of these situations, this article will hopefully act as a guide to find your next comfort show for years to come. For starters, let’s begin with the basic shows you’d like to watch purely as background noise. Shows you could start on any episode and be able to understand what’s happening. No investment in plot, no desire for critical thinking, head empty-no thought kinds of shows. First up is the age old classic you probably know (even if you don’t), Friends (1994-2004). It ran for 10 seasons, mostly family friendly, but definitely geared towards young adults making their way in the world. A close second is Bob's Burgers (2011-present) currently at 12 seasons, an animated adult show, but acceptable for the whole family for the most part, as it follows the Belcher family and their exploits running their restaurant. There might be some iffy moments watching either of these with younger kids, but anyone 10+ will most likely enjoy some aspect of one of these shows. Modern Family (2009-2020) which had an eleven season run, is another show which fits into this category. Focusing on a newly diversified family with all their conflicts and baggage, ultimately this show is a heartwarming watch. The humor of Modern Family I personally don’t care for as much as Friends or Bob’s Burgers, but wouldn’t turn off if nothing else was on. Now if you’re on the lookout for something a bit smarter, or at least something that will reward its audience for paying attention, Community (2009-2015) is the show for you. With a messy 6 seasons, Community is one camera sitcom that could easily fit into the previous category of mindless entertainment. It follows a diverse study group formed in a local community college, and their exploits navigating their friendships and college courses. Committed or long-time viewers will know what I mean when I say there is plenty of continuity and background detail within this show that gives sharp eyed watchers plenty to find. This is all on top of a cast of (mostly) loveable characters and clever writing. Another show that falls into this category, one which really thrives on the running gags it sets up, is Arrested Development (2003-2019). Another very messy production history, it ran for 5 seasons, two of which filmed nearly ten years after the show's original run. This show follows the Bluth family after the imprisonment of their corrupt patriarch, and how the family’s privileged upbringing clashes with their current bankruptcy. Either of these two shows is a great choice for a person who enjoys finding hidden details and Easter eggs while watching. Finally are the types of shows best to watch while having a bad day. These are here for their purely positive outlooks on life, and for viewers looking to have their faith in humanity restored. First up is the Mockumentary, The Office (2005-2013)-inspired show following a team of public servants on their utterly under-rewarding job in the Parks and Recreation (2009-2015) department of their local government. With a 7 season run, this show never fails to put a smile on my face with its heart warming messages and almost whimsical attitude. The characters are truly what stand out for this show. Where other shows might stand out for clever writing or unique plots, Parks and Rec stands out for its memorable, heartwarming, and well developed characters. While the plot is semi relevant and the best viewing experience is watched in order, it can be watched out of order and is still very enjoyable, unlike this next show, which is very plot dependent. The Good Place (2016-2020) is a single camera sitcom which spans a well constructed and satisfying 4 seasons. This show is not only good for watching as a series, but especially for anyone experiencing an existential crisis. The show’s main themes focus around ethics, mortality and morality, and presents very hopeful stances on each of them. Set in the afterlife, it follows a strong central cast, with plenty of plot heavy sections as well as comedic interludes. Now, for those looking to watch any of these shows, all of them can be found on Netflix (with the exception of Bob’s Burgers which can be found on Disney Plus). Watching any of these shows will definitely be a very rewarding experience for any first time viewers, and perhaps to those who have only watched them once, or not seen them in their entirety, it will inspire a rewatch or two.
- John Dugan
